Community Leaders in Finance, Insurance & Law: Hilliard CPA Group

Story by Amelia Bowen

Austin Schroeder and Dane Hilliard share a simple belief about accounting: clients should never feel intimidated by their finances. At Hilliard CPA Group, that philosophy shapes everything they do. Whether helping a business owner plan for growth, guiding a family through tax preparation or assisting a client with long-term financial decisions, both are committed to making accounting more approachable, understandable and personal. A graduate of Western Kentucky University with both a bachelor’s degree and MBA, Austin was drawn to accounting because of its ability to help people make informed decisions and create opportunities for the future. Today, he believes one of the firm’s greatest strengths is its welcoming culture. “Accounting and taxes can feel intimidating, and many people dread calling their CPA,” Austin says. “We’ve made it our mission to change that.” From the first conversation, Austin says clients quickly notice the difference. The team prioritizes clear communication, practical advice and an environment where questions are encouraged. “We speak in plain, everyday language that’s easy to understand,” he says. “When clients feel comfortable talking to us, we can better understand their goals and find solutions that might otherwise be missed.” Dane’s perspective was shaped long before he became a CPA himself. Growing up in Bowling Green, he witnessed firsthand how deeply personal financial guidance can be. He watched the relationships his family built through years of serving local clients and businesses and saw the trust that developed along the way. A graduate of Bowling Green High School and Western Kentucky University, Dane earned his accounting degree in 2014 before continuing the legacy of service established by his family. He credits much of his professional perspective to the example set by his late Uncle Keith, a CPA in the Bowling Green area for more than four decades. “There wasn’t one specific piece of advice he gave me,” Dane shares. “It was seeing how much he cared for his clients and their families that taught me the most.” Together, Austin and Dane help clients with far more than tax preparation. The firm provides business planning, financial forecasting and strategic guidance designed to help businesses and individuals prepare for what’s ahead. Austin notes that many clients are surprised to learn how much proactive planning takes place behind the scenes. “Financial forecasting is one of the most valuable services we provide,” he says. “We help businesses look ahead, anticipate challenges and make smart decisions before problems arise.” Despite Bowling Green’s continued growth, both men appreciate that the community has maintained the close-knit atmosphere that makes it special. Dane often describes the city as “the biggest small town in America,” while Austin values its unique balance of opportunity and connection. As Hilliard CPA Group continues to grow, both remain focused on the same mission: providing trusted guidance, building lasting relationships and helping clients feel confident about their financial future. For Austin and Dane, accounting is ultimately about people. The numbers simply help tell the story.