2025 Florida State and Local Government Training Academy

Event Detail
  • Date
  • Estero, FL: August 13 | Lakeland, FL: August 14
  • Location
  • Florida
  • Hosting, Speaking
  • Recommended CPE
  • 7 credits, (2 credits
    Specialized Knowledge; 1 credit Accounting (Governmental); 2 credits Auditing (Governmental); 2 credits Information Technology)
  • Fees
  • $50

Event materials

Speakers

Join us for the 2025 Florida State and Local Government Training Academy. This event offers learning opportunities in an intensive, full day, in-person event. 

You’ll gain knowledge and insight to help you navigate the complex accounting, financial reporting, and operational issues facing many governmental entities.

Please click HERE if you have not yet made the event payment. 

Schedule

8 – 8:30 a.m. — Breakfast and Networking

Breakfast and Networking

8:35 – 9:25 a.m. — State and Local Government: Industry Discussion

Speakers: Chris Kessler and Lance Schmidt
1 CPE credit — Specialized Knowledge

This session will provide participants with an in-depth briefing on current trends impacting state and local governments. Topics 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
9:25 – 10:15 a.m. — GASB Update

Speakers: Brian Quinlin and Brad Wenninger
1 CPE credit — Accounting (Governmental)

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

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

  • Explain some of the challenges related to the implementation of GASB Statement 101
  • Identify upcoming GASB pronouncements and their potential impact on State and Local Government financial statements
10:15 – 10:30 a.m. — Break

15-min break

10:30 – 11:20 a.m. — State of the Profession

Speakers: Chris Kessler and Madison Lilienthal
1 CPE credit — Specialized Knowledge

It is critical that government entities have strong accounting, auditing, and finance functions to promote accountability to the citizens they serve and other stakeholders. This session will provide participants with an in-depth briefing on current trends impacting resources in the public sector.

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

  • Describe the most recent data on the accounting pipeline, identify the main causes of attrition in the profession, examine potential solutions, and outline the next steps.
  • 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.
11:20 a.m. – 12:10 p.m. — Single Audit Update

Speakers: Julie Fowler and Kaliegh Nelson
1 CPE credit — Auditing (Governmental)

During this session, we’ll discuss the latest updates and industry best practices in the single audit process. This session will cover recent changes and developments impacting single audits, providing participants with the knowledge they need 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
  • Identify common single audit findings and pitfalls
  • Identify how to apply lessons learned and leading practices
12:10 – 1:10 p.m. — Lunch and networking

Lunch and networking

1:10 – 2 p.m. — Cybersecurity for Florida Governments

Speaker: Zoran Jovic
1 CPE credit — Information Technology

Florida governments are actively enhancing their cybersecurity posture. 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 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:

  • Recall how to equip local governments with software, services, and solutions designed to protect critical infrastructure and Floridians' data.
  • Identify what your government needs to do to comply with Florida Statute 282.3185 regarding adopting cybersecurity standards consistent with the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework to ensure the availability, confidentiality, and integrity of their data.
2 – 2:50 p.m. — Understanding the Audit Process

Speakers: Alex Mitchell and TBD
1 CPE credit — Auditing (Governmental)

In this session, attendees 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. 
  • Identify how auditors access risk and determine areas of focus for the audit and recognize the client’s role in this process.
  • Identify practical tips for how to prepare for an audit.
  • Recall how to develop effective communication strategies for interacting with auditors
2:50 – 3:15 – Break

25-min break

3:15 – 4:05 p.m. — Practical Applications of AI

Speakers: Lance Schmidt and Alex Mesa
1 CPE credit — Information Technology

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 Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its significance in modern professional environments.
  • Recognize the emerging trends and potential advancements in AI technology, with a focus on generative AI in the public sector and 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.
4:05 – 4:20 p.m. — Closing remarks

Closing remarks

Location

Wednesday, August 13
Embassy Suites by Hilton – Estero
10450 Corkscrew Commons Drive
Estero, FL  33928

Thursday, August 14   
Lake Crago Recreation Center
525 Lake Crago Drive 
Lakeland, FL  33805

Questions?

Contact CLA’s meetings, events, and experience team at CLAevents@CLAconnect.com. 

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