If you’re an accounting student exploring career opportunities and wondering what sets one firm apart from another, you’re not alone. We regularly hear great questions from students who are curious about what life is really like at Crowe MacKay. Here’s a closer look at who we are, what we look for in students, and how we support you as you build your accounting career.

Who Is Crowe MacKay?

Crowe MacKay is a mid-sized public accounting firm with eight offices across Western and Northern Canada. We provide audit, tax, and advisory services to clients in a wide range of industries, giving our people exposure to diverse and meaningful work early in their careers.

While we’re proud to be Canadian-owned and operated, we’re also part of the Crowe Global network. This means we benefit from the resources, tools, and technical expertise of a large international network while still operating independently as Crowe MacKay LLP.

What Does “Mid-Sized” Really Mean?

Being a mid-sized firm offers the best of both worlds. Our connection to Crowe Global gives us access to the same technical resources you’d expect at a larger firm, but our offices remain intentionally smaller and close-knit. This allows students to build real relationships, work directly with managers and partners, and feel like a valued part of the team from day one.

What Does a Successful Student Resume Look Like?

There’s no single “perfect” resume. We look beyond grades to understand who you are and how you manage your commitments. Successful candidates often demonstrate strong time management skills, such as balancing school with part-time work, volunteer roles, or community involvement.

Prior work experience doesn’t need to be accounting-related. Any role that shows communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and professionalism helps paint a picture of how you’ll succeed in a client-focused environment.

What Skills Help Students Succeed at Crowe MacKay?

We look for students who bring a positive attitude and a genuine willingness to learn. Asking questions, being curious, and seeking feedback are all signs of future success. Strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, organization, and teamwork are also key, as accounting is both technical and collaborative by nature.

How Does Crowe MacKay Support Students Through the CPA Program?

We support students throughout the CPA journey with mentorship, covered CPA fees, and paid time off for exams and assessments. As the CPA program evolves, our approach evolves with it ensuring students continue to have the time and resources they need to succeed, including dedicated study support leading into the final stages of the program.

How Does Overtime Work for Students?

Overtime isn’t lost, it’s banked. As a student, you can use accumulated overtime toward CFE leave.

What Makes Crowe MacKay Stand Out?

One of the biggest advantages of working at Crowe MacKay is the variety of work students experience. From private and public companies to corporate and personal tax, assurance, and special projects, students gain broad exposure that helps them discover what they enjoy most.

Our offices are also small enough that you truly get to know your colleagues. Social events, team activities, and celebrations are typically office-wide, creating a strong sense of community rather than siloed teams. We also pride ourselves on an open door policy! Students are encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, and seek guidance from team members at all levels, from peers to partners. This approachability helps create a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable growing and developing their skills.

What Benefits and Wellness Support Are Offered?

All employees receive extended health and wellness benefits and start with three weeks of vacation. We also offer a wellness program that includes an annual $750 wellness benefit, an employee assistance program, paid professional development, and an RRSP matching program. Together with ongoing career development support, these benefits are designed to help our people thrive both personally and professionally.

Will I Be Locked Into One Type of Work?

Not at all. Articling students follow a structured path that allows them to rotate through multiple areas, including personal and corporate tax, accounting and bookkeeping, and assurance work such as reviews and audits. This exposure helps students build a well-rounded skill set and make informed career decisions.

Does Crowe MacKay Support International Students?

Yes. We support international students through the work permit and permanent residence process. Local offices work closely with our HR team to provide guidance and the necessary documentation to support immigration requirements.