Article from the Center for Accounting Transformation.
Author: Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA.
Shaping the Future of Accounting Together
Today’s accounting professionals are more than technical experts—we are trusted advisors, strategic thinkers, and community leaders. In a world shaped by constant change, accounting has evolved into a profession of impact, innovation, and purpose. At the Center for Accounting Transformation, we believe it’s time the world sees that, too.
That’s why we launched the Agents of Transformation initiative: to spotlight professionals who are using their skills, leadership, and creativity to make a positive impact through accounting. We have been especially proud to partner with the state accounting associations, whose support and participation has helped us amplify these stories and inspire the next generation of changemakers.
Why We’re Doing This
The accounting profession is at a crossroads. Demand for accounting and advisory services continues to rise, but fewer students are majoring in accounting. Too often, accounting is misrepresented as nothing more than number-crunching and spreadsheets. We know the truth: accounting is about problem-solving, building trust, shaping sustainable businesses, and accelerating innovation.
Through Agents of Transformation, we’re working to reshape perceptions. We’re showcasing real people—taking both traditional and non-traditional paths—who are driving progress, strengthening communities, and creating new opportunities.
By highlighting these stories, we can inspire the next generation to see the accounting profession not just as a career, but as a platform for making a difference in our world.
Your Role: Why We Need You
We are looking for both accounting professionals and other professionals working at accounting firms who are ready to champion the future of our profession. By joining the Agents of Transformation network, you’ll:
- Inspire students and career explorers with your journey and leadership.
- Help reframe what it means to be an accounting professional—moving beyond stereotypes to showcase the real opportunities the profession offers.
- Help non-accountants see how they can #improvetheworld by working at an accounting firm.
- Support a vibrant, diverse, and forward-looking future for accounting and finance.
You don’t need to be a CFO or tech guru to make a difference. Whether you’re a staff accountant, a CEO, or even a marketing manager in an accounting firm—your story matters. As an Agent of Transformation, you have the opportunity to show others what this profession is really about: purpose, impact, and possibility. If you care about shaping the future of the accounting profession and want to inspire the next generation, all it takes is your story.
The Spirit Behind the Movement
Transformation isn’t just about technology or trends—it’s about people. It’s about embracing collaboration, innovation, responsibility, and resilience. Rooted in values like responsibility and accountability, family and community, and unity and harmony, this movement calls on all of us to lead with heart and purpose.
For those of us in the accounting profession, this initiative is a chance to live those values—by sharing stories, advocating for belonging, driving innovation, and leading with integrity. Whether you’re championing sustainable business practices, embracing new technologies, or mentoring future professionals, your actions help shape a profession that is as ethical and adaptive as it is impactful.
Together, we can create a profession that is more universal, more innovative, and more inspiring than ever before. Let’s move forward, knowing that every story shared and every effort made contributes to a future where accounting empowers individuals, builds business resilience, strengthens communities, and drives meaningful change.
Join our Mission
If you’re ready to be part of the change—we invite you to join our mission. Help students and professionals see the full potential of a career in accounting.
Visit https://we.improvetheworld.net/share/ to learn more, share your story, and become an Agent of Transformation.
