Meet Hoelting & Company
Scott Hoelting, CPA
Managing Tax Partner
Scott Hoelting is the Managing Tax Partner at Hoelting & Co., bringing over 35 years of experience in the accounting profession, including 28 years with the firm. He specializes in business and personal tax consultation and reporting, offering clients trusted insight and strategic guidance developed over decades in the field.
Scott earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Colorado State University. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Colorado Society of CPAs (COCPA).
Throughout his career, Scott has served on the board of directors for several local organizations. Outside of work, he enjoys fly fishing and golf.
Tom Sistare, CPA
Managing Audit Partner
A long-time resident of Colorado Springs, Tom Sistare is the Managing Audit Partner at Hoelting & Company, where he leads the firm’s audit practice and oversees quality control. He specializes in audits for local governments, non-profit organizations, and federal grant compliance.
Tom earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Connecticut, where he met his wife, Cheryl. They enjoy camping and exploring Colorado’s hot springs with their two adult sons, as well as traveling to the East Coast to visit extended family and catch the occasional Red Sox game.
Jeff Bonacquista, CPA
Tax Partner
Jeff Bonacquista is a Tax Partner at Hoelting & Co. with 35 years of experience in the accounting profession, including 33 years with the firm. He specializes in corporate and individual income tax, providing clients with strategic, knowledgeable guidance developed over decades in the field.
Jeff earned his Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Wichita State University and is a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Colorado Society of Certified Public Accountants.
A Colorado native, Jeff enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. His favorite pastimes include baseball, hunting, and fishing.
Ben Knauss, CPA
Tax Partner
Ben Knauss brings over 20 years of experience in the accounting profession to his role as Tax Partner at Hoelting & Co., where he has been a dedicated team member for more than a decade. Specializing in tax, Ben leverages his expertise to deliver strategic solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs.
A graduate of Geneva College, Ben earned his degree in Business Administration with a focus in Accounting. He is an active member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Colorado Society of Certified Public Accountants (COCPA).
Beyond his professional achievements, Ben is committed to his community, serving on the board of Tri-Lakes School Ministries. In his spare time, he enjoys skiing, golf, basketball, rock climbing—essentially any and all sports.
Leroy K. Hoelting, CPA
Founder
Born and raised on a farm near the small town of Nazareth in the Texas Panhandle, Leroy Hoelting graduated from Texas A&M University before beginning his career in Amarillo. In 1971, he relocated to Colorado Springs, where he worked in both public accounting and private industry.
In 1980, he launched his own solo practice, which would grow into Hoelting & Company, Inc. Over the years, he has remained actively involved in civic, church, and professional organizations, reflecting his strong commitment to community service.
He and his wife, Colette, enjoy spending time with their four children and their families.
Mike Heinrich, CPA
Tax Manager
With 40 years of experience in the accounting profession, Mike Heinrich is a seasoned expert in tax management and financial advisory services. Having spent 34 of those years with Hoelting and Company, Mike brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to his clients’ financial success. As a Senior Tax Manager, Mike specializes in tax planning and consulting for both individuals and businesses, helping them navigate complex tax landscapes to optimize their financial outcomes.
Mike holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Loma Linda University, and over his extensive career, he has earned a reputation for providing sound advice and personalized service. His dedication to excellence in accounting is matched only by his passion for helping clients achieve their financial goals.
Outside of work, Mike enjoys cruising, traveling, motorcycle touring, and spending time with his grandkids and family. He also has a passion for genealogy, exploring his family’s history.
Camie Jansen, CPA, MBA
Tax Manager
With 37 years of experience in the accounting profession, Camie Jansen is a seasoned expert and currently serves as Senior Tax Manager at Hoelting & Co. She has been a dedicated member of the firm for over 20 years, bringing extensive knowledge and insight to the firm’s tax practice.
Camie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an Accounting Concentration from Colorado State University and earned her graduate degree from the University of Colorado – Denver. She is an active member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Colorado Society of CPAs.
In her free time, Camie enjoys traveling, reading, and spending quality time with her children and grandchildren.
Karen Tapparo, CPA
Tax Manager
Karen Tapparo is a seasoned CPA and Tax Manager at Hoelting & Co., bringing over 34 years of experience in the accounting profession, including 25 years with the firm. She specializes in tax, small business accounting, and payroll, and is known for her dedication to helping businesses and individuals navigate the complex world of accounting with ease.
Karen holds a BSBA with an emphasis in Accounting from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS) and is a proud member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Colorado Society of Certified Public Accountants (COCPA).
Outside of her professional role, Karen enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, “glamping,” and watching sports.
