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K2's New Technology Innovations Conference (VIRTUAL)

Monday, Jun. 29
 10:30am - 6:00pm

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Online

8.00 Credits

Member Price $289.00

Price will increase by $35 after 6/22

Non-Member Price $414.00

Price will increase by $35 after 6/22

Overview

The accounting profession is standing at a technological inflection point. Artificial intelligence isn’t just automating tasks anymore—it’s reshaping how we think about advisory services. Quantum computing is moving from theory to practical application. Blockchain has evolved beyond cryptocurrency hype into legitimate business infrastructure. The practitioners who understand these technologies won’t just survive the next decade—they’ll define it. This intensive one-day conference cuts through the noise to give you what matters: practical insight into the innovations that will shape accounting practice in 2026 and beyond.

Whether you’re looking to position your practice at the forefront of technological change or simply want to understand what’s coming so you can prepare your clients and your team, this is your opportunity. We’ve assembled focused sessions on the technologies that are actually changing our profession right now, plus the emerging innovations you need on your radar. Walk away with clarity about where technology is headed and what it means for your practice.

Objectives

  • Understand how artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and blockchain technologies are creating new opportunities and challenges in accounting practice
  • Evaluate which emerging technologies have practical applications for your firm today versus which ones to monitor for tomorrow
  • Identify specific areas where automation and advanced analytics can improve efficiency and create new service offerings
  • Apply a strategic framework for technology adoption that balances innovation with the realities of running an accounting practice

Highlights

  • 2026 Technology Landscape Update: A comprehensive look at what's happening now—where AI, automation, and emerging tech stand today and what's coming in the next 12-18 months
  • Artificial Intelligence in Practice: Moving beyond the hype to practical AI applications that are changing how accounting firms deliver services and create value
  • Blockchain, Cryptocurrency, and Digital Assets: Understanding distributed ledger technology, digital currencies, and what they mean for accounting, attestation, and advisory work
  • Quantum Computing and Advanced Analytics: What quantum computing actually is, why it matters, and how the next generation of computing power will impact financial analysis
  • Intelligent Automation and Process Transformation: Beyond basic automation—how smart systems are fundamentally changing workflows and creating space for higher-value work
  • Preparing Your Practice for What's Next: Strategic planning for technology adoption, team development, and positioning your firm in an increasingly tech-driven profession

Designed For

Forward-Thinking CPAs

Preparation

None

Notice

By registering for this program and, accordingly, receiving the eMaterials, you're acknowledging that you understand both the copyright restrictions on your eMaterials and the CTCPA cancellation policy.

Monday, June 29

General Session

- Free and Open Source Technology For Your Organization

Steve Yoss Jr., Associate, K2 Enterprises, LLC

Steve Yoss Jr.

Stephen M. Yoss, Jr., MS, CPA, is a visionary CPA and the entrepreneurial mind behind Devmatics, LLC. Starting his tech journey at age 10, Stephen quickly progressed to establish his own IT company at 13 and began crafting software by 15. He holds a dual degree in Accountancy and International Business from Loyola Marymount, complemented by an Masters of Science in Information Systems and Technology with a focus on Geographic Information Systems from Claremont Graduate University.

At the helm of Devmatics since 2017, Stephen specializes in developing tailored software solutions, mobile apps, and sophisticated automation systems to solve complex, critical challenges for a variety of clients. His innovative approach to technology was first applied at his family’s firm, Yoss & Allen, where he revolutionized their technological infrastructure.

As an authoritative speaker and prolific author, Stephen is a powerhouse in professional education, presenting at over 100 events annually and having authored more than 50 CPE courses. His sessions, packed with expertise and actionable insights, cover critical technology topics from cloud computing to preventing data breaches, artificial intelligence, automation, and empowering professionals across the globe.

Stephen’s expertise in the realm of pyrotechnics is equally impressive. As a licensed pyrotechnician, he’s contributed to some of the nation’s most memorable fireworks displays, including the Macy’s July 4th Spectacular and the Golden Gate Bridge’s 75th Anniversary celebrations, the annual Burning Man event, and many other shows around the country. His precision and creativity illuminate the sky, showcasing his dedication to this explosive art form.

When he’s not developing software, enlightening professionals, or lighting up the sky with fireworks, Stephen indulges in his passions for music, community service, and the great outdoors. His commitment to community and adventure is evident, whether he’s at Burning Man or volunteering in his hometown of Big Bear Lake, CA.

Dive deeper into Stephen’s blend of technological innovation, educational contribution, and pyrotechnic artistry at https://yoss.io.

There are a ton of amazing open-source or free Apps, services, websites available today. Open-source is the philosophy of making the code of applications available freely to the public. Meaning, apps that are free to download and modify to your personal requirements. Anybody can download these Apps and immediately use them for their own projects. Open-source Apps and services are often of the same quality and usability as their proprietary counterparts. This is an opportunity for organizations to save money, better utilize Cloud resources, improve security and mobile access to data. While reducing cost, implementation time and workflow complexity. This course will highlight some of the best open-source or free services available today for desktops and mobile devices. Including Apps and services that organizations have typically paid for in the past. For example, using Open Office instead of Microsoft Word or Excel. Using Mozilla Thunderbird instead of Microsoft Outlook. Or using PDF Creator instead of Adobe Acrobat. It will also discuss open-source projects an organization could use for its main internal systems. For example, using Alfresco for a document management system, or SuiteCRM for a customer relationship management, or WordPress for managing its website. The course will present options for desktop productivity, systems management, accounting, publishing, organization, system administrator and more. Additionally, the course will highlight resources on where participants can find even more useful free tools. Participants are highly recommended to follow along with the presentation with their own devices and try out the various Apps, services and tools presented.

