THEODORE M. PETTKO CPA

Since joining Schneider Downs as a CPA in 1997, Ted has earned a reputation for his insightful knowledge and experience working with both public and privately-owned companies across diverse industries, including construction, natural resources and real estate. He has earned a reputation for not just knowing his own industry, but also those of his clients, as well. By immersing himself in the businesses of his clients, Ted is viewed as an astute business advisor and student of matters falling outside of traditional accounting.

Ted has served as a member of the Schneider Downs Board of Directors since 2016, helping to guide the firm’s future direction and growth. He serves as the leader of Schneider Downs’ Construction industry group, one of the 25 largest construction accounting practices in the nation. He also chairs the firm’s overall industry niche program—a primary vehicle for Schneider Downs business leadership.

Ted is a frequent participant at national conferences, remaining current with the latest trends and insights. Through these experiences, he channels his passion to work with numerous industry-specific associations, serving on several Boards and Committees as a volunteer and active member (see listing below). He also serves his community as a board member of the Sarah Heinz House and the Laurel Highlands Council of the Boy Scouts of America, and serves on the Advisory Council for the Saint Vincent College School for Business.

He is a much-sought-after mentor to younger professionals and considers leadership and community service to be opportunities, rather than obligations.

Professional and Community Involvement

Member—American and Pennsylvania Institutes of Certified Public Accountants

Member—Master Builders Association of Pittsburgh

President—Council of Petroleum Accountants Societies of Appalachia (COPAS)

Member—Surety Association of Pittsburgh

Board Member—Sarah Heinz House

Board Member—Laurel Highlands Council of the Boy Scouts of America

Board Member—The Club at Nevillewood, Treasurer

Committee Member—Marcellus Shale Coalition, Membership

Leadership Pittsburgh XXVIII graduate

Board of Directors—Schneider Downs & Co., Inc.

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Do you have a hobby or personal passion?

Exercise, model trains and my family.

What was the best advice you’ve ever received?

You are responsible and accountable for your career.

Who was your role model?

My father.

People would be surprised to know that I…….
…have more than 9 million views on YouTube with the Anchorage Polar Bear Attack.

When you have an hour of free time, what do you like to do?
I go for a run.

Do you have advice for young professionals?
Don’t be passive with your career. Take charge, and don’t be afraid to make a mistake.

Our Thoughts On

FEATURED

Big Problem: Large Tax Burden In The Succession Plans Of A Family Business.


Big Thinking: Creating A Grantor Trust To Save $1.5 Million.

GREG ALLISON is responsible for estate and succession planning for business owners, executives and high-net-worth individuals. He also prepares annual income tax returns for estates and trusts in addition to gift tax returns, federal estate tax returns and state inheritance tax returns.
One of Greg’s clients was a father wanting to retire and give his son 100% ownership of their company. Giving his 80% share in the company would result in a $1.5 million tax due on redemption. Greg’s team was able to avoid the $1.5 million tax and introduce asset protection by having the father creator a grantor trust instead. “By creating a grantor trust, the father was able to sell his shares under the same terms as redemption but save money since no gain is recognized on the sale,” said Greg. “We were also able to integrate asset protection into the structure and procure the recurring tax and attest services.” Schneider Downs provides Big Thinking and Personal focus in delivering a variety of services for large and small businesses, both publicly and privately held, as well as nonprofit organizations, government entities and more. Through our commitment to thought leadership and knowledge management, we deliver the solutions our clients need with a personal commitment to service.

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