Stephen F. Austin University

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Nick Shifflett, CPA, is a founding partner of Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where he focuses on federal and state tax compliance, strategic tax planning, and advisory services for individuals, business owners, and real estate investors. Nick also brings extensive experience in outsourced CFO and controller services, helping clients improve financial clarity through forecasting, budgeting, accounting oversight, and financial statement preparation.  Nick enjoys spending time on the lake with his family and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys.

University of Texas at Dallas

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Brett Philips, CPA, is a founding partner of Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where he leads tax planning and compliance for business owners, real estate investors, and high-net-worth individuals. Known for his technical expertise and practical approach, Bret specializes in complex entity structures, multi-state tax matters, and proactive, year-round planning. He is committed to delivering clarity, strategy, and exceptional service to every client. Brett's an avid golfer and enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters. 

Gary Johnson, CPA, is a Senior Advisor at Shifflett & Philips, LLP with deep expertise in business and individual tax strategy, multi-entity structures, and year-round advisory support. Known for his analytical approach and commitment to client success, Gary specializes in helping entrepreneurs, professional service firms, and investors optimize their tax position while staying ahead of regulatory changes. Outside of work, Gary enjoys spending time with his family, staying active, and giving back to his community.

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Texas Tech University 

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Marie Kovalski serves as the Firm Administrator for Shifflett & Philips, LLP, overseeing day-to-day operations, workflow coordination, client onboarding, and internal systems. Known for her organization, responsiveness, and ability to keep the firm running smoothly through busy seasons, Marie plays a central role in supporting both the team and clients. Her commitment to service and attention to detail help ensure an exceptional client experience from start to finish. Marie enjoys playing the harmonica and chubby babies. 

​California State University, Fullerton

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Brittany Meraz is the Office Manager at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where she oversees daily operations, client scheduling, and administrative support across the firm. Known for her organization, communication, and ability to keep the office running seamlessly, Brittany plays a key role in delivering an exceptional client experience. She is valued for her reliability, professionalism, and commitment to supporting both the team and clients. Brittany enjoys horror movies and spending time with her doodle, Zoey. 

New Tribes Mission Institute

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​Tina Christensen is an Executive Assistant at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where she serves as a key organizational anchor for the firm’s leadership and professional staff. With a strong talent for coordination, communication, and problem-solving, Tina helps keep daily operations running smoothly while ensuring that partners, staff, and clients are supported with efficiency and care.  Tina is an excellent home cook.  She's been featured on Guy's Grocery Games. ​

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Pace University

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​Emilia Patrinos is the Director of Accounting Services at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where she leads the firm’s accounting team and oversees the delivery of high-quality monthly financials, reconciliations, and advisory services. With a strong focus on accuracy, process improvement, and team development, Emilia ensures clients receive clear, reliable financial insights to help drive better business decisions. She is known for her leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to exceptional client service.

University of Florida

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Nick Wolfe, CPA, is a Tax Manager at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where he specializes in federal and state tax compliance, complex entity structures, and proactive tax planning for business owners and high-net-worth individuals. Known for his strong technical skills and attention to detail, Nick plays a key role in managing engagements, reviewing returns, and supporting clients with clear, strategic guidance year-round. Nick loves hitting the parks and being outside with his family in his free time.

Angelo State University

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Matt Viles, EA, is a Tax Manager at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, recognized for his comprehensive knowledge of individual and business taxation, skilled IRS representation, and strategic planning capabilities. He brings an analytical approach to complex tax matters, ensuring clients receive clear guidance. Matt’s professionalism and steady leadership also contribute significantly to the development of the firm’s tax team. In his personal time, he is active in his church community and enjoys spending time at the lake.

Houston Christian University

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Ashleigh Bass is a Senior Accountant at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where she manages monthly accounting, reconciliations, and financial reporting for a wide range of clients. Known for her accuracy, organization, and commitment to delivering clear financial insights, Ashleigh plays a key role in supporting clients’ day-to-day financial operations. She is valued for her reliability, communication, and dedication to exceptional client service.  Ashleigh has visited every state park and visited over 30 countries.

 

​University of Texas at San Antonio

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Chris Couch, CPA, is a Tax Senior at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, specializing in individual and business tax preparation, technical research, and year-round support for clients. Known for his analytical mindset and strong communication skills, Chris helps ensure accurate filings, smooth engagements, and proactive planning. Chris serves on the board of directors of the Texas Renaissance Festival and has been crowned king of the festival two times.  

