A Day in the Life at RSM: Workforce Development in Action

Thanks to a meaningful partnership with RSM, Boys & Girls Club of Metro Baltimore teens recently experienced a behind-the-scenes look at thriving careers in public accounting. From touring an active assurance, tax and consulting office to hearing directly from professionals at various stages of their career journeys, the event advanced our mission to equip young people with the skills, confidence, and exposure needed to succeed in school, career, and life. 

Through hands-on learning and real-world insights, our teens were able to connect academic concepts to actual career pathways bringing their classroom knowledge to life in a professional setting. 

Office Tour with RSM Team Members 

The day kicked off with an interactive office tour led by Marc Lazzaroni, Ben Pugh, and Carson Uebersax all Audit Associates at RSM. They guided youth through different parts of the workplace, explaining how the office is structured to promote collaboration, innovation, and productivity. They also shared their day-to-day responsibilities, how they support clients, and what tools and technologies are essential in the field of accounting. 

Importantly, they introduced students to the rhythm of the profession, highlighting the busy season from January through May when demand for audit and tax services peaks. Students gained a realistic understanding of how professionals manage time, meet deadlines, and navigate high-pressure periods, essential insights for those preparing for future careers.

"It's always energizing speaking to students, " said Carson Uebersax. "At RSM, we love to show students the many career options available in professional services, helping them see their future more clearly. It's just one way we live our value of stewardship."   

Career Panel and Q&A: Real Talk from Real Professionals 

Following the tour, youth participated in a dynamic Q&A forum moderated by Audit Supervisor Jillian Petito. The panel included RSM team members at various points along their career paths: 

• William Kurdle, Audit Senior Associate 

• Kersten Scanlon, Tax Associate and RSM’s September Volunteer Day contact 

• Aidan Peacock, Tax Intern 

• Ryan Clark, Audit Intern 

  
  

Panelists shared valuable stories about transitioning from school to the workplace, developing professional skills, and the realities of early-career experiences. Youth learned about daily tasks such as meeting with clients, managing tax returns, and working on team-based projects. 

Kersten emphasized the importance of community engagement and purpose-driven work, while William gave a clear roadmap of professional growth and promotion opportunities at RSM. Interns Aidan and Ryan offered relatable advice, showing students that with preparation and perseverance, success is within reach. 

Informal Connections and Youth Reflections 

Outside the formal sessions, students had additional opportunities for informal mentorship and meaningful dialogue. Carson spent extra time answering questions and helping teens see how classroom subjects like accounting, math, and economics apply directly to real-world careers. His personal insights helped bridge the gap between school-based learning and career-based application, a hallmark of effective workforce development programming. 

The impact of the day was captured in student reflections: “Now I understand how taxes actually work,” shared Devin. “It made everything I’ve learned in class finally click.” 

Brandon shared, “What impacted me most was learning how RSM supports clients with tax services and audits. It’s not just about numbers. They help real people manage their financial lives.”  

Investing in the Future Workforce 

This Workforce Development Day at RSM was more than just a company tour, it was a powerful step in advancing our vision to prepare youth for success in a 21st-century workforce. Through hands-on exposure, personal storytelling, and mentorship, RSM professionals inspired students to envision themselves in high-demand fields like accounting, finance, and consulting. 

We are incredibly grateful to the RSM team for their generosity, time, and commitment to empowering the next generation of professionals. Their willingness to share personal stories, open up their workplace, and provide mentorship has a lasting impact. Partnerships like this are essential to making workforce development real and relevant for our youth. 

By connecting young people to real professionals, real workplaces, and real possibilities, we are helping them develop the skills, confidence, and networks they need to thrive. 

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