COVID-19 has shown that accounting students have what it takes to quickly adapt. Is the current curriculum designed to prepare them with the agility they’ll need to succeed in their future careers? A recent article from CPA Canada—written by a member of CPA Canada’s Competency Map Task Force, Irene Wiecek—explores what the future looks like and the skills required for the next generation of CPAs, and how the Competency Map is evolving to ensure they are prepared.
Irene and the other members of the Task Force have a mandate to take a “blank sheet” approach to reimagining a new CPA Canada Competency Map. The Task Force provides an opportunity for the profession and accounting educators to think about the human skills that CPAs require to succeed.
As you know, the core values stressed by CPAs are integrity, ethics, analytical rigour, and professionalism in the service of the public interest. However, looking ahead, Irene suggests that CPAs should be exposed to educational experiences that embrace other goals as well, such as:
- an increasingly globalized perspective that emphasizes collaboration;
- an outlook that acknowledges the importance of speed and flexibility in the face of constant change;
- a mindset and corresponding skill set that is oriented more toward the future than the past.
Part of that future focus is technological. Emerging digital technologies present both CPAs and their clients with new opportunities. Many CPAs and firms are discovering and using artificial intelligence and Big Data analytics applications, which allow CPAs to provide more responsive and even proactive advice to their clients. Cloud-based applications have allowed clients and CPAs to boost productivity and provide space for more entrepreneurialism and value creation. Therefore, it is essential that those working towards their designation are well-versed in these areas.
As well, an effective Competency Map will ensure the gaining of “soft skills” is as robust as hard skills. In the past, the Competency Map has focused on both, but Irene admits soft skills was considered not as robust. Today, the COVID-19 crisis has shown collaboration and others considered soft skills are essential to navigate the new world and workplace.
Read the full article on CPA Canada’s website, here.
