In this episode of Across the Network, CAW Network USA Chief Executive David Powell introduces a deep dive into the real-world impact of artificial intelligence on the accounting profession. We recap the September 17th panel discussion, "AI and Accountants 2026," moderated by Nancy Chakabuda and featuring industry leaders Campbell Robertson, Jani Wentzel, and Chris Easton.

Discover why 79% of professionals believe AI is already significantly changing the industry and how the shift from AI "assistants" to AI "agents" is fundamentally reshaping internal controls. We explore six critical takeaways from the panel, including the hidden risks of not adopting AI, the ongoing necessity of human accountability, and the evolving skill sets required for future finance professionals. Tune in to learn why data readiness is the tax you pay for AI success, and hear four crucial questions every firm must ask themselves right now to prepare for future audits.

For more information, visit www.cawnetworkusa.com

Welcome to Across the Network, the regular news podcast from CAW Network USA, bringing you the stories, research and people shaping Chartered Accountancy across the United States, Canada and the Caribbean.

In this first edition, host James looks at:

• The member who became an author. Shane Rogers, a Chartered Accountant in internal audit, has published So You Want To Be an Internal Audit Rock Star?, 65,000 words written over two and a half years, much of it on his phone while waiting at his son's sports practice.

• Your invitation to shape the profession's biggest AI study. Chartered Accountants Worldwide, its member institutes and research firm Ipsos have launched Wave Two of their global study on AI and the future of the profession, covering traditional, generative and agentic AI. It takes 15 minutes, responses are confidential, and it closes on 1 September.

• From an audit trail in Dublin to an office in New York. Breffni O'Donnell talks to Nancy Chakabuda on Career Conversations about why the CA qualification is a springboard, not a box.

Read more on every story at cawnetworkusa.com and follow the show so the next edition finds you.

Across the Network is researched and drafted with the support of artificial intelligence, then reviewed, shaped and signed off by our human editorial team.