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113th Annual Conference: True North
13.00 Credits
Member Price $600.00
Non-Member Price $700.00
Overview
True North: Integrity and Innovation in the CPA Profession
Join us in Whitefish for two energizing days of learning, connection, and celebration at MTCPA’s 113th Annual Conference _ Montana’s premier gathering of accounting professionals.
In a time of rapid change, CPAs look to a steady compass. Guided by the theme True North: Integrity and Innovation in the CPA Profession, this conference brings together professionals from across the state to explore how integrity and innovation guide decision-making, strengthen trust, and shape the future of accounting.
Through timely sessions, expert insights, and meaningful conversations, attendees will examine emerging trends, evolving standards, and practical strategies - while reaffirming the ethical foundation that defines the CPA profession. Beyond high-quality CPE, the conference offers opportunities to reconnect with peers, build new relationships, and celebrate excellence within the profession.
HOTEL
Please book your hotel room by calling Grouse Mountain Lodge at 406-892-2525 and refer to MTCPA Annual Conference. Room block expires 5/18/26. Rooms subject to availability after that time. Reservations can be made Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM.
NOTES
- All meals and entertainment are included with registration
- Guests may be added for meal events at checkout by selecting “Add Guest” to the event (or email info@montana.cpa), but anyone attending sessions must register as a full participant. Prices are $35 per guest for the MTCPA Luncheon and $75 per guest for the DSA Reception/Dinner. Friday's lunch is $20 per guest.
- If you plan to attend only the MTCPA Awards Luncheon or DSA Reception/Dinner, both on Thursday 6/18, please email info@montana.cpa to purchase tickets. Prices per guest listed in bullet above.
STUDENTS
Apply to attend the conference for FREE, plus allotted travel expenses if you are coming from out of town. Receive the MTCPA Leadership Track certificate at the end of the event.
Highlights
Stay ahead in an ever-changing profession. Explore themes of integrity and innovation, hear the latest AICPA updates, engage in meaningful networking, and celebrate outstanding CPAs from around the state.
Keynote Sponsor
Platinum Level Sponsor
Gold Level Sponsor
MTCPA Awards Luncheon Sponsor
Wednesday, June 17
Optional Session
- Welcome Reception
Drink and appetizer reception to welcome attendees to the conference.
Sponsored by JCCS
This session is available to registrants and their guests
Thursday, June 18
General Session
- You’re More Than a CPA: Unlocking the Person Within the Professional
John Garrett
John Garrett
John Garrett is a nationally recognized keynote speaker, award-winning author, and people-centric leadership expert who brings humor, insight, and real-world experience to his talks. A recovering Big Four CPA and former stand-up comedian, John helps professionals rethink outdated ideas about workplace culture and leadership by encouraging individuals to bring their whole selves to work. His work — including the What’s Your “And”? movement and podcast — has earned him recognition on Accounting Today’s list of the Top 100 Most Influential People in the profession. John has delivered keynotes to organizations ranging from accounting firms to associations and tech companies, blending wit with practical strategies for building engagement, connection, and resilient workplace cultures.
In a profession driven by credentials, deadlines, and expectations, people are often reduced to their roles—at a cost to organizations. John Garrett challenges leaders to rethink “professionalism,” showing how identity suppression impacts engagement, retention, and performance, and how creating space for authentic human connection can unlock stronger cultures and better results.
Credits: 2 - Personal Development
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Private Equity in the Accounting Profession w/ MTCPA BAR Group
An insightful discussion on the growing role of private equity in the accounting profession, exploring how investment trends are reshaping firm operations, growth strategies, technology, and the future of client service and firm leadership.
Credits: 1 - Personal Development
This session is available to registrants only.
Optional Session
- MTCPA Awards Luncheon
Buffet lunch that includes the Inspire Empower Impact Award, Medallion Awards, and Honorary Life presentations.
- IEI Award winner: Rick Reisig, CPA
- Medallion Award winners: TBA
- Honorary Life recipients: TBA
Sponsored by Glacier Bancorp Inc.
