Podcasts about skills gap

Should leaders be worried about an AI skills gap? More organizations are starting to ask that question as AI tools become part of everyday work. In this episode, we explore both sides of the debate, including why some leaders see AI knowledge as essential for staying competitive while others believe the concern may be overstated. [...] The post Should Leaders Be Worried About an AI Skills Gap? appeared first on Ken Okel.

Recorded at ENGAGE in Las Vegas, this episode of the JofA podcast features Carl Mayes, CPA, the AICPA's vice president–Ethics & Firm Quality, discussing the Profession Ready Initiative and the evolving skills employers expect from current and aspiring CPAs.  Mayes shares insights from discussions with more than 1,000 members, including concerns about foundational accounting skills, communication abilities, and maintaining professional skepticism in an AI-driven environment.  Mayes, who was also on the podcast in February, reflects in this episode on the profession's responsibility to prepare the next generation of CPAs and the energizing role events such as ENGAGE play in shaping new ideas across the profession. One other resource related to the conversation: the monthly A&A Focus series. What you'll learn from this episode: An early-career lesson for Mayes that underscored CPAs serving as "gatekeepers for the capital markets." What early stages of the Profession Ready Initiative have unearthed after conversations with more than 1,000 accounting professionals. Why communication skills, critical thinking, and skepticism are becoming more important in the age of AI. Why Mayes said, "Active listeners make better leaders." How employers and educators are working to close competency gaps for CPAs. What ENGAGE means to accounting professionals looking for new ideas, stronger connections, and practical innovation.

This podcast highlights a concerning gap between the growing need for workplace upskilling and the decline of corporate training budgets. Recent data suggests that employer-funded education has hit a decade-long low, even as the rise of artificial intelligence threatens to displace mid-career professionals. To address this mismatch, the agency Comsteria is offering a series of accessible summer webinars focused on practical digital skills like video production and podcasting. These sessions are designed to be affordable and personal, providing an alternative for individuals who may not receive traditional training from their employers. Ultimately, the podcast emphasises the importance of proactive self-investment to remain competitive in a rapidly changing labour market. Find out more at www.comsteria.co.uk/summer

Thanks to Salesforce for Partnering on this episode, check out our new AI report here: https://www.jobsofthefuture.co/salesforce-ai-poll In this episode of Jimmy's Jobs of the Future, Jimmy interviews Zahra at Salesforce's new AI centre in London's Devonshire Square, discussing careers, AI adoption, and skills. Zahra shares her first job in a pizza place, an early ambition to become a diplomat blocked by 1990s eligibility rules, and a 22-year career at Andersen Consulting/Accenture before moving to Salesforce. They discuss polling with Focal Data showing 51% of people have received no employer AI training and concerns about a widening digital divide. Zahra explains Salesforce's focus on enterprise AI grounded in trusted company data with guardrails, the value of a physical AI centre for collaboration, and how she uses an internal AI Slackbot for daily task lists and meeting prep while staying critical and authentic. They cover AI benefits for mid-market firms, a Simplyhealth contact-centre example, and Salesforce's Future Trailblazers schools program and call for a national “front door” for skills like Trailhead. 00:00 Intro 00:50 Inside Salesforce's New AI Centre 01:41 My First Job: Making Pizzas for £5 an Hour 03:48 From Diplomacy Dreams to Big Tech 06:31 Britain's AI Training Problem 09:07 Why Salesforce Built an AI Hub 10:46 How I Use AI Every Day 14:21 Why Authenticity Still Matters 15:07 The Priorities Every CEO Must Balance 16:15 Is an AI Divide Emerging? 17:40 Why Businesses Still Don't Trust AI 19:01 The Companies Winning With AI 22:23 Buy Commodity, Build to Differentiate 23:16 Which Skills Will Matter in the AI Era? 26:24 What I Look For When Hiring 30:07 A National Plan for AI Skills 32:40 Sending 1,000 Employees Into Schools 34:12 My Unexpected Dream Job 35:42 Final Thoughts ********** Follow us on socials! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmysjobs Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jimmysjobsofthefuture Twitter / X: https://www.twitter.com/JimmyM Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mcloughlin-obe/ Want to come on the show? hello@jobsofthefuture.co Sponsor the show or Partner with us: sunny@jobsofthefuture.co Check out our clips channel here! ⬇️ https://www.youtube.com/@JimmysJobsClips Credits: Host / Exec Producer: Jimmy McLoughlin OBE Producer: Sunny Winter https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunnywinter/ Junior Producer: Thuy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A new report says there should be plenty of opportunities for young people to take up training and jobs in land-based work - but there's a 'skills squeeze'. The study by Lantra, a charity which provides training and qualifications in land-based industries, says jobs are available but not being filled.All week we're taking a closer look at upland farming across the UK. In Wales more than half the country is classed as uplands, from dramatic mountain ranges and blanket bogs to rolling heathland and moors. Unlike England, farmers still receive a basic payment from the Welsh government, though it's being phased out, to be replaced with the Sustainable Farming Scheme, which came in this year. We speak to a hill farmer in Ogmore Vale.It's the fourth year of the Future Countryside Conference, which brings together a wide selection of leaders in farming, conservation and rural issues. It's being held at the Raby Estate in County Durham. This year, it's asking the question “How can we win support for a growing and recovering countryside?” We catch up with one of the organisers.Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney

In this episode of What's On Your Mind, host Scott Hannon drops his brain on the audience after a whirlwind trip to the Reagan Library for the National Economic Conference. The conversation kicks off with an exclusive, candid chat with the one and only Mike Rowe. The Dirty Jobs host tackles the massive mismatch in American education, breaking down why a $1.7 trillion student debt crisis is propping up degrees that don't translate to careers, while six-figure trade jobs go completely begging. Rowe shares a fascinating perspective on how artificial intelligence can actually rescue K-12 learning through hyper-individualized pacing, while also warning about the "genie out of the bottle" anxieties currently gripping 75% of the country regarding AI and mega data centers. Later in the hour, Scott pulls back the curtain on local battlegrounds, tracking a heated West Fargo City Commission showdown over million-dollar roundabout special assessments that parents say endanger an elementary school crosswalk. Scott also officially drops his heavily anticipated endorsement for the Fargo mayoral race, analyzing the crowded field of candidates, highlighting political double standards, and detailing a bizarre, multi-ballot counting meltdown at the Minnesota Republican Party convention in Duluth. Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:01:11] Buying Your Own Name: Mike Rowe shares the hilarious and tragic backstory of how he had to purchase his own domain name from a Phoenix firefighter who beat him to the punch. [00:02:24] The Reality of the Skills Gap: Rowe dissects the 7.2 million open jobs in America, highlighting the critical defense and infrastructure industries competing desperately for plumbers, welders, and electricians. [00:03:26] The Fighter Jet Cockpit Flaw: A deep dive into why modern classroom structures are broken, using a famous military contractor mistake to prove that teaching to an "average" student simply doesn't work. [00:04:29] Artificial Insemination and the Food Chain: Mike Rowe recounts getting into massive trouble with network executives after taking the definition of "AI" a little too literally on an early episode of Dirty Jobs. [00:05:16] The Face of Facebook Mischief: Rowe warns listeners about the dark side of deep-fake technology, detailing five elaborate active sweepstakes scams co-opting his likeness with major brands. [00:07:36] Polymetallic Nodules from the Deep: An intriguing look at the clean-energy race, as Rowe reveals a mineral-packed ocean rock that could neutralize China's rare-earth monopoly without tearing apart the Amazon. [00:08:04] The "Sweat Pledge" Philosophy: Rowe explains the core guidelines of his foundation's work…

Today Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science of Ireland, James Lawless hosts a construction roundtable where nine out of ten industry figures warn that skills shortages are slowing housing output. Minister Lawless joined Anton ahead of this meeting.

