As National Accounting Day approaches on November 10th, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the dedicated individuals who keep the financial gears turning at Sunrise Engineering and Utah Testing. Behind the scenes, our accounting department plays a crucial role in ensuring the company’s financial health and success. In this article, we’ll provide an in-depth look at the roles, responsibilities, and contributions of our accounting team, along with insights from our CFO, Travis Taylor.
Meet Our Star Players
Our accounting team boasts a roster of dedicated professionals, each contributing their unique skills and expertise:
- Travis Taylor: CFO
- Danielle (Danni) Aleman: Controller
- Valerie Giles: Payroll Specialist
- Kym Giles: Contract Support Specialist
- Delia Trejo: Contract Support Specialist
- Jashia Wilcox: Contract Support Specialist
- Kaytlin Thompson: Accounts Payable
- Jessica Komarek: Accounts Payable
- Jamie Hess: Contract Support Specialist and Accounts Payable
- Colleen Hammond: Contract Support Specialist and Staff Scheduler for Utah Testing
The Backbone of Financial Excellence
At Sunrise Engineering and Utah Testing, our accounting department is a well-oiled machine with several integral parts. Let’s explore their crucial roles:
Accounts Payable – Our accounts payable team takes the lead in managing payments to vendors, subconsultants, and employee reimbursements, ensuring financial transactions are efficient and compliant.
Contract Support Specialists – This dedicated group oversees invoicing and contract support for project management, collaborating closely with project managers to streamline financial aspects and provide top-notch services to our clients.
Payroll – The payroll team handles bi-weekly payroll, year-end tax filings, and notifications, guaranteeing accurate compensation to employees and compliance with tax obligations.
Controller – As our Controller, Danielle (Danni) Aleman takes charge of the general ledger, monthly financial closure, and supports audits, maintaining precise financial records and upholding Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
CFO – Travis Taylor, our Chief Financial Officer, orchestrates finance and cash management, manages banking relationships, secures financing for significant projects, and navigates mergers and acquisitions, steering the company’s financial path.
Driving Company Success
CFO Travis Taylor emphasized, “We handle all the back-end work. Adhering to GAAP standards allows us to secure the financing we need to continue growing.” In essence, the accounting department is the financial backbone of our organization, ensuring everything operates smoothly.
Day-to-Day Financial Wizardry
The accounting department plays a pivotal role in supporting other departments by providing assistance in invoicing, reporting, financing, accounting controls, contract management, and time record-keeping, ensuring smooth operations for all. On a daily basis, our accounting team secures operational finances, diligently monitoring stock markets and economic conditions to facilitate investments and prepare for future growth. To streamline operations, our accounting department relies on tools and software like Deltek Vision, Microsoft Office, and Teams, ensuring efficiency and accuracy in financial management.
Ongoing Initiatives and Projects
The accounting team is actively working on transitioning to an enterprise resource planning (ERP) software to enhance efficiency and improve financial reporting and management. Another significant project is ensuring the accurate completion of timesheets, vital for tracking project expenses and maintaining precise invoicing.
The Path to Professional Development
To stay updated in the ever-evolving field of accounting, our team members have access to various training and development opportunities, including classes, online seminars, and schooling, ensuring they remain well-informed about the latest accounting practices and standards.
Fostering Collaboration and Communication
Our accounting department is known for fostering collaboration and communication with other departments by maintaining a professional and friendly demeanor, even during challenging situations. Their approachability and willingness to help create a harmonious work environment.
Financial Guidance for All
For employees in other departments with finance-related questions or concerns, CFO Travis Taylor advises, “Just give us a call, and we will help find a solution to your situation or problem.” The accounting team is here to provide support and expertise whenever it’s needed.
An Accounting Fun Fact
In celebration of National Accounting Day, Travis Taylor shared a fascinating tidbit: “Accounting is one of the oldest professions in the world, with the earliest accounting records appearing in ancient Mesopotamia more than 7,000 years ago. The Mesopotamians used primitive accounting methods to track transactions involving crops and livestock.” This historical insight underscores the enduring significance of accounting throughout history.
As we approach National Accounting Day on November 10th, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated members of the accounting team at Sunrise Engineering and Utah Testing. Their exceptional work behind the scenes ensures the company’s continued growth and success.