Elevating Learning, Connection, and Celebration 🏔️

The Colorado Society of CPAs (COCPA) proudly presents the inaugural PEAK Colorado Accounting and Finance Summit—a premier gathering designed to inspire, educate, and connect Colorado’s accounting and finance professionals.

This dynamic event will bring together CPAs, financial leaders, and industry experts for a rich collection of engaging programs focused on professional development, innovation, and leadership.

What to Expect at PEAK

Cutting-Edge Education:
Participate in CPE-eligible sessions tailored to meet the evolving needs of accounting and finance professionals. Topics will span technical updates, regulatory changes, emerging technologies, leadership skills, and more—ensuring you stay current and compliant with CPE requirements.
Networking and Collaboration:
Join a vibrant community of professionals through structured networking events and informal gatherings. Build meaningful connections with peers, industry leaders, and potential mentors who can help you thrive both personally and professionally.
Engagement Opportunities:
Explore hands-on workshops, panel discussions, and interactive sessions designed to foster collaboration and share practical insights that you can apply immediately in your practice or organization.

REGISTER TODAY

Take advantage of early bird registration,
prices go up on July 16.

🏔️ 2025 PEAK KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Terrell Lamar Davis is a Pro Football Hall of Famer, Super Bowl XXXII MVP, and former Denver Broncos running back. A sixth-round draft pick in 1995, Davis defied the odds, leading the Broncos to back-to-back Super Bowl victories and earning the 1998 NFL MVP title after rushing for over 2,000 yards. Known for his grit, leadership, and iconic "Mile High Salute," Davis remains the Broncos’ all-time leading rusher. Since retiring, he has become a sought-after speaker, sharing insights on perseverance, teamwork, and achieving peak performance. His story inspires audiences to push past limitations and embrace a championship mindset.

He'll join us at the 2025 PEAK: Colorado Accounting and Finance Summit for a fireside chat.

What happens when a CPA, yogi, and business innovator walks into a keynote? You get Amy Vetter and her transformative Fulfillment ROI™ approach. Discover how personal well-being fuels professional performance—and why the future of leadership is personal.

Amy Vetter Amy Vetter, CPA, CITP, CGMA, MBA, and Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), is a transformative keynote speaker and the CEO of The B3 Method Institute and B3 Yoga. With a distinctive voice in the fields of accounting, finance, mindfulness, and leadership, Amy has inspired thousands at hundreds of events through her interactive keynotes. Creator of the B3 Method® for Business, Balance & Bliss, Amy provides ongoing learning to enable professionals to achieve their potential in work and life. Her speaking topics cover mindful technology use, change management, connected leadership, and work-life harmony®. Her prowess as a speaker has been recognized by titles such as “Most Powerful Women in Accounting” by the AICPA & CPA Practice Advisor.

NOT JUST ANOTHER AGENDA—THIS ONE’S BUILT TO DELIVER. 🏔️

Every session at PEAK was handpicked for its energy, interactivity, and relevance—led by nationally recognized speakers and aligned with your learning goals. No filler. Just high-impact experiences that meet you where you are.

Start off on the right foot Join us for Hands On, Dive In: From Zero to Daily Use with Generative AI

Generative AI is transforming the accounting world, but how do you make it work for you? Roll up your sleeves, fire up your laptop, and get ready to dive in during this immersive, multi-hour session.

Join instructor Wesley Hartman as we start with a foundational overview of Generative AI—how it works and why it matters. From there, you’ll jump into hands-on exercises designed to get you comfortable using Generative AI tools and showcasing their potential. Through guided activities, you'll build, prompt, and test your way to stronger skills and deeper understanding.

Join us for a GAME NIGHT RECEPTION AFTER PEAK DAY 1 ON NovEMBER 12

⚡ Hands On, Dive In: From Zero to Daily Use with Generative AI

Get hands-on with generative AI in this pre-conference workshop. Learn how to integrate AI into your daily workflow to boost efficiency and innovation, no prior experience needed.

Wesley Hartman, Automata Practice Development
November 11 | 1-4 PM MST

🪜🌲🏕️ Performance management – Creating a culture of progress

This session is designed to equip you with the tools and strategies to foster a culture of continuous improvement within your firm, empowering your team and aligning performance with organizational goals.

Rebecca Himango, CPA, PHR, illuminHR
November 12 | 9:50 PM - 10:40 AM MST

⚡🌲 Data analytics - Data mapping and data warehouses

Discover the core concepts of data analytics, focusing on data mapping, integration, and warehousing. Learn how to transform raw data into valuable business insights.

Ali Vance, James Miller, Guy Bickel
November 12 | 9:30 AM - 10:45 AM MST

🌲🏕️ Is your business wobbling?

Learn a practical approach to self-awareness and resilience using the “Vital Signs” framework. This session will provide you with the tools to navigate unexpected challenges and find your footing in uncertain times.

Jim Lindell, Thorsten Consulting
November 12 | 9:30 AM - 10:45 AM MST

🌲🏕️ The art of financial storytelling

Turn financial data into compelling narratives that connect with stakeholders and drive results. Learn how to tailor your message to various audiences and influence decision-making.

