schedule & speakers
Ted Abernathy
Economic Leadership, LLC
General Session 1: Navigating the Next Economic Storm, What to Expect in a Time of Generational Geopolitical and Domestic Change
This session will delve into the factors that make a place economically competitive, with a specific focus on North Carolina and its diverse regions. We will explore ten current trends impacting the economy and five emerging trends likely to influence the next 24 months, framed through a PESTLE analysis (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental). The session will conclude with actionable insights on why these trends matter and what steps can be taken in response.
Field of Study: Economics
Learn more about Ted
Ted Abernathy
Economic Leadership, LLC
Economic Leadership LLC, based in Shallotte North Carolina, is a small group of data, strategy and policy experts working with private and public clients to analyze competitiveness, develop strategy, identify best practices, and reimagine the future. Over the past ten years the team has worked on over 140 projects in more than twenty states and internationally, Ted is the principle author of dozens of reports on future trends, workforce, and technology and speaks on the economy almost every week. He currently serves as the economic advisor to the National Association of State Chambers.
Born in Dallas, NC, Ted received his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; his master’s from Johns Hopkins University, is a graduate of the Economic Development Institute and is an Eisenhower Fellow for global economics.
David Peters
Peters Professional Education
General Session 2: A Controller’s Guide to Assessing the Risk of Your Organization – Risk Management Basics & Developing the Risk Management Process
Gone are the days where the CFO simply manages the preparation of financial statements for the organization. Now, more than ever, CFOs are responsible for other operational parts of the organization, including risk management. This course is a how to guide for CFOs that are being asked to take on the role of risk manager for their companies. We will explore how to measure and score risks in an organization. We will also talk about the Entity-Wide risk management approach and both the importance and difficulties of implementing an on-going risk assessment program.
Field of Study: Accounting:, Business Management & Organization
Learn more about David
David Peters
Peters Professional Education
David Peters is the Founder and Owner of Peters Professional Education and Peters Tax Preparation & Consulting, PC in Richmond, VA. He has over 15 years of experience in financial services, including 3 years in the hedge fund industry and six years in the insurance industry.
David was the first-ever Chief Financial Officer at Compare.com – a position he held for over three years. David is a national CPE Instructor for the AICPA, Surgent, Kaplan and Don Farmer Tax Seminars. He regularly teaches courses in accounting, finance, insurance, and ethics throughout the United States.
David holds four Masters degrees and is currently pursuing his PhD in Financial Planning. He contributes regularly to various CPA publications, including NCACPA’s Interim Report, SCACPA’s CPA Report, and VSCPA’s Disclosures. He was also a co-author of the 2018 Virginia CPA Ethics course – a required course for all CPA’s licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia. He was recently awarded AICPA’s Outstanding Facilitator Award for the 2021 CPE Year.
John Higgins
Higgins Advisory, LLC
General Session 3: Enhancing Productivity with Microsoft Apps & CoPilot
Discover the utility apps within Microsoft 365 that can take your productivity to the next level. This course explores OneNote for note-taking and organization, Stream for secure video production and sharing, and Forms for creating surveys. CPAs will learn how to leverage these tools to streamline processes, gather valuable insights, and improve communication both internally and with clients.
Program Content:
- Organizing notes and ideas with OneNote
- Producing, sharing and managing videos securely with Stream
- Creating surveys and forms for data collection
- Integrating utility apps with other Microsoft 365 tools
- Practical use cases in an accounting practice context
Field of Study: Computer Software & Applications
Learn more about John
John Higgins
Higgins Advisory, LLC
Higgins Advisory, LLC was established with the mission of helping CPAs, CFOs and other financial professionals to successfully guide their firms and business organizations through a successful digital transformation. This transformation leverages the power of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, data analytics, workflow automation and more.
As a seasoned entrepreneur, John Higgins, founder and CEO, has experience with local CPA firms and as well as serving as a technology advisory practice leader partner in a national CPA firm. John founded, managed and grew two separate accounting technology advisory firms, both of which were successfully acquired by larger organizations.
John shares his expertise as a nationally recognized thought leader, strategic advisor, and speaker on accounting technology through coaching and speaking engagements. His primary contribution is his passion for helping the profession move forward through the understanding and adoption of emerging technologies.
