CPFO Spotlight: Jeremy Andrykowski

1. Why did you want to become a CPFO? 

When I first started working in public finance, I had some financial and budgeting experience, but as I took on more responsibilities, I realized how different public finance was. I remember one of my first meetings with other public finance managers, asking, “what’s an ACFR” (now CAFR). After researching many options, attending conferences, and talking with others in the field, the CPFO program seemed to be the best way to fill in knowledge gaps.

2. What did you learn going through the process? 

I learned so much by going through the program. The program really covers a wide breadth of knowledge that pertains to real-life work in public finance, and it covers it all in some depth.  In the past I worked with experienced accountants who felt they knew it all, but transitioning into the public sector they had real gaps in their understanding and approach to reporting.

3. How has becoming a CPFO made an impact on you in your profession?  

Completing the program has given me a much deeper understanding of public finance, the requirements, systems, and best practices. This isn’t just an academic exercise. It’s given me the knowledge and understanding to do my work at a much higher level of competency. It’s also given me more confidence in my work and, and I believe it strengthens my credibility and credentials for future career growth.

4. What would you say to others thinking about becoming a CPFO? 

Do it! Take your time to learn. As a lifelong learner, it’s a journey, and the exams can be challenging. The exams that I failed and had to retake were the ones that I learned the most from. And although it’s pretty much a self-study program, you get to meet and collaborate with some great people who are also in the program through the Candidates Forum. Like most learning, you get from it what you put into it. It’s a great program.