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Antonio Scott

By MAXX Potential

  • Success Stories

Antonio worked as an Apprentice for two years, gaining valuable on-the-job tech experience before he exited MAXX Potential to work at IC-Consult as a Security Consultant.

What were you doing before MAXX Potential? What drew you to pursue a career in technology?

I was working as a Physical Therapy Technician and a Valet Driver with the goal of applying to PT school. In the time that I was working as a Tech, I lost the desire to be a Physical Therapist. As I searched for what I would do next, technology was something I’ve always been interested in, and during my search, I came across Maxx Potential. The rest is history.

Can you talk about what you’re currently working on? What are some of your job responsibilities?

I’m a professional services partner for a company that sells Privilege Access Management (PAM) software. I’ve gained certification in the software that the company sells, and with my knowledge of the software, I teach corporations who purchase the software how to use the software to increase their security footprint within their organization. We discuss best practices around securing their company accounts and delegating access throughout their organization.

What’s the most rewarding thing about your current role?

The most rewarding thing about my current role is the ability to work from anywhere in the world. Beyond that, seeing the stark contrast between what I make now versus what I was making 2-3 years ago has changed my life for the better.

How do you keep your skills up to date? What’s the best way to learn new concepts, technologies, programming languages, etc.?

To keep my skills up to date, I spend some of my free time learning new software, specifically software that pertains to my job. I typically learn through YouTube, speaking with my coworkers, and from my customer engagements.

What’s the best piece of advice you can give to someone early in their IT career or looking to get their start?

If you’re someone who’s transitioning from a totally different field and you don’t have experience in IT, don’t get discouraged. Yes, the transition will be difficult and you won’t know everything, but nobody knows everything. You’re not judged based on your ability to remember all the information you learn, you’re judged on your ability to identify and find the solution to a problem. 

With that being said, as long as you have a brain between your ears, you have the ability to learn, it will just take some time. You may not pick up on things as fast as others, and that’s ok. Those who learn quickly and those who learn slowly still meet at the same finish line when it’s all said and done.

 

Interested in becoming or working with a MAXX Apprentice? Attend Career Lab or explore MAXX Business Solutions!

MORE POSTS

Antonio Scott

Security Consultant, IC-Consult

READ MORE

From Hobby to Innovation: Exploring AI Passion Projects

Building AI Tech Skills with Projects

READ MORE
Professional black man sitting in front of two computer screens with code

Choosing Your Tech Career Future

Exploring Diverse Career Options in the Tech Field

READ MORE

Antonio Scott

By MAXX Potential

  • Success Stories

Antonio worked as an Apprentice for two years, gaining valuable on-the-job tech experience before he exited MAXX Potential to work at IC-Consult as a Security Consultant.

What were you doing before MAXX Potential? What drew you to pursue a career in technology?

I was working as a Physical Therapy Technician and a Valet Driver with the goal of applying to PT school. In the time that I was working as a Tech, I lost the desire to be a Physical Therapist. As I searched for what I would do next, technology was something I’ve always been interested in, and during my search, I came across Maxx Potential. The rest is history.

Can you talk about what you’re currently working on? What are some of your job responsibilities?

I’m a professional services partner for a company that sells Privilege Access Management (PAM) software. I’ve gained certification in the software that the company sells, and with my knowledge of the software, I teach corporations who purchase the software how to use the software to increase their security footprint within their organization. We discuss best practices around securing their company accounts and delegating access throughout their organization.

What’s the most rewarding thing about your current role?

The most rewarding thing about my current role is the ability to work from anywhere in the world. Beyond that, seeing the stark contrast between what I make now versus what I was making 2-3 years ago has changed my life for the better.

How do you keep your skills up to date? What’s the best way to learn new concepts, technologies, programming languages, etc.?

To keep my skills up to date, I spend some of my free time learning new software, specifically software that pertains to my job. I typically learn through YouTube, speaking with my coworkers, and from my customer engagements.

What’s the best piece of advice you can give to someone early in their IT career or looking to get their start?

If you’re someone who’s transitioning from a totally different field and you don’t have experience in IT, don’t get discouraged. Yes, the transition will be difficult and you won’t know everything, but nobody knows everything. You’re not judged based on your ability to remember all the information you learn, you’re judged on your ability to identify and find the solution to a problem. 

With that being said, as long as you have a brain between your ears, you have the ability to learn, it will just take some time. You may not pick up on things as fast as others, and that’s ok. Those who learn quickly and those who learn slowly still meet at the same finish line when it’s all said and done.

 

Interested in becoming or working with a MAXX Apprentice? Attend Career Lab or explore MAXX Business Solutions!

MORE POSTS

Antonio Scott

Security Consultant, IC-Consult

READ MORE

From Hobby to Innovation: Exploring AI Passion Projects

Building AI Tech Skills with Projects

READ MORE
Professional black man sitting in front of two computer screens with code

Choosing Your Tech Career Future

Exploring Diverse Career Options in the Tech Field

READ MORE

From Hobby to Innovation: Exploring AI Passion Projects

Building AI Tech Skills with Projects

By MAXX Potential

  • Apprenticeship

“I think we’re all eager to see how AI will shape technology in the coming years,” says Peter Ahn, MAXX Apprentice. “It’s exciting because it has so many use cases we’ve yet to discover.”

Back in March when OpenAI released the API for the GPT-3.5-Turbo, technologists across the world raced to explore the capabilities of this new technology, including our very own Talent Director Tucker Mahan in “The First 48 Hours of OpenAI’s API.” Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation have been widely used in a number of capacities for years, but this was the smartest large language model (LLM) we had yet to see. 

It’s been six months since the GPT-3.5-Turbo released, and AI has continued to advance and be explored by curious technologists. We wanted to take a moment to chat with AI-interested MAXX Apprentices, Peter Ahn and James Stanley.

How Curiosity Inspires Innovation and Learning

“I found myself wanting curated outlines for my coding projects to keep track of my progress. Too often, I write code without a clear plan in mind.” Peter Ahn shares. Faced with this problem, he wondered if he could create something that would track this for him.

Peter’s interest in tech and interactive chatbots started at a young age, and he recalls, “When I was little, my sisters helped me create an AIM account so I could try chatting with ‘smarterchild’. It was an early chatbot that could engage in somewhat intelligent conversations… And it was mind blowing. ChatGPT definitely renewed that feeling of amazement in me.”

As Peter explored the OpenAI API capabilities, he recognized that playing with the technology could be fun and informative. He wanted to see where his exploration would lead.

“After learning about the OpenAI API, I saw an opportunity to build a reusable web template with the API methods, which are more customizable compared to ChatGPT.” Peter points out. “For example, I can adjust the temperature, which affects the “randomness” in GPT’s responses. A higher temperature encourages unique and imaginative responses, while a lower temperature promotes greater consistency.”

Peter developed a basic tech stack with options where he can select coding languages he wants to use when he’s gearing up to brainstorm project ideas.

With the help of ChatGPT, a few project ideas are generated.

Once an idea is selected, an outline for the project populates in a rough format of the Software Development Lifecycle. This can help direct the next steps of your project development.

“The outlines aren’t super useful or aesthetically pleasing yet, but thankfully that’s probably my fault and not GPT’s!” Peter shares.

AI Integration Helps Clone Your Superhero

“After finding out that I could integrate ChatGPT into python I was excited to see what else I could do with it.” James Stanley, MAXX Apprentice, shares. 

As he dove into the possibilities, he scoped out what other people were doing. YouTube offered a number of tutorials demonstrating how to create your own bot who sounded like Jarvis from Iron Man, Elon Musk, Albert Einstein, and Eminem.

“Since I am also learning how to code, I am constantly practicing to get better at python and recently javascript,” says James. “I thought it would be cool to make a tutor with your choice of celebrities that would then help you with code or anything else you needed help with. Using ChatGPT and machine learning to build this.”