This session is available to registrants and their guests
- Guest Price
- $35.00
Session Pricing:
General Session
- AI Curious to AI Capable
Brandy Lawson
Brandy Lawson
Brandy Lawson is a sought-after speaker, business advisor, and founder of FieryFX, an innovation consultancy that helps organizations leverage technology, systems, and expert talent to work smarter and grow with clarity. Known for her practical insights and engaging style, Brandy helps leaders identify untapped opportunities, implement effective solutions, and navigate change with confidence. She brings years of experience in technology, strategy, and business transformation to her presentations, and is praised for making complex ideas accessible and actionable. Brandy also hosts the weekly podcast Elevated, where she shares quick, strategic takeaways on innovation, tech, and smart business.
A practical session designed to help professionals move from AI curiosity to real-world application. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of AI tools, learn how to evaluate and experiment with emerging technologies, and explore leadership strategies for navigating rapid technological change with confidence
Credits: 2 - Information Technology
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- MTCPA Business Meeting / Society Update
Join MTCPA Board of Directors for updates on Society initiatives, advocacy efforts, strategic priorities, and other business impacting the Montana accounting profession
Credits: 1 - Specialized Knowledge
This session is available to registrants only.
Optional Session
- Celebration Dinner & DSA Award Ceremony
Enjoy an evening of networking featuring a drinks and appetizer reception, elevated business-casual dinner, and the Distinguished Service Award (DSA) ceremony. Included with full conference registration; guests additional fee.
- DSA Award winner: Clem Lockman, CPA
Reception sponsored by Pinion
This session is available to registrants and their guests
- Guest Price
- $75.00
Session Pricing:
Friday, June 19
Optional Session
- Working Breakfast: Navigating Charitable Giving After One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)
Led by the Whitefish Community Foundation, explore how recent tax law changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) impact charitable giving, including updated deduction rules, donor advised funds, QCDs, appreciated assets, and Montana tax credit strategies.
Sponsored by Pinion
Credits: 1 - Specialized Knowledge
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Profession Opportunities Update
Carla McCall
Carla McCall
Carla McCall, CPA, CGMA, is a Past Chair of the AICPA and the Managing Partner of AAFCPAs, a Top 100 CPA and consulting firm. In her leadership roles, Carla has championed innovation, professional value, and inclusion across the profession while helping guide strategic growth and expanded service offerings. She has also been recognized among Accounting Today’s Top 100 Most Influential People and as one of the Most Powerful Women in the Accounting Profession. Carla brings deep insight into the evolving landscape of the CPA profession and a commitment to advancing the profession’s value, sustainability, and opportunities for future generations.
Carla McCall, past Chair of the AICPA, gives an engaging update on the latest developments affecting the AICPA and the accounting profession, including emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of the industry.
Credits: 2 - Specialized Knowledge
This session is available to registrants only.
Breakout Session
- BREAKOUT: Montana Practitioner Liaison Meeting [IRS]
An in-person Practitioner Liaison Meeting focused on IRS updates, practitioner feedback, and current issues affecting the tax professional community.
Credits: 1 - Specialized Knowledge
This session is available to registrants only.
- BREAKOUT: Seeing Culture Clearly: A Leader’s Lens for Building Firms People Choose
John Garrett
John Garrett
John Garrett is a nationally recognized keynote speaker, award-winning author, and people-centric leadership expert who brings humor, insight, and real-world experience to his talks. A recovering Big Four CPA and former stand-up comedian, John helps professionals rethink outdated ideas about workplace culture and leadership by encouraging individuals to bring their whole selves to work. His work — including the What’s Your “And”? movement and podcast — has earned him recognition on Accounting Today’s list of the Top 100 Most Influential People in the profession. John has delivered keynotes to organizations ranging from accounting firms to associations and tech companies, blending wit with practical strategies for building engagement, connection, and resilient workplace cultures.
An interactive leadership session exploring how culture, engagement, and retention are shaped through mindset, behavior, shared meaning, and organizational systems
Credits: 1 - Personal Development
This session is available to registrants only.
- BREAKOUT: Your First Week of AI Experiments: A Practical Workshop
Brandy Lawson
Brandy Lawson
Brandy Lawson is a sought-after speaker, business advisor, and founder of FieryFX, an innovation consultancy that helps organizations leverage technology, systems, and expert talent to work smarter and grow with clarity. Known for her practical insights and engaging style, Brandy helps leaders identify untapped opportunities, implement effective solutions, and navigate change with confidence. She brings years of experience in technology, strategy, and business transformation to her presentations, and is praised for making complex ideas accessible and actionable. Brandy also hosts the weekly podcast Elevated, where she shares quick, strategic takeaways on innovation, tech, and smart business.