Jennifer Elder
The Sustainable CFO
General Session 4: Successfully Leading All Generations
With 5 generations in the workplace, from the Veteran generation to Gen Z, the generation gap is growing wider. And that is a good place to be! Every generation brings different strengths, values, viewpoints, and ideas. Your organization will be stronger and wiser if you learn how to embrace the differences and bring out the best of each generation. This session is designed to provide participants with an in-depth understanding of the events and circumstances that shaped each generation. In addition, we will address the challenges and opportunities presented by generational diversity in the workplace. The course will explore the unique perspectives, values, and work styles of different generations and how these differences can impact workplace dynamics and communication. You will come away with concrete ideas on how to harness the power and strengths of each generation and learn how we can all work better together!
Learning Objectives:
- Recall the historical, cultural, and economic factors that have shaped the values and work styles of different generations.
- Identify the strengths and weaknesses of each generation and how these can impact workplace dynamics.
- Apply effective strategies for managing intergenerational conflict and enhancing collaboration across generations.
- Expand your skills in cross-generational communication and understand the role that active listening and empathy play in building effective relationships with colleagues from different generations
Field of Study: Information Technology, Personal Development
Learn more about Jennifer
Jennifer Elder
The Sustainable CFO
Jennifer Elder, CSP, CPA, CGMA, CSCA is an executive coach who helps smart professionals transform from technically talented to strategically savvy. If you want to be more productive, have more of an impact, and maintain your organization’s ethical standards, Jennifer can deliver interactive and engaging training sessions. In 2022, Jennifer received the Women Who Count award in education by the Accounting and Financial Women’s Alliance (AFWA). In 2018, Jennifer earned the designation of Certified Speaking Professional (CSP). Making her one of only 15 people worldwide who hold both the CPA and CSP designations. CPA Practice Advisor named Jennifer one of the Top 25 Women in Accounting in 2018. She currently volunteers on the boards of several organizations including the New Hampshire Board of Accountancy, the Northeast Regional Council of the IMA, and Jennifer chairs the CSP Committee of the National Speakers Association.
Elizabeth McDowell
Audit Forward
General Session 5: Fraudster Unmasked: Spotting Fraud Red Flags
Enhance your company’s fraud prevention program by exploring real-world case studies that reveal key fraud red flags, uncover common fraud schemes, and build skills to identify suspicious patterns.
Field of Study: Auditing
Learn more about Elizabeth
Elizabeth McDowell
Audit Forward
Elizabeth McDowell, CPA, CIA has nearly 20 years of audit experience and is the founder of Audit Forward, an innovative internal audit consulting and training firm. In addition to training and consulting, Elizabeth is an adjunct Professor of Accounting at Front Range Community College and serves as a Non-Executive Independent Director for an internal audit firm in the UK.
Elizabeth’s most recent industry experience was at Achieve, where she was Sr. Director, Audit Strategy; prior to that, she held internal audit leadership roles at Elevations Credit Union, Fidelity Investments, and Xcel Energy after first starting her career at Ernst & Young.
John Higgins, CPA
Higgins Advisory
General Session 6: Ethical AI Practices: Ensuring Responsible Use
Explore the ethical implications of using generative AI. This course addresses potential risks and dilemmas, providing guidelines to ensure responsible and compliant integration. Learn how to balance innovation with ethical obligations to maintain trust and integrity.
Program Content:
- Understanding ethical implications of AI
- Data privacy and security considerations
- Compliance with regulations and professional standards
- Developing ethical AI policies and procedures
Field of Study: Behavioral Ethics:, Information Technology
Learn more about John
John Higgins, CPA
Higgins Advisory
In today’s competitive accounting landscape, leveraging technology is crucial for efficiency and client satisfaction.
This course introduces CPAs to the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, highlighting how its suite of applications can streamline accounting processes and enhance collaboration. Participants will learn how to integrate Microsoft 365 tools into their daily workflows, leading to improved productivity and better client service. By understanding the strategic role of Microsoft 365, accounting professionals can stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
Program Content:
- Overview of Microsoft 365 applications relevant to accounting, tax and advisory services
- Benefits of cloud-based solutions for accounting firms
- Strategies for integrating Microsoft 365 into existing workflows
- Enhancing team collaboration and communication
- Ensuring data security and compliance within Microsoft 365
John Higgins
Higgins Advisory, LLC
General Session 7: AI Revolution: The Big Picture for Financial Professionals
Discover how artificial intelligence is transforming the accounting, tax and finance landscape. This course offers CPAs a comprehensive overview of AI technologies, with a special emphasis on generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini. Learn how these advancements are reshaping business operations and what they mean for your professional role.