For James, this technology is exciting because it’s existed in Sci-fi novels and movies for years. Suddenly the premises of movies like Iron Man, The Terminator, and I Robot seem more realistic and, for some, scary.

“I can already see glimpses of self-driving cars, human looking robots that function properly, and an AI that can eventually think for itself.” James shares.

The possibilities seem endless in light of AI advancements and technologists’ discoveries. Seeing the rapid changes in automation, AI, and LLMs spurs innovation and more. 

“When I started learning python I was already interested in machine learning, where data and algorithms can imitate the way humans learn by giving it a set of data to learn from.” James points out. “I am interested to see how far AI will go, will I ever see a terminator version of AI in my lifetime or Jarvis from Ironman.”

AI is Here to Stay

Artificial intelligence, automation, and language learning models are here to stay, and our world is in the process of being changed wholly by these advancements. Concerns and AI innovations occur simultaneously.

Some view AI as a new tool for productivity while others raise objections. It’s true that with great power comes great responsibility.

“I think their fears are valid but not for the same reasons that they may believe,” says James. “While I do believe that years later AI will take away some jobs I do believe that it will open many other types of job opportunities that could be more technical or something that we never would have thought of before.” 

In light of the fear of being replaced by AI, Peter observes, “Innovation is great, but not at the expense of everyone else. We should stay informed on this topic since it could drastically change the way we live.”

One way to learn about AI is to dive into using it yourself. 

“Try asking ChatGPT or Google Bard how they work!” Peter encourages. “You can learn a lot about their features and limitations. I wouldn’t say the information is completely up-to-date, but they’re great as stepping stones into deeper research.”

Interested in learning about how AI can cut business costs and boost company productivity? Reach out to MAXXpotential.com about your interest in optimizing your back office capabilities.

MORE POSTS

Antonio Scott

Security Consultant, IC-Consult

READ MORE

From Hobby to Innovation: Exploring AI Passion Projects

Building AI Tech Skills with Projects

READ MORE
Professional black man sitting in front of two computer screens with code

Choosing Your Tech Career Future

Exploring Diverse Career Options in the Tech Field

READ MORE

From Hobby to Innovation: Exploring AI Passion Projects

Building AI Tech Skills with Projects

By MAXX Potential

  • Apprenticeship

“I think we’re all eager to see how AI will shape technology in the coming years,” says Peter Ahn, MAXX Apprentice. “It’s exciting because it has so many use cases we’ve yet to discover.”

Back in March when OpenAI released the API for the GPT-3.5-Turbo, technologists across the world raced to explore the capabilities of this new technology, including our very own Talent Director Tucker Mahan in “The First 48 Hours of OpenAI’s API.” Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation have been widely used in a number of capacities for years, but this was the smartest large language model (LLM) we had yet to see. 

It’s been six months since the GPT-3.5-Turbo released, and AI has continued to advance and be explored by curious technologists. We wanted to take a moment to chat with AI-interested MAXX Apprentices, Peter Ahn and James Stanley.

How Curiosity Inspires Innovation and Learning

“I found myself wanting curated outlines for my coding projects to keep track of my progress. Too often, I write code without a clear plan in mind.” Peter Ahn shares. Faced with this problem, he wondered if he could create something that would track this for him.

Peter’s interest in tech and interactive chatbots started at a young age, and he recalls, “When I was little, my sisters helped me create an AIM account so I could try chatting with ‘smarterchild’. It was an early chatbot that could engage in somewhat intelligent conversations… And it was mind blowing. ChatGPT definitely renewed that feeling of amazement in me.”

As Peter explored the OpenAI API capabilities, he recognized that playing with the technology could be fun and informative. He wanted to see where his exploration would lead.

“After learning about the OpenAI API, I saw an opportunity to build a reusable web template with the API methods, which are more customizable compared to ChatGPT.” Peter points out. “For example, I can adjust the temperature, which affects the “randomness” in GPT’s responses. A higher temperature encourages unique and imaginative responses, while a lower temperature promotes greater consistency.”

Peter developed a basic tech stack with options where he can select coding languages he wants to use when he’s gearing up to brainstorm project ideas.

With the help of ChatGPT, a few project ideas are generated.

Once an idea is selected, an outline for the project populates in a rough format of the Software Development Lifecycle. This can help direct the next steps of your project development.

“The outlines aren’t super useful or aesthetically pleasing yet, but thankfully that’s probably my fault and not GPT’s!” Peter shares.

AI Integration Helps Clone Your Superhero

“After finding out that I could integrate ChatGPT into python I was excited to see what else I could do with it.” James Stanley, MAXX Apprentice, shares. 

As he dove into the possibilities, he scoped out what other people were doing. YouTube offered a number of tutorials demonstrating how to create your own bot who sounded like Jarvis from Iron Man, Elon Musk, Albert Einstein, and Eminem.

“Since I am also learning how to code, I am constantly practicing to get better at python and recently javascript,” says James. “I thought it would be cool to make a tutor with your choice of celebrities that would then help you with code or anything else you needed help with. Using ChatGPT and machine learning to build this.”

For James, this technology is exciting because it’s existed in Sci-fi novels and movies for years. Suddenly the premises of movies like Iron Man, The Terminator, and I Robot seem more realistic and, for some, scary.

“I can already see glimpses of self-driving cars, human looking robots that function properly, and an AI that can eventually think for itself.” James shares.

The possibilities seem endless in light of AI advancements and technologists’ discoveries. Seeing the rapid changes in automation, AI, and LLMs spurs innovation and more. 

“When I started learning python I was already interested in machine learning, where data and algorithms can imitate the way humans learn by giving it a set of data to learn from.” James points out. “I am interested to see how far AI will go, will I ever see a terminator version of AI in my lifetime or Jarvis from Ironman.”

AI is Here to Stay

Artificial intelligence, automation, and language learning models are here to stay, and our world is in the process of being changed wholly by these advancements. Concerns and AI innovations occur simultaneously.

Some view AI as a new tool for productivity while others raise objections. It’s true that with great power comes great responsibility.

“I think their fears are valid but not for the same reasons that they may believe,” says James. “While I do believe that years later AI will take away some jobs I do believe that it will open many other types of job opportunities that could be more technical or something that we never would have thought of before.” 

In light of the fear of being replaced by AI, Peter observes, “Innovation is great, but not at the expense of everyone else. We should stay informed on this topic since it could drastically change the way we live.”

One way to learn about AI is to dive into using it yourself. 

“Try asking ChatGPT or Google Bard how they work!” Peter encourages. “You can learn a lot about their features and limitations. I wouldn’t say the information is completely up-to-date, but they’re great as stepping stones into deeper research.”

Interested in learning about how AI can cut business costs and boost company productivity? Reach out to MAXXpotential.com about your interest in optimizing your back office capabilities.

MORE POSTS

Antonio Scott

Security Consultant, IC-Consult

READ MORE

From Hobby to Innovation: Exploring AI Passion Projects

Building AI Tech Skills with Projects

READ MORE
Professional black man sitting in front of two computer screens with code

Choosing Your Tech Career Future

Exploring Diverse Career Options in the Tech Field

READ MORE

Choosing Your Tech Career Future

Exploring Diverse Career Options in the Tech Field

By MAXX Potential

  • Apprenticeship
Professional black man sitting in front of two computer screens with code

“I want to be a full-stack developer.” An aspiring technologist declares, and in the same breath, they share they have no idea of where to begin to get that tech job. In a sea of resources, where do you start? How do you turn your tech career dream into reality? 

