I am in the process of retiring from the Army as a fleet maintenance manager and I want to get into the Accounting/Auditing business. I have an MBA w/Accounting Emphasis, I passed all four parts of the CPA Exam, and I am a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). What experience or skills do you think would be relatable when it comes to the accounting field? I am not sure much I have done previously will apply to jobs I am applying for until I get a few years of experience and start supervising people. Most accounting students have done internships or worked in book keeping and might have more relevant skills. What can I do to help make myself more marketable to employers?
Answers
Ryan,
When was the last time you turned a wrench? You are in that silo as a Director of operations or project manager, which I see you have picked up the cert. Career research would be important, first maybe an internship, very helpful in getting your feet wet without jumping in the water per se. Informational Interviews of people in positions you feel you might enjoy and or qualify for. Keep in mind your scope of management may narrow considerably, along with your direct reports. Civilians have titles that are all over the place, it would be as confusing as explaining to them the Warrant Officer program? The more you learn and understand about the career field, and even more defined a career the better you will be able to focus your accomplishments, resume, and profile on that career.
Thank you for your service and God Bless.
Here a couple of LinkedIn Profiles that are senior military with multiple roles that narrowed them down. Also a couple of articles regarding career research and LI profiles.
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/come-prepared-transition-process-gap-between-civilian-jerry-welsh/
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/when-more-right-jerry-welsh/
Good examples of “to the point” profiles are Mark Broc, PMP, SSGB, CSM and Jack Eisenhauer, Global Supply Chain. All have had long careers, but emphasized experiences and accomplishments that offer examples of the career they are searching for.
Hi Ryan, first and foremost thank you for your service!
Depending on your specific experience as Fleet Maintenance Manager, some of your background may be applicable to Accounting/Audit, specifically related to asset management and/or PP&E (Property, Plant, & Equipment).
The fact you're a PMP and you passed all 4 parts of the CPA exam is a GREAT baseline and I would highlight that on your resume if you haven't already.
I actually recruit for Deloitte's Advisory Accounting and Internal Controls practice, so I am very familiar with accounting and audit terminology, and I'd be happy to review your resume. Feel free to send to me directly at: sdunwody@deloitte.com
Have a wonderful weekend!
Sasha
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