Tech Connects

Kicking off a new season of Tech Connects, our new host Paul Farnsworth sits down with Amy Thibodeau, Chief Design Officer at Gusto, a platform that helps over 400,000 small businesses manage payroll, benefits, and HR functions. Amy leads product design, user research, content design, and brand design teams, giving her a comprehensive view of how AI is reshaping creative work across organizations.We explore how AI is transforming design and creative roles—not by replacing human designers, but by accelerating workflows and blurring traditional job boundaries. Amy explains how AI serves as a "sidekick" that handles time-consuming tasks like research transcription and theme analysis, while enabling designers to focus on higher-value creative work. She discusses the emergence of "design engineers" and why traditional career swim lanes are disappearing as collaboration becomes more fluid.Here are some quick takeaways from this discussion for tech professionals navigating AI's impact on creative and collaborative work:Embrace AI as a Workflow Accelerator, Not a Replacement: AI excels at handling tedious, non-creative tasks like transcribing user research, analyzing themes, and creating rapid prototypes. This frees up human creative energy for problem-solving, customer empathy, and strategic thinking. Focus on identifying which parts of your workflow can be automated versus which require human insight and creativity.Develop Cross-Functional Skills to Stay Relevant: Traditional role boundaries are dissolving as AI tools make it easier for designers to code, product managers to prototype, and teams to collaborate more fluidly. Invest in learning complementary skills outside your primary discipline—whether that's basic coding, research methods, or business strategy—to increase your versatility and value.Prioritize Curiosity and Adaptability Over Credentials: When hiring or developing your career, demonstrate active engagement with new tools and approaches rather than relying solely on traditional qualifications. The pace of change means that specific tool expertise becomes obsolete quickly, but curiosity, learning agility, and willingness to experiment remain valuable across technological shifts.Cultivate "Taste" and Customer-Centric Judgment: As AI democratizes creation, the ability to distinguish good work from mediocre output becomes increasingly valuable. Develop deep empathy for end users, understand business context, and build the judgment to evaluate whether AI-generated work truly solves customer problems. This human discernment represents a sustainable competitive advantage in an AI-abundant world.There was a lot more in this episode, of course, so listen in. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find and hire the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for tech pros, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our guest on 'Tech Connects' is Scott Brighton, CEO of Bonterra, a software company focused on social good that helps nonprofits raise money, manage donor relationships, and report on impact outcomes while connecting them with funders looking to give money away.We explore how AI is transforming the nonprofit sector—an area where efficiency demands are actually more intense than in for-profit companies. Scott explains how nonprofits operate under extreme constraints and why agentic AI represents a crucial breakthrough for organizations that can't afford additional staff but desperately need expanded capacity.Here are some quick takeaways from this discussion for tech professionals working with AI or considering nonprofit sector applications:Recognize Efficiency Imperatives in Mission-Driven Organizations: Nonprofits typically operate with just 20% overhead—equivalent to an 80% profit margin in for-profit terms. This creates urgent need for AI solutions that amplify human capacity rather than simply optimizing existing processes. Understanding these extreme efficiency requirements can inform how you design and implement AI systems for resource-constrained organizations.Focus on Agentic AI for Capacity Amplification: The future lies in agentic AI systems that handle complete workflows independently, like researching and writing grant applications or managing donor relationships across multiple channels. These systems essentially create "new team members" for organizations that can't hire additional staff, representing a shift from task automation to organizational capacity expansion.Address Data Challenges Through Strategic Partnerships: Smaller organizations often lack robust datasets needed for effective AI implementation. Rather than building from scratch, partnering with platforms that aggregate data across many similar organizations can provide immediate value while allowing entities to build their own datasets over time. Consider collaborative approaches to unlock AI benefits for traditionally underserved sectors.Champion Transparent and Ethical AI Implementation: Organizations focused on social good are particularly concerned about AI transparency and bias removal due to their mission-driven nature and lower technical sophistication. Developing AI solutions that prioritize explainability and ethical considerations from the ground up will become increasingly valuable as AI adoption spreads to sectors where trust and transparency are paramount.There was a lot more in this episode, of course, so listen in. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find and hire the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for tech pros, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our guest on 'Tech Connects' is Dr. Rebecca Swift, Senior Vice President of Creative at Getty Images, which provides licensed visual content to businesses worldwide. Rebecca oversees Getty's creative team that works with photographers, filmmakers, and visual researchers to understand market trends and guide their community of over half a billion creators.We explore how AI-generated imagery is reshaping visual content and what this means for tech professionals and creative businesses. Rebecca shares insights about the rapid shift in public perception of AI content, legal challenges, and how the creative industry is adapting.Here are some quick takeaways from this discussion for tech professionals working with visual content or AI tools:Understand the Trust Factor in AI Content: Consumer excitement about AI imagery has shifted to widespread distrust due to deepfakes and misleading content. Trust is fundamental to brand relationships, so factor consumer sentiment into AI content decisions. Many consumers now prefer verified authentic imagery over AI-generated alternatives.Navigate the Legal Complexities: AI-generated images can't be copyrighted, only prompts can be protected. Many AI tools use web-scraped content without proper licensing, creating IP infringement risks. Work with services that provide legal safeguards rather than open-source tools that may expose your organization to liability.Use AI for Modification, Not Pure Generation: AI excels at modifying existing content and creating iterations for marketing campaigns rather than generating entirely new authentic imagery. Becoming skilled at AI prompting requires significant time investment and is a distinct skill from traditional creative work.Leverage Authenticity as Competitive Advantage: As AI content becomes common, there's growing demand for authentic, locally-sourced content that captures current realities missing from AI training datasets. Areas like remote work culture and sustainability present opportunities for genuine human creativity.There was a lot more in this episode, of course, so listen in. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find and hire the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for tech pros, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our next guest on 'Tech Connects' is Harry Wang, Chief Growth Officer at Sonar, a Geneva-headquartered company that's been helping developers build better, safer software faster for 16 years. Sonar serves over 7 million developers worldwide by providing insights on code quality, vulnerabilities, and security directly in developers' workflows. With AI-driven coding becoming increasingly prevalent across organizations, I wanted to talk with Harry about how companies can effectively integrate these powerful tools while maintaining security and governance standards. At the same time, I was curious to explore how AI is reshaping the very nature of software development roles and what that means for engineers at every level.Here are some quick takeaways from this discussion for any tech professionals navigating AI integration in their organizations:Start with Pilot Projects and Gather Comprehensive Feedback: Don't roll out AI tools to everyone at once. Instead, test different AI coding tools with small groups first. Get feedback from developers about what helps them work better, and ask your security team about potential risks. Run these tests for a few months to really understand what works and what doesn't before making bigger decisions about which tools to use company-wide.Cultivate AI Champions from Multiple Organizational Levels: AI adoption happens in different ways across your organization. Some developers will experiment with tools on their own, while management might run formal tests, and executives might push for company-wide AI strategies. Recognize that AI advocates come from all levels and backgrounds, so work with whoever is enthusiastic about these tools to help spread adoption throughout your company.Invest in Tailored Training and Prompt Engineering Skills: Help your team get better at using AI tools effectively. This means learning how to ask AI the right questions to get useful answers, sharing successful approaches with teammates, and providing formal training through online courses or internal workshops. Think of it as building up your team's ability to work well with AI, just like any other skill.Embrace AI as Career Augmentation, Not Replacement: Instead of worrying that AI will take your job, use it to do more interesting work. AI can handle boring coding tasks, write tests, and complete routine functions, which frees you up to focus on bigger picture problems like system design and architecture. This is actually an opportunity to level up your role and work on the strategic challenges you've always wanted to tackle.Implement Robust Governance and Security Oversight: As more people in your company use AI coding tools—including non-technical staff—you need clear rules and safety checks. AI can make mistakes, suggest risky code, or import dangerous third-party libraries. Make sure you have tools and processes in place to catch these problems, and keep humans involved in reviewing and approving AI-generated code.There was a lot more in that chat, of course, so give it another listen if you feel so inclined. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for tech pros, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our next guest on 'Tech Connects' is Eric Wang, VP of AI at Turnitin, which provides tools to academic institutions for everything from course assessment to academic integrity. For example, they have a platform that detects the use of AI in students' papers. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are having a huge impact right now on how students learn and educators teach, and I wanted to talk with Eric about how the education industry is navigating these changes. At the same time, I also wanted to dig a bit into how AI is changing the very nature of education, training, and ultimately work itself. Here are some quick takeaways from this discussion for any tech professionals interested in how AI will impact training, education, and work both in the near- and long-term.Embrace AI as a Tool, Understand Its Nuances: As a tech professional, recognize that AI is a powerful and transformative tool, not an inherent threat. Understand its capabilities and limitations, particularly the distinction between AI's human-like abilities and uniquely human traits like creativity and genuine connection. Focus on how AI can augment your work and learning, but also identify areas where human ingenuity and critical thinking remain paramount. Be prepared to navigate the evolving landscape of AI integration in your field and advocate for ethical and productive use.Acknowledge and Address User Anxiety Around AI: Be aware that the adoption of AI can generate significant anxiety, even among those who stand to benefit. This is particularly true for individuals early in their careers or those facing substantial shifts in established workflows. As a tech professional, you have a role in fostering understanding and trust around AI. This involves clear communication about its purpose and limitations, establishing guidelines for its ethical use, and supporting those who may feel uncertain about its impact on their roles and future prospects.Cultivate "Human-Centric" Skills in an AI-Driven World: Recognize that the increasing capabilities of AI in handling routine and even complex tasks will elevate the importance of uniquely human skills. Focus on developing your creative intuition, problem-solving abilities, and capacity for collaboration and communication. The future of tech will likely favor those who can define problems, envision innovative solutions, and lead teams (which may include AI agents) effectively. Prioritize continuous learning in areas that complement AI's strengths.Contribute to the Development of Responsible AI Integration: As a tech professional, your expertise is crucial in shaping the responsible integration of AI. This includes building tools that promote transparency and understanding of AI's role in various processes, such as learning and assessment. Consider how AI can be used to augment human capabilities, automate tedious tasks, and provide valuable insights without replacing human judgment entirely. Advocate for and contribute to the development of frameworks and best practices that ensure AI is used ethically, effectively, and in a way that fosters trust and positive outcomes across industries.There was a lot more in that chat, of course, so give it another listen if you feel so inclined. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for tech pros, the best place to grow your tech career.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello, and welcome to Tech Connects, Dice's podcast where we dig into the topics on tech hiring, recruiting and careers that matter to you. I'm your host, Nick Kolakowski, and today we're going to be talking about learning and development with Becky Wallace, head of people at LearnUpon. As we’ll get into, LearnUpon builds tools for employee training and learning. I wanted to talk to Becky because she’s been involved in HR and tech for quite some time, including stints at Yahoo and Etsy, and she has incredible insight into how learning and development programs can impact everything from employee morale to retention. Given how tech companies everywhere seem to be wrestling with exactly those issues, it’s critical to have this discussion.Here are some quick additional takeaways:When it comes to learning and development, consider management and specialist tracks: Not all talented tech professionals are best suited for people management. To retain specialists and maximize their expertise, companies must create clear, alternative growth paths, such as distinguished engineer or principal specialist roles. These paths should offer increasing responsibility, complexity, and compensation without requiring individuals to oversee teams. Managers should work with their team members to identify these diverse avenues for advancement, and then implement the right training and learning support.Integrate learning directly into the daily work environment—and make it practical: Managers should recognize that finding dedicated time for employee learning outside of core responsibilities is a major barrier. Companies and managers should explore ways to embed learning within the workflow itself. This could involve encouraging on-the-job learning. Remember: collaboration, tackling new challenges, and even participating in meetings are learning opportunities. Consider piloting new learning initiatives with smaller teams first to refine them based on real-world feedback before a broader rollout, ensuring the learning is relevant and applicable to employees' day-to-day tasks.Link learning to tangible business outcomes: For companies, it’s critical to move beyond viewing learning and development (or L&D, as some like to call it) as merely a cost center. What does this mean from a management perspective? It means framing L&D initiatives as essential investments by mapping how training activities contribute to achieving key business objectives. You can also use data to demonstrate impact, tracking metrics such as employee retention rates (especially reasons for leaving), engagement survey results, productivity improvements, and successful internal mobility. Foster a visible culture of continuous learning: A true learning culture is more than just making resources available. It's about a company’s leadership demonstrating a commitment to development and embedding it into the organizational DNA. Senior management and HR should align learning programs with overarching business goals and HR strategy, perhaps even incorporating competencies and skills development into company-wide objectives (like OKRs). In that spirit, it’s critical to regularly check in on progress, communicate successes, and visibly champion learning initiatives. This consistent practice shows employees that learning is a valued priority, encouraging them to actively engage in their own development and contributing to a more resilient and innovative workforce.`There was a lot more in that discussion, of course, so give it another listen if you feel so inclined. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for tech pros, the best place to grow your tech career.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our next guest on ‘Tech Connects’ is Kara Sprague, CEO of HackerOne. With over two decades of experience as a tech leader, Kara has held significant roles at F5, McKinsey, Oracle, and Hewlett-Packard, culminating in her current leadership at HackerOne. She also served on the board of Girls Who Code, a nonprofit dedicated to achieving gender parity in technology jobs.Given that background, she brings a unique perspective on the intersection of technology, leadership, and diversity, and I wanted to talk with her about the idea that diversity and meritocracy are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary forces for organizational success. Given the ongoing discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion in the U.S., her insights on achieving top business results through diverse teams make for a fascinating interview. Let’s jump in!Here are some quick takeaways from this discussion:·     Progress in Achieving Gender Parity Remains Incremental: While awareness and discourse regarding diversity in technology have increased, statistical progress in achieving gender parity has been slow. Graduating rates of women in STEM fields and their representation in technical workforces, particularly in executive roles, have shown limited improvement. Organizations must recognize that achieving meaningful change requires sustained, long-term commitment and systematic efforts to address underlying barriers.·     Diversity is a Catalyst for Enhanced Performance: Research consistently demonstrates that diverse teams exhibit superior performance due to varied perspectives, reduced cognitive biases, and diverse problem-solving approaches. Companies should prioritize building diverse teams to enhance productivity and creativity. Furthermore, they should develop methods to measure the impact of diversity initiatives, recognizing that improvements may not be immediately quantifiable but will yield significant long-term benefits.·     Navigating the Dual Nature of AI in Cybersecurity is Critical: The advancement of AI presents both opportunities and challenges in cybersecurity. While AI tools can augment cyberattacks, they are also essential for defenders to scale their impact and address the cybersecurity talent gap. Organizations must be cognizant of the potential for AI tools to perpetuate biases and ensure that human oversight and discernment are maintained in their application, particularly in recruitment and talent management.·     Implementing Systemic Changes to Foster Inclusion is also Important: To support women aspiring to leadership roles and to create inclusive environments, companies must adopt systemic changes. This includes removing bias from recruitment, evaluation, and promotion processes, and establishing programs that foster a sense of belonging. The selection of AI tools should prioritize those with reduced bias, and organizations should move beyond mere rhetoric to implement concrete, measurable actions that promote diversity and inclusion at all levels.There was a lot more in that discussion, of course, so give it another listen if you feel so inclined. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for technologists, the best place to grow your tech career.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our next guest on ‘Tech Connects’ is Paul Farnsworth, who’s president of Dice. I wanted to talk to Paul because he’s had a long career in tech as a specialist and a manager. He’s overseen huge teams, worked on complex projects, and deeply understands the tech industry. With that in mind, I wanted to ask him about the current tech landscape, and how he thinks tech pros can best prepare themselves to meet the current moment. Let’s listen in! No matter what your position in the tech industry, or your career goals, I feel Paul offered some crucial advice. Here are the quick takeaways:·     First, Choose Your Path Wisely… and Stay Updated: As your tech career progresses, you'll likely face a choice between deep technical specialization and moving into management. Both require continuous learning. If you lean towards the technical side, make it a priority to explore and master emerging technologies like AI to remain relevant. Don't overlook the value of older, established technologies where expertise is becoming scarce, though be mindful of potential limitations in career flexibility. Regardless of your chosen path, actively cultivate your networking skills – they are universally valuable.·     Second, Managers Should Prioritize Business and People Skills: If you're on or aspiring to a management role, the focus shifts from solely technical prowess to understanding and driving business objectives. Develop strong soft skills: make sound decisions aligned with business needs, master negotiation (especially around project constraints), and hone your presentation abilities to effectively communicate with diverse audiences. While your technical background is valuable, your ability to lead, collaborate, and prioritize business outcomes will be key to your success.·     Third, It’s Critical to Network Strategically and Consistently: Building a strong professional network is vital for career growth, particularly for those early in their careers. Start by connecting with colleagues within your current organization. Crucially, maintain relationships with past colleagues as they move on to new roles – these connections can open future doors. Expand your reach by tapping into your network's connections. Make an effort to stay in touch regularly, even when you don't need something, and consider participating in local tech meetups to build in-person relationships and enhance your communication skills.·     Fourth, It’s also Critical to Embrace Change and Demonstrate Value: The tech industry is constantly evolving, especially with the rise of AI. Be adaptable and maintain a curious mindset, continuously exploring new technologies. Focus on understanding how these changes can bring tangible benefits to your business – either by increasing revenue or improving efficiency. By aligning your skills with these business drivers and demonstrating your ability to contribute to these outcomes, you will remain a valuable asset. Remember that while technical expertise is important, being a collaborative and effective team player is equally crucial for long-term success.There was a lot more in that discussion, of course, so give it another listen if you feel so inclined. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for technologists, the best place to grow your tech career.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On our next episode of ‘Tech Connects,’ we’re talking to two guests about a new report that dives deep into tech workplace and culture, especially as it relates to crucial issues such as age and gender.Here’s our lineup for today. There’s Pam Nigro, who’s VP, security/security officer at Medecision, and an ISACA board director. There’s also Anna Murray, who’s founder, president and lead consultant of emedia, a SheLeadsTech Advisory Council member, and co-founder of a tech startup in the secure information exchange space called SIX3R0. In addition to their tech experience, both have insights into the experiences of women in the tech space.Pam and Anna are going to walk me through the ISACA’s recent Tech Workplace and Culture 2025 survey report, which revealed how much tech pros prize life-work balance, how only 22 percent have a mentor despite a majority wanting one, and how 37 percent of women in tech have experienced gender discrimination at work, versus nine percent of men. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the current state of tech, so let’s jump in!Here are some takeaways from our discussion: ·     Foster Community and Emphasize Problem-Solving: If you’re a manager, you need to cultivate a strong sense of community and collaboration within technology teams, as this significantly contributes to employee retention. That means highlighting the intellectual challenges and opportunities for problem-solving inherent in tech roles, as these are key motivators for many tech pros.·     Prioritize Mentorship and Sponsorship, and Understand Their Differences: For companies, it’s critical to recognize the importance of both mentorship and sponsorship in career development. Everyone needs to understand that mentorship involves guidance, while sponsorship entails actively advocating for and opening doors for individuals. As managers, you should aim to create opportunities for organic mentorship connections and consider implementing structured programs within organizations.·     Address Job Churn and Create Diverse Career Paths: It’s important to acknowledge that younger professionals often seek rapid career advancement and may leave jobs due to boredom. Companies should offer engaging projects and establish clear career pathways, including options for those who excel as individual contributors.·     Promote Inclusive Practices to Combat Discrimination: It’s critical for everyone in tech to actively work to eliminate gender discrimination through awareness and inclusive leadership. That also means implementing unconscious bias training, encouraging a culture where all contributions are valued and credited, and advocating for diverse hiring practices.We hope this episode has helped you with some new insights into mentorship, inclusion within the tech industry, and more. We'll see you next time-and remember, we are your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for technologists, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our guest today is James Raybould, who’s Head of Turing Intelligence at Turing, a company building AI solutions for a variety of organizations. In addition, Turing also helps clients train large language models, or LLMs, which power the chatbots that millions of people use every day. James’s team leverages the latest research to build AI systems that help businesses transform. If there’s one thing we can say about the digital revolution these days, it’s on steroids thanks to AI.I really wanted to talk to James because of his fascinating insights into how companies are