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Carolyn and Seth give their impressions on the hottest topic in technology—AI. Using new research on business viewpoints and adoption, the discussion touches on the changing definition of AI and the way that organizations are likely to implement AI as part of broader solutions. Then the two talk about the challenges companies face as they accelerate their adoption and the skill gaps that need to be closed for the workforce of the future.

Carolyn and Seth talk with Bob Coppedge from Simplex IT as they continue the discussion around CompTIA's State of the Channel research study. In this episode, the group talks about the need for channel firms to assess and improve their basic business acumen. While most of the focus in channel business development is placed on vendor/distributor relationships and technology portfolio management, there is a growing demand for improved skills around topics such as finances and HR as the industry matures and grows.

Carolyn and Seth review CompTIA's latest State of the Channel research. This annual study looks at the dynamic ecosystem of the IT channel, where the changes have repercussions for both technology firms and technology professionals. Looking at this year's study, the discussion touches on the way that tech complexity is driving optimism in the tech industry and the downstream effects of building business models around services rather than products.State of the Channel 2024 (requires CompTIA member login): https://connect.comptia.org/content/2024-state-of-the-channel

Carolyn and Seth welcome back Amy Carrado, CompTIA's senior director of workforce and internal research, to talk about the latest trends among job seekers. CompTIA's latest research continues a multi-year study on attitudes and challenges of people looking for a new career. The group talks about changing perceptions of the job market, the different motivations based on industry, and the future of AI in the job hunt.Job Seeker Trends research report: https://www.comptia.org/content/research/job-seeker-trends/

Carolyn and Seth talk about the challenges facing organizations as they deal with changing generational dynamics in the workforce. Most of the attention in recent years has been on the behaviors and preferences of younger workers as they enter the workforce, but there is an equally significant shift taking place with older workers. As people are living longer and changing their expectations around aging, they are also changing their expectations around later stages of a career. Organizations need to consider how to manage and leverage these workers and their experience, and they should also consider how to think about this cohort in their customer base.

Carolyn and Seth welcome Brad Chamberlain, who teaches technology courses at Maricopa High school in Arizona and oversees a student-led business called 24PinTech. Brad discusses the current challenges and opportunities in preparing students for success in technology careers and every other career which requires some tech fluency. Building a foundation of knowledge around technology systems and cybersecurity is critical, and certifications are a must-have for students who want to pursue a career in a technology field.24PinTech website (https://24pin.tech/)