The tech industry provides a number of early career paths such as the following:

  • Information Security Analyst
  • Network Administrator
  • System Administrator
  • Security Incident Response Specialist
  • Quality Assurance Specialist
  • Data Governance Specialist
  • Business Intel Analyst
  • Junior Software Developer

Knowing which is the right fit for you is hard. At MAXX Potential, we do our best to allow tech-interested folks the opportunity to explore the diverse career options in the tech field so you can make a more informed decision about your tech career trajectory.

So, if you want to discover the best tech jobs without a degree, and explore fun jobs that pay well, keep reading!

Exploring Diverse Career Options in the Tech Field

When it comes to deciding on a tech career path, it’s important to consider your interests and passions: do you enjoy precision and organization? Do you love problem solving? Do you like being behind the scenes or interfacing with people?

The tech industry opens up a world of possibilities because there are plenty of career options for individuals with and without a degree. You don’t necessarily need a formal education to pursue the best tech jobs. This means that even if you don’t have a degree, you can still find fulfilling and well-paying roles that suit your interests.

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts play a crucial role in safeguarding data and preventing unauthorized access or breaches of a company’s computer ecosystem. They also develop and implement security policies and protocols to ensure compliance with industry regulations. If this seems like something you’d be interested in, it’s important to explore opportunities to learn more about information security.

Network Administrator

As a Network Administrator, your day-to-day tasks look like monitoring network performance, troubleshooting network issues, implementing security measures, and managing network configurations. If you like equal parts administrative work as well as technical sleuthing, this might be a role to explore.

System Administrator

System Administrators are the gatekeeper of company systems, often providing employee access as needed. They ensure the smooth operation of servers, networks, and databases. You will be in charge of tasks such as installing and configuring software and hardware, troubleshooting technical issues, and monitoring system performance. This role requires strong problem-solving and analytical skills, as well as a deep understanding of various operating systems and network protocols.

Security Incident Response Specialist

As a Security Incident Response Specialist, you will be responsible for detecting and analyzing security breaches, implementing incident response measures, and developing and improving cybersecurity protocols. This role is crucial for protecting sensitive information and maintaining the smooth operation of network systems. MAXX Apprentices have the opportunity to explore roles like this one with hands-on learning and mentorship.

Quality Assurance Specialist

As a Quality Assurance Specialist, you test and evaluate software applications or IT systems to identify any defects or issues. You will be responsible for executing testing methodologies, documenting test plans and procedures, and collaborating with developers to resolve any identified issues. This role requires strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and the ability to think critically.

Data Governance Specialist

A Data Governance Specialist develops and implements data strategies, policies, and procedures. You will collaborate with various teams to define data standards, establish data quality controls, and manage data access and security protocols. Your strong analytical skills and good communication skills will be crucial in identifying data issues and recommending solutions.

Business Intel Analyst

As a Business Intel Analyst, you will gather, analyze, and interpret vast amounts of data to help businesses make informed decisions and identify trends and patterns. By utilizing various tools and techniques, you will transform raw data into actionable insights that drive growth and efficiency. Your ability to think critically, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills will be paramount in this role.

Junior Software Developer

A Junior Software Developer is an integral part of a dynamic tech team, contributing to the creation and enhancement of cutting-edge software solutions. You’ll collaborate closely with senior developers to design and implement code, troubleshoot issues, and optimize application performance. Your passion for problem-solving, quick learning, and effective teamwork will play a pivotal role in crafting innovative solutions that drive a company’s technological advancement.

Emerging Tech Careers

The future is bright with technological advancements and emerging tech career opportunities. As technology advances, you can be on the forefront by using the resources at your fingertips on the internet to learn through passion projects or programs. Some emerging tech careers include Virtual Reality (VR) Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, and AI Specialist. 

At MAXX Potential, we provide a pathway for aspiring technologists to explore dream tech jobs with hands-on experience, mentorship, and more resources. We help you step into the tech industry and determine the career trajectory that best fits your passions, interests, and skills.

If you’re interested in choosing a career in tech, contact MAXX Potential to learn more about the MAXX Apprenticeship. 

MORE POSTS

Antonio Scott

Security Consultant, IC-Consult

READ MORE

From Hobby to Innovation: Exploring AI Passion Projects

Building AI Tech Skills with Projects

READ MORE
Professional black man sitting in front of two computer screens with code

Choosing Your Tech Career Future

Exploring Diverse Career Options in the Tech Field

READ MORE

Choosing Your Tech Career Future

Exploring Diverse Career Options in the Tech Field

By MAXX Potential

  • Apprenticeship
Professional black man sitting in front of two computer screens with code

“I want to be a full-stack developer.” An aspiring technologist declares, and in the same breath, they share they have no idea of where to begin to get that tech job. In a sea of resources, where do you start? How do you turn your tech career dream into reality? 

The tech industry provides a number of early career paths such as the following:

  • Information Security Analyst
  • Network Administrator
  • System Administrator
  • Security Incident Response Specialist
  • Quality Assurance Specialist
  • Data Governance Specialist
  • Business Intel Analyst
  • Junior Software Developer

Knowing which is the right fit for you is hard. At MAXX Potential, we do our best to allow tech-interested folks the opportunity to explore the diverse career options in the tech field so you can make a more informed decision about your tech career trajectory.

So, if you want to discover the best tech jobs without a degree, and explore fun jobs that pay well, keep reading!

Exploring Diverse Career Options in the Tech Field

When it comes to deciding on a tech career path, it’s important to consider your interests and passions: do you enjoy precision and organization? Do you love problem solving? Do you like being behind the scenes or interfacing with people?

The tech industry opens up a world of possibilities because there are plenty of career options for individuals with and without a degree. You don’t necessarily need a formal education to pursue the best tech jobs. This means that even if you don’t have a degree, you can still find fulfilling and well-paying roles that suit your interests.

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts play a crucial role in safeguarding data and preventing unauthorized access or breaches of a company’s computer ecosystem. They also develop and implement security policies and protocols to ensure compliance with industry regulations. If this seems like something you’d be interested in, it’s important to explore opportunities to learn more about information security.

Network Administrator

As a Network Administrator, your day-to-day tasks look like monitoring network performance, troubleshooting network issues, implementing security measures, and managing network configurations. If you like equal parts administrative work as well as technical sleuthing, this might be a role to explore.

System Administrator

System Administrators are the gatekeeper of company systems, often providing employee access as needed. They ensure the smooth operation of servers, networks, and databases. You will be in charge of tasks such as installing and configuring software and hardware, troubleshooting technical issues, and monitoring system performance. This role requires strong problem-solving and analytical skills, as well as a deep understanding of various operating systems and network protocols.

Security Incident Response Specialist

As a Security Incident Response Specialist, you will be responsible for detecting and analyzing security breaches, implementing incident response measures, and developing and improving cybersecurity protocols. This role is crucial for protecting sensitive information and maintaining the smooth operation of network systems. MAXX Apprentices have the opportunity to explore roles like this one with hands-on learning and mentorship.

Quality Assurance Specialist

As a Quality Assurance Specialist, you test and evaluate software applications or IT systems to identify any defects or issues. You will be responsible for executing testing methodologies, documenting test plans and procedures, and collaborating with developers to resolve any identified issues. This role requires strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and the ability to think critically.

Data Governance Specialist

A Data Governance Specialist develops and implements data strategies, policies, and procedures. You will collaborate with various teams to define data standards, establish data quality controls, and manage data access and security protocols. Your strong analytical skills and good communication skills will be crucial in identifying data issues and recommending solutions.

Business Intel Analyst

As a Business Intel Analyst, you will gather, analyze, and interpret vast amounts of data to help businesses make informed decisions and identify trends and patterns. By utilizing various tools and techniques, you will transform raw data into actionable insights that drive growth and efficiency. Your ability to think critically, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills will be paramount in this role.

