Accounting Pipeline: Accounting Wordforce Development

Accounting Workforce Development

“Strengthen the talent pipeline by highlighting core competencies for accounting professionals and supporting stakeholder efforts to explore alternative pathways to CPA licensure.

The accounting talent pipeline is a pressing concern across public accounting firms, businesses, government entities, and nonprofit organizations. As the demand for CPAs continues to grow, the declining number of accounting graduates and CPA Exam candidates presents a significant challenge. NCACPA is taking a multifaceted approach to strengthen the accounting talent pipeline.  

Supporting Students in Achieving 150 Hours
The 150-credit hour requirement for CPA licensure can create financial and logistical challenges. NCACPA helps students maximize these additional 30 hours by emphasizing career readiness and skill development. This initiative highlights how extra courses can build in-demand competencies like technology proficiency, data analytics, critical thinking, and communication—key skills for first-year hires.

Exploring Alternative Pathways
Alongside supporting students on the traditional CPA licensure path, NCACPA is exploring alternative pathways to reduce entry barriers. In Spring 2024, NCACPA’s Board of Directors appointed a working group of leaders from public accounting, education, and industry to evaluate new licensure models. The group reviewed the CBEx and UAA exposure drafts, surveyed nearly 500 members, and provided feedback to keep the profession accessible while upholding its rigor. Learn more about these efforts here.

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Objectives 

  • Engage stakeholders to explore alternative pathways to CPA licensure
  • Survey members and collect feedback to inform NCACPA’s advocacy efforts
  • Increase awareness on how to best use hours to prepare for career readiness (fill the gap between 120 and 150) 
  • Align volunteer efforts with NCACPA strategy 

Initiatives

  • Create board-appointed working group to focus on alternative pathways
  • Share real-life success stories highlighting diverse career paths
  • Communication channels, particularly socials  
  • NCACPA’s Education Resource Group