At Giffels Webster, our strength comes from people who bring curiosity, precision, and a genuine passion for their work. They are individuals who find meaning not only in the big picture, but also in the details that keep everything running smoothly. One of those people is Katie Thompson, a Senior Accountant who has been an integral part of our team for more than five years.
In this employee spotlight, Katie shares how her love for math and problem-solving first sparked an interest in accounting, even as her career path took a few unexpected turns along the way. From nearly pursuing a career in teaching to discovering the wide range of opportunities within accounting, her journey reflects persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to explore new possibilities. Today, she plays an important role in supporting complex projects like the Michigan Central Station, where her ability to manage many moving parts and maintain clarity makes a real impact.
Read on to learn more about Katie’s path, her insights on the profession, and her advice for those considering a future in accounting.
My name is Katie Thompson, I am a Senior Accountant, and I have worked for Giffels Webster for six years.
I took an accounting class in high school because I love math, and I really liked solving puzzles and understanding where everything belongs.
Accounting was not always my dream job. I always thought that I would be a teacher. There were many times in college when I considered changing majors, but I was determined to get my degree.
I love getting to solve problems and figuring out where things go.
I am proud to have worked on the Michigan Central Station project. There were so many moving parts with this project, and I got to put my accounting knowledge to the test with keeping them all straight.
6. What would you tell someone about considering a career in accounting?
Accounting is not limited to audit/tax/getting your CPA. Colleges only tell you about those three paths, but there are so many more out there.
Outside of work, I spend a lot of time hanging out with family and friends. When I am not with people, I spend most of my free time reading. I finished 95 books last year. I consume a mix of e-books and audio books. My favorite books were a tie between Midnight Sun by Stephanie Meyers and Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir.
At Giffels Webster, we’re proud to support team members like Katie, who bring precision, dedication, and a strong sense of curiosity to their work. Her journey reflects how persistence, adaptability, and a passion for problem solving can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career in accounting.
Stay tuned for more spotlights as we continue to celebrate the talented people who shape our firm and support the success of projects across the A/E/C industry.
Want to learn more about careers at Giffels Webster? Visit https://www.giffelswebster.com/careers/