Junior Software Developer

A Junior Software Developer is an integral part of a dynamic tech team, contributing to the creation and enhancement of cutting-edge software solutions. You’ll collaborate closely with senior developers to design and implement code, troubleshoot issues, and optimize application performance. Your passion for problem-solving, quick learning, and effective teamwork will play a pivotal role in crafting innovative solutions that drive a company’s technological advancement.

Emerging Tech Careers

The future is bright with technological advancements and emerging tech career opportunities. As technology advances, you can be on the forefront by using the resources at your fingertips on the internet to learn through passion projects or programs. Some emerging tech careers include Virtual Reality (VR) Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, and AI Specialist. 

At MAXX Potential, we provide a pathway for aspiring technologists to explore dream tech jobs with hands-on experience, mentorship, and more resources. We help you step into the tech industry and determine the career trajectory that best fits your passions, interests, and skills.

If you’re interested in choosing a career in tech, contact MAXX Potential to learn more about the MAXX Apprenticeship. 

MORE POSTS

Antonio Scott

Security Consultant, IC-Consult

READ MORE

From Hobby to Innovation: Exploring AI Passion Projects

Building AI Tech Skills with Projects

READ MORE
Professional black man sitting in front of two computer screens with code

Choosing Your Tech Career Future

Exploring Diverse Career Options in the Tech Field

READ MORE

Building Bot Builders: RPA Accelerates Learning and Saves Businesses Time

RPA Development, Automation Anywhere, & Streamlining Processes

By MAXX Potential

  • Businesses
Sam Ardis, MAXX Apprentice, pictured here who's been working with RPA

“[Robotic Process Automation (RPA)] allows for so much work to get done in a short period of time and doesn’t require a lot of learning new languages or frameworks.” Sam Ardis, MAXX Apprentice, shares. “You can just hit the ground running a lot faster using RPA and because of that, I will always prefer RPA Development.”

Sam has worked on a RPA project for an Enterprise Customer for the last 9 months, and we had a chat with him. 

Let’s jump into the interview.

MAXX Potential: What were your initial thoughts about RPA? How has your perception of RPA changed over time, and what aspects of the process do you particularly appreciate?

Sam: When I first learned about the opportunity for an RPA assignment, I researched it and had reservations about whether delving into it would divert me from my established path or if it would truly involve coding. 

Once on the contract with the Customer, I was able to look through the code base for different projects and watch other developers code using RPA. I was surprised by how much could actually be done using RPA and how much easier it is to understand the code. 

I really appreciate how fast it is to have a request come in for a new bot, then outline, build, test, and push the bot into production within 1-3 months. That’s true even for beginner RPA Developers. 

MAXX Potential: Can you provide specific examples of tasks or processes that you successfully automated using RPA’s Automation Anywhere?

Sam: Recently I was tasked with developing a bot that does the formatting, balancing, and file management for the one of the Customer’s internal finance team. 

Basically the Bot takes deposits from customer policies and formats all of that data into excel spreadsheets based on certain criteria.

This bot is over 700 lines of code and took about 2-3 months for me to complete and get it running smoothly in production. It saves about 2 hours per business day and only takes 15 minutes or less to run each day.

MAXX Potential: What are some of the benefits that you have experienced as a developer through working with RPA’s Automation Anywhere?

Sam: Using Automation Anywhere has lots of benefits like a quick learning curve, fast development time, code ready at all times, and no complicated setup process just to name a few off the top of my head.

MAXX Potential: Can you talk about your interests before working on an RPA project? What sparked your curiosity to break into tech?

Sam: I have followed an untraditional path to get into the tech field. I started out in a completely different career path and soon realized it wasn’t going to provide me with the environment I wanted to be in. I started to rethink what I really wanted to do. 

I started putting together my love for technology, research, math, problem solving, and creativity. That led me to software development eventually in my early 20s. I immediately dove head first into all the websites, YouTube videos, and learning resources I could find. That led me to joining a full stack web development bootcamp called Lambda school (now called Bloom Institute of Technology). I completed that bootcamp after 40 hours per week for 9 months! 

I was ready to get a job at that point but I struggled to land any positions due to my experience. So I joined a college and started learning more about computer science and software development through that avenue. I also joined an IT program, ShiftUp, that helped me learn a lot of skills for other tech positions. 

Right after that I heard about Maxx Potential and was able to skip right into the interview process. And about 11 months later, here I am.

MAXX Potential: How do you compare your experience with RPA to more traditional development methods?

Sam: I think traditional development methods have advantages like more flexibility in how things are coded, more powerful and up to date systems, maybe better performance at times, and is best used towards interactive applications. 

RPA is specifically used for automating processes that are typically done manually by a human. Things that you would frequently do in a business or other profession that would save time if it was automated. Those are the main differences with traditional vs RPA development.

MAXX Potential: Do you have any final thoughts you want to share about RPA?

Sam: You can do pretty much anything you need to and all the tools are at your disposal. It’s really only limited by your coding skills, logic, and creativity.

I have learned a lot from using RPA and being able to help a large business save time and money, become more efficient, and reduce human error. I will always look to automate anything I can in the future.

Ready to partner with MAXX Potential on your next RPA project? We believe in transforming talent strategies and streamlining processes to drive efficiency and productivity. The future of your business awaits, and we are excited to be your trusted partner on this remarkable expedition. Contact us today at MAXXpotential.com/contact.

MORE POSTS

Antonio Scott

Security Consultant, IC-Consult

READ MORE

From Hobby to Innovation: Exploring AI Passion Projects

Building AI Tech Skills with Projects

READ MORE
Professional black man sitting in front of two computer screens with code

Choosing Your Tech Career Future

Exploring Diverse Career Options in the Tech Field

READ MORE

Building Bot Builders: RPA Accelerates Learning and Saves Businesses Time

RPA Development, Automation Anywhere, & Streamlining Processes

By MAXX Potential

  • Businesses
Sam Ardis, MAXX Apprentice, pictured here who's been working with RPA

“[Robotic Process Automation (RPA)] allows for so much work to get done in a short period of time and doesn’t require a lot of learning new languages or frameworks.” Sam Ardis, MAXX Apprentice, shares. “You can just hit the ground running a lot faster using RPA and because of that, I will always prefer RPA Development.”

Sam has worked on a RPA project for an Enterprise Customer for the last 9 months, and we had a chat with him. 

Let’s jump into the interview.

MAXX Potential: What were your initial thoughts about RPA? How has your perception of RPA changed over time, and what aspects of the process do you particularly appreciate?

Sam: When I first learned about the opportunity for an RPA assignment, I researched it and had reservations about whether delving into it would divert me from my established path or if it would truly involve coding. 

Once on the contract with the Customer, I was able to look through the code base for different projects and watch other developers code using RPA. I was surprised by how much could actually be done using RPA and how much easier it is to understand the code. 

I really appreciate how fast it is to have a request come in for a new bot, then outline, build, test, and push the bot into production within 1-3 months. That’s true even for beginner RPA Developers. 

MAXX Potential: Can you provide specific examples of tasks or processes that you successfully automated using RPA’s Automation Anywhere?

Sam: Recently I was tasked with developing a bot that does the formatting, balancing, and file management for the one of the Customer’s internal finance team. 

Basically the Bot takes deposits from customer policies and formats all of that data into excel spreadsheets based on certain criteria.

This bot is over 700 lines of code and took about 2-3 months for me to complete and get it running smoothly in production. It saves about 2 hours per business day and only takes 15 minutes or less to run each day.

MAXX Potential: What are some of the benefits that you have experienced as a developer through working with RPA’s Automation Anywhere?

Sam: Using Automation Anywhere has lots of benefits like a quick learning curve, fast development time, code ready at all times, and no complicated setup process just to name a few off the top of my head.