Program Content:
- Overview of AI and its evolution in business
- Deep dive into generative AI and its applications
- Impact of AI on accounting, tax and finance sectors
- Future trends and opportunities for CPAs
- Preparing for the AI-driven business environment
Field of Study: Finance: Information Technology
Learn more about John
John Higgins
Higgins Advisory, LLC
Higgins Advisory, LLC was established with the mission of helping CPAs, CFOs and other financial professionals to successfully guide their firms and business organizations through a successful digital transformation. This transformation leverages the power of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, data analytics, workflow automation and more.
As a seasoned entrepreneur, John Higgins, founder and CEO, has experience with local CPA firms and as well as serving as a technology advisory practice leader partner in a national CPA firm. John founded, managed and grew two separate accounting technology advisory firms, both of which were successfully acquired by larger organizations.
John shares his expertise as a nationally recognized thought leader, strategic advisor, and speaker on accounting technology through coaching and speaking engagements. His primary contribution is his passion for helping the profession move forward through the understanding and adoption of emerging technologies.
Chris Word
Learn more about Chris
Chris Word
Chris Word, CPA, is a seasoned finance and accounting professional with extensive experience in financial transformation, transaction advisory, controllership, and process optimization. With a career spanning public and private companies—including publicly traded firms, private equity-backed businesses, and startups—Chris has developed a strong expertise in mergers & acquisitions, financial restructuring, and strategic leadership.
Chris has led financial transformation initiatives that improve operational efficiency, streamline reporting, and enhance compliance. As a former Controller and Finance Transformation Director, he has successfully reduced month-end close timelines, integrated financial systems post-merger, and implemented best practices for ASC 606 revenue recognition, ASC 842 lease accounting, and financial compliance.
Currently, Chris serves as the Founder & Principal Consultant at Word & Co PLLC, where he specializes in helping businesses optimize financial operations, leverage AI-driven financial solutions, and navigate complex transactions. His deep understanding of technical accounting, process automation, and finance strategy makes him a sought-after advisor for organizations looking to scale and improve financial performance.
Beyond his professional career, Chris is actively engaged in leadership and mentorship, serving as the Chairman of the National Association of Black Golf Merchants (NABGM) and supporting various professional and community-driven initiatives.
Chris is passionate about empowering businesses through financial strategy and technology, helping them operate more efficiently, make data-driven decisions, and achieve long-term success.
Terrell Turner
TLTurner Group
Learn more about Terrell
Terrell Turner
TLTurner Group
Terrell A. Turner, CPA, is a 3x 40 Under 40 CPA, 2x Global Finance Influencer, and founder of a NY Times Featured CPA firm. In 2020, he founded the TLTurner Group, a premium accounting firm that provides bookkeeping and CFO services to law firms. In leading the firm, he oversees the marketing, sales, and staff development functions. These responsibilities lead him to consistently think about the product/service development process and go-to-market strategies that help the firm continue to see profitable growth.
General Session 8: Accounting vs Finance: Bridging Mindsets for a Future-Ready Workforce
In today’s dynamic business landscape, the roles of accounting and finance professionals are distinct but more interconnected than ever. The differences in mindsets, objectives, and methodologies often lead to misalignment but success requires that we find a way to bridge the gaps. This engaging session will dive into the core distinctions between accounting and finance, highlight where these perspectives clash and how leaders can turn these differences into opportunities for collaboration.
Learning objectives include:
- Understand the accounting mindset vs the finance mindset, and exploring the distinctions and points of contention
- Developing a hiring roadmap for identifying and onboarding the right people in a mixed workforce environment
- How to bridge the gap between accounting and finance to create a stronger collaborative team
- What role should AI and technology play amongst the accounting and finance teams
Field of Study: Business Management & Organization, Finance
Elizabeth McDowell
Audit Forward
General Session 9: Auditing AI: the Basics
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to AI technologies and best practices for internal auditors in managing AI-related risks and governance.
Field of Study: Auditing
Learn more about Elizabeth
Elizabeth McDowell
Audit Forward
Elizabeth McDowell, CPA, CIA has nearly 20 years of audit experience and is the founder of Audit Forward, an innovative internal audit consulting and training firm. In addition to training and consulting, Elizabeth is an adjunct Professor of Accounting at Front Range Community College and serves as a Non-Executive Independent Director for an internal audit firm in the UK.
Elizabeth’s most recent industry experience was at Achieve, where she was Sr. Director, Audit Strategy; prior to that, she held internal audit leadership roles at Elevations Credit Union, Fidelity Investments, and Xcel Energy after first starting her career at Ernst & Young.