Russell Torres-Pineiro, CPA
Tax Manager
Russell Torres-Pineiro is a Tax Manager at Hoelting & Co., bringing seven years of experience in the accounting profession, including five years with the firm. He specializes in tax consulting for construction contractors, small businesses, and individuals, offering personalized and strategic guidance.
Russell earned his degree in Accounting from Bethany College (KS) and is a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Colorado Society of Certified Public Accountants (COCPA)
When he's not working with clients, Russell enjoys baseball, golf, pickleball, kayaking, attending live sporting events, and catching a good movie.
Mary Ellen Vanderpoorten, CPA
Tax Manager
Mary Ellen Vanderpoorten is a seasoned Tax Manager at Hoelting & Co., bringing nearly four decades of experience in the accounting profession, including 34 years with the firm. She specializes in estate and trust taxation as well as estate planning, offering clients deep expertise and thoughtful guidance in these complex areas.
Mary Ellen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from the University of West Florida and a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Salem State University in Massachusetts. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Colorado Society of CPAs.
In her spare time, Mary Ellen enjoys nature walks, gardening, and baking.
Chris Banta, CPA
Audit Manager
Chris Banta serves as Audit Manager at Hoelting & Co., bringing over a decade of experience in the accounting profession, including six years with the firm. His expertise lies in audit services, with a particular focus on governmental audits and Single Audits.
Chris earned his Bachelor of Science in Business with an emphasis in Accounting from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) and holds a Master of Accountancy from CSU Global. He is an active member of the Colorado Society of Certified Public Accountants (COCPA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Chris is deeply involved in his community, serving on the boards of Life Network and Life Point Resources, and offering his expertise as an accounting consultant with the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Outside of work, he enjoys playing music, hiking, and camping.
Jessie Seibert, CPA
Audit Manager
Jessie Seibert is an Audit Manager at Hoelting & Co. with 17 years of experience in the accounting profession—all of which she has spent with the firm. With 15 years specializing in audit, Jessie brings a deep understanding and a steady hand to every engagement.
She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a minor in Accounting from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS). Jessie is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Outside of work, Jessie enjoys golf, volleyball, snowboarding, boating, camping, and spending time with family and friends.
Shani Cottrell, CPA, MPAcc
Senior Accountant
Shani Cottrell brings six years of experience in the accounting profession and currently serves as a Senior Auditor at Hoelting & Co., where she specializes in not-for-profit and local government auditing. Though relatively new to the firm, her depth of expertise and strong analytical skills have already made a meaningful impact.
Shani earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and completed her Master of Professional Accountancy at Colorado State University Global. She is a member of the Colorado Society of Certified Public Accountants, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners.
Outside of work, Shani enjoys spending time with her two daughters, reading, and cooking.
Kyle Johnson
Senior Accountant
Kyle Johnson is a dedicated Senior Tax Accountant at Hoelting & Co., bringing five years of experience in the accounting profession, including three years with the firm. Kyle specializes in preparing business, individual, trust/estate, and non-profit tax returns, providing accurate and reliable support for a diverse range of clients.
He earned his undergraduate degree in Business Corporate Accounting from Arizona State University, laying a strong foundation for his career in tax and accounting. Kyle’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence make him a valuable member of the Hoelting & Co. team.
Outside of work, Kyle enjoys outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, camping, and golfing. His love for adventure and the outdoors helps him stay balanced and energized both in and out of the office.
Hunter Menendez, CPA
Senior Accountant
Hunter Menendez is a dedicated CPA and Audit Senior at Hoelting & Co., with nine years of experience in the accounting profession, including one year with the firm. Specializing in audits for local governments and non-profit organizations, Hunter brings a detail-oriented approach and a commitment to excellence in financial reporting and compliance.
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Mary and is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Outside of the office, Hunter is actively involved with the Rocky Mountain Wrestling Club and enjoys a variety of hobbies, including hiking, archery, disc golf, mountain biking, darts, and board games. His adventurous spirit and diverse interests enrich both his professional and personal life.
Melissa Sainz, CPA
Senior Accountant
Melissa Sainz currently serves as a Senior Auditor, where she specializes in audits for local governments and non-profit organizations as well as the preparation of individual tax returns. She brings over two decades of experience to her role, with a career spanning 23 years in accounting including 21 years with the firm.
Melissa holds degrees in Business Administration and Accounting from the University of Georgia and Regis University. She is an active member of both the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the Colorado Society of CPAs (COCPA).
Outside of work, Melissa enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends
Nathan Watts
Senior Accountant
Nathan Watts is a dedicated and skilled Tax Senior at Hoelting & Co., bringing over four years of experience in the accounting profession, all of which he has proudly spent with the firm. Specializing in tax services, Nathan applies his expertise to support the firm's accounting processes with precision and care.
