Michelle Martinez’s journey into accounting started earlier than most. At just 14 years old, she obtained a work permit and began working for the Village of Corrales, a small-town government office in New Mexico. What started as assisting with administrative and accounting-related tasks quickly sparked an interest in finance and business operations. That early experience laid the foundation for a career that has now spanned more than 17 years, taking her through construction, nonprofit organizations, and client accounting services while helping businesses strengthen their financial processes and make informed decisions.

One of the most rewarding turns in Michelle’s career came when she transitioned from serving as a full-time Controller to working in client accounting services and fractional accounting. Rather than focusing on a single organization, she found herself partnering with a wide variety of business owners and leadership teams, each with their own goals, challenges, and stories. That opportunity to become a trusted advisor is what ultimately drew her to Swanson Agency. Michelle enjoys helping clients understand the story behind their numbers—whether through financial reporting, process improvements, profitability analysis, or strategic guidance. Her approach is simple: listen first, ask thoughtful questions, and help clients make sense of their finances in a way that feels practical, clear, and actionable.

Outside of work, Michelle enjoys spending time with her family and caring for her lively crew of animals, including three dogs, a cat, and a flock of chickens. She also loves traveling, discovering new communities, and finding great local restaurants wherever her adventures take her. One of her biggest bucket-list dreams is an extended journey through Greece and Italy, exploring the history, architecture, landscapes, and cuisine she has long admired. Whether she’s helping clients navigate important financial decisions or exploring new places and perspectives, Michelle brings curiosity, dedication, and a commitment to leaving things better than she found them—a reflection of Swanson Agency’s Montana roots and future-focused vision.