adopting AI, the kinds of AI skills that tech professionals might need to succeed in this rapidly changing world, and the future of AI itself, which will include things like software agents working in sync to help humans accomplish their daily tasks.Here are some quick takeaways as you think through the best ways to deploy AI within your own organization:Prioritize Problem-Solving Over Tech Adoption: Don't rush to integrate AI simply because it's the latest trend. Before implementing any AI solution, clearly define the specific business problem you're trying to solve. Conduct thorough workflow analyses and understand the desired outcomes. This strategic approach ensures AI is used effectively and avoids wasted resources on unnecessary integrations. Focus on the customer in approach, not the technology out approach. Sometimes, the best solution won't involve AI at all.Continuously Upskill and Adapt to Evolving AI Landscapes: Recognize that the tech industry has a diverse range of AI proficiency. Whether you're a seasoned developer or a newcomer, commit to continuous learning. Stay updated on the latest AI tools, methodologies, and advancements. Be prepared to adapt your skills and knowledge as the AI landscape evolves. Leverage training opportunities and engage with communities to bridge any knowledge gaps. Understand that embracing AI is a journey, and that everyone is at a different place on that journey.Embrace AI as a Tool for Creative Empowerment: See AI not as a job replacement, but as a powerful tool that enhances your capabilities. Leverage AI to automate routine coding tasks, freeing up time for higher-level strategic thinking and innovation. Focus on developing your editing and curating skills to refine AI-generated code. Anticipate a shift towards managing and directing AI agents, and begin developing the necessary skills for this future role. Explore and experiment with AI-powered development tools to enhance your productivity and creative output.Cultivate Effective Communication and Iteration with AI: Recognize that interacting with AI agents is fundamentally different from working with humans. Embrace the efficiency and directness that AI offers, while also understanding the importance of clear and precise communication. Master the art of prompt engineering to elicit desired outputs. Be prepared to iterate and refine your interactions with AI, continuously improving its performance. Understand that human oversight remains crucial for ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of AI-driven workflows. Practice clear communication, and understand that you will be able to iterate much faster with AI than with humans.There was a lot more in that discussion, of course, so give it another listen if you feel so inclined. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for tech pros, the best place to grow your tech career.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our next ‘Tech Connects’ guest is Jenni Troutman, who’s Director of Training and Certification Products and Services at Amazon Web Services (AWS). In that role, she’s worked to help people interested in AWS and the cloud gain access to low-cost and self-paced training. Given that background, she seems like an ideal person to discuss the evolving landscape for cloud skills, the importance of certain technical and soft skills, and how certifications can act as a career catalyst. Let’s listen in!Here are some quick takeaways as you proceed on your own cloud journey:Essential Skills for the Future: The tech landscape is rapidly evolving, especially with the rise of generative AI. While technical skills are important, soft skills like collaboration, critical thinking, and continuous learning are crucial. The ability to adapt to new tools and technologies is essential for staying relevant in this dynamic environment. Professionals should focus on developing a growth mindset and embrace lifelong learning to navigate the ever-changing tech world.Generative AI and Its Impact: Generative AI is revolutionizing various industries, from automating tasks to generating creative content. Professionals should strive to understand the capabilities of generative AI and how it can be applied to their respective fields. Learning how to effectively prompt AI models and integrate them into workflows is becoming increasingly valuable. Regardless of your role, staying informed about the latest advancements in AI and exploring its potential applications is crucial for career development.AWS Training and Certifications: AWS offers a wide range of training and certification programs to help individuals gain expertise in cloud computing and AI. These certifications can validate your skills and enhance your career prospects. While certifications are valuable, they should be complemented by practical experience and personal projects. Demonstrating your ability to apply your knowledge to real-world problems is key to impressing potential employers.Navigating the Evolving Job Market: The job market is becoming increasingly competitive, and it's essential to stand out from the crowd. Building a strong portfolio of personal projects that showcase your skills and creativity can make a significant difference. Additionally, networking and collaborating with others in the industry can open up new opportunities. While the future of AI is uncertain, embracing change and continuously upskilling will be crucial for long-term success in the tech world.There was a lot more in that discussion, of course, so give it another listen if you feel so inclined. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for technologists, the best place to grow your tech career.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the latest episode of 'Tech Connects,' we’re talking to Brandon Jeffs, who’s the director of people and talent at TLDR, a newsletter collective with more than five million readers that covers startups, coding, tech, and so much more. He’s been a senior recruiter and talent partner at numerous firms, including the fintech unicorn Caribou, Prospectus Labs, and more. I wanted to chat with him about the current state of tech hiring, how recruiters can find effective talent, and understanding candidate motivations. Let’s listen in!Here are some quick takeaways from this talk with Brandon:First, Embrace Flexibility and Adaptability: The tech landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and challenges emerging regularly. Recruiters must be prepared to adapt their strategies and approaches to navigate these changes effectively. This includes being open to new recruiting methods, technologies, and approaches to attract and engage top talent.Second, Prioritize the Human Element: While technology can streamline many aspects of the hiring process, it's crucial to maintain a human-centered approach. Focus on building strong relationships with candidates, providing a positive and personalized experience, and ensuring that the human element remains central to the decision-making process.Third, Understand and Address Candidate Motivations: In today's competitive market, attracting and retaining top talent requires a deep understanding of candidate motivations. Go beyond traditional compensation and benefits to consider factors like company culture, values, work-life balance, and opportunities for growth and development. Tailor your recruiting efforts to appeal to the specific needs and preferences of your target candidates.Fourth, Focus on Building Strong Relationships: Cultivate strong relationships with potential candidates, both actively and passively. This includes building a strong professional network, attending industry events, and engaging with candidates on platforms like LinkedIn. Focus on building long-term relationships with potential candidates, even if they are not currently seeking a new role.We covered a lot more during the discussion, so please give it another listen if you missed anything. We’ll see you next time, and remember—Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for tech professionals, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this latest episode of ‘Tech Connects,’ we’re talking with Art Zeile, CEO of DHI Group, the parent company of Dice, about the latest Dice Tech Salary Report. Every year, we survey thousands of tech professionals for the Report’s breakdown of tech industry salary, benefits, and much more.This is the 20th annual edition of the Tech Salary Report, and we’re taking this opportunity to analyze how tech compensation has evolved over the long term. Yes, overall tech salaries have risen steadily since 2005, reaching an average of $112,521 in 2024, but you need to take inflation into account: Today's average tech salary, when adjusted for purchasing power, is almost exactly what professionals earned in 2005 ($112,521 versus inflation-adjusted $112,350).This suggests that, despite periodic surges, compensation in tech overall has effectively plateaued over nearly two decades. For those tech professionals who want to earn massive compensation, it’s critical to stay current on the tech industry’s latest developments, and to focus on learning the latest and most in-demand skills (in our current era, that includes cloud engineering and artificial intelligence). We’re going to break that down—along with so much more—in our chat with Art.Art always has great insights into the tech industry. Here are some key takeaways from our chat:Boost Your Salary with In-Demand Skills: The report shows a significant salary increase for professionals with skills like AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, etc. As we mentioned above, focus on learning these skills to close the salary gap and become more attractive to employers.Companies Need to Offer Competitive Compensation & Growth: Inflation and stagnant salaries are leading to dissatisfaction among tech professionals. Companies need to offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for learning and career advancement to retain their talent.Leverage Internal Learning Resources: Many companies offer internal resources like online subscriptions and conferences to help employees develop new skills. Take advantage of these resources to stay up-to-date and increase your value.Explore AI and Prompt Engineering: Gaining knowledge of AI and prompt engineering is crucial for the future of tech careers. Start by learning the basics of AI and how it can be applied to your field.The Future of Work is Hybrid: While some companies might push for full-time in-office work, the trend suggests a hybrid model is more likely. Focus on finding a company that offers flexibility and a good work-life balance. We covered a lot more during the discussion, so please give it another listen if you missed anything. For even more information on compensation, benefits, and everything else that matters so much to tech professionals, check out the Dice Tech Salary Report! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello, and welcome to Tech Connects, Dice’s podcast where we dig into the topics on tech hiring, recruiting and careers that matter to you! I’m your host, Nick Kolakowski, and I’m talking to great guests every month about the current state of the tech careers world, including the tech job market, the hottest tech skills, what companies are doing to attract and retain tech professionals in a historically tight market, and much, much more. Our guest today is Paul DeBettignies. He’s a tech recruiting veteran with over 20 years of experience, and he’s built teams for startups and huge companies alike, as well as crafted recruiting strategies for Fortune 500 clients. He’s a prolific blogger, author of the long-running "Minnesota Headhunter" blog, and a frequent speaker at local and national events, offering expertise on recruiting, HR, careers, and social media.In other words, he’s a great person to talk with about the current state of tech hiring as we enter the New Year. Let’s listen in!Here are some quick takeaways as you proceed on your own tech recruiting journey:First, don't procrastinate on hiring. Companies should start planning and preparing for their 2025 hiring needs now, rather than waiting until the last minute. Waiting too long can put you at a disadvantage and limit your options.Second, you can leverage a holiday Season for productive conversations. A holiday season can be an unexpected opportunity for productive conversations with potential candidates. People may be more receptive to calls during this time, as they may be taking time off and looking for distractions.Third, be mindful of regional differences in the job market. The job market can vary significantly by region. It's important to consider regional factors when planning your hiring strategy. For example, the Midwest may be slower to recover from economic downturns compared to the coasts.Fourth, embrace AI as a tool, not a replacement. AI can be a valuable tool for recruiters and hiring managers, but it should not be seen as a replacement for human interaction. It's important to strike a balance between automation and the human touch to ensure a positive candidate experience.There was a lot more in that discussion, of course, so give it another listen if you feel so inclined. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for technologists, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello, and welcome to Tech Connects, Dice’s podcast where we dig into the topics on tech hiring, recruiting and careers that matter to you! I’m your host, Nick Kolakowski, and I’m talking to great guests every month about the current state of the tech careers world, including the tech job market, the hottest tech skills, what companies are doing to attract and retain tech professionals in a historically tight market, and much, much more. Our guest today is Nichole Foley, who’s the senior manager of talent acquisition for Commonwealth Fusion Systems, which is exploring the best ways to build clean fusion energy tech. Before that, she was a senior recruiting and people manager at Google, as well as a recruiter at other companies. That experience has given her incredible insight into recruiting and hiring as the tech industry heads into an uncertain but exciting 2025. Let’s listen in!Here are some quick takeaways from this chat:First, it’s important to acknowledge that tech hiring as we head into next year remains hyper-focused on specialization. Companies are now focusing on hiring for skills like AI and machine learning.Second, for recruiters and hiring managers tasked with finding the best tech talent, it’s about more than just salaries. Perks like free lunches are becoming less important to candidates. Instead, they’re very interested in working for a company with a mission they care about, as well as work-life balance, the ability to work remotely, and opportunities for professional growth and development.Third, it’s critical during these uncertain times to build trust with your team through personal connections and open communication. If you’re any kind of manager or team leader, providing direct feedback helps employees improve and see how their own goals align with the company’s mission.Fourth, many tech pros are still interested in working for companies that lean into diversity, equity and inclusion. Recruiters need to push back on hiring biases and ensure diverse candidate pools, while hiring managers need to be open to interviewing candidates from various backgrounds.There was a lot more in that discussion, of course, so give it another listen if you feel so inclined. Thank you for joining us—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for technologists, the best place to grow your tech career.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello, and welcome to Tech Connects, Dice's podcast where we dig into the topics on tech hiring, recruiting and careers that matter to you. I'm your host, Nick Kolakowski. Our next guest on “Tech Connects” is Christopher Savoie, who’s the CEO of Zapata AI, which is figuring out how to best integrate artificial intelligence into industrial-scale applications. In other words, he spends all day thinking about how to make the massive systems that underlie our lives, from supply chains to manufacturing hubs, even smarter and more efficient. If his name is familiar, it’s because he’s the co-inventor of AAOSA, the A.I.-based natural language interface technology used to develop Apple’s Siri, so he’s been in the AI game for a very long time.  I wanted to get Christopher’s take on the future of AI, the risks we need to be aware of, and the complexities of deploying this technology at enormous scale. It was a fascinating conversation and moved very quickly, with a ton of points covered, so buckle up!Here are some key points from our discussion:AI is more than just chatbots: While generative AI has gained popularity through chatbots, its applications extend far beyond natural language processing. Zapata AI demonstrates how AI can be used to solve complex industrial problems through advanced mathematical modeling and optimization.Quantum-inspired algorithms can tackle complex problems: Zapata AI's approach leverages quantum-inspired algorithms to efficiently handle the complexity of industrial challenges. This showcases the potential of quantum computing concepts even before the widespread availability of quantum hardware. AI can enhance human decision-making: By automating routine tasks and providing data-driven insights, AI can support human decision-makers in industries like logistics, finance, and healthcare. This can lead to improved efficiency, reduced errors, and better outcomes. The future of AI is multi-modal and domain-specific: As AI continues to evolve, we can expect to see more specialized AI models that combine different types of data (e.g., text, images, numbers) to address specific tasks. This will enable more tailored and effective AI solutions across various industries. We hope this episode has helped you with some new insights into AI. We'll see you next time-and remember, we are your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for technologists, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our latest guest on ‘Tech Connects’ is Stefan Weitz, who’s co-founder and CEO of HumanX, which is currently planning a flagship AI conference in Las Vegas in March 2025. HumanX will use an extensive lineup of AI experts and executives to explore how this technology will impact everything from marketing and healthcare to cybersecurity. Seriously, there's going to be a lot of speakers and a lot of tracks. I first met Stefan more than a decade ago when he was at Microsoft and I was at Slashdot. At the time, he was senior director and chief evangelist for Bing, Microsoft’s search engine, which was a very new product. I remember talking to him pretty extensively about topics such as machine learning and surfacing useful data in response to queries. Thanks to the advent of AI, such topics have only grown more complex and important. Listen in as we chat about everything from spinning up HumanX to how AI might evolve over the next few years!Here are some additional things to consider as you plan your own AI journey. First, it's critical to approach AI strategically, which means don't rush into AI without a clear plan. Develop a well thought-out strategy that considers your specific business needs and goals.Second, focus on high-impact projects. Prioritize AI work that has the potential to significantly boost your business operations and outcomes. Avoid being distracted by low-value initiatives.Third, build cross functional teams. Assemble people with diverse expertise to ensure a comprehensive approach to AI implementation.Fourth, consider the implications. As you develop and deploy AI solutions, be mindful of the ethical considerations involved. Ensure that your AI systems are as fair, unbiased, and transparent as possible. We covered a whole lot of other topics during the episode, of course, so give it a re-listen if there was something you missed. We'll see you next time, and remember, Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles… and for tech pros, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello, and welcome to Tech Connects, Dice's podcast where we dig into the topics on tech hiring, recruiting and careers that matter to you. I'm your host, Nick Kolakowski, and today we're going to be talking about the current state of the recruiting and talent acquisition market with Carmen Hudson, an author and recruiting expert.Carmen has led corporate recruiting teams, built recruiting software, co-founded a tech recruiting conference, and trained recruiters. She’s also the author of the new book, “The Corporate Recruiter’s Playbook: Strategies for Hiring Top Talent,” which offers essential advice to recruiters and corporate leaders about how to attract and retain talent. As you’ll hear, we’ll chat about how recruiters and talent acquisition specialists can use their communication skills and other tools to refine and improve their hiring processes, even when things at a company get chaotic. We’re also inevitably going to talk about AI, as well.Here are some key takeaways for you as