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Preparing Today’s IT Professional for Tomorrow’s Challenges

By Robert Craig, Executive Vice President and Co-Founder, Indigo IT

There is no doubt that the information technology (IT) industry is increasingly dynamic. From
rapidly evolving technologies to heightened security threats, today’s information security
landscape demands highly skilled IT professionals who continuously develop their skills.
Because attacks against information technology assets are becoming more brazen and
destructive, it’s essential for IT solution companies to not only assemble teams of highly skilled
professionals, but to also provide a corporate environment that encourages on-going training
and professional development. This way IT companies are maximizing their existing human
resources, and are attractive to the next wave of available talent.

IT professionals need to possess an arsenal of knowledge to defend and reduce system
vulnerabilities. In order to secure and maintain the enterprise IT infrastructures in this
environment, companies must make an investment in their employees. By creating an
atmosphere that both challenges individuals and is conducive to professional development,
employees will be better equipped to look beyond today’s attacks and prepare for tomorrow’s
challenges.

At Indigo IT, we cultivate professional development through a program known as the Indigo IT
Service Delivery Academy (SDA). The SDA provides a roadmap to guide employees through
various levels of IT expertise. By honing in on every individual’s potential for success, we help
our employees challenge themselves to be consummate learners and advance professionally.
With an environment focused on growth and education, our employees are driven to leverage
their capabilities, achieve up to date industry certifications, and bolster their skill set through
educational courses. This framework brings value not only to our business, but also provides
our employees with the opportunity to gain experience outside of their contract portfolio.

Components of a Successful Professional Development Program:

Continuing Education and Training Programs
Certifications provide a tangible scale of an employee’s level of expertise. While it’s true that
certifications are defined as a professional’s mastery of existing systems, communities of
practice and continuing education provide the direction for professionals to think critically and
innovatively when tackling future complexities. Even professionals with the highest ranks can
benefit from a program that offers technical training. By providing access to the certifications as
well as technical training courses, employees will be well rounded, and better prepared to solve
unpredictable situations.

42 Cyber Warnings E-Magazine – March 2015 Edition
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