Chapter Leader Profile: Steve Wilson, CFE

Steve Wilson, CFE, always had an interest in cyber/digital forensic investigations, so joining the ACFE was a natural fit. Steve has been involved with the ACFE Vancouver Chapter since 2011, where he has benefited from the numerous networking opportunities and trainings offered. Steve recently joined our Chapter Leaders Committee and plans on sharing his successes and learning new and innovative ways to help grow our ACFE Chapters.

What do you do for a living?

I currently work in the cyber/digital forensics and fraud risk consulting industry.

Why did you decide to enter the anti-fraud field?

I was extremely passionate about fraud and tech crime investigations. I also wanted to bring fraud awareness and prevention information to the general public and organizations and increase my fraud knowledge and skills.

How has the CFE benefited your career?

The CFE has been a tremendous benefit to my career in several ways. It has helped me develop my global network with other anti-fraud professionals and provided me with continuous training opportunities.

Why did you become active with the chapter and the board?

I became active with the Vancouver Chapter and the board in 2014 after being a member for several years. I really wanted to help the chapter membership and my fellow board members with the continued success and growth of the chapter through professional training and networking opportunities.

What has been a highlight during your time on the board?

The greatest highlight during my time on the board has been the opportunity to work with so many other dedicated board members. I feel very fortunate to be part of such a fantastic team of fellow CFEs.

What are the benefits of serving as a chapter leader?

There are many benefits of serving as a chapter leader, including the opportunity to network with the membership both locally and internationally. Also, being a chapter leader provides the ability to learn new skills and there is a sense of satisfaction from being able to contribute to the continued professional development of the chapter membership.

What goals would you like to help the chapter accomplish?

The Vancouver Chapter board has continued to accomplish strategic goals over the past year including a new website, membership platform, and student outreach program. This year, we will continue to streamline the membership platform and test a webinar option for those people who can’t attend our local training events.

Do you have any advice for other chapter leaders?

Being a chapter leader can be very challenging at times and the best advice I can give is to reach out and ask for help and guidance. The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners is a global community of anti-fraud professionals, and I have always felt welcome when reaching out for assistance. Also, have fun being a chapter leader.

What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

I’ve really enjoyed continuing my education over the past couple years with an MBA in Fraud Management from Utica College and now pursuing my Ph.D. in Information, Communications and Social Sciences.

What is your personal motto? Does it have any special meaning?

Lifelong learning – I feel it’s important to have a continuous professional development plan throughout life. Technology continues to change rapidly and so it’s important to stay up-to-date with these changes. The same thing applies to developing your professional network.

What are your favorite activities and hobbies outside of work?

I really enjoy travelling and hope to attend the ACFE Fraud Conference Asia-Pacific in Singapore later this year. I also really enjoy sailing and look forward to time in the Gulf Islands on British Columbia with my family this summer.