Monday Market Share: Cybersecurity Jobs

by

Are cybersecurity jobs keeping pace with the rapidly changing world of digital threats? It's a question many professionals in the field are asking. In our latest 'Monday Market Share,' we chat with Recruiting Manager Joel Scott, who sheds light on the current state and future trajectory of careers in cybersecurity. Join us as Joel unravels the intricate dynamics of this critical job market, from global tech hubs to the latest innovations shaping security strategies.

In this interview, Joel answers these key questions about the cybersecurity job sector:

  • What is the current state of the cybersecurity job market?
  • Are there certain regions that stand out as major hubs for cybersecurity job opportunities?
  • What new technologies are currently shaping the future of cybersecurity jobs?

Read on to hear his responses or click on the video below!

How would you describe the current state of the Cybersecurity job market, especially considering the rise in cyberattacks and breaches as of recent?

“There are a lot of questions being asked due to world events when it comes to the cybersecurity job market. I know a lot of the larger companies are starting to acquire smaller companies and startups. Companies are deciding who to acquire based off the software used and if it contains a true platform that can solve their issues. There are so many startups popping up across the globe, which means they need something unique to set them apart from the influx of companies in order to be acquired or become a juggernaut in the space.”

Are there certain regions or countries that stand out as major hubs for Cybersecurity opportunities, either due to tech growth, government initiatives, or increased threats?

“Tel Aviv is arguably the best hub overall as it has the best infrastructure for cybersecurity, especially for companies in the startup phase. That region is the driver of the economy and the conflict happening in that region is affecting the industry severely, as workers are now needed to fight for their country and put aside daily jobs. Silicon Valley, Austin, and Boston are becoming big hubs in the United States, and people suspect there will be an uptick in U.S. cybersecurity jobs due to recent attacks in Israel.”

What new technologies or methodologies are currently shaping the future of Cybersecurity? How are these advancements influencing the types of skills and expertise that companies are looking for in candidates?

“Artificial Intelligence (AI) has turned into the average worker's new imaginary friend. ChatGPT, or “insert whatever processing tool you use” has saved the masses in time and allowed for an increase in productivity. AI has increased cybersecurity threats as it has access to our identity like never before seen. Long gone are the days when something as simple as 'password' could be an effective password, like the one famously used by Michael Scott. This has caused an industry focus to surround identity protection cybersecurity needs.“

Learn more about our Artificial Intelligence (AI) recruiting practice!

“Currently 84% of organizations reported an identity related breech, forcing enhanced identity protection via decentralized biometrics. This includes finger and face passwords that make it impossible to steal identity information without transforming your face to match another as in the movie “Face Off”. Even if someone went through that extreme of measure to steal an identity, they are only able to steal one individual identity and cannot obtain multiple, as is the case with stealing a password. Is it a perfect system? No, but it is a huge improvement in securing your identity.”

Learn more about our Biotech recruiting practice!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Joel Scott's insights reveal the vital importance of cybersecurity jobs in today's world. His perspective helps us understand the industry's key role in addressing global challenges. We've seen the rapid advancement of the field and the escalating need for professionals with specialized cybersecurity skills, offering exciting career opportunities.

At Blue Signal, we are deeply committed to contributing to the growth of this vital industry, supporting both professionals navigating these challenging times and organizations striving for robust digital security. Discover how our expert team can support your hiring endeavors and contribute to your success in the fast-growing cybersecurity sector. Reach out to us today to learn more about our services and how we can address your specific hiring needs.

Learn more about our Cybersecurity recruiting practice!

About Joel Scott

Meet Joel Scott, your ideal cybersecurity recruiting partner. With a laser focus on the world of cybersecurity, Joel brings a wealth of expertise to your talent acquisition needs. His track record in identifying and placing top cybersecurity professionals is unparalleled, making him the ideal choice for businesses looking to strengthen their cybersecurity teams. He's ready to assist with your hiring needs and help you navigate the unique challenges of the cybersecurity job market.

Contact Joel Scott

Partner with us for your next hire.

