History

The Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants (WICPA) is an active professional organization of CPAs working together to enhance the profession and better serve the public. Since its founding, the WICPA has grown from 10 to more than 8,000 members.

A variety of issues brought the founding members together to form the Wisconsin Association of Public Accountants (WAPA). The purpose of the organization was to promote and regulate the study of accountancy. The founding fathers agreed that the organization would:

• Hold lectures or classes of instruction on accountancy subjects
• Cultivate a spirit of professional cooperation among its members
• Establish a high standard of efficiency
• Secure a better recognition of the practice of accountancy in general

The business environment of the new millennium is quite different from 1905, but many of the organization’s goals have remained the same. The WICPA continues to work toward enhancing the image of certified public accountants, as well as be an active voice and participant in the legislative process when issues impact the profession. With today’s diverse membership including CPAs in public accounting, industry, government and education, the WICPA strives to enhance members’ technical skills and professional knowledge by providing high-quality professional education and networking opportunities.