Faculty Spotlight: Scott Showalter, CPA

What inspired you to pursue a teaching career in accounting?

I fell into an accounting career much by happenchance, but I enjoyed the contributions I was able to make in my 33-year career in public accounting. During this time, it became obvious how important accounting is to just about every organization in the world. One of the roles I especially enjoyed in public accounting was coaching and mentoring professionals. So, when it came time to think about what I wanted to do after I retired from public accounting, teaching allowed me to continue the coaching and mentoring activities. Today, I see my primary role as preparing students for a successful career in the accounting profession.

Share a memorable teaching moment or experience that significantly impacted one or more students.

I enjoy seeing the transformation in students—especially in their communication skills. Most graduate classes require active participation in class and making presentations, and watching the confidence gained by students during these activities is very rewarding. It is not unusual to receive emails from alumni thanking us for “making” them push their comfort zone.

“It is not unusual to receive emails from alumni thanking us for ‘making’ them push their comfort zone.”

How do you stay current in your field and bring that knowledge into the classroom?

I am fortunate to serve on multiple boards in the accounting profession. While these boards require significant effort on my part, they allow me to stay up to date with current events in the accounting profession. I meet many professional leaders during these activities—both on the boards and in activities of the boards—who are willing to come to class to engage with students. These visits are very revealing as the students get to engage closely with leaders in the profession.

What advice do you have for students interested in pursuing a career in accounting?

The accounting profession provides unlimited career opportunities. Beginning a career in accounting is like taking the onramp to an interstate highway that can take you to an unlimited number of destinations. To experience these opportunities, students should be willing to step up and volunteer or accept the many options that are presented to them.

“Beginning a career in accounting is like taking the onramp to an interstate highway that can take you to an unlimited number of destinations.”

Even though I worked with the same firm during my time in public accounting, it felt like I was changing jobs every 3-4 years due to the opportunities that were presented to me. Those experiences took me places I never thought I would go.

Outside of teaching and research, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?

My wife and I enjoy traveling—often in relation to the board meetings. Adding side trips before and after the meetings is enjoyable. We also enjoy being outside working in our yard and taking hikes.