Founded in 1935 by Gordon J. Maier, a visionary in the accounting field and one of Wisconsin’s first CPA license holders, our firm has been dedicated to excellence from the very beginning. Gordon’s achievement of his CPA license on January 14, 1936, set the foundation for a firm committed to providing innovative and personalized financial services. His pioneering spirit continues to inspire our approach to serving clients with integrity and expertise.

Over the last 90 years, we’ve grown from a single-office practice into a trusted, multi-location firm and a dynamic remote team. This evolution allows us to provide exceptional service and tailored solutions to clients wherever they are. Throughout this journey, our core values of integrity, teamwork, and accountability have remained at the heart of everything we do, driving us to empower our clients to achieve their goals.

John Schliesmann, a CPA, began his journey with Gordon J. Maier & Company, LLP in 1948, carrying forward the company's pioneering vision. A U.S. Army veteran who served during World War II, he brought a wealth of discipline and dedication to his work. In 1962, he joined the Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants (WICPA), further demonstrating his commitment to the profession. As Managing Partner in Racine, WI, for an impressive 43 years, John exemplified unwavering dedication to providing exceptional service and fostering client trust. His leadership was instrumental in the firm’s growth and success, shaping a legacy of excellence and commitment that continues to inspire even beyond his retirement in 1991. 

George Gissell, a dedicated professional with a BBA in Accounting from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, served as Administrative Partner at Gordon J. Maier & Company, LLP from September 1, 1962, to December 31, 2004. With a career spanning over four decades, George played a key role in supporting the company’s organizational foundation, contributing to its operational success and long-standing commitment to excellence. Throughout his tenure, George's consistent dedication to efficiency and precision drove the company's growth and success. His leadership highlighted a commitment to collaboration and ensuring the firm's values were upheld in every aspect of its operations. George's contributions remain a guiding force in the firm's ongoing pursuit of excellence.

Joseph Nixa dedicated 41 years to public accounting, building a distinguished career marked by expertise in tax, small business consulting, and estate planning. A graduate of the Dominican College of Racine, Joe earned his degree in Math and Accounting in 1973. That same year, he joined Gordon J. Maier & Company, LLP, embarking on a journey that would leave a significant mark on the company’s legacy. Over the years, Joe’s commitment to excellence and his clients positioned him as a trusted advisor. His ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and offer solutions made him a cornerstone of the firm’s success. In January 2005, Joe assumed the role of Managing Partner, bringing his extensive knowledge and leadership skills to the forefront. As Managing Partner, Joe provided steady leadership, ensuring client relationships remained a top priority while reinforcing the firm’s commitment to excellence. His tenure was characterized by a consistent dedication to maintaining the firm’s reputation as a trusted advisor to businesses and individuals alike. Joe retired in January 2017, capping off a remarkable career with Gordon J. Maier & Company, LLP.

Our history reflects a dedicated commitment to effectiveness and forward-thinking solutions. In 2015, we transitioned to a paperless system for tax returns and later expanded this practice to audits, enhancing efficiency and reinforcing our commitment to innovation.

Under the leadership of Julie Craig, who became Managing Partner in January 2017, the firm entered a transformative chapter. That same year, we expanded by acquiring Bittner’s Accounting & Tax in Kenosha and Balistreri, Jezo, & Lascari, LLP in Brookfield, strengthening our local presence while ensuring each office retained its unique community connection.

In 2019, we developed a collaborative leadership team to guide our growth and nurture shared decision-making, embodying the value of teamwork. This same year our journey toward flexibility began by adding our first remote team member in Texas. Over the following years, our virtual workforce expanded in Wisconsin, Arizona, and Michigan, creating a dynamic, connected team that complements our
three southeastern Wisconsin offices.

In 2020, we launched our app, giving clients a convenient way to stay connected. With features like secure document uploads, convenient access to frequently asked questions, and quick options to reach us by phone or email.

Our commitment to self-care and work-life balance is reflected in our versatile team structure. Many of our professionals are cross-trained in tax and audit services, while others bring expertise in payroll and bookkeeping, ensuring seamless service even when team members take well-deserved time away.

Growth continued in 2021 with the acquisition of Fogarty & Associates, LLC, whose team joined our Racine office. In 2024, we welcomed Hafner, Lasky & Loewen, SC to our Brookfield office. Both these partnerships added a wealth of expertise and furthered our mission of delivering transformative, client-focused solutions. Notably, the partners from both firms continue to play an active role in the firm, ensuring the seamless integration of their knowledge and client relationships into our practice.

In 2023, we introduced our blog as a space to share not only
financial and business insights but also fun and lighthearted content. Whether it’s practical tips, industry updates, or engaging stories, our blog reflects our dedication to keeping clients informed, entertained, and connected in a ever changing world.

Throughout our history, we have embraced technological advancements, from automation tools to virtual workflows, reflecting our accountability to clients and the diversity in the services we offer. We’re proud to be celebrating 90 years of trusted service, innovation, and the incredible team members who continue to drive our success every day.

Looking ahead, Gordon J. Maier & Company, LLP remains committed to evolving alongside our clients, fostering meaningful relationships, and delivering exceptional service.

Our core values guide us as we navigate the future, ensuring that we continue to honor our legacy while embracing new opportunities for growth and excellence.