Today Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science of Ireland, James Lawless hosts a construction roundtable where nine out of ten industry figures warn that skills shortages are slowing housing output. Minister Lawless joined Anton ahead of this meeting.

We welcome Montana Houston, founder of rYOUminate, to the show this week to chat about addressing the “hidden curriculum” of higher education—life skills like financial literacy, career readiness, and self-advocacy that many students are expected to know but are rarely taught. They explore how gaps in infrastructure and capacity have left institutions struggling to deliver this support at scale, and how personalized, tech-enabled solutions can help bridge the divide. Guest Name: Montana Houston - CEO & Founder @ rYOUminate Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Montana Houston is the founder of rYOUminate, a life skills edtech company personalizing adulthood for 18 to 30-year-olds and the higher education institutions that support them. As a first-generation college student at the University of Southern California, she experienced firsthand how much of adulthood is shaped by unspoken expectations. She founded rYOUminate to make those expectations visible, navigable, and less isolating. Today, rYOUminate delivers research-backed programming, reflection-driven tools, and thoughtful resources that help young adults build confidence in life's biggest transitions. Through work with customers such as the University of Washington and YMCA of King County, the company has driven a 2.5x increase in confidence and a 5x increase in knowledge among participants. Montana brings experience across law, financial literacy, and inclusion-focused leadership, and her work has been recognized by SXSW EDU, Venture Black, Urban Impact, and Business Impact Northwest. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Advanced Manufacturing Now, we speak with Heather Curtis of Tormach and Joe Leonhard of Sheboygan Central High School about how their partnership with the National Coalition of Certification Centers is shaping the future of manufacturing education.

In this episode, Sarah explores a painful reality for many coaches: investing high five-figure sums into business programs that fail to deliver the promised results. She dismantles the popular industry belief that lack of clients is a "mindset" issue and identifies the true culprit: a professional skills gap in client acquisition.The Five-Figure Investment CycleSarah describes a recurring pattern where intelligent, qualified professionals spend between £5,000 and £22,000 on established, polished coaching brands. Despite their research and commitment, many of these coaches are left with credit card debt and zero new clients. The Mindset Promise: Most programs suggest that if you work on your identity and "energy," clients will naturally follow. The Sufficiency Problem: While mindset work is valuable, it is insufficient on its own because it bypasses the mechanics of finding and converting clients. Sound Decisions, Poor Outcomes: These investments often look like sound professional decisions at the time, leading to a sense of private shame when they don't work.Client Acquisition is a Professional CompetencyA core theme of this episode is that client acquisition - the practical skill of identifying, reaching, and converting clients - is a distinct professional skill entirely separate from coaching ability. What is actually missing?Specific Identification: Learning how to find a specific group of people with a problem they are actively trying to resolve. Resonant Language: Describing that problem in a way that makes the potential client feel genuinely understood. Credible Presence: Building a consistent presence that makes you the obvious solution to their specific challenge.Solving a Skills Gap with a Mindset ProgramSarah argues that coaches who fail to get results often aren't failing because of a lack of confidence or a "blocked" mindset. Instead, they have been sold a mindset solution for what is actually a skills gap. Natural Assumption: Many programs treat client acquisition as something that happens "naturally" once you have a website or a morning routine. Internalised Blame: When clients don't appear, coaches assume something is wrong with them personally rather than realising their professional training never included business-building skills. A Learnable Skill: Acquisition is not a personality trait; it can be taught, practised, and refined just like any other professional competency.Ready for a different approach?The Coaching Revolution was created specifically to fill this gap, teaching client acquisition as a structured professional skill within an ICF-accredited framework. Join the Nail Your Niche Challenge: Head over to thecoachingrevolution.com and wait five seconds for the registration pop-up. Join the waiting list, where when you register for the next iteration of the challenge, you will begin learning the practical work that moves you from invisible to fully booked. Book a strategy call: Visit ⁠⁠thecoachingrevolution.com⁠⁠ and click on any "Book a Call" link.Have you enjoyed this episode? Find out more and take the FREE quiz at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thecoachingrevolution.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the FREE Facebook group at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildacoachingbusiness⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Mainframe Connect podcast's I Am a Mainframer series, J.J. Lovett, Lead for Education and Customer Engagement at Broadcom Mainframe Division, shares his journey from CA Technologies customer advocacy to leading Mainframe Open Education, Vitality programs, and practitioner engagement at events like SHARE and IDUG.J.J. tackles the mainframe skills gap head-on, explaining why it's both a navigation challenge (knowing where to find talent) and a time gap (2-4 years to master sysprog/admin roles). He highlights shifting demographics—millennials and Gen Z now dominate BMC surveys—and how Broadcom addresses this through student user groups, mentorship, and open source integration with projects like Zowe and COBOL."The mainframe isn't a job, it's a career" – J.J. advises college grads: start with z/OS Explore, embrace risks, and recognise mainframe's extensibility through APIs. He shares his vision for proactive succession planning and a future where mainframe experience makes technologists more versatile across IT.Celebrating Military Appreciation Month – J.J. represents military veterans bringing discipline and leadership to mainframe education and customer success during May's Military Appreciation Month.#mainframe #IamaMainframer #OpenSource #Broadcom #MainframeSkills #MilitaryAppreciationMonth #podcast #openmainframeproject #LinuxFoundation #StevenDickens #MainframeConnect #Careers #Zowe

The labor market is unlike anything staffing veteran Krista DiGiacomo has seen in 24 years, and she's not mincing words about why. In this episode, Krista, franchise owner of Express Employment Professionals in Vancouver, Washington, joins host Brandon Laws to unpack the growing skills gap reshaping hiring today. From soft skills like punctuality and reliability, to hard skills like reading blueprints and running a budget, employers are struggling and the education system is a big part of the story. Krista makes a compelling case for rethinking the four-year degree mandate, investing in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, and why the skilled trades may be the most future-proof career path in an age of AI. If you're an employer, job seeker, parent, or anyone invested in the future of work, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. ⏱️ KEY TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Krista DiGiacomo joins the show as the first-ever Express Employment Professionals guest in 580+ episodes 00:51 – The State of the Labor Market: What Krista is seeing on the front lines after 24 years in staffing and why she's never seen anything quite like this 01:19 – The Skills Gap Unpacked: Soft skills (attendance, reliability, punctuality) and hard skills (blueprints, budgets, trade knowledge) are both in short supply 02:53 – Who Uses a Staffing Agency? Krista breaks down the wide range of candidates Express serves, from recent grads to career changers to those reentering the workforce 04:16 – Higher Education's Identity Crisis: Why universities optimized for enrollment over practical application and why a bachelor's degree doesn't mean what it used to 07:50 – Changing the Narrative at Home and in Schools: Why the four-year-degree-or-bust mindset is hurting society and what parents can do differently 08:58 – CTE Programs: The Comeback Story: How Career and Technical Education programs are making a powerful return in high schools and what Krista is doing personally to accelerate that 11:10 – From Classroom to Apprenticeship: How CTE programs are connecting students with local employers, internships, and trade careers through creative funding models 14:00 – The Consultant Role of Modern Staffing: Why Krista challenges clients to question whether a degree requirement is actually necessary and what that conversation looks like 17:13 – Making Trades Glamorous: Why skilled trades need a branding refresh for the next generation, and how AI actually makes the case stronger for going into the trades 20:37 – Earning Potential in the Trades: Comparing income outcomes between trade careers and four-year degree paths, and the numbers might surprise you 21:33 – What Happens If We Don't Course Correct: The looming workforce crisis if CTE investment doesn't scale and reasons for cautious optimism 24:20 – The Future of Staffing in a Changing Market: How Krista's team has evolved from order-takers to career consultants and why AI won't replace the human side of hiring