John Higgins
Higgins Advisory, LLC
General Session 10: Understanding the Role of Microsoft 365 in Accounting
In today’s competitive accounting landscape, leveraging technology is crucial for efficiency and client satisfaction.
This course introduces CPAs to the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, highlighting how its suite of applications can streamline accounting processes and enhance collaboration. Participants will learn how to integrate Microsoft 365 tools into their daily workflows, leading to improved productivity and better client service. By understanding the strategic role of Microsoft 365, accounting professionals can stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
Program Content:
- Overview of Microsoft 365 applications relevant to accounting, tax and advisory services
- Benefits of cloud-based solutions for accounting firms
- Strategies for integrating Microsoft 365 into existing workflows
- Enhancing team collaboration and communication
- Ensuring data security and compliance within Microsoft 365
Field of Study: Computer Software & Applications
Learn more about John
John Higgins
Higgins Advisory, LLC
Higgins Advisory, LLC was established with the mission of helping CPAs, CFOs and other financial professionals to successfully guide their firms and business organizations through a successful digital transformation. This transformation leverages the power of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, data analytics, workflow automation and more.
As a seasoned entrepreneur, John Higgins, founder and CEO, has experience with local CPA firms and as well as serving as a technology advisory practice leader partner in a national CPA firm. John founded, managed and grew two separate accounting technology advisory firms, both of which were successfully acquired by larger organizations.
John shares his expertise as a nationally recognized thought leader, strategic advisor, and speaker on accounting technology through coaching and speaking engagements. His primary contribution is his passion for helping the profession move forward through the understanding and adoption of emerging technologies.
Rafe Martin
ComTech Network Solutions
General Session 11: AI Safeguards: Best Practices for Financial Professionals
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing accounting and finance, but it also introduces risks that professionals must address. From data security to regulatory compliance, this session will explore best practices for integrating AI safely and responsibly. Attendees will gain practical insights into mitigating risks, ensuring accuracy, and protecting client data while leveraging AI’s capabilities.
Field of Study: Information Technology
Learn more about Rafe
Rafe Martin
ComTech Network Solutions
Rafe Martin is the Chief Risk Officer at ComTech. He helps clients manage cyber risks and enhance operational preparedness through effective cyber resilience planning.
With over 30 years of IT experience, Rafe holds a Certificate in Artificial Intelligence from MIT, is Certified in Cybersecurity, and holds the Certified Cyber Resilience Professional (CCRP) designation from DRI International.
As an in-demand speaker and host of ComTech’s RippleFX podcast, Rafe shares insights on emerging technology, including cybersecurity, cyber resilience, and artificial intelligence at conferences, on podcasts, and in webinars.
Whether it’s creating harmony with his bluegrass band or experimenting with the culinary philosophy that anything wrapped in bacon and put on the smoker is bound to be a masterpiece, Rafe enjoys life’s varied flavors. He also cherishes spending time with his wife of 35 years and their family.
Colin Ryan
General Session 12: The Trust Advantage: Engaging Financial Conversations that Win Clients for Life
Facts and figures don’t create lasting connections—stories do. To truly reach our clients and communities, financial professionals must learn to stand out, build trust, and spark meaningful conversations that drive real results. In this funny and insightful keynote, you’ll discover powerful tools to become a memorable (and imperfect) mentor, guide your audiences and clients through positive money conversations, and inspire lasting impact. Walk away ready to transform financial advice into stories that connect, engage, and empower both you and your clients for greater success.
Field of Study: Behavioral Ethics, Personal Development
Learn more about Colin
Colin Ryan
Featured everywhere from NPR and PBS to the Moth Radio Hour and Reader’s Digest, Colin Ryan is a comedic financial speaker, author, and an award-winning storyteller.
Colin was named one of the top 10 finance presenters in America, and to date has spoken to over 1 million students and adults.
Colin is the author of “A Comedic Guide to Money” and the founder of “Public Speaking for Leaders.” Colin served as a passionate advocate for economic equality on the Vermont Commission on Women, and co-founded a comedy charity series that raised over $150,000 for good causes.
Colin now lives in Durham, North Carolina with his wife Lindsey and their dog Remy.
