The role of the government financial manager is expanding. You’ve heard the words… “Downsizing,” “Outsourcing,” “Job Competition,” “Work Harder,” “Do More with Less.” Local, state and federal governments are being urged to provide more services and programs, while at the same time taxpayers are demanding more value.
These are but a few of the challenges that will complicate your job in the 21st Century. Many of these are starting to happen now. Financial management positions are being filled with employees who have extensive knowledge in many functional areas. And, the need for highly trained, effective managers of public resources is growing every day. Never before have credentials been as important. You must be prepared. Fortunately, there is an organization that has the vision to look into the next century and determine what top quality education and training, professional development, and certification programs will be needed by its members. It knows how important it is for you to network with your peers and facilitates opportunities for this to happen. Plus, it is working to support standards and research to advance government accountability. The organization is AGA…the Association of Government Accountants. We are eager to help you discover all that AGA can do for you and with you.
Your membership will provide you with the tools you need to succeed! With your membership you will receive the quarterly Journal of Government Financial Management and the monthly newsletter Government Financial Management TOPICS; up to a 25 percent discount on training events (Professional Development Training (PDT), State & Local Training Conferences and the Federal Leadership Conference). Networking-membership also includes membership in the local chapter in your area; chapter membership-attend monthly meetings and educational events; network of more than 18,000 government financial managers worldwide; access to events; access to jobs through on-line job listings; information through our homepage; CGFM program.
As a member of AGA, you will benefit at both the national and local levels. AGA chapters put you in contact with other financial management professionals in your area. You’ll get the chance to participate in business meetings, educational seminars and social events with other professionals who share your concerns. AGA has more than 90 chapters operating under the national bylaws, with the freedom to respond to the specialized wants and needs of their particular region. The Seattle Chapter holds a monthly meeting at the Columbia Center that gives you an opportunity to meet with area governmental finance personnel, as well as low cost CPE.