Set up a free consultation with a recruiting manager. Tell us about your hiring need.

By submitting this form, you consent to receive communications from Blue Signal via phone, email, and conversational SMS. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Visit Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Elevating Your Cybersecurity Career: Top 10 Cybersecurity Certifications to Consider

by

In today’s world, where cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated by the day, choosing the right cybersecurity certifications can significantly boost your career. These aren't just impressive titles; they’re key to standing out in a rapidly growing job market. In fact, the cybersecurity market is expected to grow from $217 billion in 2021 to $345 billion by 2026, showcasing the increasing demand for skilled professionals in this field. Whether you’re looking to climb the career ladder or carve out a niche in cybersecurity, the right certifications can make a world of difference.

Cybersecurity certifications do more than just bolster your resume – they confirm that you possess the sought-after skills and knowledge in this dynamic industry. From mastering system design and legal compliance to excelling in network security monitoring, these certifications provide a comprehensive skill set. They prepare you for various roles, turning you into a highly valued security analyst, engineer, or consultant in a field that's growing faster than ever.

Top 10 Cybersecurity Certifications

GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF)

The GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF) certification is tailored for newcomers to the field of information security. It offers a thorough grounding in the principles of information security, covering essential topics like network defense, encryption, and security management. GISF is perfect for professionals beginning their career journey, providing them with a robust foundation in security concepts and practices.

CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is a foundational cybersecurity certification that enjoys worldwide recognition and respect. It encompasses critical security domains such as threat analysis, network security, and risk management. Professionals holding CompTIA Security+ are well-equipped to handle the challenges of securing networks and systems, making this certification a cornerstone for anyone starting a career in cybersecurity.

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification is aimed at experienced information security professionals. Focusing on security governance, risk management, and incident response, CISM is suited for individuals aspiring to leadership roles in cybersecurity. It prepares professionals for high-level management, strategy, and policy roles, emphasizing the importance of aligning information security programs with broader business goals.

Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

The Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) certification is renowned for its focus on enterprise risk management and control. Unlike the more foundational cybersecurity certifications, the CRISC is highly specialized. It covers topics like IT risk identification, risk response, and mitigation, making it ideal for professionals seeking to advance in the fields of information system control and risk management.

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification is tailored for IT auditors and security professionals. It emphasizes the importance of information system audit, control, and security. This globally recognized cybersecurity certification is a benchmark for professionals in the field, signifying expertise in assessing vulnerabilities, reporting compliance issues, and implementing controls within the enterprise.

List of top cybersecurity certifications

CompTIA PenTest+

CompTIA PenTest+ is a comprehensive certification for penetration testing and vulnerability assessment. The certification covers topics from planning and scoping to analysis and reporting, equipping professionals with the skills required to conduct complete penetration testing and vulnerability management. It is essential for IT professionals looking to specialize in proactive security assessment.

Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate

The Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification is designed for professionals seeking a career in cybersecurity operations and incident response. It focuses on security operations center (SOC) processes and procedures, network intrusion analysis, and incident response techniques. This certification equips individuals with the skills necessary to work in fast-paced environments dealing with cybersecurity incidents, making it a vital credential for those aiming to work in SOCs or similar settings.

EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

The EC-Council's Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is globally recognized in the field of ethical hacking. It equips professionals with comprehensive knowledge of offensive security, a crucial aspect of cybersecurity. CEH-certified professionals understand how to think and act like a hacker (in an ethical way), which is essential for strengthening cybersecurity defenses. This cybersecurity certification covers a wide range of hacking tools, attack vectors, and preventive measures, making it indispensable for cybersecurity professionals focused on penetration testing and network security.

(ISC)² Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

The (ISC)² Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) certification is a globally recognized credential that represents the highest standard for cloud security expertise. It combines knowledge of cybersecurity with cloud computing, making it a valuable certification for IT and cybersecurity professionals working in cloud environments. The CCSP certification demonstrates a deep understanding of cloud security architecture, design, operations, and service orchestration, essential for safeguarding cloud-based assets.

