In 2026, automation isn't just about working faster—it's about building a practice that can scale, adapt, and compete in an increasingly technology-driven profession. This intensive one-day conference focuses squarely on how accounting professionals can implement practical automation solutions that genuinely transform daily workflows. We'll examine integration platform as a service (iPaaS) tools, showing you how these systems actually work under the hood and how to configure them for your specific needs. You'll see how AI fits into the automation puzzle (though this isn't an AI conference per se—it's about making your entire technology ecosystem work smarter). And we'll dig into the tools you already own, like Power Query in Excel, that might be sitting underutilized while you're manually manipulating data.
If you're ready to stop spending hours on repetitive tasks and start building workflows that run themselves, this conference will give you the blueprint. We're talking about real efficiency gains—connecting systems that currently don't talk to each other, transforming how data moves through your organization, and freeing up your team to focus on analysis and advisory work instead of data entry. Whether you're running a small practice or managing technology for a larger firm, you'll walk away with specific strategies for implementing automation that actually sticks. Mark your calendar and get ready to build a future-ready business.
- Understand how integration platform tools connect disparate systems and create automated workflows across your technology stack
- Configure automation solutions that eliminate repetitive manual tasks and reduce errors in data handling processes
- Apply AI-enhanced automation techniques to streamline decision-making and accelerate routine accounting functions
- Implement data transformation and loading strategies using tools like Power Query to automate reporting and analysis
- Design scalable workflow systems that improve organizational efficiency and create capacity for higher-value advisory services
- Integration Platform as a Service (iPaaS) Deep Dive
- Configuring System Connections and Automated Data Flows
- Power Query and Excel Automation for Data Transformation
- AI-Powered Workflow Enhancement Strategies
- Building Future-Ready Business Processes Through Automation
- Practical Productivity Improvements: From Manual to Automated
8.00 credits
Lawrence McClelland, MBA, JD
Thomas Stephens, CPA, CITP, CGMA
Brian Tankersley, CPA.CITP, CGMA
Stephen Yoss, CPA
Stephen M. Yoss, Jr., CPA, MS is a certified public accountant, the partner, and principal of Devmatics, LLC, a continuing education instructor for financial professionals, and a licensed pyrotechnician. While his interests and skills are varied, they all share a common thread—his love for and skill in finding technology-based solutions.
At age 10, Stephen began working with technology; he started his first IT company at just 13, which focused on designing web applications for local businesses. At 15, he began writing original computer code and has been designing and implementing technological solutions continuously since then.
Stephen is a graduate of Loyola Marymount University, with degrees in Accountancy and International Business. While at Loyola, he served the campus as student body president and as the student representative to the Board of Trustees. He has a Master's of Science degree in Information Systems and Technology from Claremont Graduate University with a concentration in Geographic Information Systems.
In 2017, Stephen formed Devmatics, a software development company that focuses on solving problems through the implementation of technology. Devmatics builds custom software, mobile apps, integration solutions, workflow automation, and more for all types of organizations. He specializes in taking on high-difficulty, mission-critical organizational issues that require technical expertise and an ability to find solutions to problems that no one else can answer. With all of his clients, he emphasizes the need to embrace technology at every opportunity and utilize the latest technological trends and breakthroughs to gain a competitive advantage while increasing efficiency and productivity.
Before starting Devmatics, Stephen worked as an accountant in his family's practice, Yoss & Allen. At Yoss & Allen, he completely redesigned the firm's technology practices and instituted a technological infrastructure to streamline the firm's practices and allow them strategic flexibility. Many of the technologies, strategies, and concepts that Stephen uses himself (and consults companies on how to use) were designed, perfected, and implemented to help his family's business and their clients. In addition to his time with Yoss & Allen, Stephen worked in New Zealand as a management accountant.
Since 2009, Stephen has also been teaching continuing professional education, providing written, webcast, in-house, and live instruction. He has presented to thousands of practitioners worldwide on topics such as cloud computing, mobile technology, Excel tips and best practices, data modeling and analysis, big data, information security, identity theft prevention, and more.
Stephen is also a professionally licensed pyrotechnician and works on major fireworks displays throughout the nation for Pyro Spectaculars, North America's largest full-service fireworks display production company. He's proud to have helped produce incredible displays, including the Macy's July 4th Spectacular in New York City, the 75th Anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, KGB Skyshow in San Diego, and many more.
Whether it's teaching in the classroom, consulting clients in a boardroom, or shooting a fireworks display, Stephen brings passion, hard work, value—and above all else—technological expertise to each of his clients. With an open, honest approach, he creates a unique strategy for each client specifically designed to benefit their needs and streamline their operations to create efficiency and maximize their financial potential.
Stephen calls Big Bear City, CA, home; when he's not at the desk, in a boardroom, at the podium, or producing a fireworks display, he spends as much time as he can pursuing his other passions. He is an avid music lover and attends multiple festivals each year. At the Burning Man, Stephen helps setup and produce pyrotechnic displays for the city. In Big Bear City, he regularly volunteers his time to perform various community services. He's also an avid outdoorsman and regularly carves out time to scuba dive, camp, hike, and photograph both close to home with family and friends and on his many travels.