AI is not the story. People are. In this episode, I focus on what's really changing in food manufacturing and retail as AI becomes more embedded in day-to-day work. There has always been a gap when it comes to human skills. Communication, confidence, influence, and the ability to challenge constructively have often been overlooked in favour of technical expertise. AI is now bringing that gap into sharp focus. As more technical tasks become automated, the value shifts to how people think, communicate, and make decisions. Data can inform, but it cannot replace judgment. I share real examples from the industry to bring this to life. From major commercial decisions to product failures, the common thread is rarely a lack of data. It is a lack of challenge, clarity, or confidence in the room. There is also a leadership reality to face. The pace of the food industry is not slowing down, but the excuse of being too busy to develop people is becoming harder to justify. Teams need support to build the skills that AI cannot replace. This includes creating psychological safety so people feel able to speak up, strengthening communication so decisions are clearer, and developing confidence so individuals can challenge what they see and hear, including outputs from AI. The risk is not that AI takes over. The risk is that teams rely on it without questioning it. The opportunity is for leaders who double down on human capability. Those who invest in people, not just systems, will build stronger, more resilient teams. Timestamps 00:11 – Why AI is exposing a skills gap in food teams 01:48 – What AI cannot do and why that matters 03:01 – The real challenges are human, not technical 04:12 – Industry example and the role of human judgment 06:14 – Critical thinking in food safety and innovation 08:23 – Confidence to challenge AI and decision-making 09:10 – Emotional connection and its role in food businesses 09:49 – How AI highlights weak leadership behaviours 12:11 – Challenges in confidence, communication, and prioritisation 13:25 – The opportunity for leaders who invest in people 14:42 – The risk of polished outputs without depth 15:28 – Who will thrive in the AI era 16:44 – Core skills: influence, communication, and challenge 20:18 – Psychological safety and its impact on teams 22:41 – AI outputs vs human judgment 23:49 – Final reflections and building stronger teams Connect with The Fearless Foodies The Fearless Foodie Newsletter straight to your inbox. No fluff, no spam. Subscribe at:https://foodies.fearlessfoodies.co.uk/podcast Connect with me here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amywilkinsoncoach/ Useful Links & Support If this episode resonated, especially around leadership, AI, and building stronger teams, here are a few places to go next. Fearless Foodies Leadership development and team support designed specifically for food manufacturing and retail environments.https://fearlessfoodies.co.uk A Big Thank You to Our Sponsors IFP Labs Specialist laboratory services supporting food businesses with fast, reliable testing and technical expertise.https://www.ifp-labs.com/

“I'm going to speak the truth here, and this is not pleasant for people to hear.” In my podcast with author Heather Mac Donald, she says uncomfortable things about race, crime, feminism and more.For example, she says, “The reality of our world today is not white privilege. It's black privilege.” She says many jobs and colleges today unfairly favor black candidates with fewer skills. “Harvard until recently had about 16% blacks in its freshman class,” says Mac Donald, “If it admitted based on academic merit, there would be less than 1%.” She's been repeatedly called “‘racist' for saying things like that. “Am I a racist for bringing this up? I am not!” responds Mac Donald, “The facts are the facts … They have been completely kept out of the public eye to keep this systemic lie of racism going on.” In this podcast, more facts you won't hear covered by mainstream media.

A widening gap between retiring experts, manual craftsmanship, and limited process visibility is making it increasingly difficult for manufacturers to maintain consistency, prevent errors early, and onboard new operators effectively. In this episode, Sebastian Dykas, Director of Manufacturing, Engineering, and Maintenance at Smith+Nephew, joins Emerj's Marilie Fouche to examine how capturing best practices and connecting machines for real‑time data can tighten control and reduce variability across shifts. He highlights the practical moves leaders can make now — from standardizing training and strengthening process baselines to introducing data‑driven feedback loops that prevent scrap and stabilize production. This episode is sponsored by Poka.  Learn how brands work with Emerj and other Emerj Media options at go.emerj.com/partner 

Leslie sits down with two of the country's most respected immigration attorneys — Bo Cooper, former General Counsel of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service, and Austin Fragomen, of the global immigration law firm Fragomen — to walk through what the U.S. immigration system actually looks like from the inside.Right now, there are roughly 4 million people waiting in various visa categories for a path to permanent residence in the United States. In this conversation, Leslie, Bo, and Austin break down exactly how that line works: the three legal pathways to permanent residence (family, employment, and humanitarian), why some people wait months while others wait over two decades depending on country of origin and family relationship, how the asylum system was designed in the aftermath of World War II and whether it fits the crises of today, and what is actually happening with deportation, birthright citizenship, and student visas.They also discuss what Congress could do — and why comprehensive reform has remained out of reach for decades.Whether you have been following immigration in the news and want to understand the underlying system, or you are simply curious about how this process works for real people — this is a clear, factual, and genuinely clarifying conversation.Follow Duologue on Instagram @duologuepod and subscribe so you never miss an episode.00:00:03 Introduction 00:02:33 The Three Pathways to a Green Card 00:07:20 Family-Based Immigration Explained 00:12:09 Why the Post-WWII Refugee Definition Is Outdated 00:14:32 How Long Is the Line? The 4 Million Figure 00:16:56 Employment Visas: H-1B, L Visas, and the Skills Gap 00:21:43 The Afghan Translator Story and the Refugee System 00:24:08 Asylum vs. Refugee: What's the Difference 00:38:12 Student Visas and the China Security Concern 00:45:25 Birthright Citizenship Around the World 00:50:10 Deportation, Enforcement, and What's Actually Possible 01:01:57 What Congress Could Do — and Why It Hasn'tHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Podcast: PrOTect It All (LS 27 · TOP 10% what is this?)Episode: Breaking Into OT Cybersecurity: Closing the Skills Gap and Protecting Critical InfrastructurePub date: 2026-04-20Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationThe biggest challenge in OT cybersecurity isn't just technology - it's people. In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with Mike Holcomb to explore one of the most urgent issues facing the industry today: the growing skills gap in OT and ICS cybersecurity. Mike shares his journey from IT into operational technology security and breaks down why more professionals are needed to defend the systems that power energy, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure worldwide. This conversation goes beyond awareness - it's about practical pathways into the field and how the community is stepping up to make OT cybersecurity more accessible. You'll learn: Why OT cybersecurity is one of the most in-demand and underserved fields How to transition from IT to OT cybersecurity The biggest barriers newcomers face - and how to overcome them What foundational skills and controls matter most in ICS environments The role of community initiatives like BSides ICS in closing the gap Why training, mentorship, and collaboration are critical for the future Whether you're looking to break into cybersecurity, pivot your career, or build stronger teams, this episode delivers actionable guidance and inspiration from someone actively shaping the future of OT security. Tune in to learn how to build a career while helping protect the infrastructure the world depends on - only on Protect It All. Key Moments:  03:07 Getting started in cybersecurity 06:33 Early passion for cybersecurity 11:54 Hurricane Katrina aftermath discussion 15:50 Awareness and education on OT security 17:49 First experiences with GRID class 25:07 Early challenges in OT cybersecurity 29:17 Importance of effective communication 35:11 Global expansion of cybersecurity events 39:52 Building a foundation in OT cybersecurity 43:36 Excitement for new CompTIA exam 46:48 Expressing appreciation for community involvement About the guest:  Mike Holcomb is an independent consultant focused on OT/ICS cybersecurity and an educational content creator. Prior to supporting clients full-time through UtilSec, he was the Fellow of Cybersecurity and the OT/ICS Cybersecurity Global Lead for one of the world's largest engineering and construction companies, providing him with the opportunity to work in securing some of the world's largest OT/ICS environments, from power plants and commuter rail to manufacturing facilities and refineries. As part of his community efforts, Michael founded the BSidesICS/OT with multiple events planned globally in 2026. He has his master's degree in OT/ICS cybersecurity from the SANS Technology Institute. Additionally, he maintains cyber security and OT/ICS certifications such as the CISSP, GRID, GICSP, GCIP, GPEN, GCIH, ISA 62443, and more. He was awarded the SANS Difference Maker Award for Practitioner of the Year: ICS/OT Defender for 2025 and BEER-ISAC's Community Builder Award for 2026. He posts regularly on LinkedIn and YouTube to help others learn more about securing OT/ICS and critical infrastructure.  How to connect Mike:  Main Site: mikeholcomb.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mikeholcomb YouTube: youtube.com/@utilsec Instagram: instagram/_mikeholcomb/ Newsletter: utilsec.kit.com/95e31307f7 BSidesICS/OT: bsidesics.org Connect With Aaron Crow: Website: www.corvosec.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrow Learn more about PrOTect IT All: Email: info@protectitall.co  Website: https://protectitall.co/  X: https://twitter.com/protectitall  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PrOTectITAll  FaceBook:  https://facebook.com/protectitallpodcast   To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at info@protectitall.co Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts: Apple   - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/protect-it-all/id1727211124 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1Vvi0euj3rE8xObK0yvYi4The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from Aaron Crow, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.

