26 Years of Creative Solutions

Beginning in July 2026, Al will transition from partner to an “of counsel” role, where he will continue supporting the firm and clients on a reduced schedule through the October 15 extended tax deadline.

While this change marks a shift in title and day-to-day responsibilities, one thing remains the same: Al’s passion for problem-solving and delivering creative tax solutions for clients throughout Minneapolis, Central Minnesota, and beyond.

For clients and colleagues alike, Al’s legacy can best be summarized in two words: creative solutions.

It’s important to clarify that an “of counsel” role allows experienced professionals to remain actively involved with clients and advisory work while reducing their overall workload.

In Al’s case, his transition to of counsel reflects a gradual shift toward retirement while continuing to provide strategic insight. From July through October 15, Al plans to work a few days per week, focusing on select client matters and continuing to share his decades of experience.

For Al, the transition is less about stepping away entirely and more about creating balance. “I want to pursue other interests and have the flexibility and freedom to do the things I haven’t gotten to do in a long time,” he shared.

Over the last 26 years, Al has become known throughout the firm for his ability to approach complex tax matters with creativity, persistence, and a calm perspective.

When reflecting on what he is most proud of during his career, Al immediately pointed to the moments where the firm successfully helped clients minimize tax exposure during disputes and controversies with the IRS.

Some of the most memorable situations involved “cases of first impression,” where little precedent existed, and creative thinking became essential.

In fact, Al shared that the IRS communicated to him on three separate occasions that he had accomplished things “no one else has ever done or been able to do.”

Those experiences not only demonstrate technical expertise but also reinforce the value of having a trusted advisor who can think strategically when clients face difficult or unusual circumstances.

For businesses and individuals searching for experienced CPAs in Minnesota who can provide strategic tax guidance, stories like Al’s illustrate the importance of experience paired with innovative thinking.

While Al is widely respected for his technical abilities, his colleagues also know him for his steady perspective and practical advice.

When asked what wisdom he would leave with the Froehling Anderson team, his response was simple: “Don’t sweat the small stuff.”

It’s a mindset that has likely contributed to his success over nearly three decades in public accounting, especially in an industry known for tight deadlines, changing regulations, and complex client challenges.

Al also shared that one of the more unexpected challenges about transitioning into his of counsel role will be breaking the routines and habits formed throughout his career. “It’s hard to break habits you’ve had your whole adult life,” he noted.

That honesty is something many professionals approaching a role or title change can likely relate to, especially those who have spent decades dedicated to serving clients and building relationships.

As Al reduces his hours in July, he is looking forward to spending more time with family, traveling, and improving his golf game.

And while he may not yet have a long list of projects or hobbies on the horizon, this next chapter offers something equally valuable: flexibility and freedom.

For our team, the transition also represents an opportunity to celebrate the impact Al has had on the firm, its clients, and its culture over the last 26 years.

When asked what he hopes to be remembered for, Al’s answer perfectly captured the theme of his career: “Problem-solving. Coming up with creative solutions.”

As Froehling Anderson approaches its 80th anniversary and continues evolving for the future, milestones like this provide an opportunity to reflect on the people who helped shape the firm’s reputation and client relationships over the decades.

Al’s transition to of counsel is not simply about reduced hours or a title change. It is a celebration of years of thoughtful leadership, technical excellence, and creative problem-solving for clients throughout Minnesota.

His impact will continue to be felt not only through the clients he has helped, but also through the professionals he has mentored and the collaborative culture he helped strengthen along the way.

From everyone at the firm, thank you, Al, for an impactful 26 years.