CPFO Spotlight: Hong Lin
CPFO Spotlight: Hong Lin
Hong Lin, CPFO, is the financial manager, State Water Project, for the California Department of Water Resources.
Why did you want to become a CPFO?
My background is civil engineering. I was selected to be the Chief Financial Manager for the California State Water Project in 2020. I embarked on the CPFO journey to gain a comprehensive understanding of public finance to embrace all challenges in this financial leadership role.
What did you learn going through the process?
The CPFO program provides excellent coverage of all critical disciplines of government financial management. Through the CPFO program, I learned fundamentals of government accounting and financial reporting, improved my knowledge in planning and budgeting, gained practical knowledge of debt management, and have a better understanding of other areas of public finance. The art of communication is an exemplary experience through this learning process.
How has becoming a CPFO made an impact on you in your profession or how do you hope it will make an impact?
Becoming a CPFO helps me to lead the organization in my role with confidence. I hope to continue applying what I learned through the program as well as continued learning with the CPFO community to engage stakeholders and enhance financial management of the State Water Project.
What would you say to others thinking about becoming a CPFO?
For those of you thinking about becoming a CPFO, my advice is “just do it”. Learning is what keeps our minds young. Whatever career phase you are in, learning something new is always exciting! Serving in public finance area is a high honor of public service since we are entrusted with stewardship of public resources.