The 2019 Rising Stars of the Profession: Addison Blackwell

Age: 28

As a leader in RSM's finance and accounting management-consulting practice, Addison Blackwell says he's proud to be a part of the practice's ongoing growth. "Through the relationships we have built and the solutions we have developed, we help our clients enact changes that enable their success," he says.

That success doesn't just come naturally, he's had some success along the way—particularly through mentorship by the firm's leaders, he says. "I've learned what it takes to deliver solutions and develop a successful team," Blackwell says. "With the right balance of executive support, innovation and people/team development, anything is possible."

Speaking of support, Blackwell recalls a time—back in high school—when his father gave him some solid advice. Blackwell was considering going out for a sports team but wanted to wait another year to do so. His father told him, "If you wait to do something, you are giving up on an opportunity to succeed." Ever since then, "I have known that with enough hard work and dedication, anything is possible, but you have to try," Blackwell says. "I bring this mentality to the workplace every day."

It's sound advice, especially in a profession with as much change and upheaval as consulting. "The business environment and workplace changes every day," Blackwell says. "A consulting career enables you to help companies adapt to this change and find new and better ways to meet their goals. As someone who loves to ask questions and solve problems, consulting allows me to bring my passion to work."

And that passion has paid off with some recognition, but he is, of course, quick to point out that he didn't achieve anything by himself. "The award is a validation of the incredible team that RSM has built," Blackwell says.  "I started my career here as a Senior Associate and now see members of my team that will one day follow the same path I did."