Member Spotlight - Matthew Bowers

How has the CPA credential defined your career so far?
From a young age I have recognized the CPA credential as the gold standard in the accounting profession, representing expertise, professionalism, and ethics. I went to school with my sights on the credential from day one, took the test ASAP, and never regretted a minute spent studying (so many hours). The credential has allowed me to stand out among my peers and has provided me with career advancement opportunities, including promotions and increased responsibilities, as it demonstrates a commitment to professional growth and continuous learning. I enjoy my role as a trusted advisor to my clients and believe the credential behind my name helps solidify their trust.

Who inspired you along the way?
Bernie Madoff (ha ha). The history of financial fraud and the evolution of regulation in response is of great interest to me. His fraud was being uncovered a little before I decided to go to school to be a CPA. There were many financial accounting scandals such as Enron at the time. The CPA  license was a natural progression for me as the educational path helped me to learn how to read financial information and understand the mechanisms that allowed the frauds to work.

Additionally, my accounting professors during my academic journey. Their passion for the subject matter, their dedication to teaching, and their ability to make complex accounting concepts understandable left a lasting impression on me.

How would you characterize CPAs in South Oregon?
Southern Oregon CPAs are a friendly and knowledgeable group of professionals. They strive to build the personal lasting relationships with clients that enable excellent service. They are an active group that tends to play sports or enjoy nature over the weekends. I really enjoy the chapter socials and other events where we get a chance to spend time with those outside of our own firms.

What do you love about your work at Ashland Partners & Company LLP?
Working at Ashland Partners and Company LLP to learn many different service lines and work with very knowledgeable, friendly, and just flat-out awesome people. I love the people I work with and our clients. I love working with financial advisors and helping them with compliance. They are very appreciative when we can help with complicated compliance matters. The subject matter is very interesting to me and keeps me engaged. You know what they say, “If you love what you do you never work a day in your life.” We also try to make time to get together for various external activities when possible. I love the game nights, bowling, and fantasy leagues.

How has OSCPA involvement benefitted you?
Membership with the OSCPA has benefitted me in many ways. It has provided various networking opportunities with other professionals in the state and local students. I use the educational resources such as OSCPA-sponsored CPE regularly. I also enjoy the OSCPA Bridge™ Open Forum Updates that I receive in my emails.

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