Brad Allen’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and the value of community—qualities forged during his upbringing on a farm in Raft River, Idaho. Growing up in a rural, agricultural environment, Brad learned early on the importance of hard work and creative problem-solving. The challenges of farm life, from equipment breakdowns to the isolation of living far from town, instilled in him a resilient work ethic and an entrepreneurial mindset that would shape his future endeavors.
Brad’s journey took a pivotal turn when he attended Idaho State University (ISU). He describes his time at ISU’s College of Business as transformative, crediting the cohort-based learning model and small class sizes with fostering close relationships and teamwork. Brad became actively involved in student organizations, notably serving as president of Beta Alpha Si, the accounting honor society. These experiences provided him with exposure to the broader world of business and accounting, compensating for the lack of professional connections in his immediate family and giving him the confidence to pursue his ambitions.
Brad’s career path was marked by a series of internships and early roles in internal audit and government accounting, which helped him develop essential communication skills and a deeper understanding of the profession. Brad gravitated toward public accounting for its client-focused nature and the opportunity to work directly with business owners. After starting his career in Boise, he eventually moved to Utah, where he co-founded the accounting firm Davies-Allen.
Throughout his conversation with Dr. Alex Bolinger, Brad emphasizes the importance of relationships in business, noting that his firm’s office strategy is designed to support both clients and team members, especially in the rapidly changing, post-pandemic business landscape. Brad also highlights the entrepreneurial spirit common among those from rural backgrounds. He underscores the importance of mentorship, internships, and other practical experiences and connections with employers for students entering the business and accounting fields.
