The pathway to becoming a CPA is rigorous, and in today’s competitive talent market, firms are finding creative ways to support their people through the process. AGN member firm Weinstein Spira, based in Houston, Texas, is making waves with a structured approach that blends financial incentives, dedicated study time, and a culture of support — all aimed at helping staff pass the CPA Exam.
Incentives to Encourage CPA Exam Success
Weinstein Spira, founded in 1962 and employing nearly 90 professionals, has long lived by its guiding principle that “relationships count.” That ethos extends not only to clients, but also to staff. Managing shareholder Kristin Murray, CPA, explains that the firm saw a worrying trend: fewer employees were attempting the CPA Exam, even as the qualification remained critical for long-term career growth. To reverse this, the firm introduced a $10,000 bonus for successful completion, alongside practical measures to make studying manageable.
Making Time to Study During the Workday
Recognising that fatigue after long workdays was a barrier, the firm gives employees dedicated study time during normal hours, ensuring exam preparation doesn’t always compete with personal time. In addition, Weinstein Spira organises study groups and even provides food, creating a sense of community and accountability. The results speak for themselves: nine employees have already passed the exam with many more in progress — a major improvement from the firm’s starting point of “virtually no one” sitting the test.
Building Mentorship and Community
The initiative goes beyond financial reward. Mentorship has developed organically, with those who’ve completed the exam guiding newer candidates. This culture of mutual support strengthens retention and reinforces the sense of belonging that has helped Weinstein Spira compete with much larger firms.
Beyond the CPA Exam: Talent Development and Retention
Weinstein Spira’s commitment to talent development doesn’t end with the CPA Exam. The firm has also introduced job rotation for new staff, hybrid work arrangements across seven states, and a distinctive “Fun Brigade” programme that keeps the workplace engaging with everything from Nerf battles to themed Fridays. Active campus recruiting and close ties with faculty further extend the firm’s reach into the next generation of accountants.
Real Stories of CPA Success
The impact on individuals has been profound. Staff auditor Emma Koenig passed all four exam sections within 13 months of joining the firm, crediting the 10 hours per week of study time as a decisive factor in her success. Tax manager Heather Lee, who earned her CPA license after years of firm experience, emphasises that the structured support was even more valuable than the cash bonus.
A Model for Strengthening the Accounting Pipeline
In combining financial incentives with thoughtful people-first policies, Weinstein Spira is addressing one of the profession’s most pressing challenges: building and sustaining the pipeline of qualified CPAs. For students and young professionals, the message is clear — with the right environment, passing the CPA Exam is an achievable milestone rather than an overwhelming hurdle.
3773 Richmond Avenue, Suite 900
Houston, TX 77046
Email: email@weinsteinspira.com
Tel: 713.622.7000
Web: https://www.weinsteinspira.com/
