Get to know 2024–25 INCPAS Chair Kyle A. Simmerman, CPA

What new opportunities does the Society have to advocate for its members and the profession as a whole?

The topic I hear about the most is around workforce development (aka “pipeline”). We have a tremendous opportunity in front of us to bring more individuals into our exciting and rewarding profession. It will take a lot of coordinated effort by the Society, members and other organizations, and we are up to that task. Another key topic is protecting our profession. There are so many considerations around licensure in this changing regulatory landscape, and we must protect our members.

What do you hope to accomplish during your year as INCPAS Chair?

There are two areas that stand out to me, which members can see clearly in our strategic plan. First is ensuring our organization has a sustainable future in all aspects. We must deliver value to members, protect our profession and transform to where the world is now and will be in the future. Just like our members and their organizations, we cannot rest on what got us here—rather, we need to build upon that to drive us toward our future. The second is advancing workforce development. We often refer to this as the “150-hour rule,” which we are addressing, but this needs to be broader than 150 and more holistic in approach. However, it is still critical to me to continue to deliver significant progress on 150, as our members are expecting that. 

How did you become involved with INCPAS and what made you decide to become chair?

I’m going to take this opportunity for a quick shout out. When I joined BGBC in 2009, I became aware of how impactful this organization was from our managing partner, Steve Eichenberger (past INCPAS board chair). In addition to so many other ways he supported my career, he was the one who encouraged me to get involved with INCPAS. I started by joining the Tax Resource Advisory Council and was really impressed by the work that group did (and still does). I continually learned more and more of what the Society does, and ways I could be a part of this organization.

I became board chair for three key reasons:

• Our team members at INCPAS are truly remarkable to work with.
• The Board of Directors and other INCPAS volunteers are tremendous individuals.
• INCPAS members are great people to serve.

What is your favorite memory of being an Indiana CPA Society member?

It’s more broad than one memory: it’s advocacy. I’ve been really fortunate to be a part of significant advocacy efforts along with other INCPAS members and staff. Whether it is working with state agencies or the legislature, helping impact change that really enhances our profession has been the most rewarding and memorable.