Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant innovation - it's here and it's transforming how accounting firms operate. It's not just for the largest firms either. Whether it's large language models like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, agentic AI, or autonomous AI agents, no firm is too small - or too efficient - to consider how these technologies can enhance productivity and client value. In fact, small and medium-sized firms may soon find they can't afford to delay adoption.

Join Surgent's Jack Castonguay, Chris Fallon from AI-powered accounting audit suite Trullion, and John Carroll University professor Mark Sheldon in discussion on how AI is being used to automate routine tasks (e.g., document review, trial balance analysis, and client correspondence), support engagement planning and risk assessment, and enable deeper data analysis.

For small and medium-sized practices, integrating AI offers a powerful opportunity to improve efficiency, expand services, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving profession. Yet, many firms remain uncertain about how to begin, which tools to trust, and where AI best fits within their existing workflows. This discussion will demystify AI for public practice professionals by exploring why adoption is becoming mission-critical for firms of all sizes, from sole practitioners to multi-office firms. Participants will learn about today's most relevant AI tools and how to begin using them to gain a strategic edge.

Drawing on recent surveys of firm leaders and adoption trends among larger firms, the three hosts will explore how smaller firms can responsibly implement AI tools while maintaining quality, compliance, and client trust. We'll also examine ethical considerations, staff training strategies, and how to pilot scalable AI solutions - without requiring an enterprise-sized budget.