CPAWSB recently presented Erikka Ogrodnick, CPA, with the 2024 CPAWSB Recognition Instructor Award, celebrating her dedication to teaching, mentorship, and her lasting impact on candidates’ CPA journeys.
Erikka states that receiving this award is both humbling and affirming. “I put my heart into my students, and I would happily continue teaching without receiving any awards,” she reflects. “But it’s an honour to be recognized, and it means the world to me.”
Years of teaching have shaped her in profound ways. Most importantly, it helped her develop greater patience and adaptability, learning to meet diverse student needs with flexibility and empathy. Professionally, she says the role has made her a lifelong learner. “Looking at concepts I take for granted through my students’ eyes has been priceless. It constantly gives me a fresh perspective on my profession.”
She also emphasizes engagement, especially when students feel overwhelmed. By incorporating short breaks, encouraging open discussion during group problems, and weaving in confidence-building activities, she helps create an environment that feels supportive as well as challenging.
One memorable “aha” moment came when she explained a complex accounting concept using a hand-drawn diagram. She recalls, “One student, who had been working in accounting for years, told me it was the first time she actually understood it. She even took a photo to share with her colleagues. That moment really stuck with me.”
As exams approach, Erikka reminds candidates that success is about more than memorizing material, and that “sleep and mental health are as important as studying.” She also encourages students to make full use of the resources available in the program. “These courses are designed to support you. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of everything offered.”
Balancing her own responsibilities as an instructor and a professional CPA requires organization, but she credits the support of her workplace and family. “It changes day by day, but having people around me who support my teaching makes all the difference.”
Erikka sees networking as a key part of professional growth and encourages others not to shy away from it. “Say yes to opportunities—whether at work, through your alma mater, or in your community. The more experiences you have, the more people you’ll naturally meet, and the easier it will be to refine your career moving forward.”
Through this openness, she has built connections that not only expanded her career opportunities but also strengthened her professional reputation.
Flexibility is at the heart of Erikka’s teaching style. If an explanation doesn’t land, she’s the first to try a new approach. “Sometimes how I communicate a concept doesn’t resonate with everyone, and that’s okay,” she says. “My motto would be, ‘Let’s try this again’ or ‘Let’s try this another way.’ That’s what I expect of my students, too—it’s okay not to get things on the first try, but we can always find another way.”
Erikka Ogrodnick, CPA, a passionate instructor and session leader who has been supporting learners in CPAWSB’s Indigenous Learners in Accounting (ILA) program, developed through a partnership between AFOA Alberta, CPA Western School of Business, and Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA Canada), for the past year and a half. She’s committed to helping candidates reach their potential and thrive in their CPA journey.
Erikka began her career in public practice, focusing on taxation for private entities while earning her CPA designation. After becoming a CPA, she moved to Ireland, where she continued working in public practice—this time with clients in the banking sector. Now back in Canada, Erikka has continued to build her career in taxation, with a recent focus on Indigenous tax. She’s thrilled to remain involved in the ILA program as a session leader.
Outside of work, Erikka enjoys travelling and working on creative projects. You’ll often find her tackling a new DIY project or planning her next adventure. She’s also an avid reader and is always adding to her “must-read” list—especially during busy season downtime.
Erikka states that receiving this award is both humbling and affirming. “I put my heart into my students, and I would happily continue teaching without receiving any awards,” she reflects. “But it’s an honour to be recognized, and it means the world to me.”
Inspiring Growth Through Teaching
Erikka’s decision to become an instructor stemmed from her deep appreciation for the CPA program and her love of teaching. She describes earning her designation as the best decision she made for her career, and saw teaching as a way to give back. “Education is one of the most powerful gifts anyone can receive,” she explains. “To be part of my students’ CPA journeys is an honour, and something I’m very grateful for.”Years of teaching have shaped her in profound ways. Most importantly, it helped her develop greater patience and adaptability, learning to meet diverse student needs with flexibility and empathy. Professionally, she says the role has made her a lifelong learner. “Looking at concepts I take for granted through my students’ eyes has been priceless. It constantly gives me a fresh perspective on my profession.”
Building Confidence in the Classroom
Erikka’s teaching philosophy centers on empowering students to find their own voice and confidence. One strategy she finds particularly effective is asking candidates to explain concepts in their own words rather than relying on textbook definitions. She says, “It boosts their confidence when they realize they know more than they think. And if they struggle, it highlights where they can focus their efforts.”She also emphasizes engagement, especially when students feel overwhelmed. By incorporating short breaks, encouraging open discussion during group problems, and weaving in confidence-building activities, she helps create an environment that feels supportive as well as challenging.
One memorable “aha” moment came when she explained a complex accounting concept using a hand-drawn diagram. She recalls, “One student, who had been working in accounting for years, told me it was the first time she actually understood it. She even took a photo to share with her colleagues. That moment really stuck with me.”
Encouraging Balance and Perspective
As exams approach, Erikka reminds candidates that success is about more than memorizing material, and that “sleep and mental health are as important as studying.” She also encourages students to make full use of the resources available in the program. “These courses are designed to support you. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of everything offered.”Balancing her own responsibilities as an instructor and a professional CPA requires organization, but she credits the support of her workplace and family. “It changes day by day, but having people around me who support my teaching makes all the difference.”
Building Connections
Erikka sees networking as a key part of professional growth and encourages others not to shy away from it. “Say yes to opportunities—whether at work, through your alma mater, or in your community. The more experiences you have, the more people you’ll naturally meet, and the easier it will be to refine your career moving forward.”Through this openness, she has built connections that not only expanded her career opportunities but also strengthened her professional reputation.
Adaptability at the Core
Flexibility is at the heart of Erikka’s teaching style. If an explanation doesn’t land, she’s the first to try a new approach. “Sometimes how I communicate a concept doesn’t resonate with everyone, and that’s okay,” she says. “My motto would be, ‘Let’s try this again’ or ‘Let’s try this another way.’ That’s what I expect of my students, too—it’s okay not to get things on the first try, but we can always find another way.”Shaping the Future of the Profession
Looking ahead, Erikka is excited about the direction of the profession and the next generation of CPAs. She sees AI, hybrid work, and evolving attitudes toward work-life balance as catalysts for positive change. “I’m most excited to see how the new generation of business leaders will shape work culture. I think we’ll see more flexibility, more balance, and more focus on meaningful work. It’s a really exciting time.”
About Erikka
Erikka Ogrodnick, CPA, a passionate instructor and session leader who has been supporting learners in CPAWSB’s Indigenous Learners in Accounting (ILA) program, developed through a partnership between AFOA Alberta, CPA Western School of Business, and Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA Canada), for the past year and a half. She’s committed to helping candidates reach their potential and thrive in their CPA journey.Erikka began her career in public practice, focusing on taxation for private entities while earning her CPA designation. After becoming a CPA, she moved to Ireland, where she continued working in public practice—this time with clients in the banking sector. Now back in Canada, Erikka has continued to build her career in taxation, with a recent focus on Indigenous tax. She’s thrilled to remain involved in the ILA program as a session leader.
Outside of work, Erikka enjoys travelling and working on creative projects. You’ll often find her tackling a new DIY project or planning her next adventure. She’s also an avid reader and is always adding to her “must-read” list—especially during busy season downtime.
Stay tuned for the next installment of our award-winner series, where we will introduce you to another award winner. This series aims to provide insights and inspiration to new and aspiring CPAs, helping them navigate their own CPA journey and discover opportunities to give back to the profession after earning their designation. Don't miss out on the chance to learn from these accomplished professionals and explore the diverse paths within the accounting world.
