FAQs

Learn about the profession-wide effort to tackle the talent shortage and attract more people to a rewarding career in accounting.
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Why was the NPAG created?

The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) formed the advisory group in July 2023, in response to a resolution passed during the organization’s May Council Meeting. The resolution endorsed the development of a “continuous research-driven national pipeline strategy” focused on attracting more students to the profession.

What is the NPAG’s purpose?

The group’s primary goal is to develop a national pipeline strategy that ultimately: 

  • Strengthens the accounting pipeline 
  • Assesses hurdles to earning a CPA license 
  • Maintains the rigor needed to protect the public 
  • Provides flexibility for students of all backgrounds 
  • Focuses on the root causes of pipeline attrition 
  • Engages the entire profession in implementing meaningful solutions 

What types of topics is the group exploring?

Nothing is off the table. The NPAG is exploring external market trends, demographic shifts, and profession-specific factors – from an overall decline in college enrollment and rising education costs to preparing for the CPA Exam and starting salaries for accountants.

What is the timeline for developing solutions?

NPAG members began meeting in July 2023. The first phase of discussion, study, and data analysis and collection is underway. A progress report was shared at the AICPA’s Fall Council Meeting in October 2023, and a draft pipeline strategy plan will be available to the public in spring 2024.

Who is overseeing the advisory group’s progress?

A third-party consulting firm, ConvergenceCoaching, LLC, is facilitating the NPAG’s overall agenda, while the AICPA is coordinating operations, meeting logistics, and communicating progress to key stakeholders. A separate, external firm is managing the national survey’s data collection and analysis.  

What is the timeline for developing solutions? 

NPAG members began meeting in July 2023. The draft strategy report was published in May 2024, and the group is collecting additional feedback from stakeholders across the profession. The final strategy report will be available to the public in summer 2024.

How can I get involved?

Everyone is invited to take the Pipeline Pledge – an individual commitment to participate in two activities that have the potential to influence and grow the talent pool. Stay tuned for new initiatives aimed at strengthening the accounting pipeline.