At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place to work and grow. Through their stories, we aim to celebrate the diverse backgrounds, achievements, and contributions of our team members, giving you a closer look at the people who power our company every day.
When you think of accountants, the image of a former crane operator, restaurant manager, and long-distance skateboarder might not come to mind. But Jude Breaux’s background and hobbies challenge the status quo. We are excited to introduce Jude Breaux as one of our “Faces of LaPorte.” Jude joined LaPorte two years ago as an intern and is now staff in our Client Accounting Services department.
Encouraged by a classmate who spoke highly of LaPorte, Jude’s journey with the firm began in December of 2022 when he joined as an intern. “I was a 40-something-year-old intern, and that felt daunting,” Jude admits, “but the recruiters were amazing and made me feel so comfortable. It turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made.”
Jude’s placement in Client Accounting Services wasn’t by choice but by his management recognizing his talents. “I didn’t even know the department existed,” he says. “But management recognized my skills and placed me where I could thrive. Every day is different, filled with client interactions and problem-solving—two things I truly enjoy.”
Jude’s path to accounting began during his time managing restaurants. His dream of owning a restaurant faded as he realized his passion for handling bookkeeping.
“I loved the quiet moments when I could focus on numbers,” he recalls. This realization led him to return to school to obtain his accounting degree.
Outside of work, Jude’s life is equally compelling. A competitive long-distance skateboarder for over a decade, he has raced in 24-hour events, clocking an astonishing 242 miles in one day. After taking time off to study for the CPA exam, Jude is now training for two upcoming races—a 180-mile event this summer and another 24-hour race in 2026.
“When I turned 30, a friend suggested skateboarding for exercise. Ten miles later, I was hooked,” he says. Jude says that the qualities he’s honed on the board—determination, endurance, and a refusal to quit— carry over to his work at LaPorte.
For Jude, LaPorte stands out not just as a workplace but as a community. “The positive atmosphere and personable management make all the difference,” he says. Having avoided the corporate world for years due to its reputation for being stiff and unwelcoming, Jude found LaPorte to be a refreshing change. “It’s a place where I can be myself and feel comfortable.”
At LaPorte, Jude has found not just a workplace but a source of personal growth. “The trust and respect I’ve received here have boosted my self-confidence,” he shares. “I’ve learned to trust my decisions without needing external approval, a quality that impacts every aspect of my life.”