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 gardening on the weekends and chubby babies. 

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 is an avid coin and stamp collector.

 

Angelo State University

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Matt Viles, EA, is a Tax Manager at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, bringing extensive experience in individual and business tax compliance, IRS representation, and year-round planning. Known for his pragmatic approach and client-focused communication style, Matt helps guide clients through complex tax issues with clarity and confidence. His expertise and steady leadership make him a trusted resource for both clients and the internal tax team. Matt holds the state record for the largest watermelon three years running. 

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. ​

Universitatea de Stat din Moldova

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Cristina Hortolomei is the Accounting Manager at Shifflett & Philips, LLP, where she oversees monthly accounting, financial reporting, and workflow coordination for a diverse client base. Known for her precision, leadership, and strong communication skills, Cristina ensures that clients receive accurate financials and timely support. She plays a key role in training staff, improving processes, and maintaining the firm’s high standards for accounting services. Cristina enjoys long walks on the beach and complicated recipes. 

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.

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.

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. He is valued for his strong work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to developing his tax expertise.  Kris enjoys listening to podcasts and playing dodgeball. 

​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.