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Auburn University

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Cole Edgeworth is a Tax Senior at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where he focuses on business and individual tax compliance, tax planning, and client support throughout the year. Known for his strong work ethic and attention to detail, Cole plays a key role in preparing and reviewing returns, coordinating with clients, and ensuring accurate, timely deliverables. He is valued for his professionalism, technical skills, and commitment to excellent service. On the weekends, you can find Cole doing stand-up comedy at local clubs.  

East Texas A&M University

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Michelle Becker is a Tax Staff Accountant at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, supporting the firm’s tax team with individual and business return preparation, research, and client communication. Known for her attention to detail and eagerness to learn, Michelle contributes to accurate filings and smooth workflows throughout the year. She is appreciated for her positive attitude, reliability, and growing expertise in tax compliance. Michelle played four years of competitive golf at East Texas A&M University.  

California State University, Los Angeles 

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Carlos Estrada is a Tax Staff Accountant at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, supporting the preparation of individual and business tax returns, client communication, and technical research. Detail-oriented and hardworking, Carlos plays an important role in maintaining accuracy and efficiency during busy seasons. He is valued for his reliability, strong work ethic, and commitment to developing his tax expertise. Carlos enjoys mystery novels and playing competitive pickleball.  His favorite singer is Pitbull. ​

University of Oklahoma

 

Andrew Mura is a Tax Staff Accountant at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, supporting the tax team with the preparation of individual and business returns, technical research, and client communication. Known for his strong attention to detail and willingness to take on new challenges, Andrew contributes to accurate filings and efficient workflow during both busy and off-season periods. He is valued for his reliability, professionalism, and commitment to growing his tax expertise. AJ enjoys tornado chasing and watching amateur hockey. 

University of Texas at Dallas

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Sikendar Wazir is a CPA on the tax team at S&P. He holds both a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Accounting from The University of Texas at Dallas. Sikendar is dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of their personal and business tax situations with clarity, care, and a commitment to maximizing savings.

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Maryville University of Saint Louis

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Kris Posey is a Tax Staff Accountant at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, supporting the preparation of individual and business tax returns, technical research, and client communication. Detail-oriented and dependable, Kris contributes to accurate filings and smooth workflows throughout the year. She is valued for his strong work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to developing his tax expertise.  Kris enjoys listening to podcasts and playing dodgeball. 

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University of Colorado Denver

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​Whitney Reese is an Accounting Staff member at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where she supports monthly accounting, reconciliations, and financial reporting for clients across various industries. Known for her organization, accuracy, and positive attitude, Whitney helps ensure smooth workflows and reliable financial deliverables. She is appreciated for her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and commitment to exceptional client service.

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University of Texas at Austin

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Alex Rubi is a Tax Staff with Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where he plays a key role in supporting the firm’s tax team through individual and business return preparation, technical research, and thoughtful client communication. Outside of work, Alex enjoys staying active and following sports.​

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University of Texas at Dallas

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Jade a Tax Staff at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, supporting the firm’s tax team with individual and business return preparation, research, and client communication. Known for her attention to detail and eagerness to learn, Jade contributes to accurate filings and smooth workflows throughout the year. She is appreciated for her positive attitude, reliability, and growing expertise in tax compliance. Jade has submitted over 40 ice cream flavors to Ben & Jerry's.  She's yet to be selected as a flavor.  

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Texas State University​

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​Emma Christian is a Staff Accountant at Shifflett & Philips where she supports clients with bookkeeping, financial reporting, and day-to-day accounting operations. Known for her attention to detail and strong organizational skills, Emma enjoys working with complex data and ensuring accuracy in every project. She is passionate about building positive client relationships and delivering dependable, timely results. Emma graduated with honors in finance from Texas State University. 

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Texas Tech University

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Natalie Avery is a Staff Accountant at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where she handles reconciliations, supports financial reporting, and keeps client records organized and accurate. She is known for her attention to detail, reliability, and steady work ethic, taking pride in ensuring accounts are balanced and information is presented clearly throughout the year.

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Dallas Baptist University

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With eight years of accounting experience, Robert brings discipline, precision, and a team-first mindset to every engagement. A former member of the elite Outlaw Platoon with the 10th Mountain Division, he served 16 months on the front lines in Afghanistan. His experiences are chronicled in the New York Times Best Seller Outlaw Platoon by Sean Parnell. Outside the office, he enjoys coaching football and mentoring high school students.

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