Jackson, TN — [December 17, 2025] — ATA today announced a strategic combination with Vowells & Schaaf, LLP (V&S), a respected accounting and advisory firm serving clients across Evansville, IN and the surrounding region. The combination marks ATA’s entry into the Indiana market and reflects the firm’s continued expansion across the Midwest and South. The firm will adopt the ATA name on January 1, 2026.
The decision to combine is rooted in a strong strategic alignment between the two organizations. Both ATA and V&S are known for proactive, advisory-minded service, deep regional relationships, and a commitment to client success. ATA’s existing presence throughout Tennessee, Mississippi, and Kentucky, including its close proximity to Henderson and Owensboro, creates a natural extension into southern Indiana. Integrating Vowells & Schaaf’s long-standing Evansville footprint strengthens ATA’s regional position and enhances value for clients and team members alike.
“From the outset, it was clear that our firms share the same values, the same vision for the future, and the same dedication to exceptional client service,” said John Whybrew, ATA’s Managing Partner. “This combination expands our collective capabilities while preserving the trusted relationships both firms have built over decades.”
Clients of Vowells & Schaaf will continue working with their long-time advisors, now supported by ATA’s broader resources and expanded service offerings. Through the combination, clients will gain access to a range of new capabilities, including Managed IT, HR Advisory, Cybersecurity, Automation & Integration Services, International Tax and Assurance. This expanded set of services positions the combined firm to support clients more holistically as they navigate increasingly complex business environments.
For team members, the combination offers increased opportunities for growth within a larger, connected firm. V&S professionals will benefit from ATA’s established learning and development programs, leadership training initiatives, and expanded career pathways across its regional network. They will also integrate into ATA’s cultural framework, which is guided by the ATA Fundamentals, 25 core behaviors that shape how the firm communicates, collaborates, solves problems, and serves clients every day.
“Joining ATA allows us to stay true to who we are while giving our clients and our team access to deeper resources, additional expertise, and a broader support system,” said Mark Aiton of Vowells and Schaaf. “It’s a natural fit and an exciting step forward for the future of our firm.”
Vowells and Schaaf partners, Mark Aiton and Jason Stephens will join ATA as partners.
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About ATA
ATA delivers its professional services through ATA, PC and ATA Advisory, LLC, two entities united under the ATA brand. Established in 1940, ATA has grown into one of the region’s leading accounting and advisory firms, known for its expertise, client-centered approach, and strong community commitment. ATA Advisory, LLC provides tax, outsourced business solutions, and advisory services, including HR advisory, cybersecurity, managed IT, and automation and integration services, all designed to build value, drive growth, manage risk, and strengthen operations. ATA, PC delivers audit and attest services grounded in rigorous standards and deep industry knowledge.
With more than 275 team members and 16 offices across Tennessee, Mississippi, Kentucky, and Indiana, ATA serves clients ranging from emerging businesses to established market leaders. The firm supports organizations in key industries including agriculture, financial institutions, healthcare, nonprofit, utilities, construction and real estate, government, manufacturing and distribution, and private equity. Guided by a commitment to service, integrity, and continuous improvement, ATA combines proven expertise with genuine care to help clients and communities thrive.
About Vowells and Schaaf
Vowells & Schaaf, LLP is a full-service accounting firm based in Evansville, Indiana, with four locations across the region. The firm provides tax, accounting, and business consulting services to individuals and businesses, offering practical guidance and personalized support rooted in professionalism, responsiveness, and quality. Vowells & Schaaf is a member of the Indiana CPA Society and a Certified Intuit ProAdvisor.
