CPAs in the Community: Darryl Eddy - Oregon Society of CPAs

OSCPA member Darryl Eddy (far left) spent his career serving clients and community. Through his work with American Red Cross, Darryl now serves on a global scale. Read his reflections on his path, and what advice he’d give today’s aspiring CPAs.

Looking back over your career, what moments made you feel most proud to be a CPA?

My career was primarily focused on taxes and financial planning. The proudest moments were when I could help a client with a plan or strategy to reach their personal or business goals. It was important to earn clients' respect and loyalty by being knowledgeable, honest, and looking out for their interests. More than just providing filing compliance, clients want to feel they are getting value for their billing dollars.

How has being a CPA shaped the kind of life you’ve been able to build, both professionally and personally?

During my CPA career, I worked for several local and regional firms, as well as having my own tax and financial planning practice. In later years, I also owned and managed two retail garden centers and operated rental properties. Accounting gave me the knowledge and business skills to succeed in any economy, while my PFS/CFP training taught me the value of investing and diversifying for future growth. I focused on staying flexible, adapting to change, and continually learning new skills to remain relevant. For most CPE renewals, I reported more than twice the required hours, because of my participation in OSCPA conference committee work and self-study classes.

What originally drew you to the CPA profession and how has your understanding of its value evolved over the years?

I began my working career in medical technology, earning degrees from the University of Oregon and OHSU, pursuing my interest in the biological sciences. Early on, I acquired rental properties, which led me to take a tax preparation class, then another, and eventually enough coursework and experience to qualify for the CPA exam. At the same time, medical labs were rapidly becoming automated, resulting in fewer positions and opportunities for advancement. A career change to accounting seemed timely. A CPA designation provides professional respect, opportunities to grow in many directions, and the ability to be creative with skills and knowledge.

We understand you helped with a recent typhoon as a volunteer for the American Red Cross. What motivated you to get involved at this level and to commit to service on a global scale?

I currently live in Washington State with my wife of 50 years. We have two adult children, both thriving with their own families and careers. I spend much of my time managing our investments, including several commercial properties, and playing guitar in our church band.

A few years ago, I began volunteering with the American Red Cross as a disaster responder. In mid-May, I returned from a three-week deployment to Guam and Saipan, two U.S. territories affected by Super Typhoon Sinlaku in late April. The storm brought 150-mile-per-hour winds for three days, causing widespread destruction in Saipan and leaving many residents without housing.

My team helped displaced residents secure emergency housing and financial assistance. Rebuilding will take years. The Pacific Northwest has a strong tradition of sending volunteers to disasters nationwide, including the Los Angeles fires, the Lahaina, Maui fire, Midwest disasters, and East Coast floods. Over the past year, I have served in wildfire shelters in central Oregon and the Columbia Gorge and helped distribute emergency supplies to affected residents.

I also lead wildfire preparedness education for the Southwest Washington Chapter. When I am not deployed, I respond to local house and apartment fires, helping victims meet immediate needs and access financial assistance. The American Red Cross is funded entirely through public donations and corporate sponsors and relies on volunteers for more than 90 percent of its services. It is also strongly committed to volunteer education and welfare.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their journey toward becoming a CPA?

My advice to someone pursuing a career as a CPA is to never stop learning, widen your range of interests in accounting and nurture all relationships you develop. It all has a way of rewarding you in time.