MPA, University of South Dakota

B.S., Business Administration and Accounting, University of South Dakota

Certified Public Accountant, South Dakota Board of Accountancy

Josh VanLaecken is a full-time accounting Instructor in the School of Business. He graduated summa cum laude with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accountancy and holds an active CPA license.

Prior to entering academia, VanLaecken worked in both public and private accounting environments. While in public accounting, he served a wide variety of clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to locally-owned small businesses; and, from energy and financial Institutions to governments and nonprofits. 

While in private accounting, VanLaecken worked in agricultural manufacturing for a foreign subsidiary. During this time, he created and oversaw budgets for corporate and several plant locations, was a key team member in the implementation of ERP software and was responsible for examining and recording complex accounting issues including inventory valuation, international transfer pricing, lease analysis, fixed asset impairment, derivatives, and defined benefit pensions.

VanLaecken is married, with three children. In addition to time with family, he enjoys lifting and playing sports, reading, and working on projects (cars, home, small electronics). He also serves on non-profit boards and committees.