SUMMARY
The incongruence between the characteristics of Generation Y employees and the nature of work and operating structure within the public accounting industry is analyzed. It is theorized that this incongruence will lead to increased turnover rates among Generation Y employees and create a tipping point in public accounting as Baby Boomers continue to retire. Ultimately, this creates a deficit of midlevel employees that could potentially lead to decreased performance among public accounting firms. A conceptual model of improved retention emphasizing balance and flexibility, building a sense of accomplishment, and fostering an environment of achievement and progression is proposed.