2025 Maryland Government Training Academy

Speakers: Bill Early and Sean Walker
1 credit Accounting (Governmental)

This session will provide participants with an in-depth briefing on current trends impacting state and local governments. Topics will include the effects of federal funding, legislation, economic changes, IRA credits, digital transformation, and changes in the workforce.

At the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Identify current trends impacting state financial professionals and practices to address these trends
• Recognize how economic conditions, federal regulations, and state-specific policies influence the financial operations and accounting practices of state and local governments

Speaker: Heather Plitt
1 credit Accounting (Governmental)

During this session, participants will gain an understanding of new GASB standards up to GASB 104, as well as projects on the Governmental Accounting Standards Board’s current agenda.

At the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Explain challenges related to the implementation of GASB Statement 101
• Identify upcoming GASB pronouncements and their potential impact on state and local government financial statements

Speaker: Remi Omisore
1 credit Accounting (Governmental)

During this session, participants will gain an in-depth briefing on current trends impacting resources in the public sector. It’s critical that government entities have strong accounting, auditing, and finance functions to maintain accountability to the citizens they serve and other stakeholders.

At the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Recognize the present condition of CPA resources in the public sector
• Identify the main obstacles and provide recommendations for hiring and retaining CPAs in the public sector
• Recall the latest accounting pipeline data, identify major causes of attrition in the field, recognize possible solutions, and outline future actions

Speakers: Shannon Weiss and Reed Cullan
1 credit Auditing (Governmental)

During this session, we’ll discuss the latest updates and leading practices in the single audit process. This session will cover recent changes and developments impacting single audits, providing participants with knowledge needed to stay compliant and efficient.

At the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Identify known changes coming in the FY 2025 compliance supplement
• Recognize common single audit findings and pitfalls
• Identify how to apply lessons learned and leading practices

Speaker: Bill Early
1 credit Auditing (Governmental)

During this session, participants will hear from a panel of peers on strategies to streamline the financial close and audit process, leading to a more efficient and successful audit experience. Key topics will include preparing necessary financial reports and supporting documentation, reconciling accounts, and reviewing internal controls.

At the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Identify steps for creating a clear closing timeline to help complete all financial activities before auditors arrive
• Recall leading practices for planning and preparing for an audit
• Recognize common pitfalls that may lead to an inefficient audit
• Identify common documents and reports auditors typically request

Speaker: Cheri Amoss
1 credit Auditing (Governmental)

In this session, participants will explore the different stages and elements of an audit, gaining valuable insights along the way. The session aims to simplify the audit process and provide a comprehensive understanding of what to anticipate during an audit engagement.

At the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Outline the key stages of the audit process from initial planning and risk assessment to fieldwork, reporting, and follow-up
• Recall practical tips for how to prepare for an audit
• Identify effective communication strategies for interacting with auditors

Speakers: Sean Walker, Remi Omisore, and Jonathan Griffin
1 credits Accounting (Governmental)

We’ll dive into the dynamic world of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) in the realms of accounting and finance. Our focus will be on the practical applications and benefits of automation in streamlining accounting and finance-related processes.

At the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Recognize the basics of AI and its significance in modern professional environments
• Describe emerging trends and potential advancements in AI technology, with a focus on generative AI in the public sector
• Identify innovative approaches to effective AI governance in a rapidly evolving landscape
• Identify multiple practical applications of AI and their impact on daily work tasks, including the enhancement of written communication, financial data management, and interpretation of industry-specific standards