2026 Business & Industry Fall Conference: Morning Sessions - Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Overview

Sessions covered in this On-Demand replay of the Business & Industry Fall Conference:

Signals & Shifts: Understanding Today's Economy From Global Trends to Wisconsin Reality

Economic conditions continue to evolve across global, national and regional markets. You will gain a clear, big picture view of the economic signals shaping today’s environment and how they connect to Wisconsin’s economy. Alongside key global, U.S. and state trends, you’ll learn how Wisconsin is being viewed by investors, companies and markets beyond its borders — and what that positioning may mean for future opportunity.

Cybersecurity: A Guide to Protecting Yourself & Your Business

Cybersecurity threats often stem from everyday habits rather than sophisticated technical attacks, making employees the first line of defense. This session will explore common security risks, real-world examples of both emerging and persistent cyber threats, and the growing impact of AI in the workplace. You will learn practical strategies to reduce risk, establish effective AI guardrails, encourage secure behaviors, implement a cybersecurity checklist and build an AI program that delivers a strong return on investment.

Federal Tax Update & Review of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

Stay current on the latest federal tax developments, including key provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and their implications for businesses. This session will review recent IRS guidance, tax cases and planning opportunities as well as highlight certain strategies to maximize tax savings, avoid common pitfalls and prepare for effective tax planning in 2026 and beyond.

NOTE: Certificates of attendance showing the CPE credit earned from this On-Demand program will be sent to your primary email on file approximately 2 weeks after viewing as we receive attendance reports from our streaming service provider. Members will also see this program reflected in their CPE tracker.

Leader(s):

Brad Otto, Owner & IT Consultant, P3C Technologies LLC
James Brandenburg, CPA, MST, Director, Sikich
Rebecca Greis, Executive Director, Milwaukee 7

Leader Bios

Brad Otto, Owner & IT Consultant, P3C Technologies LLC

Brad Otto started out teaching people how to use computers at age 11. He founded P3C Technologies at age 14 and began building custom computers for his clients. Before P3C Technologies became his full time gig in 2012, he worked for a global technology consulting company traveling the world to help businesses implement new and exciting technologies to support their operations. Today, he operates P3C as a Managed IT Provider for small and mid-size businesses. P3C’s cybersecurity plans are built on proactive care, featuring robust protection, regular updates, and continuous staff education. Brad continues to leverage his years of experience to guide owners through the complex world of modern IT.

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James Brandenburg, CPA, MST, Director, Sikich

Jim Brandenburg, CPA, MST, is a director with extensive experience and knowledge in corporate and partnership tax law, mergers and acquisitions, and tax legislation. His expertise includes working with owners of closely held businesses to identify tax planning opportunities and assist them in implementing these strategies. Jim assists clients in areas such as: • Tax planning and reporting for manufacturers, distributors and contractors • International tax consulting and compliance • Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) planning • LIFO inventory planning, analysis and implementation • Interest charge DISCs planning, analysis and reporting • Tax controversies including IRS and state tax notices and audits • Foreign bank and investment account reporting and compliance • Health care surtax on net investment income planning, analysis and reporting

SERVICE AREAS • Tax Planning • Construction Services • Manufacturing and Distribution Services • Automotive Dealership Services • Health Care Services • Research Tax Credit Analysis and Planning

AFFILIATIONS • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants • Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants Member, Past Committee Chair, Federal Tax Committee

EDUCATION • Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration - Accounting, University of Wisconsin – Madison • Master’s Degree in Taxation, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee

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Rebecca Greis, Executive Director, Milwaukee 7

Rebecca Gries is Executive Director of the Milwaukee 7 Regional Partnership (M7), where she leads economic development efforts across southeast Wisconsin’s seven-county region. Since joining M7 in December 2018, she has helped companies, including Microsoft, Generac, and Lilly, expand to or within the region, while advancing initiatives that strengthen the region’s economy. Known for building strong partnerships between businesses, government, and community organizations, Rebecca has positioned Milwaukee as a premier destination for business growth and innovation.

Her leadership and impact have been recognized through numerous honors, including Milwaukee Business Journal 40 Under 40 (2024) and North American Top 50 Economic Developer (2022). She serves on the boards of Northwest Side CDC and Literacy Services of Wisconsin, reflecting her commitment to connecting economic development with community empowerment. Rebecca holds an MA in Global Politics from Loyola University Chicago and a BA in Political Science from St. Norbert College.

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