Welcome back to Bridging Insights—a series of candid conversations with DMCL team members, where they provide real insights into life at DMCL and what you can expect when you join our firm. For this edition, we’re chatting with Lukas Bilodeau, CPA, a Senior Accountant on our Public Company Audit team.
From adjusting to busy season to developing professional judgment, Lukas shares what it’s really like to start your career with DMCL’s Public Company Audit team—and how that early exposure helped shape his growth.
Finding your footing: From student to Staff Accountant
“When I first started at DMCL in January 2022, the transition from school to public practice was definitely a shock,” Lukas admits with a laugh. “The pace, the hours during busy season, and the volume of learning can feel overwhelming at first. But you really have to experience it to understand it—no amount of school prepares you fully for what the real work feels like.”
For Lukas, DMCL’s open-door culture helped make that learning curve more manageable.
“Having partners, managers, and seniors so accessible made all the difference. Any time I had questions, someone was always willing to walk me through things. That support helped me get comfortable faster and build confidence early on.”
Building confidence in your judgment
One of the biggest shifts Lukas experienced in his early career was learning how to trust his own professional judgment.
“At first, you’re focused on following instructions and checking boxes, but over time, you start understanding why you’re doing things. Eventually, you develop a sense of when something’s right, when something needs to change, and even when it’s time to move on from a file.”
That kind of judgment, he says, only comes with experience—but DMCL helps accelerate the process by giving junior staff meaningful exposure early on.
Exposure that accelerates your growth
“I’ve worked on so many different clients and industries already, and that exposure has been huge for my growth,” says Lukas. “What’s great at DMCL is that you can actually ask for work in areas that interest you. If there’s something happening that aligns with your goals and capacity, partners are open to helping you get that experience.”
That flexibility has shaped his path in ways he didn’t expect.
“At some firms, you get siloed quickly and end up doing the same thing over and over. Here, you get pushed outside your comfort zone. I’ve had opportunities to work on files and tasks one or two years above my level, and it’s helped me grow faster than I expected.”
Communication is key
When asked what it takes to succeed on the Public Company Audit team, Lukas doesn’t hesitate: communication.
“You’re dealing with clients who can be very direct, so you need to be comfortable having clear, straightforward conversations,” he explains. “You also need to be willing to ask questions—DMCL has an open-door policy for a reason. The people who thrive here are the ones who stay curious and proactive about their learning.”
CPA support that fits your style
Balancing work and CPA studies isn’t easy—but according to Lukas, DMCL gives you the tools and flexibility to make it work.
“Managers and partners were very understanding when I needed study time, and there’s a lot of support available if you want it,” he says.
A few of the resources he found helpful:
• Buddy program: Every new hire is paired with a mentor for regular check-ins and guidance.
• Flexible study styles: Lukas preferred solo study, but group options are available.
• Virtual CFE prep meetups: Led by recent successful writers, these sessions share practical tips and strategies.
Staying sharp through continuous learning
Ongoing training plays a big role in DMCL’s audit practice.
“Every year, the audit team hosts an offsite training where we bring in a trainer to update us on standards and share strategies for improving processes. Throughout the year, we also get updates and refreshers to keep us current. It keeps our skills sharp and relevant.”
Looking ahead: Where it can take you
Asked what he’s most excited about for the future, Lukas lights up.
“The best part about starting my career here is the flexibility it’s given me. I’m not pigeonholed into one path because the exposure I’ve had means I can go in so many directions within accounting. Honestly, the world feels wide open—and that’s exciting.”
Lukas’s advice for future seniors
“If you want direct access to partners, meaningful mentorship, and the chance to shape your own learning, this is the place. Be proactive, ask questions, and take ownership of your growth. You’ll get exposure to so many different clients and industries—and you’ll come out of it with skills that open doors.”
Join the team
Lukas’s journey is a great example of what’s possible at DMCL: early responsibility, direct mentorship, and the freedom to chart your own career path. If you’re someone who thrives on learning, collaboration, and variety, the Public Company Audit team might be the perfect fit.
We’re currently hiring a Senior Accountant to join the team.
If you’re interested in getting the same kind of exposure and development Lukas has experienced, check out the full posting here:
Want to connect before applying? Reach out to Bridget O’Connor, Talent Acquisition Lead at DMCL.
To connect with Lukas directly, you can find him on LinkedIn.