AWS Certified Security – Specialty

The AWS Certified Security – Specialty certification validates an individual's expertise in securing data and applications in the AWS Cloud. This specialized certification is crucial for professionals responsible for securing AWS environments. It focuses on key aspects such as data protection, identity and access management, and security operations in the cloud. Earning this cybersecurity certification demonstrates advanced skills in designing and implementing AWS security features, which is critical for roles in cloud security management.

The High Demand for Cybersecurity Professionals

The demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is continuously growing, with a significant number of job openings annually. Cybersecurity certifications, like CompTIA Security+, can enhance a resume for various roles, including engineers, analysts, and consultants, reflecting the high demand for certified professionals in the field. This burgeoning demand is not just a temporary trend; it's a reflection of the increasingly digital world where cybersecurity is paramount. Organizations across all sectors are recognizing the importance of robust cybersecurity measures, leading to a surge in demand for skilled professionals who can protect digital assets and data from ever-evolving threats.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity certifications are more than just qualifications; they are catalysts for career growth. In a field that is continuously evolving, staying updated through these certifications is essential for anyone aiming to thrive in the industry. These cybersecurity certifications not only bolster one's knowledge and skills, but also demonstrate a commitment to professional development and adaptability in a field that requires constant learning. As cybersecurity challenges grow more complex, the value of these certifications in career progression and job security cannot be overstated.

To explore more about cybersecurity careers and how Blue Signal can assist you, visit our Cybersecurity Recruiting Page. Discover further insights into the broader tech industry on our pages about Information Technology (IT), Emerging Technology, and more.

Meet Our Cybersecurity Recruiting Team

Jordan Lawhead - Vice President

Jordan specializes in recruiting for unified communications, software, and technical sales. He has deep industry experience in UCaaS, cloud, managed IT services, sales, voice/data, and connectivity.

Brent Stokes - Sr. Recruiting Manager

Brent is a Senior Recruiting Manager who runs a full desk in the IT industry. He places candidates in Technology Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Application Development, SAP/ERP, Internet of Things, Embedded Programming, Data, and BI/AI/ML/NLP.

Joel Scott - Recruiting Manager

Joel is a versatile cybersecurity recruitment specialist, adept at securing top talent across various industries including sales, lighting, AI, and IoT, ensuring businesses fortify their cybersecurity teams in an evolving digital landscape.

Christa Jensen - Sr. Executive Recruiter

Christa excels as a recruiter with a focus on IT and cybersecurity, leveraging her background in business communication and management to identify top talent for roles such as CISO, Cybersecurity Architect, and SOC Analyst, while also recruiting in other diverse sectors.

Dori Hutchins - Executive Recruiter

Dori excels in cybersecurity recruitment, leveraging her multi-industry background to swiftly source qualified candidates for key roles such as CIO, CTO, and Network Engineer, while also specializing in IT, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and sales sectors.

The Future of Renewable Energy Jobs

by

Are you equipped for the evolving landscape of renewable energy jobs? Renewable energy is transforming the job market of the future, creating new career opportunities, and shaping the skills and education needed for success. As the world shifts toward a more sustainable energy future, the demand for renewable energy jobs is on the rise. In this blog post, we'll explore the growing importance of clean energy careers, emerging trends in hiring and recruitment, and the top job opportunities in the industry. Whether you're a job seeker or a hiring manager, this blog will give you valuable insights into the ever-evolving renewable energy job market. Read on to discover how you can be a part of shaping the future of energy.

