How DCPA fuels CAS strategy

Rob Henderson isn’t new to the Digital CPA conference—or to client advisory services. As the Partner in Charge of Advisory Services at Windes, a regional full-service CPA firm based in Southern California, Rob has been a driving force in transforming his firm’s client advisory services (CAS) practice.

Now entering his fourth DCPA conference, the annual gathering of over 1,000 accounting leaders and technology leaders, he says the event continues to evolve just as fast as the profession itself. We sat down with Rob to explore why he’s such a passionate advocate for DCPA, what makes it different from other conferences, and why bringing your team along may be the smartest move your firm makes this year.

Q: Rob, this is your fourth DCPA. What keeps you coming back?

It’s grown so much over the years. There are more attendees, more advanced topics and even more energy. That growth mirrors what’s happening in the profession. It brings this infectious momentum that makes it the place to be for accounting professionals.

It’s not just another accounting conference. It’s an ecosystem of people—at all levels—who are building something different. A wide range of topics allow firms to find the content they need no matter where they are in their journey.

Q: You’re also part of the DCPA advisory board. What drew you to that role?

When I was asked to join the board, I saw it as a way to give back.

Being part of the planning process—helping choose keynotes, curate topics, shape how the conference evolves—it’s exciting. The advisory board serves as the curators of the conference—accounting leaders and practitioners who know the pain points that firms are experiencing and can help drive the content accordingly.

Q: What’s unique about DCPA compared to other conferences?

Digital CPA is definitely growing, but it’s not overwhelming. So as an attendee, you’re able to network effectively while getting highly relevant insights from the content presented.

The breakout sessions are focused on thought leadership and innovation, not just technical content. That makes it more approachable and forward-looking. Plus, the locations change every year, and the events are tailored to the city. It’s serious content during the day and fun, powerful networking in the evenings. That balance makes it a very complete experience.

Q: Let’s talk CAS. How is DCPA supporting firms at different stages?

That’s what makes the conference so valuable—there’s something for everyone. If you're just starting a CAS practice, DCPA gives you a solid conceptual framework and a wealth of peers to stress test ideas with. If you’ve been in the game for a few years, you’ll find strategies for scaling, managing people and adopting the right technology.

How do you level up? What does sustainable growth look like? What does the next transformation require? The conference delivers at every stage.

Watch the full interview with Rob Henderson

Q: What are you most excited about this year?

Personally, I’m looking for more complex topics. Our practice has matured, so I’m drawn to sessions on scaling, operational hurdles and advanced technology integration.

There’s also a lot of buzz around AI and innovation, and I’m eager to see how other firms are building out their infrastructure to handle that. That’s where I think the biggest opportunities lie.

Q: You mentioned bringing a group from your firm. Why is that important?

Trying to implement change on your own is tough. When multiple people from your firm attend, they absorb different insights. That creates a shared momentum when you return home.

It’s not just one person trying to champion change—it becomes a team effort. That multiplies your ability to actually make transformation stick.

Q: What’s your advice to someone considering DCPA for the first time?

Show up. Especially if you’re curious about CAS or already running a practice, it’s the best place to see how others are tackling similar challenges.

And don’t just sit in sessions—network like crazy. The people here have gone through the same things. They’ve had the same hesitations, made the same pivots and they’re willing to share. That kind of peer learning is priceless.

With Washington D.C. as the backdrop this year, Rob is excited to reunite with peers, hear from bold keynote speakers and dive into the next evolution of CAS. Whether you're just launching or ready to scale, his message is clear: DCPA is where the future of advisory services is being built.