A practical, hands-on AI session focused on turning ideas into action. Participants will learn how to evaluate AI tools, select high-impact use cases, build effective prompts, and apply AI to real accounting tasks.
Credits: 1 - Computer Software & Applications
This session is available to registrants only.
Optional Session
- Lunch
Sponsored by Rudd & Company
This session is available to registrants and their guests
- Guest Price
- $20.00
Session Pricing:
General Session
- CPA Roundtables: The Issues Shaping Our Profession
An interactive discussion session exploring the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the CPA profession today. Topics include AI, cybersecurity, mental health, workforce challenges, SECURE 2.0, and key takeaways from breakout session
Credits: 2 - Specialized Knowledge
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Made in Montana Business Panel
Bringing together Montana-based founders, finance leaders, and CPAs for a candid conversation about what it really takes to grow a business in the Big Sky State. Panelists will share lessons learned around growth, financial strategy, and building successful companies locally—while offering practical insights for CPAs who support Montana businesses every step of the way.
Panelists:
Justin Meccia - Whitefish Handcrafted Spirits
Kristen Heck - LC Staffing
Jeff Claridge - LHC | Heavy Civil Contractor
Derrick Woodward - Nomad GCS
Credits: 1 - Specialized Knowledge
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Closing / Prize Drawings
This session is available to registrants only.
Optional Session
- DIETARY RESTRICTIONS
Please choose this option only if you have dietary restrictions or food allergies. Staff will contact you to confirm.
This session is available to registrants and their guests
Leader(s):
Leader Bios
Brandy Lawson
Brandy Lawson is a sought-after speaker, business advisor, and founder of FieryFX, an innovation consultancy that helps organizations leverage technology, systems, and expert talent to work smarter and grow with clarity. Known for her practical insights and engaging style, Brandy helps leaders identify untapped opportunities, implement effective solutions, and navigate change with confidence. She brings years of experience in technology, strategy, and business transformation to her presentations, and is praised for making complex ideas accessible and actionable. Brandy also hosts the weekly podcast Elevated, where she shares quick, strategic takeaways on innovation, tech, and smart business.
Carla McCall
Carla McCall, CPA, CGMA, is a Past Chair of the AICPA and the Managing Partner of AAFCPAs, a Top 100 CPA and consulting firm. In her leadership roles, Carla has championed innovation, professional value, and inclusion across the profession while helping guide strategic growth and expanded service offerings. She has also been recognized among Accounting Today’s Top 100 Most Influential People and as one of the Most Powerful Women in the Accounting Profession. Carla brings deep insight into the evolving landscape of the CPA profession and a commitment to advancing the profession’s value, sustainability, and opportunities for future generations.
John Garrett
John Garrett is a nationally recognized keynote speaker, award-winning author, and people-centric leadership expert who brings humor, insight, and real-world experience to his talks. A recovering Big Four CPA and former stand-up comedian, John helps professionals rethink outdated ideas about workplace culture and leadership by encouraging individuals to bring their whole selves to work. His work — including the What’s Your “And”? movement and podcast — has earned him recognition on Accounting Today’s list of the Top 100 Most Influential People in the profession. John has delivered keynotes to organizations ranging from accounting firms to associations and tech companies, blending wit with practical strategies for building engagement, connection, and resilient workplace cultures.