MAXX Potential: Can you talk about your interests before working on an RPA project? What sparked your curiosity to break into tech?

Sam: I have followed an untraditional path to get into the tech field. I started out in a completely different career path and soon realized it wasn’t going to provide me with the environment I wanted to be in. I started to rethink what I really wanted to do. 

I started putting together my love for technology, research, math, problem solving, and creativity. That led me to software development eventually in my early 20s. I immediately dove head first into all the websites, YouTube videos, and learning resources I could find. That led me to joining a full stack web development bootcamp called Lambda school (now called Bloom Institute of Technology). I completed that bootcamp after 40 hours per week for 9 months! 

I was ready to get a job at that point but I struggled to land any positions due to my experience. So I joined a college and started learning more about computer science and software development through that avenue. I also joined an IT program, ShiftUp, that helped me learn a lot of skills for other tech positions. 

Right after that I heard about Maxx Potential and was able to skip right into the interview process. And about 11 months later, here I am.

MAXX Potential: How do you compare your experience with RPA to more traditional development methods?

Sam: I think traditional development methods have advantages like more flexibility in how things are coded, more powerful and up to date systems, maybe better performance at times, and is best used towards interactive applications. 

RPA is specifically used for automating processes that are typically done manually by a human. Things that you would frequently do in a business or other profession that would save time if it was automated. Those are the main differences with traditional vs RPA development.

MAXX Potential: Do you have any final thoughts you want to share about RPA?

Sam: You can do pretty much anything you need to and all the tools are at your disposal. It’s really only limited by your coding skills, logic, and creativity.

I have learned a lot from using RPA and being able to help a large business save time and money, become more efficient, and reduce human error. I will always look to automate anything I can in the future.

Ready to partner with MAXX Potential on your next RPA project? We believe in transforming talent strategies and streamlining processes to drive efficiency and productivity. The future of your business awaits, and we are excited to be your trusted partner on this remarkable expedition. Contact us today at MAXXpotential.com/contact.

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Tech Exploration: the Student’s Key to Charting a Career Path

How Students Prepare for Their Future Career with Tech Exploration

By MAXX Potential

  • Education

Are you ready to discover how tech exploration can benefit students as they charter a career pathway?

Work-based learning allows students to sharpen essential skills, explore various tech career options, and develop their confidence in tech. From gaining valuable expertise to nurturing imagination, this exploration holds the key to unlocking a world of opportunities.

3 Benefits of Tech Exploration for Students

Embarking on a journey in Information Technology and Career and Technical Education as a student brings forth a plethora of benefits that can shape a future tech career pathway in an extraordinary way. Students who understand their interests and develop essential tech skills early will be ahead of their peers within the tech industry. Hands-on, work-based experiences enhance technical abilities, problem-solving aptitude, and critical thinking prowess, equipping students with the tools to excel in any tech-related role.

Whether interested in software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, or UX design, students can work on projects that focus on each. This exploration opens up different paths and paves the way for students to follow their interests into a fulfilling and dynamic career.

Work-based learning nurtures innovation within the safety of an explorative environment where students can experiment with new ideas and push boundaries.

Developing Essential Tech Skills

From coding and programming languages to data analysis and problem-solving, students who explore areas of technology in middle school or high school create a strong foundation of technical skills for the rapidly changing industry. 

Hands-on experimentation expands student skills, and they develop tech-related skills that will power their future careers. A key mentality for many technologists is their problem-solving capabilities alongside curiosity to discover solutions. Students who tap into their curiosity and perseverance for solving technical problems are sharpening a much-sought-after skill.  

The ever-evolving tech industry needs people who are ready to pivot with the rapid changes and continue to learn. Tech exploration with work-based simulators is a transformative journey that equips students with essential skills, nurtures creativity, and prepares students for a dynamic career pathway in the tech industry.

Exploring Tech Career Options with a Simulated Work Environment

A simulated work environment is a great option in Career and Technical Education for students because it allows students to immerse themselves in different career options and gain valuable insights into each role. This simulator allows students to work on a project in roles like the following:

  • Information Security Analyst
  • Network Administrator
  • System Administrator
  • Network Incident Response Specialist
  • Security Incident Response Specialist
  • Scrum Master
  • Software Developer
  • Quality Assurance Specialist
  • Help Desk Technician
  • Data Governance Specialist
  • Business Intel Analyst

The student discovers what each position does in a day-to-day capacity. Students learn about the intricacies of coding, the power of data analysis, the importance of securing digital systems, or the art of creating seamless user experiences. They also step into the real challenges of working on a team, deadlines, and communication differences.

Tech exploration before choosing a tech pathway for continued education can help students better understand their career options. 

Nurturing Creativity and Innovation in Work Simulators

Tech exploration not only helps students develop essential skills and explore career options but also nurtures creativity and innovation. The world of technology is a playground for imagination, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and inspiring new ideas.

During a work simulator, students are encouraged to think outside the box, experiment with new concepts, and challenge conventional thinking. Students interact with projects for clients and face surprise challenges that simulate the tech environment. While they strive to create a great solution for their “client,” this is also a safe environment for trial and error.

The work simulator fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration where students share ideas and build upon each other’s work. Students develop hard and soft skills that will become applicable to their future careers. 

Tech exploration as a student is not just about developing skills and exploring careers; it’s a catalyst for creativity and innovation. It empowers students to think differently, challenge norms, and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry.

How to Develop a Tech Exploration Program for Students

Schools, such as CodeRVA in Richmond, Virginia, understand how crucial it is to offer students the opportunity to dive into tech to determine their future career pathway through work simulation and experiential learning. Incorporating Career and Technical Education into the very core of the school system can transform future generations.

At a baseline level, STEM teachers can challenge students to take advantage of online resources and to build their own applications and programs. One of the best ways to learn about technology is to interact with it online, and the rapidly changing nature of technology means textbooks can’t keep up.

Together, we can help students be more ready for their future. MAXX Potential believes in providing work-based learning and mentorship to equip people from all backgrounds for their tech careers.

Is your school district ready to jump into career exploration with a focus on work-based learning to empower students for their tech career paths? Schedule a consultation today at MAXXpotential.com/schedule-a-consultation.

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Tech Exploration: the Student’s Key to Charting a Career Path

How Students Prepare for Their Future Career with Tech Exploration

By MAXX Potential

  • Education

Are you ready to discover how tech exploration can benefit students as they charter a career pathway?

Work-based learning allows students to sharpen essential skills, explore various tech career options, and develop their confidence in tech. From gaining valuable expertise to nurturing imagination, this exploration holds the key to unlocking a world of opportunities.

3 Benefits of Tech Exploration for Students

Embarking on a journey in Information Technology and Career and Technical Education as a student brings forth a plethora of benefits that can shape a future tech career pathway in an extraordinary way. Students who understand their interests and develop essential tech skills early will be ahead of their peers within the tech industry. Hands-on, work-based experiences enhance technical abilities, problem-solving aptitude, and critical thinking prowess, equipping students with the tools to excel in any tech-related role.

Whether interested in software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, or UX design, students can work on projects that focus on each. This exploration opens up different paths and paves the way for students to follow their interests into a fulfilling and dynamic career.

Work-based learning nurtures innovation within the safety of an explorative environment where students can experiment with new ideas and push boundaries.

Developing Essential Tech Skills

From coding and programming languages to data analysis and problem-solving, students who explore areas of technology in middle school or high school create a strong foundation of technical skills for the rapidly changing industry. 

Hands-on experimentation expands student skills, and they develop tech-related skills that will power their future careers. A key mentality for many technologists is their problem-solving capabilities alongside curiosity to discover solutions. Students who tap into their curiosity and perseverance for solving technical problems are sharpening a much-sought-after skill.  