The Growing Demand for Renewable Energy Jobs

Renewable energy jobs statistic

The world is on a mission to reduce emissions, and as a result, a move towards clean energy is to be expected. In fact, the International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that “countries representing over 70% of global emissions today have committed to net zero emissions targets by mid-century.” As we rapidly shift towards renewable energy, the demand for skilled workers to operate and maintain clean energy equipment is on the rise. As reported by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), over 12.7 million people worldwide were employed in the renewable energy sector in 2020-2021, and this number is only expected to grow in the coming years, creating numerous renewable energy jobs. E2's latest report reveals that the renewable energy, energy efficiency and storage, grid modernization, and clean fuels industries employ more than 3.2 million workers in the United States. The IRENA predicts that by 2050, the renewable energy industry could employ as many as 42 million people worldwide, representing a significant share of total global employment. This growth can be largely attributed to government policies and incentives, which are driving investment in renewable energy projects and creating a favorable climate for businesses in the industry. According to the World Economic Forum, with the shift towards cleaner fuels and the inevitable decline in traditional energy sources, the renewable energy jobs sector is set to create new opportunities for skilled workers in the coming years.

Emerging Hiring and Recruitment Trends in Renewable Energy Jobs

As the renewable energy sector continues to gain momentum, hiring managers are facing a number of challenges in finding and retaining qualified candidates. According to Grid Beyond, the industry's relative newness and diversity of job titles and positions makes it difficult to identify and attract qualified candidates. Additionally, they report the demand for renewable energy jobs often exceeds the available supply, resulting in skills gaps that must be addressed. To meet these challenges, organizations need to be proactive in enhancing their talent acquisition strategies. This includes optimizing hiring processes, improving hiring efficiency, and providing training and development opportunities for both new and existing staff.

Moreover, emerging technologies and skills in the clean energy space are becoming increasingly important for organizations to consider when recruiting for renewable energy jobs. Data analytics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity are just a few examples of the cutting-edge skills that will be in demand in the renewable energy sector in the coming years. Partnering with a recruiter who is an expert on the industry trends for the emerging renewable energy space can be beneficial for companies looking to stay ahead of the curve and find the top talent they need to succeed. By staying up to date with these trends and developing comprehensive strategies for talent acquisition and retention, hiring managers can position themselves for success in the competitive renewable energy sector. In conclusion, the renewable energy sector presents both challenges and opportunities, and it is up to hiring managers to proactively address these challenges and leverage emerging trends to attract and retain top talent.

Top Renewable Energy Jobs of the Future

Top renewable energy jobs graphic

The renewable energy industry is expected to see significant growth in the coming years, creating a wide range of promising career paths for job seekers. According to Career Sherpa, some of the top renewable energy jobs of the future include solar photovoltaic installers, wind turbine technicians, energy storage analysts, energy engineers, land acquisition specialists, solar energy technicians, sustainability managers, environmental scientists, and information systems managers. These positions require various levels of education and training, ranging from technical certificates to advanced degrees, and demand skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication. Forbes reports that "Renewable energy jobs are booming across America, creating stable and high-wage employment for blue-collar workers in some of the country’s most fossil fuel-heavy states, just as the coal industry is poised for another downturn." According to the Washington Center for Equitable Growth, "Green jobs tend to be in occupations that are about 21% higher-paying than the average in other industries, with the pay premium being even greater for green jobs with low educational requirements." Although salaries and benefits may differ depending on job type, location, and experience, the demand for renewable energy jobs and the emphasis on sustainability suggest that they will provide competitive compensation and excellent benefits. As the renewable energy sector continues to evolve and expand, these top renewable energy jobs offer exciting opportunities for job seekers to become a part of a fast-growing industry that is helping to create a sustainable future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the renewable energy industry is expecting unprecedented growth, opening new opportunities for job seekers and presenting exciting challenges for hiring managers. As we've seen, the demand for skilled workers in the sector is on the rise, and employers need to be proactive in their hiring and retention strategies to attract and retain top talent for renewable energy jobs. By partnering with a renewable energy recruiter, companies can stay ahead of the curve and find the best candidates for the job. For job seekers, now is the time to explore the many career paths available in the clean energy sector and invest in the education and training needed to succeed. At Blue Signal, we have a team of experienced recruiters who understand the unique challenges and opportunities of the renewable energy industry. Visit our renewable energy recruiting practice web page to learn more about how we can help you achieve your career goals or find the top talent you need to succeed in the industry. Together, we can shape the future of energy and build a sustainable world for generations to come.

