Melanie Bengtson arrived from Germany to earn a Master’s in Organic Chemistry from the University of Montana in 2002. After a short stint with a biotech company in Colorado, she sensed there was no opportunity for a chemist and started at an automotive shop as a lube and tire technician. She earned an Associate of Occupational Science – Automotive Technology from Westwood College and advanced to ASE certified master mechanic. She moved back to Montana and after a substantial life changing event decided to return to the University of Montana to earn a Master’s in Accountancy from the University of Montana in 2016. Melanie joined another Missoula CPA firm as a tax season intern in January 2015 and progressed to tax senior by June 2022. A unique focus was on individuals and businesses with international transactions, as well as multi-state businesses. Melanie joined BDM as a tax accountant in August 2022. She is currently on the board of the Healthy Acres Healthy Communities Foundation. Outside of work, she lives on acreage outside of Missoula with a few beef cows, a flock of chickens and a large garden. When not at home, she can be found in the mountains with her dogs or horse.