With tax deadlines approaching, it is time to think about tax preparation. GreenStone’s tax accountants know the agriculture industry inside and out – whether they have been in the field for 30-plus years or only recently began their careers – our team knows the farm business. Before tax seasons end, take a moment to meet two great examples of the expertise you get when working with GreenStone.
Scott Martin, Tax and Accounting Manager
St. Johns, Michigan
What is your favorite thing about working for GreenStone?
I enjoy working with the people, both internal and external. My customers and co-workers are down to earth people who are easy to work with.
How did you first learn about GreenStone / Farm Credit as a potential place to work?
When I was in college, I came across an intern position with GreenStone and it sounded like a good place to work. I also knew of a couple people from my hometown who worked for GreenStone and really enjoyed it.
What changes have you seen in the tax and accounting world in your time working for GreenStone?
I have seen a lot more IRS impersonation scams even since I started almost 3 years ago. Each year, I take more and more calls from customers regarding fake phone calls from people pretending to be the IRS.The tax rules and regulations are also constantly changing and make preparing the returns more and more complex.
What advice do you have for someone thinking about a career in tax and accounting?
I would tell them to stick with it. The accounting major and becoming certified is a lot of work and the classes can be tough, but once you get through everything and begin to practice it, it becomes a lot easier.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with family and friends, and watching and playing sports.
Steven Eshelman, Tax and Accounting Manager
Adrian, Michigan
What is your favorite thing about working for GreenStone?
I have two favorite things. First, the people I work with. We have a great team in Adrian that works well together. We help each other out when needed and back each other up when someone is away. The second is working with the customers to develop a plan to pay the least amount of tax and keep more money for the family. It gives me great satisfaction to see these plans work.
How did you first learn about GreenStone / Farm Credit as a potential place to work?
The Career Placement Department at Adrian College received an inquiry from the Production Credit Association (PCA) of Southeastern Michigan in May of 1982 that they were looking for a tax and accounting person. Career Placement contacted me because they knew I had a farm background and just graduated with an accounting degree. I got the job and started June 1, 1982 and have been with GreenStone / Farm Credit ever since.
What changes have you seen in the tax and accounting world in your time working for GreenStone?
The biggest changes are with technology. When I started in 1982, we filled out input sheets by hand and mailed them to a tax processing center in Illinois. The finished returns were delivered to us 7 to 10 days later. Now we can input, print and e-file a return all in the same day from our office. The improvements in technology have enabled tax preparers to be much more efficient.
What advice do you have for someone thinking about a career in tax and accounting?
Study. Gain as much knowledge as you can about the tax laws and how they can be used to your future clients’ advantage. This will help you serve your clients’ needs and make your work very satisfying.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I like to be outside. Whether it is home improvement projects, running, biking or just walking the dog, I enjoy the outdoors; spending time with family while doing these outdoor activities is the most fun.
Are you or someone you know looking for an internship? Find out more about the GreenStone internships and careers here.