The ever-evolving tech industry needs people who are ready to pivot with the rapid changes and continue to learn. Tech exploration with work-based simulators is a transformative journey that equips students with essential skills, nurtures creativity, and prepares students for a dynamic career pathway in the tech industry.

Exploring Tech Career Options with a Simulated Work Environment

A simulated work environment is a great option in Career and Technical Education for students because it allows students to immerse themselves in different career options and gain valuable insights into each role. This simulator allows students to work on a project in roles like the following:

  • Information Security Analyst
  • Network Administrator
  • System Administrator
  • Network Incident Response Specialist
  • Security Incident Response Specialist
  • Scrum Master
  • Software Developer
  • Quality Assurance Specialist
  • Help Desk Technician
  • Data Governance Specialist
  • Business Intel Analyst

The student discovers what each position does in a day-to-day capacity. Students learn about the intricacies of coding, the power of data analysis, the importance of securing digital systems, or the art of creating seamless user experiences. They also step into the real challenges of working on a team, deadlines, and communication differences.

Tech exploration before choosing a tech pathway for continued education can help students better understand their career options. 

Nurturing Creativity and Innovation in Work Simulators

Tech exploration not only helps students develop essential skills and explore career options but also nurtures creativity and innovation. The world of technology is a playground for imagination, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and inspiring new ideas.

During a work simulator, students are encouraged to think outside the box, experiment with new concepts, and challenge conventional thinking. Students interact with projects for clients and face surprise challenges that simulate the tech environment. While they strive to create a great solution for their “client,” this is also a safe environment for trial and error.

The work simulator fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration where students share ideas and build upon each other’s work. Students develop hard and soft skills that will become applicable to their future careers. 

Tech exploration as a student is not just about developing skills and exploring careers; it’s a catalyst for creativity and innovation. It empowers students to think differently, challenge norms, and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry.

How to Develop a Tech Exploration Program for Students

Schools, such as CodeRVA in Richmond, Virginia, understand how crucial it is to offer students the opportunity to dive into tech to determine their future career pathway through work simulation and experiential learning. Incorporating Career and Technical Education into the very core of the school system can transform future generations.

At a baseline level, STEM teachers can challenge students to take advantage of online resources and to build their own applications and programs. One of the best ways to learn about technology is to interact with it online, and the rapidly changing nature of technology means textbooks can’t keep up.

Together, we can help students be more ready for their future. MAXX Potential believes in providing work-based learning and mentorship to equip people from all backgrounds for their tech careers.

Is your school district ready to jump into career exploration with a focus on work-based learning to empower students for their tech career paths? Schedule a consultation today at MAXXpotential.com/schedule-a-consultation.

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How to Diversify my IT Team

Unlocking the Potential of Diversity to Drive Tech Innovation

By MAXX Potential

  • Businesses

Are you ready to drive innovation through diversity in your IT team? Diversity in tech is the key to unlocking untapped ideas and enhancing problem-solving capabilities.

In today’s fast-paced world, prioritizing diversity within your company benefits your entire organization from profitability to out-of-the-box solutions. Developing a diverse tech team requires consideration to celebrating employee diversity and recognizing potential cultural communication barriers.

What Does Tech Diversity Look Like

A diverse IT team brings together individuals from various backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity of thought allows for a more comprehensive approach to problem-solving, as different viewpoints can lead to creative solutions that may have otherwise been overlooked.

Diversity in the IT industry has been shown to increase profitability and revenue. A study conducted by McKinsey found that companies with diverse executive teams have a 25% higher likelihood of experiencing above-average profitability. Diverse teams have a wider range of skills and insights, enabling better connection with unique customer bases to drive business growth.

By embracing diversity in tech, companies can ignite innovation and position themselves for success.

5 Practical Steps to Diversify Your IT Team

To achieve diversity in tech and reap the benefits, your company needs more than to just hire people from all backgrounds and demographics. The point is to have a team that works well together, and that means developing a space where every voice is heard and barriers are mitigated.

Curate a Safe Space for Ideas

Psychological safety opens the doors to untapped ideas that can shape the future of technology. It encourages individuals to challenge the status quo, think outside the box, and push boundaries. By embracing diverse perspectives in the brainstorming process, companies can harness the full potential of their IT team and drive innovation forward.

Another mentality that can help companies with diverse teams win is promoting the concept that the “best idea at the table wins.” Expertise takes a backseat to creativity. This collaborative culture gives every voice equal weight during a brainstorming phase.

Celebrate Employee Diversity

Creating a diverse and inclusive team is not just about ticking boxes or meeting quotas; it’s about celebrating the vibrant tapestry of talent and perspectives that each individual brings. In the world of diversity in tech, embracing employee diversity and encouraging everyone to bring their whole selves to work changes problem solving in beneficial ways.

By valuing and recognizing employee contributions, we create an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to make a difference.

Identify and Solve Communication Barriers

In the book Outliers by Max Gladwell, he shares a story of how cultural backgrounds and communication norms caused plane crashes. Communication matters. When multiple people from different cultures, societies, and backgrounds work together, they may all be talking, but they are likely relying on different norms.

Diverse people create diverse solutions, so to work together, companies must identify and address any barriers that inhibit actual understanding between parties. This could mean providing resources and support for individuals who might have language differences, and it also may mean developing a script for passing information between coworkers.

Develop Clear Work Expectations and Flexible Arrangements

Setting clear work expectations and boundaries can help ensure that everyone on the team feels respected and included. This includes understanding and accommodating diverse cultural practices and allowing for flexible work arrangements when possible. When employees and managers are clear on work goals and measurements, everyone succeeds.

By establishing consistent practices and expectations, diversity in tech can thrive as each individual is given an equal chance to contribute, regardless of their position or background. This mitigates power imbalances and ensures equitable opportunities for all team members. 

Build External Partnerships and Networks

Building external partnerships and a diverse tech talent pipeline expands your connection to communities and resources outside of your company. External partnerships allow you to collaborate with organizations that are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. Access mentorship programs, workshops, and events that focus on increasing diversity in tech.

Networking with diverse individuals and communities can also help you build a more inclusive IT team. By reaching out to underrepresented groups, attending industry conferences and events, and actively engaging with diverse communities, you interact with talented individuals who may bring unique perspectives and skills to your team.

Diversify Your Tech Team with a MAXX Potential Partnership

At MAXX Potential, we believe in the power of diversity in tech. We understand that by partnering with organizations like ours, you can take a significant step towards creating an inclusive and innovative IT team. Our mission is to support businesses in diversifying their tech workforce and reaping the benefits that come with it.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to partner with MAXX and take your IT team to new heights of diversity and success. Together, we can create a future where inclusivity is the driving force behind innovation in the tech industry.

Ready to partner with MAXX Potential? Reach out today at MAXXpotential.com/contact.

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How to Diversify my IT Team

Unlocking the Potential of Diversity to Drive Tech Innovation

By MAXX Potential

  • Businesses

Are you ready to drive innovation through diversity in your IT team? Diversity in tech is the key to unlocking untapped ideas and enhancing problem-solving capabilities.

In today’s fast-paced world, prioritizing diversity within your company benefits your entire organization from profitability to out-of-the-box solutions. Developing a diverse tech team requires consideration to celebrating employee diversity and recognizing potential cultural communication barriers.

What Does Tech Diversity Look Like

A diverse IT team brings together individuals from various backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity of thought allows for a more comprehensive approach to problem-solving, as different viewpoints can lead to creative solutions that may have otherwise been overlooked.

Diversity in the IT industry has been shown to increase profitability and revenue. A study conducted by McKinsey found that companies with diverse executive teams have a 25% higher likelihood of experiencing above-average profitability. Diverse teams have a wider range of skills and insights, enabling better connection with unique customer bases to drive business growth.

