In 2024, the accounting profession saw a significant decline; 340,000 fewer professionals were working compared to five years earlier, according to Bloomberg. This shortage has raised serious concerns among businesses and investors, as essential functions like financial reporting, tax preparation, and regulatory compliance depend on these skilled professionals.
As IMA's CEO, I've spent considerable time thinking about how we can best serve our members while strengthening the profession. Part of the answer is simple: we need to connect with and support students when they're deciding their career trajectory. It's hard to know the diversity of career options that exist in accounting and finance without the guidance of a seasoned pro.
That's why I'm excited to share a partnership that gives our U.S. members the opportunity to shape the future of accounting and finance, while helping address the talent challenges we all face.
IMA has partnered with SetFire Foundation to accelerate the Sparks Mentorship Program. This innovative U.S.-based program connects students with mentors in their chosen field through SetFire’s web platform, and enhanced AI tools help facilitate the mentor-mentee relationship.
As an IMA member, you now have a powerful opportunity: the chance to get matched with and mentor students who are interested in accounting and finance careers. Through this one-on-one relationship, you'll share your real-world experience with the technologies, strategic decision-making, and cross-functional collaboration that define modern accounting and finance. You're not just answering questions—you're showing students what's possible in this profession.
This partnership reflects IMA’s dual commitment to our members and to the profession we all serve. We know many of you are passionate about giving back and growing the accounting pipeline, but finding meaningful ways to do so can be challenging. Through Sparks, we're making it easy. Whether you have 30 years of experience or are early in your career, you have insights that can transform a student's trajectory while helping address the talent shortage our profession faces.
And here's what I want to emphasize: mentorship isn't one-directional. Our members who've mentored students consistently tell us how much they gain as well: fresh perspectives on emerging technologies, renewed energy for their own careers, and the satisfaction of building the profession's future. By connecting you with this program, we're making it easier for you to create an impact beyond yourself.
I believe we're at a pivotal moment in our profession. As AI automates routine tasks, we're freed to focus on strategic, creative, and analytical work that drives real business value. This is the story our members need to tell and students need to hear. You are the bridge between classroom theory and the exciting reality of modern accounting and finance.
Together, we'll build the pipeline this profession needs and demonstrate why IMA membership matters.
Visit SetFire to get started.