- Denis Adams
- Linda Addington - Addington Accounting & Tax PC (Kalispell, 59901)
- Brandi Ashford - University of Montana Student (Missoula, 59812)
- Brigitte Baake - Jordahl & Sliter PLLC (Kalispell, 59904)
- Amber Balzer - Rocky Mountain College Student (Billings, 59101)
- Brandon Bantz - Barta & Bantz CPAs PLLP (Lewistown, 59457)
- Amber Barta - Barta & Bantz CPAs PLLP (Lewistown, 59457)
- Danielle Bartsch - Carver Florek & James CPAs (Missoula, 59801)
- Jennifer Beisecker - Montana State Univ Billings Student (Billings, 59101)
- Melanie Bengtson - Boyle Deveny & Meyer PC (Missoula, 59801)
- Adrianna Bernhardt - Wipfli Advisory LLC (Helena, 59604)
- Chandler Brewster - Montana State University Student (Bozeman, 59717)
- Tina Ciarmoli Wilson - TMC Business Services (Helena, 59604)
- Megan Connors
- Mathew Cope - Holmes & Turner PC (Bozeman, 59715)
- Bradley Corntassel - Jordahl & Sliter PLLC (Kalispell, 59904)
- Jessica Curney - Multistate Tax Resources LLC (Helena, 59601)
- Aurelia Damiani - JCCS PC (Kalispell, 59904)
- Russell Davis - Boyle Deveny & Meyer PC (Missoula, 59801)
- Ann Deegan - Summers McNea & Co PC (Billings, 59102)
- Leana Eastty - Montana State University Student (Bozeman, 59717)
- Meghan Ekholt
- Carrie Faulhaber - Beartooth Group (Bozeman, 59771)
- Stefeni Freese
- Katelyn Fuchs - Carroll College Student (Helena, 59601)
- Kris Fuehrer - Whitefish Tax & Consulting PC (Whitefish, 59937)
- Theresa Gallo - Multistate Tax Resources LLC (Helena, 59601)
- Sydney Grilley - Carver Florek & James CPAs (Missoula, 59801)
- Abigail Grotbo - Montana State University Student (Bozeman, 59717)
- Annette Hill
- Kaycee Hofer - Carver Florek & James CPAs (Missoula, 59801)
- Tristen Holt - Montana Tech Student (Butte, 59701)
- Tyrone Inglis - Butte Auto Group (Butte, 59701)
- Alana Jilek - Rocky Mountain College Student (Billings, 59101)
- Michael Johns - Newland & Co PC (Deer Lodge, 59722)
- Ryan Jordan - Jordan & Associates Inc (Great Falls, 59404)
- Charlie Keith - Barta & Bantz CPAs PLLP (Lewistown, 59457)
- Timothy Kober - Montana Tech (Butte, 59701)
- Miranda Koski - Carver Florek & James CPAs (Missoula, 59801)
- Zachary Kossman - University of Montana Student (Missoula, 59812)
- Julie Kostelecky - Rudd & Company PLLC (Bozeman, 59718)
- Connor Larson - Colleen Black & Co PC (Billings, 59102)
- Doris Leader
- Renee Liechti - Jordahl & Sliter PLLC (Kalispell, 59904)
- Elise Linderman - University of Montana Student (Missoula, 59812)
- Clemance Lockman - Sally M Hensel CPA PC (Missoula, 59808)
- Tymber MacKenzie - Hanser's Automotive (Billings, 59101)
- Hunter May - Linked Accounting, LLP (Kaysville, 84037)
- Charlie McGrath - Montana Tech Student (Butte, 59701)
- Cassandra McKenney - Jordahl & Sliter PLLC (Kalispell, 59904)
- Teresa Moser - JCCS PC (Whitefish, 59937)
- Ryan Patrick
- Hailee Regan - Douglas Wilson & Co PC (Great Falls, 59401)
- Richard Reisig
- Hillary Rens - Deason CPA PC (Miles City, 59301)
- Michael Reynoso - University of Montana Student (Missoula, 59812)
- Raeanna Richards - JCCS PC (Missoula, 59802)
- David Ritchey - Online Degree/Other Student (-, 00000)
- Kelli Schwartzenberger - Jordahl & Sliter PLLC (Kalispell, 59904)
- Ryan Screnar - Glacier Bancorp Inc (Kalispell, 59901)
- Angel Sharp - Carver Florek & James CPAs (Missoula, 59801)
- Justin Sliter - Jordahl & Sliter PLLC (Kalispell, 59904)
- Katelyn Smigaj
- Sara Smith - ALPS Corporation (Missoula, 59802)
- Olivia Smith - Eide Bailly LLP (Billings, 59101)
- Kendal Staples - Carroll College Student (Helena, 59601)
- John Steinhoff - Nichols Steinhoff CPAs LLC (Helena, 59601)
- Melissa Sullivan - RMW Accounting (Shelby, 59474)
- Sydni Tangaro - Tangaro & Company CPAs (Bozeman, 59771)
- Todd Tonjum - Jordahl & Sliter PLLC (Kalispell, 59904)
- Todd Tregidga - Montana Tech (Butte, 59701)
- Valerie Vermulm - Billmans Inc (Cut Bank, 59427)
- Larry Vervick - Larry Vervick CPA PLLC (Missoula, 59801)
- Danielle Weber - Holmes & Turner PC (Bozeman, 59715)
Non-Member Price $700.00
Member Price $600.00