Dynamic duo.

• Position: Final entry - Cover story

Recently, CalCPA awarded its Young Emerging Professional (YEP) of the Year award to two standouts in the profession: Richard Giedlin and Wilbur Chan.

Giedlin, a senior associate at Deloitte, graduated in 2012 from UCLA and has primarily focused on partnership taxes in the financial services industry.

Chan spent six years at Ernst & Young and now works for a growing medical device company, Penumbra Inc., where he manages a team of six accounting professionals and leads new accounting process initiatives.

Read on to learn more about these emerging stars.

Have you had any notable mentors?

RG: Lisa Sergi, a partner at Deloitte, has been a really big part of my development in the accounting industry. CalCPA's LA Chapter members, such as Cory Stigile, have influenced my career and given me great advice as well. It's amazing and inspiring how the leadership at my chapter has allowed me to grow.

WC: The one who stands out the most was my senior manager at Ernst & Young, Chris Canoles. He guided me through several complicated projects and gave me the opportunity to lead important presentations for our clients. He taught me the importance of prep work and showed me how to always put my best foot forward. Chris also frequently thanked me publicly and made sure the partners knew of my contributions. I've learned to do the same for my team.

What can you be found doing during your free time?

RG: I golf with co-workers and others I have met in CalCPA. Also, I train in muay thai and spar on a weekly basis. Busy season isn't nearly as scary as getting punched in the face or painful as a bruised rib.

WC: I in a huge Golden State Warriors fan and interned for them during college. I can be found watching the Warriors game in my free time. I also enjoy listening to classical music, playing the piano and working on my man cave.

What role has CalCPA played in your professional life?

RG: CalCPA has exposed me to how diverse the accounting profession is in California. There is no set path after acquiring your CPA license. I have interacted with professions at sole proprietorships, mid-tier and big firms. Each have their own story.

WC: CalCPA has elevated my professional life through its mentoring culture, leadership training programs and the network of professionals. This complemented well with the technical training I was receiving in public accounting. Moreover, the leaders encouraged me to take on leadership roles. I learned how to collaborate effectively by...