The AICPA's CEO on trust, AI, and the profession's future

AICPA President and CEO Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, reflects on his first 18 months in the role, discussing initiatives such as CPA Trust, the return of the print Journal of Accountancy, and the profession's ongoing advocacy efforts. Speaking while at AICPA ENGAGE in Las Vegas, Koziel also shares insights on AI, upskilling, tax transformation, licensure mobility, and the role CPAs can play in a rapidly changing business environment. 

Koziel explains why he remains optimistic about the profession's future despite ongoing disruption and uncertainty.

He also tells the story of being asked long ago for an autograph.

What you'll learn from this episode:

• Why the CPA Trust campaign launched and particulars about the strategy for a commercial about the initiative.
• What Koziel meant when he said, "We are in the verification business."
• What member feedback revealed about the need for upskilling and how the Profession Ready Initiative aims to address skills gaps.
• Why Koziel considers it valuable for members to have the Journal of Accountancy return to printed issues.
• How AI could reshape tax compliance work and expand opportunities for advisory services.
• Why he says, "Train's left the station," when asked about changes in CPA licensure pathways.
• Koziel's assertion that CPAs will continue to thrive amid technological disruption by serving as the "human in the lead."