From Intern to In-Charge Accountant

Myersville, MD native, Mackenzie Lonergan, joined DeLeon & Stang in the spring of 2022 as an Individual Tax Intern. With no prior experience in tax or accounting, she embraced the opportunity to learn on the job and quickly gained hands-on experience.  

“I can confidently say that I can now complete a tax return from start to finish with little to no help,” Mackenzie reflects.  

Becoming an In-Charge Accountant

Today, she serves as an In-Charge Accountant in the Frederick office. There, she manages both business and personal tax returns, prepares and reviews client books, and provides year-round consulting. As the main point of contact for various clients, she supports her leadership and serves as a resource for her peers, ensuring a smooth workflow across the team.  

Supporting Firm Culture and Community Involvement

Beyond her client work, Mackenzie enjoys contributing to the firm’s culture and community initiatives. She helped design the firm’s boat for Sailing Through the Winter Solstice, which raised over $2,000 for the Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership (SHIP) of Frederick County. Additionally, she designed an ice cream sculpture for the annual Fire In Ice event.  

Continuing to Grow at DeLeon & Stang

Looking ahead, Mackenzie is focused on continued growth, taking on new challenges, and making an even greater impact for her clients and the D&S team.  

“Between LC Vista seminars, peer-led training, and the hands-on day-to-day experience, there are so many opportunities at D&S to develop my skills,” she says. “One-on-one mentorship with my peers also teaches me so much, and I’m looking forward to continuing that growth every day.” 

FAQs

What does an In-Charge Accountant do in public accounting? 

An In-Charge Accountant in public accounting typically manages client work, prepares and reviews tax returns and client books, supports workflow across the team, provides consulting, and serves as a key point of contact for clients. 

How can an intern grow into an In-Charge Accountant role?  

An intern can grow into an In-Charge Accountant role through hands-on client work, mentorship, training, and opportunities to take on more responsibility over time. 

Does DeLeon & Stang offer professional development opportunities? 

Yes. DeLeon & Stang offers professional development opportunities through LC Vista seminars, peer-led training, one-on-one mentorship, hands-on day-to-day experience, and opportunities to learn from managers and team members. 

How does DeLeon & Stang support community involvement? 

DeLeon & Stang supports community involvement by encouraging team members to participate in local initiatives and firm events. 

What skills do interns develop at DeLeon & Stang? 

Interns at DeLeon & Stang develop practical tax and accounting skills through hands-on client work. With guidance from experienced team members, interns learn how to manage workflows, communicate professionally, prepare tax returns, and build confidence as they grow in public accounting.