NEW YORK, Sept 25, 2023 — AICPA & CIMA, which together form the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, are rolling out Career Launchpad, an artificial intelligence-guided program for students interested in accounting and finance. The global offering provides valuable insights and guidance to kickstart careers within the profession.
Career Launchpad offers AICPA & CIMA student members an opportunity to access real-world career stories, expert advice, and behind-the-scenes information from seasoned accounting professionals on subjects including salaries, résumé preparation, personal branding, career choices in the accounting industry, and interview skills. The program, which requires free student membership with AICPA & CIMA, equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to land their first job in the profession.
Led by AI-powered avatar Andi, students are asked to complete six modules that take them through a learning journey on careers in accounting and finance. In the final module, offered in partnership with Interflexion, students can participate in simulated real-world interviews. Students receive real-time feedback, also driven by AI, to refine performance and boost confidence.
“Through Career Launchpad, we’re proud to feature CPAs and Chartered Global Management Accountants (CGMAs) who are passionate for their roles in the business and accounting world,” said Mike Decker, vice president of CPA examination and pipeline at AICPA & CIMA. “They really showcase the innovative areas of their jobs, enabled by their credentials and their experience. The AI-driven mock interview in Module 6 is truly a game changer, allowing future accounting and finance professionals to practice their interview skills and fine-tune them by receiving instant Intelligent feedback.”
Career Launchpad comprises six modules, each offering distinct benefits:
Career Exploration
Modules 1-2 cover specialties such as forensic accounting, technology, audit, tax, management accounting, financial reporting, and ESG, and feature videos from accounting and finance professionals who share their industry experiences, tips, and insights. The goal of these first modules is to inspire students by offering a clear path to their first job.
Skill Development
Modules 3-5 include case studies and short quizzes to enhance students' practical knowledge and provide guidance on interview strategies, résumé writing, cover letter crafting, and tips for building an effective LinkedIn profile.
Advanced Interviewing with AI
Module 6 offers advanced interviewing techniques using AI technology through the digital guide Andi. Students can simulate real interviews and receive personalized feedback, better preparing them for internships or job interviews.
Modules 1-5 are free, and students who complete them can earn a free digital badge for their professional profiles. Module 6, the advanced interview program, is available for $19.95. Students who complete all six modules can earn a total of three digital badges to display on LinkedIn.
About the American Institute of CPAs
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) is the world's largest member association representing the CPA profession, with more than 415,000 members in the United States and worldwide, and a history of serving the public interest since 1887. AICPA members represent many areas of practice, including business and industry, public practice, government, education and consulting. AICPA sets ethical standards for its members and U.S. auditing standards for private companies, not-for-profit organizations, and federal, state and local governments. It develops and grades the Uniform CPA Examination, offers specialized credentials, builds the pipeline of future talent and drives continuing education to advance the vitality, relevance and quality of the profession.
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