Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) | MACPA Events

Inaugural cohort of CPAs completes MACPA’s new GenAI Learning Program

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Immersive-education experience gives CPAs the opportunity to immediately put new skills to work

A cohort of 14 CPAs has completed an inaugural Maryland Association of CPAs program that explores the transformative role artificial intelligence is playing in the accounting and finance profession.

Built with insights from MACPA members and led by co-creators and instructors Byron Patrick and Twyla Verhelst, the GenAI Learning Program offers practical A.I. skills with immediate application. The program's immersive-education experience is designed for CPAs and accounting professionals, offering a cohort-style education with an interactive and hands-on approach to mastering A.I. for accounting.

The curriculum is designed to meet participants at their current level of A.I. knowledge, ensuring a personalized learning experience.

"We want to thank and congratulate this inaugural cohort of CPAs for completing this important and exciting new program," said MACPA President and CEO Rebekah Olson, CPA. "Artificial intelligence is transforming our profession almost in real time, and the MACPA's GenAI Learning Program will play a key role in helping Maryland CPAs take full advantage of this groundbreaking technology."

Feedback from the program's inaugural cohort will be used to expand the MACPA's future A.I learning opportunities.

"This course is a game-changer,” said participant Tim Samuel, CFO at Bridgeway Community Church in Columbia, Md. “It’s packed with actionable insights and practical strategies that have made an immediate difference in my work. If you’re serious about leveling up, this is the course to take!"

"This has been an incredible journey, blending hands-on learning with cutting-edge technology,” added Samantha Bowling, CPA, CFE, CGMA, managing partner at GWCPA in Prince Frederick, Md. “It not only equipped me with the tools to innovate within my firm but also empowered me to reimagine our processes and team collaboration. The integration of A.I. into real-world applications has revolutionized how we approach efficiency and strategy.”

New rounds of GenAI Learning Program sessions are being planned for 2025. Keep an eye on the MACPA's website for new sessions as they are announced.

Maryland CPAs who completed the inaugural GenAI Learning Program cohort are:

  • Avonette Blanding
  • Paul Herbick
  • Laura Swann
  • Janice Stucke
  • Rob Goldstein
  • Savedra Scott
  • Anna Rigg
  • Maxene Bardwell
  • Karl Spanbauer
  • Mark Robins
  • Addie Blickenstaff
  • Samantha Bowling
  • Barrett Young
  • Tim Samuel
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