Member Profile: Get to Know Mehgan Ibañez
Name
Mehgan Ibañez
Job Title
Partner
Employer
Carr, Riggs, and Ingram
Work Location
Lufkin, Texas
LinkedIn Profile URL
High School Attended
Groveton High School
University Attended
Texas A&M University
What inspired you to pursue a career in accounting and obtain your CPA license?
I was in high school in the early 2000's when there were several high-profile accounting scandals in the news. There were pretty clear technical and ethical failures on display from big business (and some of the auditors!) at the time. Innocent people lost their livelihoods and most of their savings when the consequences finally caught up to their employers. Competent auditing seemed like a profession where I could do some good and be continuously challenged.
What excites you most about working in accounting?
No two days are the same. Some people enjoy the comfort of a steady daily routine, but I like the variety I experience in my role. As an auditor, I get to see the inner workings of many clients' businesses, and they often call me with questions about new problems they are facing. The flip side of that coin is that if too many new projects hit all at once, it can feel a little overwhelming. I'm fortunate to work with a strong team that enjoys learning and helping our clients as much as I do.
What aspects of your TXCPA/TXCPA East Texas membership do you find most valuable?
Getting involved in the chapter is an excellent way to build your network outside of your employer. I have a network of colleagues all over the state that I wouldn't know if it weren't for TXCPA. Also, the society is out-front leading advocacy efforts to monitor and respond to legislation that affects the profession. In the last legislative session, it has helped legislators achieve some really significant wins on our behalf (alternative pathway and mobility protections) and has monitored and helped prepare effective responses to defend against legislation that could have done real damage to our profession.