Getting to Know our Board

Location: Butte
Origin story: “I started in Chemical Engineering at MSU on a scholarship. I then returned to my hometown of Missoula to attend U of M and found I enjoyed accounting and economics. I then received a bachelors degree in both.”
What he enjoys doing: Tim enjoys staying active by going to the gym, playing golf, hiking, and just being outdoors – hopefully to “slow down the aging process”.

Location: Missoula
His guiding philosophy—at home or in the office: “I think the most important thing we can do for others is teach them to take care of themselves. That applies to both parenting and working with clients. As a dad, your job is to work yourself out of a job - from wiping butts to handing over car keys. Same goes for clients: the better we train and equip them, the more successful and independent they become. And if your kids and clients are thriving, you’re doing something right.”
Fun Fact: Russ is skilled in Jiu-Jitsu where he can move, learn, and struggle - just as in life.

Location: Bozeman
Biggest value of MTCPA: “I enjoy connecting with other CPAs as we navigate the multitude of fields in business we end up in… yet still have similar jobs and needs.”

Location: Anaconda
Origin story:  “I enrolled in a Principles of Accounting class at Montana Tech, taught by a young professor, Tim Kober. His handwritten T accounts and journal entries on overhead transparencies clicked with me, and I realized public accounting was my passion. I joined Anderson ZurMuehlen and continued my education with brilliant colleagues and clients in tax, audit, management, and a merger. After thirty amazing years flew by, I retired in 2026."

Location: Kalispell
Why she chose accounting: “After a failed career trajectory into teaching, I realized accounting worked well with my linear way of thinking. I was also fortunate to be inspired by my bosses along the way.”

Location: Missoula
In a former life…: “I am originally from Germany. I previously did chemistry research – but employment opportunities were inadequate by the time I graduated – then I found a career in automotive repair where I identified my aptitude for analysis and numbers. After talking to a neighbor (and per my grandmother’s suggestion), I became an accountant. Now, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Location: Missoula
If not accounting what she would do: “I’d be a Chef! Cooking has a structured nature that really resonates with my analytical, detail-oriented side - something many accountants can relate to.

But it also allows for creativity and personal expression, which mirrors how the CPA profession is evolving. We’re moving beyond just compliance into more strategic and advisory roles, where there’s room for innovation. In both worlds, there’s a balance of precision and creativity that I really enjoy.”

Location: Billings
Being a Packers fan has influenced how he runs his firm: "The Packers are known for listening to feedback from fans, players, and coaches - even if they don’t act on every suggestion. I try to lead the firm the same way, with an open-door approach that values input from everyone.

We also take a similar approach to talent development. Like the Packers, we focus on growing our team from within. Several of our best CPAs started at the front desk while in school and grew into their roles here. We guide our team based on their strengths and help them find long-term success.

And while I don’t use a salary cap model exactly, we do offer performance-based incentives - just like bonuses for hitting certain stats in football. It’s all about building a team that’s committed, supported, and always improving.”

Location: Billings
What she enjoys most about being an accountant: “I enjoy the strategic problem-solving - every client brings a unique challenge, and I like finding the best solution as laws and circumstances change.

I’m also very competitive, especially with myself. That drive pushes me to grow, meet deadlines, and tackle complex tax issues with focus and energy.”

Location: Miles City
What it was like transitioning from banking to public accounting: “It was tough at first - leaving the bank felt like leaving family. But it was time for a change, and public accounting has given me a new kind of fulfillment. I still prioritize work-life balance, but now I get to help people directly, which has been more rewarding than focusing on critique and improvement.”

Location: Dillon
Why Accounting?: As a second-generation CPA, I grew up seeing firsthand the trust, relationships, and hard work that define this profession. After gaining experience in Bozeman, I was excited to return home to Dillon in 2025 to join my family's firm and serve the community that helped shape me.

Family is at the center of everything I do, and I believe the strongest businesses are built on genuine relationships. Whether I'm working with clients, spending time outdoors, reading, or chasing my husband around the golf course, I'm always looking for opportunities to learn, grow, and build meaningful connections."

Location: Bozeman
Representing the Next Generation: "One of the things I've learned as an accounting student is that this profession offers so much more than most people realize. Whether your interests are in audit, forensic accounting, business leadership, or something completely different, there are countless paths to explore.

I'm excited to help other students discover those opportunities, connect with professionals, and make sure the next generation of CPAs has a voice. I hope to encourage more students to see accounting as a career that's full of possibilities."