Partner with us for your next hire.

Set up a free consultation with a recruiting manager. Tell us about your hiring need.

By submitting this form, you consent to receive communications from Blue Signal via phone, email, and conversational SMS. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Visit Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

8 Questions Successful Managers Ask Before the End of the Year

by

The end of the year is filled with annual performance reviews, P&L reports, end-of-year budget meetings, a never-ending to-do list, and a thousand other holiday errands. As busy as the end of the year wrap up may be, the opportunity of a fresh start and a new strategic perspective on the coming year is something all leaders should take advantage of. That being said, good business strategy cannot be reduced to a quick planning meeting. It is important to prioritize the time to self-reflect and ask yourself the right questions, because the strategy you plan now has a direct and lasting impact on what your next year will look like. Palena Neale emphasizes that it is vital that leaders make time to reflect on the past year in relation to business goals, actions, values, successes and, of course, their "best" failures.

As you sit down to review the last 12 months and begin planning future strategies, it’s common to feel overwhelmed and left asking, “where do I start?” We’ve gathered a list of the top eight questions successful managers ask before the end of the year to ensure you get started on the right track in the year ahead. These questions are designed to zero in on the important things that tend to get overlooked in the holiday haste. As a best practice moving forward, you can also implement opportunities to review and follow up on these questions quarterly. Checking in on these main ideas will lead to a more realistic view of the overall year and in turn be a more productive use of your time.

8 Questions Successful Managers Ask Before the End of the Year

Question #1: How would I Summarize the Year?

Looking back on the entire year can seem daunting but it’s a great first step in your reflection process. Take a step back and review the past year as a whole. How would you summarize the outcome? Check in with the business goals you had set for the year and see what was met and what fell short. Take this time to dive into the overall performance of your team, individual employees, and most importantly, yourself as a manager.

When looking at the overall performance as a team and individual employees, it’s important to remind yourself to humanize the workplace. It’s okay to report on highs and lows of the year and have open conversations around both. Collaborate with your team about next steps and break down the work that comes from it. When evaluating yourself, don’t be afraid to be brutally honest and truly look for areas of improvement. Once you gather your findings in each area, ask yourself what you can learn from each. List out clear takeaways that you can turn into actions items to accomplish in the future.

Question #2: Where was the Majority of My Time and Energy Spent in 2021?

Pull research and look back to find where your time was allocated the most and where it was lacking in the past year. Are these findings sustainable going forward? Do they make sense in relation to your business goals? When looking at how time was spent, try to pinpoint what caused stress and be aware of signs of burnout.

Stress in leadership can lead to more negative effects than just personal wellbeing – businesses in the US suffer a $300 billion loss every year because of workplace stress. Additionally, almost 60% of leaders reported feeling tired at the end of each day, which can be an indication of burnout. One recent survey found that 44% of leaders who felt worn and used up planned to move to a new company in order to advance their careers. When deciding how to disperse your time, remember that when you’re at your personal best, the company can succeed. Inga Bielińska, a coaching and consulting mentor, recommends looking at the coming year’s agenda and planning for family events to participate in, friends’ reunions or routine outings to go to, winter holidays, summer holidays, and regular “me time” to help combat stress.

Question #3: What Areas Can I Take a Step Back From?

According to a recent survey, developing the next generation of leaders is the top challenge for 55% of CEOs. In most cases, taking a step back will create the opportunity to delegate tasks and responsibilities to those who are ready to step up in the company. This allows you to encourage individual growth on your team and it frees up your time for overall business development opportunities. It’s a win-win. Remember it’s your team who has led the company to its success so far. Trust them to take on more responsibility and show you what they can do!

Once you identify areas you are able and willing to delegate, set aside the time and resources you’ll need to properly train the individuals taking them on. Avoid throwing anyone in the deep end and make sure they are confident in their new role and expectations. Additionally, schedule future meetings to follow up on how things are going after team members have had time to settle into those new responsibilities. This will allow them the opportunity to ask questions and will ensure you are both on the same page moving forward.

