Wis. college offers accounting paths to further careers

Sometimes, it just takes a little time.

In a new piece from the Wisconsin Rapids Tribune, an auto parts department manager, Javier Vera, and Steve Koth Jr., a military veteran, both found paths to the accounting profession later in life at Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.

Vera and Koth graduated from Mid-State on May 14 with associate degrees in accounting, both with high academic honors. Vera continues to aspire to the controller position at his auto dealership, while Koth is already employed in the accounting field. Both are well on their way to attaining the visions each had for a career in the high-demand field of accounting.

The Bureau for Labor Statistics reports that the demand for bookkeeping and accounting clerk services will increase 11 percent from 2012 to 2022, with 204,600 new jobs by 2022. Demand for other careers is even higher: Accountants and financial analysts are expected to increase 13 percent and 16 percent, respectively, during the same time period.

A 2015 U.S. News and World Report article lists "Bookkeeping, Accounting and Audit Clerk" as #8 on their list of business jobs. "Accountant" is No. 3 on the list. A 2014 Time magazine article, entitled "These Are the 5 Most In-Demand Jobs Right Now," had accountants and auditors second on their list, stating that, "Every business needs someone to mind the books."

Mid-State accounting instructor Bob Smith says that it's common for Mid-State graduates to be in traditional accounting fields, as well as accounting and finance careers in the banking, construction, merchandising, and manufacturing industries.

"Not only are Mid-State accounting students in high demand, they are entering an occupation with above-average pay," said Smith.

Vera is hopeful his accounting career will kick off at the car dealership. He worked full-time throughout his Mid-State education and says that the dealership owner has been very supportive of his progress. He also noted that the ability to work full-time while attending was a major factor in his decision to attend Mid-State.

"I chose Mid-State because the program offerings worked well with my job schedule," said Vera.

Koth found his position through an internship, a hands-on opportunity available through his accounting program.

"Leaving Mid-State, I am much better prepared to start the next chapter in my life," said Koth.

For the full article, head to the Wisconsin Rapids Tribune'ssitehere.