He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from Fort Lewis College, where he laid the foundation for his career in tax. Nathan is known for his meticulous approach and commitment to delivering high-quality work.
Outside of the office, Nathan enjoys spending quality time with his wife and their two beloved cats. When he’s not at work or enjoying family time, he can often be found on the ice rink playing hockey or on the golf course perfecting his swing.
Grace DeLollis
Staff Accountant
Grace DeLollis is a Staff Accountant with over two years of experience in the accounting profession. She brings a unique educational background to the field, having earned a degree in Forensic Psychology from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and is currently completing her degree in Accounting.
Grace is dedicated to producing reliable financial work that supports the firm’s internal operations and overall success. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, reading, and exploring more of Colorado Springs with her friends and family.
Zachary Greene
Staff Accountant
Zachary Greene is a Staff Accountant at Hoelting & Co., specializing in audit services. Although new to both the accounting profession and the firm, Zachary brings enthusiasm and a fresh perspective to his role.
He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Western Governors University (WGU) and is committed to building a strong foundation in the field through hands-on experience and continuous learning.
Outside the office, Zachary enjoys hiking, playing guitar, and reading.
Jules Heimbigner
Staff Accountant
Jules Heimbigner is a Staff Accountant at Hoelting & Co., where she specializes in tax preparation. With one year of experience in the accounting field, Jules brings a fresh perspective and a strong academic foundation to the firm.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business with an Accounting Concentration from Penn State and is focused on continuing to grow her expertise in the tax field.
Outside of work, Jules enjoys skiing, hiking, and traveling with her family and friends.
Trinity Maldonada, MBA
Staff Accountant
Trinity Maldonado is a Staff Accountant at Hoelting & Co., bringing a fresh perspective and growing expertise to the firm’s audit team. With 1.5 years of experience in the accounting profession, she is quickly building a strong foundation in audit services.
Trinity holds both her undergraduate degree in Accounting and her MBA from Cameron University, demonstrating a solid academic background and commitment to professional growth.
As a recent addition to the firm, Trinity is keen to contribute to client success and further develop her auditing skills.
Nicole Olsen, MBA
Staff Accountant
Nicole Olsen is a Staff Accountant at Hoelting & Co., bringing over five years of experience in the accounting profession. She specializes in serving non-profit organizations, construction companies, and restaurants, applying her industry-specific expertise to deliver practical financial solutions.
Nicole holds both a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and an MBA in Finance from Mary Baldwin University. She recently joined Hoelting & Co. and is excited to contribute her skills to the firm’s diverse client base.
Outside of work, Nicole enjoys fly fishing, hiking, and playing the guitar.
Drake Rutherford
Staff Accountant
Drake Rutherford is a Staff Accountant at Hoelting & Co., with one year of experience in the accounting profession and nearly a year at the firm. Specializing in tax, Drake brings a unique perspective to his work, combining his background in Computer Science and Music Composition.
Drake earned his undergraduate degrees in Computer Science and Music Composition from the University of Colorado Boulder. He is also a student member of the Colorado Society of Certified Public Accountants (COCPA).
Outside of work, Drake enjoys pursuing his passions for technology and music, bringing creativity and innovation to both his personal and professional endeavors.
Angie Andersen
Accountant
With over 40 years of experience in the accounting profession and 4 years at Hoelting & Co, Angie Andersen is a trusted expert in payroll taxes, QuickBooks, accounting, and bookkeeping. She holds a degree from Carroll College in Helena, MT, and is dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of financial management with precision and care.
When she's not at work, Angie enjoys traveling and entertainment, as well as engaging in outdoor activities such as running, mountain biking, and hiking.
Emily Mebust
Office Manager
Emily is the Office Manager at Hoelting & Company, where she has been an integral part of the team since 2019. She plays a key role in overseeing day-to-day operations, supporting staff and leadership, and ensuring the office runs efficiently and effectively.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in General Studies from Clarion University of Pennsylvania and brings a well-rounded skill set to her role, with a strong focus on organization, communication, and problem-solving.
Outside of the office, Emily volunteers in the visitor centers at North Cheyenne Cañon Park, where she enjoys connecting with the public and supporting one of Colorado Springs’ most scenic and historic parks.
Ariella Budjen
Administrative Assistant/Receptionist
Ariella Budjen is the newest addition to the Hoelting & Co team, bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm to her role as Administrative Assistant. A certified bookkeeper through Intuit, Ariella is excited to begin her journey in the accounting profession and is already proving to be a valuable asset to the firm.
Outside the office, Ariella enjoys crocheting, embroidery, baking, and curling up with a good book. She’s also a devoted animal lover and proud plant mom.