Connections that Count 

Baker Tilly Managing Principal Houston Billy Tilotta (BBA ‘96) has spent decades establishing an extensive accounting career in Houston, but long before he became a leader in his field, Tilotta found his accounting passion at the C. T. Bauer College of Business. 

While at the University of Houston, Tilotta was an involved student living on campus and chasing ambitions for a successful business career. However, when the time came to select a major, Tilotta struggled to decide what would be the best fit. After weighing his options, he decided that an accounting degree would give him the best return on investment. 

“I felt like an accounting degree meant a guaranteed job, and at that point, that was my sole focus,” Tilotta said.  “I didn't come from a lot of money, and my parents didn't have a bunch of cash to keep funding me.” 

Tilotta continued on his degree plan, and courses got more intimate and advanced. It was during a class accounting project for a fictional company that he felt reassured of his decision. 

“It was creating transactions from scratch and then booking actual journal entries,” Tilotta said. “Those journal entries then ended up on the balance sheet and income statement, and we created a set of financial statements. That's when the light bulb went off. This is why people need accountants, and this is why it's important.” 

After Tilotta finished his degree and started working, he connected with mentors and colleagues through their shared alma mater. Throughout the years, Tilotta stayed committed to his work and rose through the ranks.  

In his current role, he says he still relates to and finds value in hiring Bauer graduates. 

“When you first start into public accounting, you're somewhat of a doer or taskmaster,” he said. “You have to-do lists to stay organized. As you move up, it's more about the people, and that's been a strength of mine. To be the most interesting person in the room, you have to be the most ‘interested’ person in the room. Building relationships and maintaining them are key to any profession.” 

Outside of the firm, Tilotta also stays connected with Bauer on campus and previously held leadership positions with the Bauer College Alumni Association.  He said his shared background and experiences with many UH students keeps him invested in their success.  

“The University of Houston is a reflection of the city of Houston — it's very diverse and has a lot of first-generation college students whose parents didn't go to college. I was one of those.” 

From the students he’s connected with over the years, Tilotta said he has enjoyed following their personal and professional success. Seeing the student growth is what Tilotta said has kept him committed to the college, which he plans to continue in the future.