Meet Our Members
This feature spotlights members of ISCPA, their career path and some fun and favorite things about them.
Lindsay Wetter
JOB: Managing director of accounting and finance with Kingland Systems, LLC in Clear Lake
Alma mater: Buena Vista University
Community & Society activities: Business and Industry and LEAP Committee member
Lindsay and her husband Sam live in Clear Lake with their daughters Olivia (3) and Emma (3 months).
What I wanted to be when I grew up: As a really young girl, I wanted to be a teacher. I remember lining my stuffed animals and dolls up and pretending to read to them in the “classroom.” During middle school and high school, I knew I wanted to enter the business world in some degree, but I wasn’t quite sure how or where.
My inspiration to become a CPA comes from: Me. My inspiration and motivation really came from within. During my sophomore year of college, I accepted a year-long accounting internship. At the time, I was majoring in general business, with a minor in accounting. I ended up enjoying my internship so much that I not only changed my major to accounting, I also never left that company. I have now been with that company (Kingland) for over 15 years. My full-time position didn’t require a CPA designation, but I knew it was something that I had wanted to achieve for myself. I actually began to study for the exam fresh out of college but was feeling burnt out after completing a triple major in four years, while working a full-time job. I took some time off from studying and decided over four years later to begin studying and sit for the exam. I’m proud to be a CPA, and so happy that I chose to continue to pursue the designation.
How has being a member of ISCPA helped you professionally? I have really enjoyed the connections that I have made through ISCPA, whether it be with the ISCPA staff members or other CPAs that I have met at conferences. It has been a great networking opportunity for me, especially coming from the private sector.
What is your favorite thing about your job? I enjoy the challenges that it gives me. In my 15-year career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in all areas of accounting and see many different types of activities and transactions. I’ve always enjoyed the people that I work with, and the opportunities that have been presented to me at all stages of my career. Whether it was working with senior leadership as an intern, or leading an implementation, or even dabbling in HR. It’s been enjoyable to have such a wide variety of roles.
What message do you have for high school and college kids considering a career as a CPA? If it’s something you’re passionate about, do it! A CPA designation is something you can be proud of, no matter where life takes you.
Tell us some of your philosophies and principles toward work and life. Effort creates opportunities. Embrace challenges, and stay adaptable.
Have you had any mentors who helped you along the way? I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with a lot of really great people throughout my life. These people have not only supported my personal and professional growth, but they have helped shape who I am today.
Favorite food: Anything that gets cooked for me. If I were to choose, I would probably pick something Italian.
When I have free time, I prefer to: Spend time with my family and friends, read a good book, or shop.
Three words that describe me best: Hardworking, loyal, and caring.