In this episode of Smart Supply Chain, Carolyn Lee, President and Executive Director of the Manufacturing Institute, unpacks a looming crisis: a widening skills gap accelerated by AI. As new technologies reshape operations on the shop floor, the challenge is not talent, it's equipping today's workforce with the right skills. Carolyn shares how AI is changing job requirements, what it means for manufacturing and supply chain performance, and how leaders can rethink hiring, training, and development, while tapping into proven programs and resources to build a future-ready workforce.

Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia unpack a wide-ranging set of ideas shaping the future of learning, from AI "hive minds" and youth relationships with AI to portraits of a graduate, durable skills, and real-world learning. They explore what it means to prepare students for a non-routine economy where judgment, collaboration, agency, and ownership matter more than ever. Along the way, they highlight innovative school models, reflect on new research and reports, and consider how education systems can better connect technical skills, human development, and future-ready experiences. Outline (0:00) Intro (13:13) School Spotlights (20:52) Preparing Students for the Non-Routine Economy (31:34) Durable Skills & Experience Matters Report (37:20) Human Expression (40:56) What's That Song? Links Watch the full video here Artificial Hivemind: The Open-Ended Homogeneity of Language Models (and Beyond) Youth, AI, and the Relationships That Shape Them Good Riddance to Regents Exams? Or Will Ending Them Leave a Void for N.Y. Grads? The Academies Of Hampton Amp Lab at Electric Works The Pearl Arts Innovation Institute Amp Lab at The Refinery 3Rivers Federal Credit Union Banking Internship Humanist Essay Harvard Medical School  

Send us Fan MailThe engineering skills gap is already shaping what factories can deliver, how reliable our assets can be, and how quickly new infrastructure can scale. We're joined by Parker, president of Fluke, and we dig into what we're hearing from the next generation of technicians and engineers and what leaders can do right now to make these careers easier to discover and harder to ignore.A highlight comes from our time with students at Texas State Technical College. The talent pipeline isn't “one type” of person: we meet people straight out of high school, veterans bringing a decade of service, and career changers who want a fresh start and a future they can control. That range forces a rethink of how we talk about the trades, reliability engineering, and technical careers. When we clearly explain the menu of opportunities, from working globally to owning your own business, we give people a reason to lean in.We also get practical about education and early exposure. Schools are moving beyond traditional shop class into modern STEM programmes, including robotics, 3D printing, and automation. The goal is to make hands-on learning engaging and fun while still building real skill. Parker shares how Fluke supports the next generation through internships, training, and partnerships that put current tools into classrooms, and we connect those skills to high-growth areas like data centres where power quality and reliability matter every day.If you care about workforce development, manufacturing, and keeping great people, you'll take away a simple message: meaning and mentorship are not “nice to have”. They are the system. Subscribe, share this with someone starting their career, and leave us a review with your answer: what first pulled you towards engineering or the trades?Support the show

The traditional approach of competing solely on compensation and benefits is no longer enough to remain competitive in today's tightening labor market. In this episode, Jason Wetherford and Quinn Heimann from Aerotek share deep insights into the facility management industry, highlighting a significant shift where job seekers now prioritize opportunities for skills development as a top motivator for accepting new roles. The conversation addresses the looming "retirement skills gap" and offers a roadmap for succession planning through tailored training programs, mentorship and high-impact partnerships with organizations like Skills USA and Tooling U. They also discuss how proactive upskilling can prevent operational inefficiencies and the loss of critical institutional knowledge. This episode is sponsored by TMA Systems! Discover more at https://www.tmasystems.com/ifmapodcast Time Stamps: 00:00 – Introduction 02:15 – Current Labor Market Trends: Shortages and tightening conditions 03:45 – The Power of Upskilling: Driving retention and productivity 04:15 – Succession Planning: Bridging the retirement skills gap 04:45 – Practical Strategies: Mentorship, apprenticeships, and tailored training 05:45 – Success Stories: Upskilling in retail and healthcare 06:30 – Strategic Partnerships: Working with Skills USA and Tooling U 08:15 – What Job Seekers Want: Data from the Aerotek Job Seeker Survey 10:45 – Technology & Automation: The rise of smart building systems 11:45 – The Two-Pronged Approach: Training existing staff vs. new hires 13:40 – Risks of Inaction: Missing key objectives and falling behind 14:50 – Closing Thoughts Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

