Brothers In Arms

It is not very common for a younger sibling to directly follow the academic arc their older sibling took, but in the case of the Brothers Orthengren, Corey (BBA Accounting, 2019) and Trey (BBA Accounting, 2020) did just that. Then they both pursued their MPA degrees (now known as MAcc), with Corey graduating in 2020 and Trey in 2022.

That wasn’t enough, though, as each pursued their CPA credentials. Corey,28, earned his in 2023, and Trey, 26, received his in 2024. Even twins would be hard pressed to mirror each other’s actions, much less siblings born nearly three years apart. It’s just that these Amarillo men were born with the same Accounting gene.

The only difference is that Corey (left in photos) is a financial planner at SFMG Wealth Advisors in Plano, while Trey (right in photos) is Senior Accountant with Williams Group Holdings in Amarillo. It took a long time for their paths to finally diverge, albeit only a little.

It is very clear, though, the brothers are cut from the same bolt of cloth. “I naturally gravitated toward Accounting because it involves a lot of problem-solving, and because of how valuable an understanding of Accounting is when analyzing financial information needed to make investment and financing decisions,” Corey said. 

Meanwhile, Trey responded nearly as if the room were an echo chamber. “My enjoyment of accounting came quickly after injuring myself playing sports in high school. I was taking Accounting as an elective course and found that I actually enjoyed it, and that the problem solving was not only interesting, but very rewarding.”

Not that they needed a sign or anything. They both heard the same call, and knew early on what they would one day study. Problem solved.

Trey admits their employment paths may seem like “distant relationships,” but goes on to recognize what their jobs have in common. “There are a few similarities as to the goal of the positions. Where I might try to find value for the stakeholders by reviewing gross profit per customer, or volume discount opportunities on wholesale purchases, Corey will look to find the best value for his clients by focusing and tailoring investment strategies that have invaluable tax advantages, or structuring a complex trust that provides care for loved ones.”

Spoken like an Accountant, of course, but it all boils down to making and saving money. Corey’s view from the other side of the ledger is not much different. “Trey uses his accounting knowledge to help businesses make strategic pricing, project, and cash management decisions. I leverage my accounting knowledge to analyze investment options, assist with personal and business tax planning, and compare financial data from different companies.”

The duo had nothing but good things to say about WT and their choice to stay close to home. “I chose to go to WT because it is a smaller school where professors are more accessible, and getting involved in clubs, organizations, and in leadership roles is easier compared to a larger college,” Corey said. “WT is also more affordable, and I was able to graduate and start my career without the added stress of having student loans to repay.”

Trey was likewise complimentary, but with the added benefit of having seen his older brother enjoy his time here so much. “Corey had nothing but great things to say about professors and staff. WT also had the Masters of Professional Accounting program that I would want to pursue.”

Looking back, they both feel that our programs fully prepared them for their careers. “The College of Business curriculum encouraged me to look past the black and white of Accounting principles and to pursue a double-major in Finance while attending,” Trey continued. “This not only prepared me for the first job that I received out of school, but reinforced my business acumen needed to perform at a high level for internal and external parties.”

Likewise, Corey was effusive in his praise. “My professors at WT provided me with a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills which I still use today. Due to the smaller class size, I was able to build strong relationships with many of my professors and peers who really helped guide me as I transitioned from being a student to a professional in my field.”

Both are upward bound in their careers and aspirations. “With all industry accountants, there is a hierarchy of positions that always lead up to the CFO role within a company. I aim to become a CFO within my career,” Trey stated. Corey is equally ambitious. “I am currently on the path to becoming a wealth advisor. A wealth advisor is responsible for managing current client relationships, bringing on new clients, managing client portfolios, and developing long-term financial strategy recommendations.”

Neither have plans for any more degrees, although certifications are definitely on the horizon. “While I enjoyed my time at WT, I don’t think I’ll be signing up for classes again anytime soon! However, I have already obtained the CPA and CFP® designations, and I am currently working on obtaining the CFA® designation,” Corey said. As for Trey, “After some rest, I am looking into the possibility of attaining my Certified Managerial Accountant certification.” 

Rest for these two, apparently, is only a short-term distraction.

It would be easy to conclude there might just be a little bit of old-fashioned sibling rivalry at play here, but that is not the case. “Corey was incredibly encouraging through all of my hardships and successes from WT to the recent completion of my CPA license. We will always rib each other over who has the more interesting gig, but overall I’m happy to see Corey pursuing his career while attaining a score card of certifications,” Trey shared. 

“Trey and I each have our own unique career paths and interests, so instead of competing, we tend to celebrate each other’s successes and support one another along the way,” Corey fired back. As brothers should.

Now that they have been out in the work world long enough to reflect on just how far they have come, they both have solid words of advice for WT students. “Strive to understand the application of the material being explained. There is never a better time to learn than today because tomorrow will bring opportunities and challenges that you might have to be prepared for,” Trey philosophized. “Keep all of your notes, they will come in handy more than one time.”

Corey, not skipping a beat, had much the same to say. “Don’t underestimate the value of building connections with your professors and peers. I can’t stress how crucial the connections I made in college have been to me both personally and professionally,” Oh, and one more thing: “While technical knowledge is important, make sure you work on developing your soft skills.”

Sage advice from a brotherhood of Accountants whose balance sheets of life are equal on both sides.