NEA Women in Business: Reba Shipley

Residence: Jonesboro

Education: Enrolled agent/certified tax resolution specialist

What has been the most fulfilling moment of your career so far? Being able to help people solve IRS and state tax issues. Helping individuals to get their businesses going in the right direction. I enjoy helping clients file solid tax returns. I’m an enrolled agent and certified tax resolution specialist.

What’s the next big personal or career challenge you plan to take on? I aim to continue growing our company and offering good quality services. Continuing education is very important, and I look forward to learning new skills.

What advice would you give young women who are at the beginning of their careers? Do not despise small beginnings. Just put one foot in front of the other and breathe. Time is fleeting, and work will overflow, but remember to participate in the little things that matter. You will not live to regret the true legacy that you will leave behind; The memories that are shared.

What character traits do you feel have benefited you in your success? Patience, endurance, empathy, and honesty have been the traits that have benefited my success.

Can you share how COVID-19 impacted your business or organization during the pandemic? COVID-19 impacted our industry by teaching us to be remote workers. It caused us to examine our industry on many levels, including customer interactions.

If you have a bucket list, what are the top three things on it? I do not have a bucket list. I just want to enjoy the life I have been given.

What’s the last good book you read? The Bible is my favorite book.

What’s your favorite app at the moment? My messages app. Every day, a friend will say an encouraging word and send a good laugh. It keeps me in touch with individuals I hold dear.

Who have been mentors who’ve influenced your professional career? God is first, and I have had a few good mentors. Most of them are gone now, but for those who are not, you know who you are.

Do you have a significant other and/or children? If so, what do you guys like to do for fun? I am happily married, and we have 12 children. We enjoy being together and just having fun. Fun looks different for all of us every single day. Sometimes, it is just cuddling and watching a good movie. Other times, it is playing a good board game and laughing until your stomach hurts. We could be in a room with nothing to do and find some way to have a good time.  

What was your dream job and why? My dream job is to be a mom. That is my first and foremost calling in life. My next job is to work with clients and help them grow their businesses. They are their livelihood.  It is what takes care of their families. It is their dreams being fulfilled and living the American dream. 

How do you spend your time away from work? What are your hobbies? I love to be with my family. I enjoy spending quality time together and enjoying this wonderful walk of life.