Stephen Grootes talks to Justin Visagie, Associate Professor, Southern Centre for Inequality Studies about how Gauteng’s economy has changed over the past decade, whether it still deserves its status as the engine room of South Africa, and how shifts in migration, sectoral growth and persistent load shedding have reshaped provinces like Gauteng and the Western Cape. In other interviews, Premal Ranchod, Head of Research at Alexforbes talks about new research unpacking South Africa’s “talent balance sheet” with the report highlighting a widening disconnect between the country’s education outcomes and the skills required by the modern investment and financial services industry, particularly in scarce areas like quantitative analysis, portfolio management and data science. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 to 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen Grootes speaks to Premal Ranchod, Head of Research at Alexforbes, about new research unpacking South Africa’s “talent balance sheet” with the report highlighting a widening disconnect between the country’s education outcomes and the skills required by the modern investment and financial services industry, particularly in scarce areas like quantitative analysis, portfolio management and data science. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and the Heritage Foundation's Rachel Greszler discuss the pressing issues surrounding vocational education and the workforce crisis in the U.S. They explore the demographic and fiscal challenges, the importance of apprenticeships, the impact of regulations, and the need for policy changes to attract industry experts into teaching roles. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of vocational training as a viable alternative to traditional four-year degrees, highlighting the skills gap and the role of unions in workforce development.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Amy Nicklaus talks with Peter Okun, Editor of Manufacturing Podcast News, about what a PMI move above 50 really means after months of contraction and why the current reading signals disciplined stabilization rather than an overheated surge. They discuss how global steel output—especially shifts in China—drives price volatility and why manufacturers are prioritizing regional sourcing, longer-term contracts, supplier diversification, and data-driven planning to manage risk. Okun also highlights rising ransomware exposure for mid-size manufacturers, emphasizing that downtime, trust, and reputation costs often outweigh ransom itself, and recommends basics like MFA, tested offline backups, training, and response protocols. The episode covers tariff unpredictability and regionalization, workforce strategies amid a persistent skills gap, thoughtful AI adoption to improve morale and productivity, and why adaptability, resilience, digital visibility, and sustainability will define competitiveness over the next three to five years.   00:00 Welcome and Agenda 01:01 PMI Above 50 Explained 02:32 Recovery or Bounce 03:28 Executive Playbook Now 04:15 Early Expansion Risks 04:57 Global Steel Ripple Effects 06:10 Sourcing for Reliability 07:12 Is Globalization Fading 07:27 Ransomware Reality Check 09:05 Cybersecurity Basics 09:50 Tariffs and Regionalization 10:33 Adapting Supply Strategies 11:44 Workforce and AI Shifts 12:24 Skills Gap and Training 13:29 AI Morale and Reskilling 14:50 Winning Mindset Ahead 15:24 Next 3 to 5 Years 16:31 Sustainability as Strategy 17:07 Key Takeaway Recalibration 17:46 Wrap Up and Where to Follow   Further reading: At Last: Institute for Supply Management Manufacturing Index at 52.7 Percent - https://manufacturingtalkradio.com/news/at-last-institute-for-supply-management-manufacturing-index-at-52-7-percent/   Global Steel Output Is Slipping, and the Reasons Go Deeper Than One Bad Month - https://manufacturingtalkradio.com/news/global-steel-output-is-slipping-and-the-reasons-go-deeper-than-one-bad-month/    Why Ransomware Is Hitting Mid-Sized Manufacturers Harder Than Ever - https://manufacturingtalkradio.com/news/why-ransomware-is-hitting-mid-sized-manufacturers-harder-than-ever/   How USMCA and New Tariffs Are Rattling U.S. Manufacturing - https://manufacturingtalkradio.com/news/how-usmca-and-new-tariffs-are-rattling-u-s-manufacturing/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nir Eyal grew up clinically obese, ashamed of his body, and convinced that food controlled him. He tried every diet: low-fat, keto, vegetarian, and intermittent fasting. Each one worked until it didn't. What finally changed his life wasn't a meal plan; it was his belief. When he believed a plan would work, it worked. When that belief cracked, the weight returned. And he realized this pattern doesn't just apply to weight; it shows up in every area of life. In this episode, Nir joins Ilana to reveal the hidden force behind your success or stagnation. He unpacks the science of belief, how it shapes what you see, feel, and do, and the practical framework to break limiting beliefs before they break you. Nir Eyal is a bestselling author, behavioral design expert, and former Stanford lecturer known for his work on habit formation, psychology, and human behavior. As an entrepreneur and angel investor, Nir has backed multi-billion-dollar companies including Canva and Kahoot!. In this episode, Ilana and Nir will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (03:14) Childhood and Weight Loss Struggles (07:34) Why Affirmations and Vision Boards Don't Work (09:18) Facts vs Faith vs Beliefs (10:59) His Journey from Founder to Bestselling Author (16:01) The Power of Belief in Success and Failure  (24:49) The ‘Messy Middle': Knowing When to Persist vs Quit (32:06) Skills Gap vs Belief Gap in Leaders and Teams (34:0) The Four Questions to Rewire a Limiting Belief (46:51) Q&A: Crafting a Memorable Pitch Story Nir Eyal is a bestselling author, behavioral design expert, and former Stanford lecturer. He is the author of Hooked and Indistractable, which have sold over one million copies worldwide and been translated into more than 30 languages. His latest book, Beyond Belief, explores how hidden beliefs shape our limitations and how to replace them to unlock personal and professional growth. An entrepreneur and angel investor, Nir has backed multi-billion-dollar companies including Canva and Kahoot!. Connect with Nir: Nir's Website: http://nirandfar.com Nir's Instagram: instagram.com/neyal99 Nir's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nireyal Resources Mentioned: Nir's Books: Beyond Belief: The Science-Backed Way to Stop Limiting Yourself and Achieve Breakthrough Results: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593852036 Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194883653X Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1591847788 Nir's 30-Day Belief Transformation Journal: nirandfar.com/beyond-belief Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities.  Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training

Send a textSecurity readiness is slipping while threats race ahead—so we zero in on what actually moves the needle. We start with a frank look at why so many teams feel behind: AI-driven attacks, budget constraints, and a hiring market that demands senior talent at entry-level pay. Then we get practical, connecting CISSP Domain 1 concepts to real decisions leaders make every week: how to align risk management with business goals, how to write policies that drive action, and how to use standards, baselines, guidelines, and SOPs to turn strategy into measurable outcomes.From there, we dig into quantitative risk without the fluff. You'll hear how to compute Single Loss Expectancy and Annualized Loss Expectancy, and why ALE clarifies budget asks better than any slide deck. We contrast due care and due diligence in plain terms: patch what's critical now, and keep a repeatable process that proves you act responsibly over time. We also revisit ISC2 ethics, centering the top priority—protect society and the common good—and show how that principle shapes daily choices around audits, monitoring, and vendor assurance.Cloud security gets its own spotlight. When penetration tests are restricted, we show how to leverage SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001 under NDA, map those assurances to your control set and risk appetite, and close gaps with compensating controls. Along the way, we challenge common hiring myths, explore smart uses of MSPs, and show why cross-training software engineers into security often outperforms chasing more certifications. The result is a clear, actionable path from policy to practice that helps you harden faster and justify every control with data.If you're studying for the CISSP or leading a team that needs wins now, this session brings usable strategies, not buzzwords. Subscribe, share with a teammate who needs it, and leave a review to tell us which takeaway you'll implement first.Gain exclusive access to 360 FREE CISSP Practice Questions at FreeCISSPQuestions.com and have them delivered directly to your inbox! Don't miss this valuable opportunity to strengthen your CISSP exam preparation and boost your chances of certification success. Join now and start your journey toward CISSP mastery today!

In this episode of The Executive Room, Kimberly Afonso sits down with Jordan Levy, EdTech entrepreneur, Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, and Founder & CEO of CapSource, to explore how experiential learning is reshaping higher education and early career hiring.Jordan shares how CapSource has connected more than 25,000 students with 3,000+ industry partners across 150 universities through project-based learning, case-based programs, and mentoring-driven experiences. His mission: close the skills gap and ensure students graduate workforce-ready.The conversation dives into:- What experiential learning really means and why it's critical for career readiness- How industry-integrated education improves hiring outcomes and employee retention- Why AI is forcing a complete rethink of how we assess learning- How universities must evolve to remain relevant in the age of personalized AI-driven learningJordan also shares his entrepreneurial journey, how he pivoted away from a traditional path, and why he believes industry partnerships are the future of scalable, high-impact education.If you care about the future of higher education or the impact of AI on learning, this episode is a must-listen. 

