Professional Experience That Helps You Prosper
I’ve worked in Restaurants, Retail Stores, Pharmacies, Groceries, Warehouses, Taverns, Hotels, Residences, and once even as a Surveyor’s Assistant. I’ve always got along with others, yet everywhere I worked my Math skills would set me apart and help me succeed. The surprise is how long it took me to deduce that I should make my career in Accounting. I’ve worked for this Firm through three name changes now, From Mi-Con Accounting to Skala & Associates, and now to Skala Berndt CPA. I plan on being here for the next 3 name changes as well.
“The secret of success is making your vocation your vacation.”
Education is a Never Ending Process
My college education was at Catherine College, in beautiful downtown Burbank, California. It was a newly created degree in Computerized Accounting, and our department therefore actually had an IBM PC! Of all of the different software packages that we learned then, DOS, Lotus 1-2-3, WordStar, etc., the only one still available is Peachtree (although the Peachtree of that era looks as much like modern Peachtree as Pac-Man does). My first accounting position entailed Individual Tax Returns as well as Small Business Accounting, so I became an Enrolled Agent with the IRS, giving me the ability to represent clients before the IRS, as well as a much better understanding of tax law. Keeping abreast of the changes in both of those fields has been an enjoyable, never-ending class.
“The beginning of knowledge is the discovery of something we do not understand.”
Working and Networking In The Professional Community
My first thought is to the network of Clients that Skala Berndt CPA possesses. I find that our clientele could consistently be described as conscientious, or, in plain English, “Owners who Care.” It is no difficult thing to refer our clients to one another, when the common thread among them is so positive.
“There is no harm in repeating a good thing.”
Enjoying Time Outside of Work
My wife Lynn and our sons Brendan and Duncan are my greatest joys, and fill each day of mine with laughter and wonder.
My constant tinkering with computer hardware and software provides additional inspiration, as well as irritation.
A former Madison Scout, you’ll sometimes find me at Drum and Bugle Corps contests, or even an occasional Marching Band contest.
I’m also an inveterate reader, seeking out used book stores and garage sales for old comic books and dusty first editions, as well as trying to keep up with how technology is changing the printed word, through blogs and e-publishing.
And in the wee hours you might find me at your local nightclub, playing Bass Guitar with the Soul Brothers Band.
“Always store beer in a dark place.”
