Behind the Numbers: Tyler Sweet
Interview by: Jennifer Deroin
Tyler Sweet
Tyler didn’t always plan to be an accountant, but we’re so glad he did. He’s one of those modest and quiet power houses that consistently yield outstanding results. We decided to share a little about this bright light within our firm – we know you’ll be as impressed as we are.
Tyler is a native of the Treasure Valley, growing up in Ontario, Oregon. He worked summers on a farm operation, at a local convenience store, and at the Ontario Airport. He chose to attend the University of Oregon because he wanted to stay in state and liked their business school, and obtained his bachelor and masters degrees. One summer though, while home from college, he had a short stint working for the City of Ontario. In the course of his duties there, he happened to drive by the firm but
wasn’t familiar with the company. On a whim, he decided to stop in and inquire about internships. Nichols brought him on in the winter of 2006 for his senior year internship, and then offered him a full time position in 2007. Fortunate for us.
“If I hadn’t spent the two weeks at the City, I probably would have never known about Nichols and would probably be in Portland, which wouldn’t be cool. I wanted to get away from that side of the state because of the rain.”
The following is an excerpt of our conversation:
So you’re a Duck. Besides being in state, what else drove you there?
TS: I also went over for a basketball trip during the summer and really liked it. Little did I know it rains all winter over there.
Rural towns have a difficult time attracting young talent. Why do you like living and working in Ontario?
TS: Ontario has good people and a good climate. I like to hunt and fish and you have elbow room. Coastal weather is just not for me.
JD: So if I’m following correctly, you hate the rain?
TS: Yes! (laughs)
Why and/or when did you decide you wanted to be an accountant?
TS: I never really thought about what I wanted to be. I liked math and science and my dad suggested accounting, so I started taking the classes. I liked corporate finance, and I liked the idea of getting my CPA license – having something to hang my hat on. The Masters program seemed liked a great route and you only need five years to get your CPA.
Where did you think you would land, before you happened upon the firm?
TS: When you’re in school, people usually go to the big accounting firms and then move on. I expected that to happen to me, but I’m glad I came to a smaller firm.
Why do you like a smaller firm better?
TS: It seems like you have a better relationship with fellow employees and clients. If you were part of a big company, it would be small potatoes type of thing. You’re more invested, willing to work harder. You want to be a part of it, and you have the opportunity to work on diverse issues and for clients within different industry. You feel like you’re an important part of the solution.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
TS: I was in prison for five years (laughs). Just kidding of course. How about, I still have a flip phone?
JD: Wow. That is surprising.
You know the saying, “all work and no play makes Jack (Tyler) a dull boy”. What do you do for fun?
TS: Goof off. Golf, hunt, fish, and hang out with friends. Snowboarding – anything sports. There aren’t a lot of young people that come back to Ontario. They either never left or have family here. I think people think of it as a small ag community and that if you’re not involved in ag, there’s not a lot to offer. I believe wherever you’re at, it’s what you make it to be, and I have family here.
What are your plans for future?
TS: Buy a house. I like the people here, I like the customers. I plan on making a career here.
JD: Grown up stuff, huh?
TS: Yep.
Can you share a rewarding experience that you’ve had here?
TS: It’s hard to pick out one experience, because they are so many. Clients come in overwhelmed or in over their head, and we help them find solutions, bring them peace of mind, and save them money. I like the relationships that develop from that trust and knowing we’ve really had an impact.