Discover CPA

Are you interested in becoming a CPA but don’t have a business-related background? This in-person Discover CPA event will feature a panel of CPAs who did not study business prior to pursuing their CPA path. Hear why they became CPAs and how they did it. Receive an overview of the CPA profession and get a chance to network with panelists following the moderated panel discussion.

Complimentary light refreshments will be served. Limited space available.

• Audience: Those without a business background but curious about becoming a CPA
• Cost: Free
• Registration Deadline: March 25, 2024
• Dress Code: Business casual

Questions? Contact CPABC Student Recruitment at recruitment@bccpa.ca

Note: This event is NOT intended for CPAs and does not qualify for CPD.

Panelists

Allison Mah, CPA, CMA
Corporate Controller, White Spot Restaurants
Major/field of study of degree: Bachelor of Science (Environmental Planning)

As the Corporate Controller for White Spot Restaurants, Allison oversees the operation of 36 corporate and 83 franchise White Spot and Triple O restaurants across BC, Alberta and Ontario. Over the course of her career, Allison has worked in hospitality, mining, and manufacturing industries and has overseen multiple ERP implementations and automation improvements.

Allison holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Planning degree from the University of Northern BC and after a change in career paths obtained her CMA in 2014. Holding a CPA has allowed Allison the opportunity to work with diverse teams of all sizes and the creative outlet to find innovative solutions in many industries.

Today, Allison is the Treasurer for the Richmond Ringette Association and is an avid traveller and cruiser.

Gail Thiessen CPA, CMA
Finance Manager, Evangelical Missionary Church of Canada
Major/field of study of degree: Bachelor of Arts (Economics)

Gail serves on The Evangelical Missionary Church of Canada National Team as Finance Manager from her home in North Vancouver. She is responsible for managing and executing all finance-related aspects of EMCC’s operations.

Gail is involved at the board level with New West Symphony & Chorus for the last 5 years, serving as the Treasurer for 3 years and is currently the Chair of the Finance Committee. For the 2 years she has served on the board of Opera Nanaimo Society.

Gail grew up in Northeast Saskatchewan and went to university in Regina, receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Economics. She then went on to achieve her Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation. In 2015, with the amalgamation of the three designations, she received her Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.

June Lee, CPA, CMA
Analyst, BC Financial Services Authority
Major/field of study of degree: Bachelor of Food Science

June Lee, a dedicated professional in finance, earned her Certified Management Accountant designation in 2015. She currently works at the BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA), overseeing various financial sectors. As an Analyst, June reviews credit union filing submissions, ensuring compliance and maintaining industry standards. Beyond her role, she serves as a CPA mentor, contributing to the growth of aspiring CPAs and strengthening the profession.

Michael Macaulay, CPA
Director of Finance, OAK + FORT
Major/field of study of degree: Bachelor of Human Kinetics, Movement Science

After completing his undergrad in Kinesiology, Michale found himself not wanting to stay in the field, so he did some research and enrolled in the UBC DAP program and moved across the country.  During this transition period Michael found his first entry into an ideal Finance department by working in the hospitality industry. It was during one of his bartending shifts that he unknowingly met the Director of Finance at JOEY and it was only a matter of time before Michael joined his team. 

Over the last decade, Michael found himself in numerous roles, from AP & Project Accounting to Financial Reporting & FP&A. While completing his CPA, Michael has been lucky enough to work with some really great professionals which has allowed him to hone not only his technical skills but also his leadership skills, as he has had the opportunity to take numerous leadership courses. One thing that Michael realized early in his career is that working in an industry that you really are passionate about alongside people who you can eventually call family really makes a world of a difference.  If there's one thing that Michael would tell any prospective candidate it's - the CPA doesn't just prepare you for the CFE or a life in accounting, it gives you the tools to navigate and explore so many careers which gives you access to versions of yourself you may not have known existed.