John Stossel. Race, Crime, Skills Gap, Feminism and More. Uncomfortable Topics with Heather Mac Donald “I'm going to speak the truth here, and this is not pleasant for people to hear.” In my extended interview with author Heather Mac Donald, she says uncomfortable things about race, crime, feminism and more. For example, she says, “The reality of our world today is not white privilege. It's black privilege.” She says many jobs and colleges today unfairly favor black candidates with fewer skills. “Harvard until recently had about 16% blacks in its freshman class,” says Mac Donald, “If it admitted based on academic merit, there would be less than 1%.” She's been repeatedly called “‘racist' for saying stuff things like that. “Am I a racist for bringing this up? I am not!” responds Mac Donald, “The facts are the facts … They have been completely kept out of the public eye to keep this systemic lie of racism going on.” In the video above, more facts you won't hear covered by mainstream media. Watch this video at-  https://youtu.be/bBqhSnZE7lA?si=X0PFSpt0EHM7-wg8 Uncomfortable Topics with Heather Mac Donald: John Stossel 280,959 views Feb 17, 2026   . _ _ _ _ _ _ To make sure you receive weekly video from Stossel TV, sign up here: https://www.johnstossel.com/#subscrib... _ _ _ _ _ _

In a world where every dollar spent is scrutinized, learning and development can no longer be seen as a low-value expenditure. In this episode, host Joe White shares why demonstrating a clear return on investment is an essential part of the learning & development strategic planning process.View this episode on the AEU website.About JoeAs Director of AEU LEAD, Joe White focuses on helping members transform operational goals into actionable plans through a structured change management process. Prior to joining AEU, Joe was a senior consultant for E.I. DuPont's consulting division, DuPont Sustainable Solutions (DSS). He joined DSS in 2011 to develop the next generation of safety practices using extensive research in behavioral sciences he's compiled over a period of nearly two decades. His efforts resulted in the development of The Risk Factor, which is now the flagship instructor-led offering for the consulting division. Combined, Joe has 26 years of operational safety experience, the majority of which was with DuPont. Joe has been published in Occupational Health & Safety Magazine for his prominent work in safety relative to behavioral and neurosciences and is an event speaker at many leading industry conferences including National Safety Council (NSC) Congress and Expos, American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), and National Maritime Safety Association (NMSA). Joe is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University and has a B.S., in Safety and Risk Administration.Where you can find JoeConnect with Joe on LinkedInSupervisor Skills: Secrets of Success is a production of AEU LEAD, a division of The American Equity Underwriters, Inc. With 60 years of combined industry experience, our supervisor training program gives mid-level managers in the maritime industry the skills needed to influence employees, customers, and peers. This increases employee engagement, reduces turnover and rework, and ultimately results in higher profits for their companies. Find AEU: amequity.com | Linkedin | Facebook

The news that Yokohama Tire in Salem is closing its doors on March 18th is a "plant obituary" for our community. For me, it's personal. I started in that facility at 12 years old, and those foundations are exactly what built TW Controls. But as we look at the 2,700 local lives impacted by the economic multiplier effect, we have to ask: Are we waiting for a lifeline from Washington, or are we building our own resilience?I am tired of hearing about the "workforce skills gap" from companies that force their technicians to push a broom the moment the line is running. If your team is "looking busy" instead of practicing on the bench, you aren't managing—you're falling behind. Training isn't a one-and-done checkbox; it's a yearly requirement to stay in demand. Today, we're talking about taking ownership of our backyards, from Master Electrician CEUs to bridging the gap between legacy 1734 and modern 5034 Point I/O.Helping you become a better technician so you will always be in demandNot sure what video to watch next? Enhance your skills and track your progress at https://controls.tw/yt-courses!

Hiring ready-made talent is harder than ever, especially for small businesses competing in an AI-driven job market. In this episode, workplace futurist Alexandra Levit explains how work-based learning programs can help small businesses build a sustainable talent pipeline while addressing the youth employment crisis. Learn how apprenticeships, internships, and mentorship-driven workforce development strategies can close the skills gap, strengthen community ties, and improve employee retention. If you are looking for practical ways to recruit, train, and retain skilled workers without relying solely on traditional college degrees, this conversation offers a clear, actionable roadmap. Today we discussed: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:23 Building a Talent Pipeline with WBL 00:00:56 What Is Work-Based Learning? 00:02:19 Youth Employment Crisis and Skills Gap 00:04:38 Trade Stigma and Shifting Labor Demand 00:07:08 GPS Education Partners Model 00:13:16 Starting Small: Employer Playbook 00:17:22 Certifications, AI Skills, and Metrics Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Mentorship beats tools. Full stop.I've been on the road with Maintain Reliability across food factories, metal plants and logistics sites, and the pattern is the same everywhere. Companies invest in systems before they invest in judgement. They gather more data before they build the confidence to act on what they already know. Then they wonder why the breakdowns keep coming.The issue is rarely a lack of information. It's a lack of guided decision making.Training gives knowledge. Mentoring builds judgement. There's a big difference. In a classroom everything makes sense. On a live plant with production breathing down your neck and budgets under pressure, it's a different game. That's where experience matters. Someone standing next to the engineer saying, focus here, not there. Fix this first. Leave that for now. Sequence it properly.Order is everything in reliability.Before we talk about monitoring strategies, we ask simple questions. Is planning and scheduling tight. Are critical assets clearly defined. Is lubrication consistent. Are work orders closed properly. Do people understand their roles. If those foundations are weak, adding more layers just increases confusion and backlog.When the basics are strong, performance compounds.A proper reliability audit is usually the turning point. Not a tick box exercise. A real look at how the plant operates. It exposes gaps in communication, spares, lubrication standards, ownership and accountability. More importantly, it gives leadership clarity. It turns reliability from a cost into a structured improvement plan.Technology has its place. We use condition monitoring every day. But the team must own the data. They must understand what a trend means, what the risk is, and what action follows. Without that, nothing changes.I've seen engineers with almost no budget transform a site because they closed the loop fast and acted decisively. I've also seen sites with serious investment still stuck reactive because culture didn't support action.Reliability works when people take ownership. When KPIs drive behaviour. When leaders back decisions. And when mentors hold the rope when pressure hits.If you want results that last, start with an honest audit. Build a roadmap you can defend. Strengthen the people. Then layer in the systems.That's how we do it at Maintain Reliability.Support the show

As artificial intelligence reshapes military operations at breakneck speed, the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) is launching an accelerated master's degree aimed at pushing AI-literate officers into the fleet as early as 2027. Speaking at AFCEA/USNI West in San Diego, Capt. Mike Owen, co-chair of the NPS AI Task Force, said the new program is designed to close a widening gap between the pace of technological change and the Department of the Navy's ability to train personnel to use emerging tools. Owen said NPS teams are also traveling to major Navy and Marine Corps hubs to deliver AI 101 and prompt-engineering workshops. He added that the rollout of GenAI.mil and increased access to AI models are enabling NPS students to explore the technology more deeply and deliver new capabilities to the Navy.

Send us a textSalesforce demand dropped 37% in 2024, but the 2026 recovery is already leaving "average" Admins behind. Are you catching the wave, or getting crushed by the coral?In this episode of The Hiring Edge, host Josh Matthews and 27x Certified Architect Scott Stafford break down the "75% Delta of Pain" currently hitting the ecosystem. We move past the Reddit rants and look at the actual data: who is getting hired, who is getting $25k premiums, and why "manual configuration" is a career dead-end.Key Insights for your 2026 Career Plan:The Surfing Strategy: Why you must match the speed of the AI wave before it hits you.The "Jimmy" Trap: How a negative mindset is costing professionals more opportunities than the economy is.The Premium Pivot: Why RevCloud, CPQ, and MuleSoft are the "safe havens" for $150k+ roles right now.AI Orchestration: Moving from "builder" to "architect" in the age of Agentforce.Featured Guest: Scott Stafford, 27x Certified Salesforce Architect.Stop guessing about your career. Listen now to get the 2026 Talent Roadmap.

