J. Brian Watkins

J. Brian Watkins serves as an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Business & Government at Brigham Young University–Hawaii, holding this position since 2016 after promotion from Assistant Professor (2011–2016). He concurrently led the Accounting Program as Program Lead Professor from 2017 to 2024. A dual-licensed professional, Watkins maintains active status as a California attorney (State Bar #166048) and Hawaii Certified Public Accountant (License #5825), integrating practical legal and accounting expertise into his academic role.

His academic credentials include:

• Juris Doctor from Brigham Young University, Provo UT
• Master of Accountancy (Taxation) from Brigham Young University, Provo UT
• B.S. in Accounting with University Honors from Brigham Young University, Provo UT

Watkins' scholarly focus bridges traditional accounting disciplines with technological innovation, specializing in Taxation, Business Law, and data-driven educational methodologies. He pioneered curriculum development for Accounting-focused technology courses including Introduction to Financial Computing (ACCT 186) and Data Analytics for Accounting (ACCT 386), reflecting his commitment to modernizing accounting education through automation tools and computational approaches. His professional legal background (1993–2011) directly informs his interdisciplinary teaching in Business Law & Ethics.

Teaching approximately 100 students annually across four course sections, Watkins delivers instruction in Financial Accounting (Introductory through Intermediate levels), Business Law & Ethics, and Financial Computing. His academic development included passing the full CPA examination in 2016. Professional experience encompasses founding Watkins & Watkins law firm (1995–2003), associate roles at Hunt | Ortmann (2003–2005), and solo practice (2005–2011), providing real-world context for his pedagogical approach.