Question #4: Where am I in My Personal Five-Year Career Plan?

This is the time to be a little selfish. Just as you would evaluate business performance, it’s equally important to conduct personal evaluations. Check-in with yourself and your business goals – more specifically, where you are in your 5-year plan. You can do this by conducting a personal SWOT analysis and looking at it from a technical standpoint. Loren Margolis, from Training & Leadership Success LLC, suggests asking yourself questions such as, "What are my top leadership strengths and weaknesses?", "What are my growth opportunities?", and "What are the internal (mindset) and external (marketplace) threats to my success?"

In the same sense, take this time to revisit your long term goals. When answering these questions, you’ll determine if you’re on track with your goals and certain areas that need more attention. Remember that all goals are works in progress and you can add and adjust them based on where you are today. Once you’ve reflected and updated, you’ll need to develop an actionable plan to continue on the path to meeting those milestones.

Question #5: How is Overall Employee Engagement?

Once you take a look at your personal progression, the next step is to do the same for your team. This starts with evaluating employee engagement. Studies show that 78% of business leaders are focused on improving their engagements with employees. In turn, engaged employees outperform their peers that are not engaged – and overall, companies with high employee engagement are 21% more profitable. A good place to start asking the right questions is during employee performance reviews. G. Riley Mills, from Pinnacle Performance Company, shares that “despite common conceptions about workers receiving performance-based feedback, research shows that they not only want it, but they also want to give it to you. A whopping 65% of workers want more feedback – and that number swells to 80% for younger workers (76% of which also want to give their bosses feedback).”

Before the new year, carve out the necessary amount of time to meet with employees one-on-one to touch base. Take this opportunity to notice anyone starting to show symptoms of burnout, or those who need more of a challenge. Be sure to set the necessary follow ups to discuss next steps and note who will need more attention in the coming year.

Question #6: What Gaps Does the Team Have?

No team is perfectly balanced all the time, especially when the company needs to make changes to stay competitive – and that’s okay. When looking for gaps, it’s easiest to tackle this separately from performance reviews. Individual annual performance reviews are critical, but they don’t give a holistic, big-picture view of a team. Meet as a team and create an open discussion regarding where employees are noticing gaps – be open to feedback.

Once identified, categorize them by priority. Which gaps are the most important to close and which are less urgent? Analyze what it would take to close them, such as incentives for the team to work harder, redistributed duties, improved technology, new hires, or more training. Prioritize which gaps to close based on projects and available resources. Oftentimes this can lead to the realization of necessary budget increases for departments. Going into that discussion with this tangible analysis can help increase chances of approval.

Question #7: What Technology Changes are Around the Corner?

Automation, smart devices, IoT, cloud computing, and other advances are changing the landscape very quickly, even in businesses outside the technology industry. No matter the industry, ask yourself how you will remain innovative in the near future. As remote work has taken off in the past two years due to Covid-19, technology and processes have advanced quickly to meet the communication standards among teams working across the country. Many businesses have identified software, programs, and devices to implement or better utilize for reliable internal communication, streamlining processes, remote work, etc. The innovation of 5G has brought a particular shift in advancing technology we use daily.

More specifically – cybersecurity has proven to be more important every year. It’s crucial to keep teams up to date about what skills they need to stay competitive. Additionally, pay attention to market trends throughout the year – last-minute technology upgrades are never convenient or cheap. After you reflect on these points, you may find it’s time to hire new IT professionals or teams to manage internal technology advancements. Remember that Blue Signal can help!

Question #8: What Would a Successful 2022 Look Like to Me?

After all the self-reflection and input from the team, the last step is to set business goals and intentions for the year. The hardest part of goal-setting is being realistic. Keep in mind – not all dreams should be goals. A great place to start when mapping out your business goals is to ask yourself what will stay the same, what will change, and how. All of these answers should lead to insightful follow up questions and provide you with the necessary steps needed to plan for success.