you proceed along your own recruiting and hiring journey:First, to truly understand the specific skills and behaviors required for a role, go beyond surface-level discussions with hiring managers. Collaborate closely with them to create accurate and detailed job descriptions that clearly define both technical and behavioral requirements. This ensures that candidates are well-aligned with the role's needs.Second, prioritize quality over quantity in your recruitment efforts. Resist the pressure to fill positions quickly at the expense of finding the right candidates. Implement a more thoughtful and deliberate sourcing and screening process that focuses on identifying high-quality individuals who align with the role's specific requirements.Third, leverage AI strategically to streamline certain tasks, but recognize its limitations. Combine AI with human judgment to ensure a comprehensive assessment of candidates. Stay updated on emerging AI technologies and their potential applications in recruiting to optimize your processes.Fourth, invest in continuous learning to stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in recruiting. Develop a deep understanding of the technical aspects of the roles you're recruiting for to effectively assess candidates' qualifications. Seek opportunities for professional development and upskilling to enhance your recruiting expertise.We hope this episode has helped you with some new insights into recruiting, especially in the context of tech. We'll see you next time-and remember, we are your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for technologists, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello, and welcome to Tech Connects, Dice's podcast where we dig into the topics on tech hiring, recruiting and careers that matter to you. I'm your host, Nick Kolakowski.Our latest guest has been on the show before: Katrina Collier, a recruiting expert who’s an author, speaker, mentor, and facilitator specializing in the human side of talent acquisition. Her passion is ensuring that recruiters and companies deliver a great candidate experience. Her latest book is titled “Reboot Hiring,” and it focuses on the ways that executives, managers, and other business leaders can effectively reboot a hiring process that’s only gotten more complicated and expensive in recent years. As you’ll hear during our discussion, Katrina thinks that AI isn’t solving every issue confronting talent acquisition experts and recruiters right now. Instead, companies seeking to hire the best tech talent need to concentrate more than ever on the human side of things. Here are some key takeaways from our chat:First, the talent acquisition landscape has undergone significant changes due to the pandemic, economic fluctuations, and the rise of AI. Companies have over-hired and laid off staff multiple times, leading to a chaotic and uncertain environment. It may take some time for this situation to sort itself out, but it also creates opportunities for recruiters and companies who are willing to approach their hiring challenges with emotional intelligence. Second, while AI offers potential benefits in TA, it can also introduce biases and challenges. It is important to use AI strategically and ethically, focusing on areas where it can add value, such as automation and data analysis. However, relying solely on AI can lead to suboptimal outcomes, especially when human judgment and emotional intelligence are crucial.Third, despite the advancements in AI, human interaction remains essential for successful talent acquisition. Managers need to develop strong relationships with their TA teams, listen to their expertise, and collaborate effectively. By prioritizing human connection and understanding, companies can create a more engaging and effective hiring process.Fourth, emotional intelligence is crucial for navigating the complex challenges of modern TA. Leaders must be willing to be vulnerable, admit their limitations, and seek guidance from their teams. By fostering a culture of collaboration and trust, leaders can create a more positive and productive work environment.We’ve covered quite a bit in this episode, so give it another listen if there was anything you missed. We’ll see you next time, and remember—Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for tech professionals, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our next ‘Tech Connects’ guest is Seth Robinson, who’s vice president of industry research at CompTIA, the Computing Technology Industry Association. CompTIA offers education, training, certifications, and monthly research. If you read Dice’s articles and e-books, you know we cite their research pretty constantly, including their monthly analysis of the tech unemployment rate and job trends. I wanted to talk to Seth because he recently wrote a whitepaper on how organizations are developing AI strategies, including what AI could mean for tech professionals both in the near- and long-term. Let’s listen to his key insights into AI and how it might impact your own journey through the tech industry.  There’s a lot of chatter right now about all things AI-related, so it’s great to step back and take a broader view on the technology and the industries it impacts. Here are some additional takeaways from our conversation: First, the AI hype train is slowing down. It's essential to recognize that while AI has the potential to revolutionize industries, it's not a magic solution. Instead, it's a tool that can augment existing workflows and processes. Understanding this distinction is crucial for setting realistic expectations and avoiding overhyped promises.Second, effective AI implementation hinges on robust data management. Companies need to prioritize data cleaning, organization, and analysis to maximize the value of AI tools. Additionally, core skills in areas like software programming, cybersecurity, and data analysis remain essential. AI is often integrated into existing tools and platforms, so proficiency in these areas is vital.Third, as AI becomes more prevalent, the ability to critically evaluate AI outputs will be increasingly important. Professionals need to develop skills to assess the reliability and accuracy of AI-generated information. This includes understanding the limitations of AI algorithms and the potential for errors.Fourth, successful AI integration requires collaboration across different departments and roles. Technology and business teams must work together to define goals, identify challenges, and allocate resources effectively. A holistic approach that considers the interplay of people, processes, and technology is essential for maximizing the benefits of AI.Keeping these points in mind will help you and your company use AI more effectively. We’ve covered quite a bit in this episode, so give it another listen if there was anything you missed. We’ll see you next time, and remember—Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for tech professionals, the best place to grow your tech career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.