Who I Am and What I do
Robert D. Shannon, CPA, PC is a boutique firm specializing in providing tax and accounting services to startups (particularly high-tech startups), small, closely held firms, and Class 2 and Class 3 railways. I provide services to these small railways through a sister company, Cold Water Transportation, LLC. These railways require specialized accounting services in order to take maximum advantage of tax benefits and avoid penalties, and they often don’t have the resources to hire a full-time accountant.
My Background
I have an extensive background in taxation and broad experience working with companies in transportation and manufacturing, as well as startups. I also have a great deal of experience in public accounting, from small firms to Big Four firms, where I performed analytics in order to prepare tax projections and tax returns, to handle tax audits, and to propose projects.
In addition to being a trusted advisor to my clients, I’ve also contributed to the advancement of my field. For example, I helped develop a railway cost function as part of a Department of Energy project to determine the costs of trucking, barges and railway freight. I have also made presentations before professional groups on Federal and state/local tax issues. I’ve also successfully lobbied for tax exemptions in several states.
Following undergraduate work in history, I earned a Master of Taxation and Master of Economics degrees. In 2012, I was awarded a certificate in Railway Management from Michigan State University.
As an active participant in railway events and organizations, I frequently attend Railway Interchange and American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) meetings and seminars.
I Am a Proud Member of:
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA)
Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)
American Railway Engineering and Maintenance of Way Association (AREMA)
New Enterprise Forum of Ann Arbor (NEF)