When setting these intentions, it’s important to focus on hard numbers and actionable projects. In turn, this helps outline expectations and clearly communicates what considers a goal complete. The best goals have benchmarks and key performance indicators to measure success along the way. A great tip is to dig up your previous business goals - not just from this last year, but 3-5 years back - and look for trends. Look for similar, overly ambitious goals you tend to make year after year and decide how to make them more achievable or choose to scrap them altogether. If you find yourself getting stuck and unsure of what’s important, ask your team for input! This will ensure all department’s individual business goals are represented in some way when it comes to the company’s future plans.

Once you’ve settled on your goals – memorize them. Throughout the year you should be able to clearly visualize what you’re going to accomplish – almost manifesting the outcome. Share company business goals with your team as well and remind them to refer back to them often.

In the busy month of December, it is easy to get buried in small tasks and miss critical opportunities to get ahead in the coming year. Optimizing these questions can help you stay organized and zero in on important business goals and action items to take. When reflecting, remember to celebrate the wins as a team and try not to tread on the goals you didn’t hit. A new year is the perfect opportunity to clean the slate and start fresh with an ambitious mindset. Alexsys Thompson, from Alexsys Thompson Intl., states that “as a leader reviews the wins and losses of the previous year, it is powerful to revisit the wins that were experienced, and acknowledging the misses through story will help ensure lessons are taken forward as valuable learning experiences.”

As you build out your 2022 strategy, remember Blue Signal can be a vital resource! Our seasoned recruiters can partner with you to help answer these questions and deliver action items related to hiring to hit your business goals in the year to come. Contact our qualified team of recruiters to learn more about the wide range of services we offer.

Top IoT Industry Trends of Q1 2017

by


The Internet of Things has enjoyed top buzzword status for a while now, but the technology has made steady strides away from the hype and towards a tangible, profitable reality. Here are the top trends of IoT since the start of 2017:

1. 3GPP Standardization of NB-IoT (Narrow-Band IoT) for LPWAN

NB-IoT technology took a leap forward last month when Cisco and Optus announced at Barcelona’s MWC they have completed live trials of NB-IoT technology on the Cisco Jasper platform. Most new connected devices are expected to launch on an LPWAN (Low Power Wireless Access Network) platform, especially inexpensive devices that use low levels of power and large ranges (smart umbrellas and toasters, for example).

NB-IoT is shorthand for Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT, also called LTE-M2). It is a radio technology standardization proposal developed by Huawei, Ericsson, Qualcomm, Vodafone, and other telecom heavy hitters. The Internet of Things is made up of hugely diverse smart devices—from airplanes to bracelets. To improve interoperability, NB-IoT was designed to allow many different types of devices and connectivity services to connect over cellular telecom bands—not just smartphones and tablets. Read more about NB-IoT here.

 

2. Connected Cars & Self-Driving Technology

CES 2017 was dominated by connected cars and related self-driving technology, with over 1000 exhibitors featured vehicle technologies or accessories. Tesla investors worried last year that self-driving technology would take a nosedive after one of their test drivers was killed last year in a fatal crash. However, commercial and private interest has grown by leaps and bounds. Uber got an early lead in the driverless tech race when it began testing driverless cars late last year in Phoenix, Pittsburgh, and San Francisco. Despite setbacks when a driverless car crashed in Arizona this month, the program is back on track. Google, Ford, and GM have also been testing self-driving technology in the United States.

Uber Self-Driving Car

Image credit: Business Insider

 

Intel is the biggest newcomer to the driverless technology arena. In a $15 billion deal on March 14, it purchased Mobileye, an OEM for driverless vehicle sensors and cameras. Uber’s driverless vehicles use a sophisticated combination of roof-mounted LiDAR sensors and color cameras to interpret the road. Intel is expected to scale similar digital vision technology components to sell to automakers that cannot make the huge investment necessary to develop the technology in-house.

CES 2017 Divergent 3D Connected Car

Image: At CES 2017, Divergent 3D unveiled the Blade, a 3D-printed connected car.