Mark Vitner
Piedmont Crescent Capital
General Session 13: U.S. Economic Outlook: Implications for North Carolina’s Economy and Financial Sector
This session will analyze the U.S. economic outlook and its impact on North Carolina’s economy and financial sector. Key topics include GDP growth, inflation, interest rates, labor market trends, and state and local economic data, along with North Carolina’s major industries and economic drivers. We will also examine the banking sector, focusing on monetary policy’s effects on lending, deposits, and financial stability. The session will conclude with insights on opportunities, risks, and strategies for businesses navigating today’s economic landscape.
Field of Study: Economics, Taxes
Learn more about Mark
Mark Vitner
Piedmont Crescent Capital
As the long-time managing director and senior economist for Wells Fargo, Mark Vitner, CBE offers unparalleled expertise in tracking the U.S. economy, housing, commercial real estate, and regional economies.
Mark has developed a strong national reputation providing business leaders and policymakers with the information they need to make informed decisions.
As the founder and chief economist at Piedmont Crescent Capital, Mark shares his breadth of expertise with clients from across the country. He is in high demand as a speaker and regularly meets with business leaders around the country.
Jack Cathey, Ph.D., CPA
Turner School of Accountancy
General Session 14: Beyond Spreadsheets – Generative AI and the Evolution of the Accounting Profession
Most accountants have experienced several technological revolutions: first, microcomputers and spreadsheets, and then the Internet and mobile devices. We are now entering a third major technological revolution spawned by the availability of Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. In this session, we will cover an overview of these technologies, including their opportunities and risks, along with ways they can and may be useful for accounting professionals. We will also look ahead at the frontier examples of the new developments for these tools on the horizon and some of the implications they present to organizations.
By the end of the session, you should be able to answer the following questions:
- What do the terms generative AI and large language models refer to?
- What is prompt engineering, and how do you write effective prompts?
- What are the key risks present when you use generative AI?
- What are some common use cases for generative AI for an accounting professional?
- What is Microsoft Copilot, and how is it related to ChatGPT?
- What is going to happen next with generative AI?
Field of Study: Information Technology
Learn more about Jack
Jack Cathey, Ph.D., CPA
Turner School of Accountancy
Jack Cathey is a Certified Public Accountant in North Carolina whose professional experience includes working as a senior auditor with KPMG in Charlotte, N.C. He has published articles in a number of professional and academic journals.
Jennifer Elder
The Sustainable CFO
General Session 15: The Future-Ready Finance & Accounting Professional – Welcome to the Fast Future!
The business environment for CPAs and their clients will be characterized by “unprecedented, massive and highly accelerated change” through the years ahead. To thrive in this new age of hyper-change and growing uncertainty, it is now an imperative to learn a new competency–how to accurately anticipate the future. Predicting the future based on The Anticipatory Organization™ Model created by Daniel Burrus and Burrus Research. This session does not just highlight the latest trends but brings in examples of the trends and how firms are leveraging these to find new service opportunities.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the major forces of change in the business and firm environment (based on the latest research by Burrus Research) based on Hard Trends / Certainties around Technology and Demographics, and Regulations that are driving change in the accounting profession
- Develop insights and opportunities around the major technologies (A.I., Blockchain, Big Data) and their implications for participants, their firms, and clients and how to keep them in focus in the future
- Gain a positive view about the future and development of opportunities for the firms to consider at both an everyday level and game-changing level
- Understand the critical skills and competencies CPAs will need for a future in an age of automation and machines
Field of Study: Business Management & Organization, Communications & Marketing
Learn more about Jennifer
Jennifer Elder
The Sustainable CFO
Jennifer Elder, CSP, CPA, CGMA, CSCA is an executive coach who helps smart professionals transform from technically talented to strategically savvy. If you want to be more productive, have more of an impact, and maintain your organization’s ethical standards, Jennifer can deliver interactive and engaging training sessions. In 2022, Jennifer received the Women Who Count award in education by the Accounting and Financial Women’s Alliance (AFWA). In 2018, Jennifer earned the designation of Certified Speaking Professional (CSP). Making her one of only 15 people worldwide who hold both the CPA and CSP designations. CPA Practice Advisor named Jennifer one of the Top 25 Women in Accounting in 2018. She currently volunteers on the boards of several organizations including the New Hampshire Board of Accountancy, the Northeast Regional Council of the IMA, and Jennifer chairs the CSP Committee of the National Speakers Association.
NCACPA is a NASBA-approved sponsor of continuing education.
For complete program information (course registration, learning objectives, instructional delivery methods, CPE, field of study, prerequisites, program knowledge, level, advance preparation, program description, and speaker information), please visit the event links above.
The North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.nasbaregistry.org/.
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