Jim Lindell, Thorsten Consulting
November 12 | 10:50 AM - 12:05 PM MST

🔥⛰️ Lifetime tax minimization, missed opportunities in investment and financial planning

Go beyond year-to-year tax planning with strategies for minimizing taxes over a lifetime. This session covers retirement, tax bracket management, asset location, and legacy planning to identify overlooked opportunities.

Hab Barton, CPA, MBA
November 12 | 10:50 AM - 12:05 PM MST

⚡🏕️ Cybersecurity and compliance panel

Join a panel of experts for an insightful discussion on the latest cybersecurity and compliance trends. Explore strategies for mitigating IT risks and building resilient security programs.

Mike Ellerhorst, Blaise Wabo, Jim Gilbert, Lekshmy Sankar
November 12 | 10:50 AM - 12:05 PM MST

🔥⚡ General Session: K2 Tech update

Get a fast-paced overview of today’s most transformative technologies, including AI, quantum computing, and blockchain. Learn to separate hype from practical application and find tools that deliver real ROI.

Randy Johnston, K2 Enterprises
November 12 | 12:35 PM - 1:50 PM MST

🌲⛰️ Client Accounting Services for CPA firms: Strategies for growth and success

Learn how Client Accounting Services (CAS) can transform your firm. This session provides a practical overview of CAS offerings, technology tools, and strategies for building a scalable practice.

Randy Johnston, K2 Enterprises
November 12 | 2:00 PM - 2:50 PM MST

☀️🏕️ Fire starter/Fire fighter: Combating burnout and finding career satisfaction

Address the risk of burnout in the accounting profession with tools to recognize early signs and foster a healthy, balanced workplace. Explore strategies to build a supportive culture and prioritize well-being.

Doug Slaybaugh, CPCC, PCC, CPA, CGMA, The CPA Coach
November 12 | 2:00 PM - 2:50 PM MST

🪜☀️ Leveraging your personality type to accelerate career growth and find your perfect role

Unlock your professional potential by understanding your unique personality type. This session helps you identify your strengths and build strategies for effective communication, leadership, and career development.

Sarah Flischel, CPA
November 12 | 2:00 PM - 2:50 PM MST

🌲🏕️⛰️ Risk management practices to protect your firm, your clients, and yourself

Navigate known and emerging malpractice risks with practical insights and real-life examples. This session will help you understand how to protect your professional liability and reduce risk.

Ron Klein, JD, CAMICO
November 12 | 3:10 PM - 4:00 PM MST

🔥☀️ Networking is not a dirty word

Break down the barriers of networking with practical strategies for making meaningful connections. This interactive session will help you start genuine conversations and build lasting relationships.

November 12 | 3:10 PM - 4:00 PM MST

🔥⚡ Using ChatGPT/AI to Create Bots

Learn to use AI as a practical tool to streamline your workflow. In this hands-on session, you will learn how to build a simple bot using ChatGPT, with a focus on pricing services.

Teresa Plaugher, CPA, ClearPath Advisors
November 12 | 3:10 PM - 4:00 PM MST

🔥🌲🏕️ General Session: Economic update

Stay informed on the latest economic trends and developments in both local and national markets. This session will provide a comprehensive update on key indicators and forecasts to help you plan for future growth.

Rich Wobbekind
November 12 | 4:10 PM - 5:00 PM MST

🔥 Early riser demo: Verifyle

This live software demonstration will show you how Verifyle helps accounting professionals with ultra-secure document sharing, encrypted messaging, and digital signatures. This is a complimentary member benefit.

Dana Shibley, Verifyle
November 13 | 8:10 AM - 9:00 AM MST

🔥 Early riser ethics- Professional judgment & decisions: Making it fun & effective

Strengthen your decision-making skills with frameworks designed for accounting and finance roles. Learn to balance technical knowledge with ethical reasoning, even under pressure.

David Haller, CPA, RSM LLP
November 13 | 8:10 AM - 9:00 AM MST

⛰️ Early riser tax: State and local tax 101

Unlock the secrets to robust tax compliance programs by treating business tax obligations as an interconnected whole. Learn to identify key tax obligations and differentiate between taxable and non-taxable transactions.

Judy Vorndran, CPA, Esq, TaxOps
November 13 | 8:10 AM - 9:00 AM MST

🔥 Extra early risers ethics- In the crosshairs: Accountant liability issues

Equip yourself with the knowledge to protect your license, reputation, and clients. This session explores real-world liability issues, emerging threats, and how professional standards apply in everyday situations.

J Bradley Sargent CPA/CFF/ABV, CFE, CFS, CCA, FABFA, CPA/ABV/CFF, CFE, CFS, CFRAC, CCA, FABFA
November 13 | 7:20 AM - 9:00 AM MST

🌲 Building the ideal practice: Attracting clients that transform your accounting experience

Learn how to build your ideal practice by attracting clients who align with your strengths. This session explores defining your niche, using targeted marketing, and converting client services into long-term advisory relationships.