 

In the connected car software arena, AT&T boasts that it already connects 11 million cars on its network. Cisco’s Jasper IoT software now supports 50 vehicle brands, including Honda’s proprietary MyHonda Connected Car platform. Cisco has had many wins in the IoT arena with its Jasper platform, releasing smart solutions for fleet management, connected buildings, industrial equipment, and more. Over 9000 companies and 40 million smart devices run on Jasper’s Control Center software, with millions of devices being added every month.

 

5G Advancements

At Mobile World Congress 2017, South Korean carrier KT announced that it will have the world’s first commercially viable 5G network by 2019. While this is many years away from reality, many service providers are shifting discussions away from features to talk about standardization opportunities. Without a concerted standardization effort, 5G will likely take much longer to launch and be slower to grow once it does.

Ericsson recently launched its “5G for India” program to conduct 5G testing and ecosystem development in India. Many governments are considering their options for modernizing infrastructure to prepare for 5G, including China, the UK, and Thailand. Any country that gets an early lead in 5G availability will likely enjoy an economic leg-up over less connected countries. The challenge is that many infrastructure must be built from scratch, especially in countries with large rural areas.

 

IoT Security

Due to last October’s massive DDoS attack that used IoT device back doors to cause massive service outages, security is a top priority in the IoT space. Authentication and device-specific security are improving, but Sanjay Khatri, director of product marketing for IoT Services at Cisco, says that IoT security “takes a village.” If the network is secure but hackers can penetrate the device itself, the security chain has failed. Security is necessary at every link of the IoT value chain.

Information security is an escalation war, and providers at all levels are racing to protect IoT devices and applications against digital attacks. One of the most important IoT security measures already in use is REST-based APIs, which protects the movement of data between devices, applications, and back-end systems. Many device manufacturers are building two-step or even three-step authentication features into their devices. Instead of a single password, many connected things use biometrics (like a fingerprint) or digital certificates in addition to passwords and PINs. Beyond the device layer, cloud platforms like Cisco Jasper rout the data through VPN tunnels to prevent DDoS and similar network-wide outage attacks.

 

Have a hiring need or questions about the IoT industry? Contact us for a free consultation at info@bluesignal.com.


The War on Cybersecurity

by

Cybersecurity risks pose the most serious economic and national security challenges of the 21st century. The importance stems from businesses’ inability to fight back in the cyber war. They are simply ill-equipped.

Recent breaches, including the “Russian Yahoo” login breach, disclosures of NSA surveillance, and the widely publicized hacking of retail stores like Sony, Scottrade and Target have catapulted the high-profile discussion of online security on a global scale.

Cybersecurity - cyber war

2016 Internet Security Threat Report, Symantec (Graphic: Symantec). View the full Smart News release here.)

Attitudes about privacy, security and identity form the opinions on social trust. Former CIA Director Michael Hayden pointed out that, “Rarely has something been so important and so talked about with less and less clarity and less apparent understanding.”

The centrality of computers to our lives is almost impossible to comprehend. As of July 2016, there are over 4.75 billion webpages. The internet is no longer limited to compiling and sending information online. We are living in a new digital era. In this very short history in computers, we have reached a defining point. Just as the upside of technology is expanding every day, so too is the risk.

Every single second, 9 new pieces of malware are discovered. Half a billion personal records were stolen or lost in 2015. Cybersecurity breaches with more than 10 million identities exposed have increased by 125% since 2014, and 97% of Fortune 500 companies report at least one hacking. More than 100 different nations have created some kind of cyber military command.

A recent poll by Pew found that Americans fear cyber attacks more than Iranian and North Korean nuclear weapons, climate change, the rise of authoritarianism in China and Russia. This has led to a massive industry, arguable the fastest growing in the world.

Here at Blue Signal, we have built relationships with the people who are collaboratively developing the next-generation solutions to combat the cyber war around the globe. Doing it together takes knowledge and understanding. We know the experts and innovators who will come up with the next generation security solutions. There is no better time to invest in information security safeguards to protect sensitive company and client information.

 

Contact us at info@bluesignal.com to discuss your cybersecurity needs with a specialized recruiter.