Spring 2025 Industry Lectures: RSM
About the Presentation
Speakers: Cowen Hames (App Dev Senior Associate), Tristan Walters (App Dev Supervisor), Maggie Wilcoxon (App Dev Manager), and Ben Knapper (App Dev Director)
Title: Application Development at RSM
Abstract: This presentation explores the important role of a computer science student in the field of application development, with a specific focus on examples at RSM. We will dive into the core competencies for successful application development including programming and problem solving skills. By examining real world examples this presentation highlights how computer science students can effectively transition from academic settings to professional roles in application development at RSM.
About Our Speakers
Cowen Hames
Cowen provides technology solutions to a variety of clients in the Business Central Dynamics 365 space. Through application development and integration methods he can enhance the client experience through Business Central and help clients become more efficient with the software. He brings a wealth of knowledge to the firm, having five years of programming experience, including being a top student and TA in his class at Iowa State University. He has also made over 20 personal programming projects in his spare time—ranging from beginner fundamental concepts to more advanced techniques. Cowen is a very determined individual who refuses to give up until a solution is found. He collaborates well and provides support to his team and strives on building personal relationships with clients. He also brings leadership experience with him as a manager from his previous employer. Cowen also as graduate-level knowledge of database management systems and cybersecurity. To him, programming is not a job—rather a passion and hobby that he is far from slowing down in.
Tristan Walters
Tristan is in RSM’s NetSuite application development consulting practice. He joined RSM in September 2018, working on NetSuite customizations and Boomi integrations for a multitude of clients. Tristan has developed custom NetSuite code to handle the diverse business processes that our clients need. He has also worked on client integrations between NetSuite and other systems such as Salesforce.com, Mavenlink, Certify, SQL, and FTP/SFTP. Prior to Tristan’s employment with RSM, he worked as an application developer for a large furniture manufacturing company, where he built custom applications to aid in the company’s ERP implementation of Oracle.
Maggie Wilcoxon
Maggie focuses on cloud software development, system integration, and developing customizations to meet client needs. She works with clients to design, develop and implement custom software solutions. Maggie began working with NetSuite as a functional resource assisting with setup and configuration of the account, reports, and financial process flows. After transitioning to the development team, she has focused on translating business needs into customizations and reporting solutions to provide robust, scalable solutions. While prioritizing communication and team collaboration, Maggie leverages her experience on the functional and technical side to assist clients in solving their most challenging business issues.
Ben Knapper
Benjamin joined RSM in 2015, working on the application development and integration practice. He has customized Microsoft ERP software, including Dynamics AX, Dynamics NAV, and most recently, Dynamics 365 Business Central. Currently, he leads a group of developers focused on using Microsoft Azure Integration Services to create robust, intuitive, and efficient integrations. His deep knowledge and expertise with complex ERP systems bring valuable insight and wisdom to his integration architecture. Additionally, Benjamin collaborates with other teams at RSM as a thought leader to help ensure the delivery of cohesive and comprehensive products to clients. He also contributes to the creation of best practice documentation and resource onboarding materials, supporting the continued success and highquality service delivery during rapid growth.