For several years now, finance executives have had talent development and retention on their minds – even with all the other business headwinds they’re facing today. That’s why the timing of an apprenticeship program has been so important, and why it’s the main topic on this episode of the JofA podcast.  Today’s guest, Barry Payne, director—External Relations, Management Accounting at AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, explains the tie-in between the emphasis on apprenticeships and the Future of Finance Leadership Advisory Group (FFLAG).  Also, hear a short segment of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast where the owner of a small CPA firm talks about a drastic change to her business model that paid personal and professional dividends.  Resources: U.S. apprenticeship program overview Future of Finance Summit agenda and registration JofA article on Sandy Johns and the transformative leap she took for her firm  What you’ll learn from this episode: An overview of progress in the Department of Labor-approved apprenticeship program in its first year. Some of the new companies now taking part in the program. How companies are applying the apprenticeship program to train and upskill existing employees. Payne’s explanation of how an emphasis on apprenticeships was a “fundamental action” of the FFLAG. The top challenge listed by finance executives who are part of the FFLAG. Information about the December summit and agenda and why Payne calls it a “safe haven” for finance leaders.