Beyond the Balance Sheet: WIPFLI on AI & Accounting Innovation

Join us on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM (CDT) in Chicago at Twenty Six Chicago or virtually nationwide for an evening of networking and industry insights.

The program will begin at 7:15 PM. 

We are excited to partner with WIPFLI to bring you this special event focused on the rapidly evolving landscape of the accounting industry. As of 2026, 92% of accounting professionals report increased AI functionality in their everyday software, and firms leveraging these tools are closing their monthly books an average of 7.5 days faster. We’ll dive into how AI and agentic technology are moving beyond simple automation to become strategic "sidekicks"—and why identifying these opportunities now is essential for any professional looking to stay ahead of the curve.

To make the evening even better, Twenty Six Chicago will be serving a variety of delicious appetizers and drinks, including a special signature cocktail crafted exclusively for WIPFLI.

Help us expand our reach: We encourage you to invite a colleague or friend who shares an interest in the future of finance and technology. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with peers and discuss how we can all flourish in a tech-driven market.

RSVP Today

This event is free to attend, but space is limited at this premier rooftop venue. Please ensure you RSVP as soon as possible to secure your spot.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Presenters

Anna Kooi

Anna Kooi leads Wipfli’s financial services practice. A partner with almost 25 years of experience in serving a variety of public and private clients in the financial services industry, Anna has advised clients ranging from startups to Fortune 10, bringing deep industry knowledge to clients. In addition to core audit work, Anna has experience in attestation engagements including internal audit, agreed-upon procedures and examination engagements. She has advised startups from proof of concept through exit strategies and is accomplished in buy-sell due diligence, IPOs and strategy consulting.

Rusty Planert

Rusty Planert is a Senior Manager in Wipfli’s audit practice and serves as the firm’s Audit Innovation Liaison. He brings a practitioner’s perspective on how firms are evaluating and implementing AI, with a focus on practical adoption, workflow change, and the future of professional services.