By embracing diversity in tech, companies can ignite innovation and position themselves for success.

5 Practical Steps to Diversify Your IT Team

To achieve diversity in tech and reap the benefits, your company needs more than to just hire people from all backgrounds and demographics. The point is to have a team that works well together, and that means developing a space where every voice is heard and barriers are mitigated.

Curate a Safe Space for Ideas

Psychological safety opens the doors to untapped ideas that can shape the future of technology. It encourages individuals to challenge the status quo, think outside the box, and push boundaries. By embracing diverse perspectives in the brainstorming process, companies can harness the full potential of their IT team and drive innovation forward.

Another mentality that can help companies with diverse teams win is promoting the concept that the “best idea at the table wins.” Expertise takes a backseat to creativity. This collaborative culture gives every voice equal weight during a brainstorming phase.

Celebrate Employee Diversity

Creating a diverse and inclusive team is not just about ticking boxes or meeting quotas; it’s about celebrating the vibrant tapestry of talent and perspectives that each individual brings. In the world of diversity in tech, embracing employee diversity and encouraging everyone to bring their whole selves to work changes problem solving in beneficial ways.

By valuing and recognizing employee contributions, we create an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to make a difference.

Identify and Solve Communication Barriers

In the book Outliers by Max Gladwell, he shares a story of how cultural backgrounds and communication norms caused plane crashes. Communication matters. When multiple people from different cultures, societies, and backgrounds work together, they may all be talking, but they are likely relying on different norms.

Diverse people create diverse solutions, so to work together, companies must identify and address any barriers that inhibit actual understanding between parties. This could mean providing resources and support for individuals who might have language differences, and it also may mean developing a script for passing information between coworkers.

Develop Clear Work Expectations and Flexible Arrangements

Setting clear work expectations and boundaries can help ensure that everyone on the team feels respected and included. This includes understanding and accommodating diverse cultural practices and allowing for flexible work arrangements when possible. When employees and managers are clear on work goals and measurements, everyone succeeds.

By establishing consistent practices and expectations, diversity in tech can thrive as each individual is given an equal chance to contribute, regardless of their position or background. This mitigates power imbalances and ensures equitable opportunities for all team members. 

Build External Partnerships and Networks

Building external partnerships and a diverse tech talent pipeline expands your connection to communities and resources outside of your company. External partnerships allow you to collaborate with organizations that are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. Access mentorship programs, workshops, and events that focus on increasing diversity in tech.

Networking with diverse individuals and communities can also help you build a more inclusive IT team. By reaching out to underrepresented groups, attending industry conferences and events, and actively engaging with diverse communities, you interact with talented individuals who may bring unique perspectives and skills to your team.

Diversify Your Tech Team with a MAXX Potential Partnership

At MAXX Potential, we believe in the power of diversity in tech. We understand that by partnering with organizations like ours, you can take a significant step towards creating an inclusive and innovative IT team. Our mission is to support businesses in diversifying their tech workforce and reaping the benefits that come with it.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to partner with MAXX and take your IT team to new heights of diversity and success. Together, we can create a future where inclusivity is the driving force behind innovation in the tech industry.

Ready to partner with MAXX Potential? Reach out today at MAXXpotential.com/contact.

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Upskilling: the Key to Tech Employee Retention

Developing and Retaining High Performers in Technology

By MAXX Potential

  • Businesses
A white man in a black shirt sits in front of a laptop with a person with short hair and checkered shirt to help the checkered shirt human learn new tech skills for company upskilling

As technology evolves and advances, your team needs to keep up and that’s where upskilling comes in. Just because many companies foresee the increase of AI and automation that doesn’t mean that humans will stop being a vital part. Employers have an important role of reskilling and upskilling their workforce.

“Upskilling is not just an investment in individual skills, it’s an investment in the collective future of a team, a business, and the customers it serves.” Tucker Mahan, MAXX Potential Talent Director, said. He pointed out that upskilling future-proofs the workforce, attracts high caliber professionals, and fosters innovation through continuous learning. Upskilled employees better serve customers.

PluralSight polled a number of tech managers about their perception of upskilling, and they discovered that 83% of tech managers believe team members are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their tech skill development process when given paid time to learn.

Wise employers are finding ways to strategically incorporate upskilling within their ecosystem. An upskilling strategy boosts employee morale, decreases attrition, and avoids the risk and cost of a bad hire. Here’s what we do at MAXX Potential.

The Observational-Based Selection Process

“You don’t know anyone by a resume.” John Spauls, MAXX Potential Director of Operations, said. And he couldn’t be more right. Resumes are the highlight reel of a person’s career, and it doesn’t begin to showcase whether that person is a great collaborator or curious problem solver. That’s why we use an observational-based selection process that looks beyond the resume. 

An upskilling selection process recognizes the scope of current to future needs within the organization. From there, it’s important to identify employees who are ready to upskill, and consider each employee’s desire to learn. Selecting eager and enthusiastic employees for upskilling means that you have a group who is ready to learn.

The observation doesn’t stop at the selection process but continues throughout the learning segments into the application process.

“Direct behavioral observation in a hands-on training environment reveals what they truly can do.” Tucker Mahan said. “It provides insight into an individual’s aptitude, collaboration, perseverance, curiosity, authenticity, and initiative—attributes that are crucial in the rapidly evolving technology sector. It’s in the act of doing, not telling, that someone’s potential for upskilling in the tech world shines.”

Employees who are offered the opportunity to upskill often remain with the original company for longer than those who have no opportunity to grow. According to BCG and The Network’s survey, almost seven in ten employees are open to reskilling. The nature of work is changing, and employers and employees both know it.

Hands-On Tech Learning

Hands-on tech learning within an upskilling session boosts employee engagement. 

“It hones skills in real-time problem-solving and delivering business value within diverse tech stacks. It’s not just about crafting flawless applications in a vacuum, but about diving in, learning how to navigate ever-changing environments, and turning theory into tangible solutions for the industries we serve.” Tucker Mahan shared.

Developing new work skills are best retained via practice and application, and that’s why MAXX Potential leans heavily on the advantages of on the job training over traditional classroom methodologies. 

Practical hands-on learning helps employees to be curious, discover, and understand theoretical knowledge that is the foundation of the subject area. Doing this learning in the workplace means that employers train employees for the role they need, and the employee earns while they learn.

“It can help create the talent you need when that talent is not available otherwise.” John Spauls “If you can’t afford that person with five years of experience or you can’t find that person, what else are you going to do except train them.”

MAXX Potential has helped companies transform and develop their talent pipeline strategy through upskilling and apprenticeship. For one client, we customized a selection process, tailored a Career Lab upskilling experience, designed an application funnel, and offered ongoing tech mentorship and support. The client was able to upskill and hire from within their company, filling a few key tech roles.

Upskilling Cost Savings and Return on Investment

“Work-based learning creates professionals who can adapt, and be more efficient, effective, and reliable in the services they provide. These professionals will continue growing, and draw upon their previous hands-on experiences to better solve future challenges.” Tucker Mahan shared that when a company prioritizes ongoing learning, employees often align with those values and strive to continue their own development.

The competitive landscape of IT demands that organizations continue to seek that edge, and it can often be found within their team. 

LinkedIn’s Workplace Learning Report revealed that 94% of employees said they would have stayed with their employers longer if career development was prioritized. That’s no joking matter when companies can spend twice a role’s salary on hiring that one role. If companies can retain their employees longer with career development, they will not only upskill their current employees, but they will avoid the high costs of hiring for longer.

“Upskilling invests in employee potential, nurturing not just their capabilities, but also their loyalty. It fosters a sense of purpose and growth, reducing turnover by creating a workforce that’s engaged and ready for the next challenges.” Tucker Mahan emphasized. “The cost of hiring and onboarding new talent is often far greater than developing the talent already within the organization.”

