The Strategic Power of Belonging: Why OSCPA Membership Matters

In the fast-paced, ever-evolving world of accounting, OSCPA is more than just a professional association—it’s a community. For CPAs across Oregon, OSCPA offers not only collective strength and advocacy, but also a powerful engine for individual career growth. If you’re a CPA, OSCPA is your professional home. We often define community as strength in numbers, mutual protection, and a shared voice. OSCPA embodies all of that. But there’s also a deeply personal benefit: the impact membership can have on your own career.

Being part of OSCPA means you’re never navigating your professional journey alone. You’re surrounded by peers who understand your challenges, celebrate your wins, and help you grow.

Planting Seeds for the Future
Some of the most valuable career opportunities begin with a simple act: showing up. Whether it’s attending an event, joining a committee, or participating in a roundtable, these moments are seeds. You may not know what they’ll grow into—but over time, they can lead to mentorships, job offers, collaborations, and more.

The people you meet today may be the ones who open doors for you tomorrow.

A Long-Term Investment
CPAs are strategic thinkers. We don’t chase trends—we build thoughtfully and with purpose. OSCPA membership is no different. It’s not a quick fix or a one-time benefit. It’s a long-term investment in your professional identity.  Like any foundational investment, the value of membership compounds over time. The more you engage, the more you gain.

Stand Out by Being Known
To truly thrive as a CPA, you need to be known for something that sets you apart. Maybe it’s your expertise in nonprofit audits, your leadership in tax strategy, or your ability to navigate complex regulations.

OSCPA gives you the platform to showcase that differentiator. Through committee service, board participation, and legislative involvement, you build a reputation. Over time, your name becomes associated with your area of expertise. When a topic comes up, your name comes up.

Your Network Is Your Value
The quality of your professional relationships is part of what makes you valuable—both to clients and employers. When you’re part of OSCPA, you’re part of a trusted network. These are people who can vouch for your skills, refer opportunities, and collaborate on solutions.

No matter where you work—public practice, corporate, government, or education—your OSCPA network enhances your credibility and expands your reach.

Engagement Is the Key
Membership isn’t passive. The more you engage, the more you benefit. Attend that seminar. Volunteer for that committee. Reach out to that fellow member. Each action builds your visibility, your network, and your professional brand.

A Strategic Move for Strategic Professionals
In a profession that values integrity, diligence, and foresight, OSCPA membership is a natural fit. It reflects your commitment to excellence and your belief in the power of community.  So if you’re a CPA in Oregon, don’t just be in the profession—be part of it. Be an active part of OSCPA.

Gary Holcomb is the 2025-26 Chair of the OSCPA Board of Directors. He can be reached at ChairGary@orcpa.org.