Doug Slaybaugh, CPCC, PCC, CPA, CGMA, The CPA Coach
November 13 | 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM MST

🌲 Becoming a Cherished Advisor

Humanize the numbers and become a “Cherished Advisor”. This session explores how developing soft skills like leadership and communication can build trusted relationships and client loyalty in a tech-forward world.

Amy Vetter
November 13 | 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM MST

🪜☀️ Emerging Leadership for EPIC (Emerging Professionals Initiative Committee)

Learn about the COCPA EPIC and how to begin your leadership journey!

Alexandria Romero, CPA, CGMA, MPAcc
November 13 | 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM MST

🔥⛰️ Unpacking OBBBA for Businesses: Key Tax Considerations

Explore the sweeping changes to the U.S. tax code under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Gain practical insights on how these provisions affect tax planning, compliance, and cash flow.

Allen Gregory
November 13 | 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM MST

🔥🪜🌲🏕️ Bridging the generational divide: Redefining recruitment and retention

Discover fresh strategies for recruiting, retaining, and inspiring a multigenerational team. This panel will discuss what drives engagement and how to create a culture that resonates across age groups.

Kendale King, CPA
November 13 | 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM MST

⚡🏕️ Technology strategy and innovation panel

This panel of experts will discuss how to leverage technology for innovation and growth. Topics include cloud transformation, AI, and other emerging technologies that will impact the future of the profession.

Ben Hunter, Todd Cooper, Beau Bridges, Jim Gilbert, Matt Anderson, Michael Pynch
November 13 | 1:20 PM - 2:35 PM MST

⚡🏕️ What is a SOC 1 and SOC 2 Attestation report and how should financial statement auditors and other relying parties use the reports?

Understand the differences and importance of SOC 1 and SOC 2 reports. Learn why they matter for compliance, security, and client trust, and when to obtain them.

Blaise Wabo, CPA, CITP, CISA, CCP (CMMC), CCSK, CCSFP
November 13 | 1:20 PM - 2:35 PM MST

🪜🌲 Leading the Firm of the Future – Strategies for Progressive Leadership

Explore how forward-thinking executives are shaping the future of firm management. Gain insights into leadership strategies that align vision with structure, foster innovation, and build succession-ready organizations.

Sean Manning, CPA, CFE, Payroll Vault
November 13 | 1:20 PM - 2:35 PM MST

🪜🌲🏕️ Remote and hybrid work are here to stay. What we have learned over the last 5 years

The shift to remote and hybrid work is permanent. This session explores the benefits and challenges of managing these teams and provides actionable insights to help your people succeed no matter where they work.

David Barnett, CPA, CMA, Superior Steel
November 13 | 2:45 PM - 3:35 PM MST

⚡🌲 🏕️⛰️ Building a future-ready accounting function

Is your accounting team ready for a fast-changing environment? This session will help you modernize systems, empower people, and streamline processes to ensure adaptability and success.

Caleb Christensen, Netgain
November 13 | 2:45 PM - 3:35 PM MST

🏕️ Technical Accounting and SEC Update

Stay ahead of the curve with the latest updates in technical accounting and SEC developments. This session is ideal for those in public companies or advisory roles.

Kaycee Dolan & Nicole Nelson, Deloitte
November 13 | 2:45 PM - 3:35 PM MST

🔥⛰️ Tax Year in Review Preview

Get a sneak preview of what will be covered in our popular Tax Year in Review and 2025 Planning courses.

Rob Burton, CPA
November 13 | 2:45 PM - 3:35 PM MST

🪜☀️ Exploring the 10 Types of Leadership: Styles and Strategies for Success

Leadership is not a one-size-fits-all approach. This session explores ten leadership styles and helps you identify your own, adapt strategies for team engagement, and develop future-ready skills.

Alexandria Romero, CPA, CGMA, MPAcc
November 13 | 3:55 PM - 4:45 PM MST

🪜🌲🏕️ Building magnetic teams: strategies to attract & retain talent

Learn practical strategies to attract and retain top talent. This session focuses on building dynamic teams by fostering a culture of growth, purpose, and belonging.

Roman Villard, CPA, Full Send November 13 | 3:55 PM - 4:45 PM MST

☀️ From Classroom to CPA: A Conversation with Amy Vetter

In this interactive Q&A designed for students, Amy will share her personal journey to becoming a CPA and where that path has led her today. After a brief introduction to her story, the session will open up for your questions. Come ready to ask about the profession, leadership, work-life balance, and the lessons Amy wishes she had known earlier. This is your chance to hear directly from someone who has walked the road ahead and found ways to thrive both personally and professionally.

View the Full Agenda

The Grand Finale: CPAs Make a Difference Gala

The Summit will culminate with the highly anticipated CPAs Make a Difference Gala, a tradition beloved by COCPA members for over 20 years.

This annual celebration recognizes the contributions of CPAs who are making a positive impact in their communities and the profession.

CPAs Make a Difference is not just an event—it’s a testament to the dedication, service, and leadership of Colorado’s accounting professionals.

Together, we'll
reach new heights 🏔️

Register for the hands-on AI session, PEAK, CPAs Make a Difference - or all 3!

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