How Excel Competitions Transform Data Professionals into Experts Using Power Query and VBA

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst aka The FP&A Guy talks about the electrifying world of Excel Esports at the Financial Modeling World Cup (FMWC) in Las Vegas. This special episode captures the energy and innovation of the event, showcasing interviews with top competitors, including Excel MVPs and data enthusiasts, while exploring how Excel competitions push the boundaries of modeling expertise.

The episode features Josh Aharonoff: Microsoft MVP, "Your CFO Guy," specializing in dynamic financial modeling and consulting. David Fortin: Excel expert, Microsoft MVP, and creator of the World of Warcraft-themed FMWC case study. Jaq Kennedy: UK-based actuarial consultant and Excel enthusiast, sharing personal stories and insights from the event. Amber Johnson: Industrial engineer turned Excel champion, known for her creative modeling approach.

Expect to Learn:

• Insights into the competitive world of the Financial Modeling World Cup and the role of Excel Esports.
• Unique perspectives on the creative use of Excel, from real-world modeling to themed case studies.
• How Excel innovations like Power Query, dynamic arrays, and VBA are transforming data work.
• Personal journeys of Excel enthusiasts and their favorite tips and tools.
• Why participating in competitions like FMWC can rapidly enhance your financial modeling skills.

Here are a few quotes from this episode:

• "I’ve spent 24 years working in Excel, and competing here has tripled my knowledge in just two years." - Jaq Kennedy
• "Competing is less about beating others and more about seeing how much you’ve improved." - Amber Johnson
• "Creating a case with input from Blizzard Entertainment was surreal—it brought my gaming passion into Excel." - David Fortin

The Financial Modeling World Cup is a celebration of creativity, community, and growth. Events like these provide an experience of learning from the best in the field, or simply embracing the love of Excel. 

Follow Josh:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshaharonoff/
• Website - https://www.yourcfoguy.com/

Follow David:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-fortin-cpa-816b20b5/
• Website - https://linktr.ee/Piggybankaccountant

Follow Jaq:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaqkennedy/

Follow Amber:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ambernjohnsonwmu/

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376  

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In today’s episode: 

[01:27] - Introduction and Event Overview

[03:39] - Interview with Josh Aharonoff and David Fortin

[10:12] - Horror Stories and Excel Lessons

[12:25] - Excel Preferences

[23:04] - Interview with Jaq Kennedy

[30:14] - Rapid Fire with Jaq

[33:27] - Interview with Amber Johnson

[42:22] - Closing Thoughts and FMWC Invitation

[43:02] - Giles Male's Anthem