How can leaders navigate the tension between AI automation and developing core critical human skills? In our latest episode, Lorna Conn, CEO of Cpl, explores the evolution of the global labour market. Managing a workforce of 14,000, Lorna argues that while AI fluency is non-negotiable, the future belongs to those who master "deep human skills"—creativity, compassionate leadership, and critical oversight. Discover why lifelong learning is the ultimate competitive advantage in a tech-enabled world and how forward-thinking companies are upskilling for the AI era.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, KJ sits down with Colin Cooper, CEO and co-founder of Illuminate XR, to explore the massive skills gap threatening our workforce. With over 100 companies under his belt and thousands of global hires, Colin has witnessed firsthand how our 200-year-old education system is failing to prepare people for today's AI-driven world. Discover how immersive technology, emotional intelligence training, and personalized learning are revolutionizing the way humans learn, and why the next few years will determine whether we step into the "age of humanity" or fall behind forever. Four Key Takeaways The Education System Is 200 Years Behind (4:42) Our schools still operate on an industrial-age factory model designed to create compliant workers, not creative thinkers. Classrooms haven't fundamentally changed in over 1,000 years, and curriculum remains rooted in preparing students for a world that no longer exists. Meet Learners Where They Are (7:40)Real learning happens when you reduce cortisol and increase dopamine by connecting education to personal interests. Whether it's tailoring physics lessons to football or basketball, or using horses to teach emotional intelligence, personalization is the key to engagement and retention. AI Should Amplify, Not Replace (20:05) The future isn't about AI replacing teachers or workers—it's about using AI as a personal assistant to handle repetitive tasks. Start by identifying one repetitive task in your job and automate it with AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or Perplexity. We're Living Through 25 Years of Progress Every Year (29:20)The convergence of AI and VR—technologies that shouldn't have merged for another 15-20 years—has compressed innovation timelines. What used to take 10-15 years to bring to market now takes weeks. The next 3-4 years will be transformative, and we have one shot to get it right. Quote of the Show (29:40):"When a year goes by, you normally get one year's worth of progress, but where we're at today, a year goes by and it's like 20 to 25 years of technology growth." – Colin Cooper Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome. Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval Ways to connect with Colin Cooper:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinmbcooper/Company Website: https://illuminatexr.com How to get more Disruption/Interruption: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruptionApple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERERegister NOW for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference coming up HEREIn this episode, Jeff is joined by Mark Elliott, also known as TobaTech on social media. They discuss what drives top technicians to leave their jobs and why it's rarely just about money. TobaTech shares his experiences at his previous shop, describing how the loss of training opportunities and an overwhelming shift in responsibilities led to his decision to move on. They also speak on the importance of investing in staff development, maintaining a supportive shop culture, and recognizing technician contributions beyond financial incentives.Timestamps:00:00 "Why Top Technicians Leave"08:48 "Developing Skills Beyond Expectations"12:50 "Reflections on Trade Expectations"20:40 "Improve Training for Better Sales"21:31 "Questioning Career Fulfillment"26:48 "Amazon Gadget Fail Turns Lesson"35:16 Trusted Technicians and Transitions38:11 Impact of Leadership Departure43:57 "You're Not Family"52:51 Shop Upgrades and Improvements54:15 Truck Vibration Causes & Solutions01:03:30 "Clarifying Misunderstood Podcast Context"01:05:15 "Work-Life Balance Challenges"01:11:44 "Skills Gap and Expectations"01:16:18 "Awkward Reunion with Former Boss"01:21:48 "DBI: Key to Customer Loyalty"01:26:48 "Proving Work Isn't Distracted"01:35:38 "Unfair Performance Bonus Policy"01:37:03 "Navigating Unfair Work Dynamics" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

The marketing teams winning with AI today are not the ones chasing every new model release. They are the ones who found the boring, repetitive tasks their teams hate and automated those first.Nir Pochter, Co-Founder and CMO at Lightricks, joins Stephanie Postles on Marketing Trends to break down what AI actually means for creative workflows and why most teams are still using it wrong.You'll learn:- The "algebra problem" of AI adoption- How to save your design team 80% of their time- Why the gap between marketers who use AI well and those who don't is widening fast.- How to use an LLM scoring system to pre-review documents for you- The dangerous trend of "AI Marketer" job titles- What's really in store for the future of video+AI Key Moments:00:00 — Why AI Hasn't Improved Creative Output Yet02:06 — The Algebra Problem: Tools vs. Knowing How to Use Them07:27 — Nir's Background: AI PhD to Lightricks and FaceTune09:46 — What Used to Take Weeks Now Takes Minutes13:35 — Why Automating Everything Failed Miserably16:38 — Start with What People Hate Doing20:08 — The LLM Scoring System: Nothing Gets Reviewed Without an 8521:43 — Train Your LLM to Be Mean, Not Nice23:32 — Building Custom GPTs with Company Guidelines26:30 — The Pitfall: Using AI to Please Leadership28:47 — From Toys to Tools: Why Text-to-Video Isn't Enough31:05 — Coca-Cola's 70,000 Prompts (Was It Worth It?)34:41 — AI Won't Replace Creatives, But This Will37:04 — The Two Critical Skills: Prompting and Curation37:55 — How AI Multiplies the Skills Gap (7 vs 10 Example)42:47 — What CMOs Should Be Asking Their Teams46:20 — Why "AI Marketer" Is LinkedIn Fluff This episode is brought to you by Lightricks. LTX is the all-in-one creative suite for AI-driven video production; built by Lightricks to take you from idea to final 4K render in one streamlined workspace.Powered by LTX-2, our next-generation creative engine, LTX lets you move faster, collaborate seamlessly, and deliver studio-quality results without compromise. Try it today at ltx.studio Mission.org is a media studio producing content alongside world-class clients. Learn more at mission.org. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

TakeawaysAI skills gap is a significant challenge for organizations.Skilling is essential for adapting to technological changes.Organizations must leverage AI tools to enhance productivity.A growth mindset is crucial for individual and organizational success.Continuous learning is necessary in the tech industry.AI should be seen as a co-pilot, not a replacement.Organizations need to build skilling into their strategic plans.Upskilling current employees is more cost-effective than hiring new talent.Creating a culture of curiosity around AI tools is vital.Formal training and clear AI policies can drive successful adoption.   To learn more, visit cdw.ca Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Rosenbaum from The Conference Board breaks down their AI survey data, with the majority expecting AI to improve their job, but anticipating job losses at their company. He also notes that more than half of leaders think their company lacks a coherent AI strategy. “One of the main challenges is the need to change organizations,” he says. Matt also explains why the AI skills gap is widening.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day. Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/ About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Today we continue discussing how to prepare right now to be a great leader in 2026. Do you have a skills gap heading into the next year that will hold you back? We discuss this idea today and provide practical ways to answer that question.

Chris and Daniel talk with returning guest, Ramin Mohammadi, about how those seeking to get into AI Engineer/ Data Science jobs are expected to come in a mid level engineers (not entry level). They explore this growing gap along with what should (or could) be done in academia to focus on real world skills vs. theoretical knowledge. Featuring:Ramin Mohammadi – LinkedInChris Benson – Website, LinkedIn, Bluesky, GitHub, XDaniel Whitenack – Website, GitHub, XSponsors:Shopify – The commerce platform trusted by millions. From idea to checkout, Shopify gives you everything you need to launch and scale your business—no matter your level of experience. Build beautiful storefronts, market with built-in AI tools, and tap into the platform powering 10% of all U.S. eCommerce. Start your one-dollar trial at shopify.com/practicalaiUpcoming Events: Register for upcoming webinars here!

