Berkeley graduate counts her accomplishments in the accounting field

Two degrees. Multiple promotions in high-profile companies. Countless business skills. Marie Licata has put her education, experiences, and intuition to work over an extremely successful career in the competitive accounting industry.

Finding the right fit in a college

Marie studied Accounting at the Berkeley College campus in Woodland Park, NJ, earning her Associate’s degree and working part-time in banking and waitressing while studying. “I learned about Berkeley through a presentation at my high school,” she remembered. “I didn’t want to go to a large university, and I loved the feeling of the small classes at Berkeley. It was easy to get around and not intimidating at all. In fact, it was the only college I applied to.”

Gaining experience along the way

Marie worked her way up at several prominent New Jersey banks, gaining valuable career experience along the way. She also recalled the “real-world” aspect of her Berkeley education. “Many of my accounting professors were actual CPAs working in the field,” she said. “They were able to bring their professional experiences to the classroom. And they were very in tune with the needs of the students.”

Continuing her education, advancing her career

She returned to Berkeley for her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, this time studying online while working full-time and raising her two-and-a half-year-old son. Even online, Marie still felt the close-knit aspect of Berkeley. “The groups were still small, and we had great dialogue between classmates,” she pointed out. “The support was also great. The process of transferring credits was easy, and professors were very responsive when I had questions or concerns.”

Extensive corporate accounting experience

Marie was then hired by Ingersoll Rand Inc., a multinational company selling products under more than 40 brands across all major global markets. She recalls interviewing for the position on crutches after an injury, with her future boss noting her determination and dedication! She worked in numerous areas for the organization, including cost accounting, which she developed a passion for. Marie’s 15+ year tenure at Ingersoll Rand included a relocation to North Carolina and training other employees in Ireland.

Promotions, progress, prosperity

Marie eventually took a position with Hubbell, Inc., an international manufacturer of quality electrical, lighting, and power solutions. She was recently promoted to Accounting Director at the firm. “My Berkeley education prepared me in many different ways for this role,” she said. “With my training and experience, I now oversee accounting staff for 22 different companies in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada within the organization.”

Advice based on experience

Marie offered advice for those considering the accounting field. “Flexibility is important—don’t be afraid to try something new,” she said. “Be confident, but not cocky. Ask questions and speak your mind, but not with an attitude.”

Years of experience in virtually all areas of accounting have led to a very successful career for Marie, yet her work ethic is as strong as ever. She pointed out that it’s critical to understand the industry and company in which you work, as well as its people and products. “Do your homework,” she stressed. “I was once asked during an interview, ‘Why should I hire you?’ I responded, ‘Because I’ll be the nosiest accountant you’ve ever hired!’”

It’s an approach she—and her employers—have counted on.