Maureen Dingess, COO, Virginia Society of CPAs (VSCPA)

Episode Summary Robin sits down with Maureen Dingus, Chief Operating Officer of the Virginia Society of CPAs, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, lifelong learning, and the future of the accounting profession. From a $5/hour internship that launched an entire career to navigating AI, digital wellness, and the talent pipeline — Maureen brings candor, humor, and real insight to every topic. What We Cover How It All Started Maureen never planned a career in associations. A paid internship at VSCPA during her VCU days — the only one that paid anything — turned into a calling she never saw coming. Future-Ready Learning for CPAs The profession is moving fast. Maureen shares how VSCPA is helping members keep up with shorter-format learning, virtual delivery, and the irreplaceable value of in-person connection. Digital Wellness in the Workplace Maureen breaks down what digital wellness actually looks like in practice — from movement snacks and eye exercises to Zoom fatigue, screen apnea, and why leaders need to walk the talk on healthy tech habits. AI: The Real Conversation CPAs are excited, confused, and sometimes blocked from using AI tools — often all at once. Maureen shares how the profession is rethinking what new accountants need to learn when AI is handling the grunt work, and how she personally uses ChatGPT (including to think through tough organizational decisions). Making the Case for Accounting Why should a smart 19-year-old choose accounting today? Maureen makes a compelling argument — and challenges the outdated image of what a CPA actually does. The Talent Pipeline Firms aren't waiting for senior year anymore. Maureen talks about CPAs in the classroom, high school and middle school outreach, externships, and why starting salaries had to change. Lightning Round Highlights 🏈 Tigers & Lions fan — and pumped about Justin Verlander's return 💪 Daily non-negotiable: running, yoga, and strength training 🎸 At 19, she wanted to work in the music industry — and still dreams of booking bands at a rock club (matinee hours only) Connect with Maureen 🌐 vscpa.com 💼 LinkedIn: Maureen Dingus 📧 [email protected] Connect with Robin at [email protected].