Jean-Pierre Segers and Jos Duchamps of Brains and Trees emphasize the critical role of learning and development in facility management. They discuss the diverse educational backgrounds of facility managers and stress the need for ongoing training to bridge skill gaps. Highlighting programs by IFMA, such as the Facility Management Professional Program, they underline the importance of combining managerial, technical, and emerging technology skills. They also touch on the impact of regulations and the shifting job market post-COVID. The conversation concludes with a call for lifelong learning and certification to ensure the future success of facility management professionals.00:00 Introduction to Facility Management 00:58 Meet the Experts: Jean Pierre Segers and Jos Duchamps 02:10 The Importance of Training in Facility Management 03:26 Bridging the Skills Gap 06:06 IFMA's Training Programs 07:54 Sustainability and Regulation in Facility Management 08:58 The Evolving Job Market and Lifelong Learning 11:19 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSponsor:This episode is sponsored by ODP Business Solutions! Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

Cloud managed services are experiencing rapid growth, with the market projected to expand from approximately $50.62 billion in 2025 to $120 billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 8.16%. This growth is driven by organizations across various sectors, including finance and healthcare, seeking to enhance their cloud operations and address cybersecurity risks. However, a widening performance gap among managed service providers (MSPs) is evident, as only the most capable firms are capitalizing on this demand. According to Service Leadership data, while the overall profitability of the MSP sector remains strong, not all providers are experiencing equal growth, raising concerns about competitive positioning.Recent surveys indicate that many businesses investing in artificial intelligence (AI) are not seeing financial returns, with only about 2% of Canadian business leaders reporting positive results from their generative AI investments. A study by KPMG highlights that many companies are still in the experimental phase of AI adoption, failing to integrate the technology effectively into their operations. Additionally, a significant skills gap exists among channel partners, with only 26% currently offering advanced network services with integrated AI capabilities. This disconnect between customer expectations and partner capabilities is contributing to the widening gap in performance.Frontline workers express concerns regarding the lack of transparency in AI integration within their workplaces. A survey conducted by Deputy found that while nearly half of workplaces utilize AI, only 25% of workers report regular interaction with it, and many are unaware of its usage. This communication gap can lead to mistrust and confusion among employees, which may hinder successful AI adoption. Despite these concerns, a majority of workers report satisfaction with AI's role in their tasks, indicating potential for positive outcomes if communication improves.For MSPs and IT service leaders, the current landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. The demand for cloud, AI, and managed services is surging, but success will depend on the ability to operationalize these technologies effectively. Providers must focus on enhancing their capabilities, improving communication with clients, and ensuring that they deliver measurable outcomes. As the market differentiates between high performers and those lagging behind, it is crucial for MSPs to adapt and evolve their services to meet the growing expectations of their clients. Three things to know today00:00 Cloud Demand Surges, CEO Priorities Shift, and MSP Performance Splits Into Clear Winners and Laggards05:40 Studies Show AI Investment Outpacing Capability, Leaving Firms Without ROI and Partners Struggling to Deliver10:00 AI Rollout Outpaces Employer Transparency, Creating Worker Confusion and Risk for IT Providers This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://mailprotector.com/mspradio/

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Kyle Smith, HVAC technician and account manager at MK Mechanical, LLC. Kyle shares insights about his new book "Grit, Grind, and Glory in the Trades", written to guide young people considering a future in the trades. He and Gary discuss the growing use of smart tools and predictive maintenance in HVAC, and whether these are being designed for a shrinking workforce. Kyle also talks about his own path in the industry, the decline of traditional college education, and why trades still offer a strong, hands-on career for the next generation. In this episode, Kyle Smith shares why he wrote his book "Grit, Grind, and Glory in the Trades" to help young people understand what it is really like to work in HVAC and other trades. He explains how many skilled workers are retiring without passing down knowledge, and how new tools and AI are changing the job. Kyle and Gary talk about the future of the industry, including predictive maintenance and smart systems. They also discuss the decline of college as the only path to success and how the trades can be a great option for people who like to work with their hands and solve problems in the real world. Expect to Learn: Why Kyle Smith wrote a book to guide new workers in the trades. How AI and smart tools are changing the HVAC industry. Why the trades are still a strong career path for hands-on learners. How predictive maintenance could shape the future of HVAC service. Why college is not the only way to build a successful and rewarding career.   Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Intro to Kyle Smith in Part 1 [01:58] - Why He Wrote the Book: Bridging the Skills Gap [03:21] - Are New Tools & AI Making Up for a Lack of Skill? [05:26] - The Future: AI Diagnostics vs. Technician Know-How [07:24] - Why Core Troubleshooting Skills Will Always Be Essential [13:04] - Will Trade Promotion Actually Attract New People? [19:24] - The Internet Economy vs. Hands-On Trades for the Next Generation   This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!   Follow the Guest Kyle Smith on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-smith-403b998a/ MK Mechanical, LLC: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mk-mechanical-llc/   Website:  MK Mechanical, LLC: https://www.mk-mechanical.com/    Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker have a conversation with Dr. Colin Chesley, associate vice president of the College of Health and Public Services at Daytona State College in Daytona Beach, Florida. They discuss the challenges facing students today in higher education and the challenges presented by AI. Dr. Chesley discusses how IEW has helped his own children and how University-Ready Writing can prepare students for college writing assignments. Referenced Materials Dr. Colin Chesley Daytona State College “The Writing Skills Gap” “Writing Maketh an Exact Man” by Andrew Pudewa Episode 398: Think like Shakespeare, Part 1 University-Ready Writing “Streamlining Research with Unit 6” Transcript of Podcast Episode 502 If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.comPerhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, host Andy Storch sits down with Jamie Albers, co-founder of Mento—a company at the forefront of transforming professional development with performance-based coaching solutions. Jamie shares her journey from Middle Eastern Studies to leading innovative teams at Google and eventually launching Mento, which is redefining coaching by skillfully blending mentorship from real-world operators with data-driven methodologies.Jaime's journey may look intentional in hindsight, but it unfolded through a series of unexpected choices. Originally pursuing Middle Eastern studies in college, Jaime set out in a different direction than most would expect. After graduation, they took a role as an advertising associate at Google during the 2010s—a time when such jobs were often a mix of customer service and ad review, but proved to be a valuable training ground. Grateful for the opportunities at Google, Jaime also seized the chance to participate in a classic “20% project,” further shaping their path. Looking back, every step seems to have fit together as if by destiny, even if it wasn't the plan from the start.Order Own Your Brand, Own Your Career on AmazonApply to Join us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!This episode is sponsored by Mento which offers a unique 80/20 mix of coaching and mentorship so that your people can increase performance and success. This episode is also sponsored by LearnIt, which is offering a FREE trial of their TeamPass membership for you and up to 20 team members of your team. Check it out here.Connect with Andy here: Website | LinkedInConnect with Jamie: LinkedIn: LinkedInKey Topics:1. The Importance of Intentional Career Development2. Transition into Talent Development3. Current and Emerging Trends in Talent Development4. Bridging the Skills Gap and Skills-Based Hiring5. Fostering Collaboration, Knowledge Sharing, and Internal Upskilling6. The Role of Mindset in Adopting New Skills and Technologies7. Coaching and Mentoring: The Mento Model8. Measuring Impact and Return on Investment (ROI) in Coaching & L&D9. The Rise of AI Coaching and Where It's Headed10. Evaluating and Selecting Coaching and L&D SolutionsMentioned in this episode:Check out Learnit! For fantastic on-demand learning, check out learnit.com/hotseatTry Mento for coachingFor coaching with real-world experience, check out Mento.co

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