Member Moment: Connor Preston, CPA

Connor Preston, CPA, an Altus, Oklahoma native, discovered his love for accounting in high school and never looked back! 

That spark led him from OU to public accounting and now to a fast-paced family office role, with his CPA license opening every door along the way.

Day in the Life

Shifting from public accounting to a family office, he still thrives in the “organized chaos” of accounting. He may start the day with a to-do list, only to see it completely change by the afternoon. When he’s not on workpapers or tax reviews, he’s jumping into A/P entries, bank reconciliations, or special projects like a new software rollout. He only started his new position last August, and is certain that the mix of accounting fun he will experience will increase! 

Why He Became a CPA

Truth be told, during his master’s program, he hadn’t planned to pursue a CPA license. After taking fraud and forensic accounting classes at Oklahoma City University, he was fascinated and even considered the CFE license. A meeting with his graduate advisor changed everything when she encouraged him to go for the CPA, saying it would open doors in his career. She was right.

Background & Career Journey

Growing up in Altus, OK, Connor Preston spotted an accounting course listed in his following year’s course list during his junior year of high school, even though he hadn’t taken any accounting yet. Turns out, the course was inactive, but it sparked his interest and led him to declare accounting at THE University of Oklahoma, where he graduated as a fourth-generation Sooner (Boomer!) with a minor in Management of Information Systems. While earning his master’s at Oklahoma City University, he juggled two part-time jobs but was eager for full-time accounting work. After mass-applying on Handshake, he landed his first role at RSM US LLP, where he gained valuable experience with clients and colleagues. After nearly five years, he moved to the Cameron Family Office at American Fidelity, applying his public accounting skills while learning new ones. Though he started last fall, it still feels like it just started yesterday!

CPA Exam Advice

The CPA exam is a test of grit and determination. Connor recommends trying new learning styles if you hit roadblocks. He wasn’t a note card person in school, but during CPA prep, they helped him retain material better. He even tried non-traditional methods, like playing notes aloud from his phone while he slept — which worked and may have inspired some interesting dreams!

OSCPA's Role in His Career

The OSCPA provides a welcoming space where Connor can just be himself with fellow CPAs. It’s given him the chance to network with amazing people, sharpen his social skills, and hear stories that have truly made an impact in the profession. 

Favorite Meal

Connor could eat two Bacon Smash Burger tacos and Queso Blanco with Chips from Velvet Taco every day for a year if he could!