Credits: 2 - Information Technology

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- K2’s Tech Update

Randolph Johnston, Executive Vice President, Shareholder, K2 Enterprises, LLC

Randolph Johnston

Randy Johnston is a nationally recognized educator, consultant, and writer with over 40 years of experience in Strategic Technology Planning, Accounting Software Selection, Paperless, Systems, and Network Integration, Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Planning, Business Development and Management, Process Engineering, and outsourced managed services.

Staying current with today’s technology is no longer optional; it is essential. Tech Update 2026 offers accounting professionals a clear, strategic view of the evolving tech landscape, enabling them to cut through the noise and make informed decisions. This forward-looking session is built for practitioners who want to leverage innovation to enhance client service, boost operational efficiency, and remain competitive.

Explore the most impactful trends in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, automation, and cloud-based ecosystems. Understand how technologies like Microsoft 365 Copilot, generative AI tools, industry-specific SaaS platforms, and blockchain are reshaping the profession. Learn to identify which solutions align with your firm’s goals—and which are just vendor hype.

Credits: 2 - Computer Software & Applications

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- K2’s AI: Real Tools, Real Results

Lawrence McClelland, Associate, K2 Enterprises, LLC

Lawrence McClelland

Mac McClelland, an attorney and accounting professional, is an associate of K2 Enterprises of Hammond, Louisiana, and Network Management Group of Hutchinson, Kansas.

Mac was formerly the director of the Centre for Financial Studies at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand, where he lived and worked for seven years from 1990 to 1997. He was also a member of the faculty of the Advanced Business Programme, ranked in the top 100 MBA programs in the world by The Economist, specializing in business strategy and strategic management accounting.

He gained his practical experience in information systems with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and has an established practice in business and technology consulting. Mac has taught hundreds of continuing professional education seminars to accountants and business managers in the United States, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and Southeast Asia. His presentations are highly rated, and he has won several awards for teaching excellence.

Mac has been published in leading business and practitioner journals, including Tax Ideas, Computers in Accounting, Journal of Accounting Education, Chartered Accountants Journal of New Zealand, and the top-rated Journal of Accounting Research.

This session teaches professionals how to move beyond theory and start using AI to work smarter, faster, and more accurately. This hands-on session explores how public accounting and industry finance teams can use AI tools for tasks like reporting, forecasting, audit analytics, and client service. Participants will see real-world examples of automation, gain practical implementation tips, and learn how to balance innovation with professional responsibility. Discover how to measure your AI ROI, enhance productivity, and position your firm or department for success in the AI-driven accounting era.

Credits: 2 - Information Technology

This session is available to registrants only.

General Session

- K2’s What Now, What’s Next: Emerging Technologies

Brian Tankersley, Director of Strategic Relationships, K2 Enterprises, LLC

Brian Tankersley

Brian Tankersley is a consultant who advises US firms and companies on accounting technology issues. Mr. Tankersley is a frequent speaker at continuing education courses for K2 Enterprises, writes for multiple accounting media outlets, and publishes a nationally recognized blog on accounting and technology (www.cpatechblog.com). Mr. Tankersley has over 30 years of professional experience, including accounting, auditing, technology, and education, has been with K2 Enterprises since 2005.

Tankersley has been recognized eight times as one of the “Top 25 Thought Leaders in Public Accounting Technology” by Cygnus Business Media. Brian has made presentations in 48 of the 50 US states and has served as a guest speaker for many professional accounting organizations across Canada. He has received numerous awards for his writing and speaking from state CPA societies. Brian has presented sessions at most major national accounting technology conferences, including AICPA TECH+/Practitioners Conference, The Sleeter Group’s Solutions Conference, Sage Summit, CCH Connections, and Thomson Reuters Synergy User Conference.

Brian is a certified public accountant (Tennessee), a certified information technology professional (CITP), and a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). He holds bachelor’s degrees in both Accounting and Finance, cum laude, from the University of Tennessee. Tankersley also maintains numerous vendor software certifications, and is a member of the Tennessee Society of CPAs and the American Institute of CPAs.

Brian and his family make their home in Farragut, Tennessee.

The Internet, Cloud-based applications, blockchain, cryptocurrencies, generative artificial intelligence, and software as a service were all revolutionary in their time. Still, many more technologies are in the pipeline and will change how we work, play, and experience life. This session will begin with an update on some of the technologies highlighted in our first session on this topic in 2018 and will continue with a discussion of the innovations to come in 2024 and beyond. Attend this session and learn about innovative technologies shaping our world today and those that will change it in the future.

Credits: 2 - Computer Software & Applications

This session is available to registrants only.

Non-Member Price $414.00

Member Price $289.00