Some of the heaviest costs for tech companies come from the hiring process as well as the risk of making a bad hire. Upskilling, reskilling, and hiring from within for tech roles develops ongoing employee trust and fills important positions with people who have already demonstrated their values, professional skills, and work ethic.

Retain Your Employees and Power the Future of Your Company

“For any individual who sees their company is investing a certain amount of money and time into helping them learn, that generates a certain level of loyalty.” John Spauls said.

Treat your employees well, and they will stay. This requires a company that is tapping into their employee experience via regular check-ins, anonymous surveys, and opportunities for career development. The hiring process is challenging for everyone so develop a company culture that invites employees to stay.

At MAXX Potential, we partner with companies so they never need to list an entry-level role again, whether they choose our customizable Upskilling program or our Apprenticeship approach. Ready to learn more? Reach out at MAXXpotential.com/contact.

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Upskilling: the Key to Tech Employee Retention

Developing and Retaining High Performers in Technology

By MAXX Potential

  • Businesses
A white man in a black shirt sits in front of a laptop with a person with short hair and checkered shirt to help the checkered shirt human learn new tech skills for company upskilling

As technology evolves and advances, your team needs to keep up and that’s where upskilling comes in. Just because many companies foresee the increase of AI and automation that doesn’t mean that humans will stop being a vital part. Employers have an important role of reskilling and upskilling their workforce.

“Upskilling is not just an investment in individual skills, it’s an investment in the collective future of a team, a business, and the customers it serves.” Tucker Mahan, MAXX Potential Talent Director, said. He pointed out that upskilling future-proofs the workforce, attracts high caliber professionals, and fosters innovation through continuous learning. Upskilled employees better serve customers.

PluralSight polled a number of tech managers about their perception of upskilling, and they discovered that 83% of tech managers believe team members are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their tech skill development process when given paid time to learn.

Wise employers are finding ways to strategically incorporate upskilling within their ecosystem. An upskilling strategy boosts employee morale, decreases attrition, and avoids the risk and cost of a bad hire. Here’s what we do at MAXX Potential.

The Observational-Based Selection Process

“You don’t know anyone by a resume.” John Spauls, MAXX Potential Director of Operations, said. And he couldn’t be more right. Resumes are the highlight reel of a person’s career, and it doesn’t begin to showcase whether that person is a great collaborator or curious problem solver. That’s why we use an observational-based selection process that looks beyond the resume. 

An upskilling selection process recognizes the scope of current to future needs within the organization. From there, it’s important to identify employees who are ready to upskill, and consider each employee’s desire to learn. Selecting eager and enthusiastic employees for upskilling means that you have a group who is ready to learn.

The observation doesn’t stop at the selection process but continues throughout the learning segments into the application process.

“Direct behavioral observation in a hands-on training environment reveals what they truly can do.” Tucker Mahan said. “It provides insight into an individual’s aptitude, collaboration, perseverance, curiosity, authenticity, and initiative—attributes that are crucial in the rapidly evolving technology sector. It’s in the act of doing, not telling, that someone’s potential for upskilling in the tech world shines.”

Employees who are offered the opportunity to upskill often remain with the original company for longer than those who have no opportunity to grow. According to BCG and The Network’s survey, almost seven in ten employees are open to reskilling. The nature of work is changing, and employers and employees both know it.

Hands-On Tech Learning

Hands-on tech learning within an upskilling session boosts employee engagement. 

“It hones skills in real-time problem-solving and delivering business value within diverse tech stacks. It’s not just about crafting flawless applications in a vacuum, but about diving in, learning how to navigate ever-changing environments, and turning theory into tangible solutions for the industries we serve.” Tucker Mahan shared.

Developing new work skills are best retained via practice and application, and that’s why MAXX Potential leans heavily on the advantages of on the job training over traditional classroom methodologies. 

Practical hands-on learning helps employees to be curious, discover, and understand theoretical knowledge that is the foundation of the subject area. Doing this learning in the workplace means that employers train employees for the role they need, and the employee earns while they learn.

“It can help create the talent you need when that talent is not available otherwise.” John Spauls “If you can’t afford that person with five years of experience or you can’t find that person, what else are you going to do except train them.”

MAXX Potential has helped companies transform and develop their talent pipeline strategy through upskilling and apprenticeship. For one client, we customized a selection process, tailored a Career Lab upskilling experience, designed an application funnel, and offered ongoing tech mentorship and support. The client was able to upskill and hire from within their company, filling a few key tech roles.

Upskilling Cost Savings and Return on Investment

“Work-based learning creates professionals who can adapt, and be more efficient, effective, and reliable in the services they provide. These professionals will continue growing, and draw upon their previous hands-on experiences to better solve future challenges.” Tucker Mahan shared that when a company prioritizes ongoing learning, employees often align with those values and strive to continue their own development.

The competitive landscape of IT demands that organizations continue to seek that edge, and it can often be found within their team. 

LinkedIn’s Workplace Learning Report revealed that 94% of employees said they would have stayed with their employers longer if career development was prioritized. That’s no joking matter when companies can spend twice a role’s salary on hiring that one role. If companies can retain their employees longer with career development, they will not only upskill their current employees, but they will avoid the high costs of hiring for longer.

“Upskilling invests in employee potential, nurturing not just their capabilities, but also their loyalty. It fosters a sense of purpose and growth, reducing turnover by creating a workforce that’s engaged and ready for the next challenges.” Tucker Mahan emphasized. “The cost of hiring and onboarding new talent is often far greater than developing the talent already within the organization.”

Some of the heaviest costs for tech companies come from the hiring process as well as the risk of making a bad hire. Upskilling, reskilling, and hiring from within for tech roles develops ongoing employee trust and fills important positions with people who have already demonstrated their values, professional skills, and work ethic.

Retain Your Employees and Power the Future of Your Company

“For any individual who sees their company is investing a certain amount of money and time into helping them learn, that generates a certain level of loyalty.” John Spauls said.

Treat your employees well, and they will stay. This requires a company that is tapping into their employee experience via regular check-ins, anonymous surveys, and opportunities for career development. The hiring process is challenging for everyone so develop a company culture that invites employees to stay.

At MAXX Potential, we partner with companies so they never need to list an entry-level role again, whether they choose our customizable Upskilling program or our Apprenticeship approach. Ready to learn more? Reach out at MAXXpotential.com/contact.

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From Classroom to Career: How Career and Technical Education Transforms Students into IT Professionals

Equipping the Next Generation of IT Professionals

By MAXX Potential

  • Education
From Classroom to Career: How Career and Technical Education Transforms IT Professionals

For students interested in the tech industry, CTE programs transform the trajectory from classroom to career through work-based learning experiences.  

During the 1960s and 1970s, vocationally-based education reached a high point, and then in the 1980s, the focus shifted to college course preparation. A growing body of career and technical education research and data revealed that jobs are changing and new skills are required for tech careers.

“Young people used to follow a path right out of school to the factory with just a little bit of job training, [but] those jobs are not there anymore,” said Neil Ridley, director of the State Initiative at Georgetown University’s Center for Education and the Workforce, in an article about modernizing career and technical education. “High school shouldn’t be seen as just a pipeline anymore; it’s a building block.”

As of March 2022, the Association for Career & Technical Education (ACTE) conducted a study on CTE in the state of Florida that revealed that there’s a skills gap of 54% of jobs that require skills training at the educational level between high school and college. Meanwhile, only 45% of Florida workers possess this level of training.

To prepare students for their future careers in tech, CTE is crucial.

How CTE Transforms the IT Career Pathway

Career and technical education goes hand-in-hand with traditional education by elevating technical skills and professional abilities through real-world work and experience. Students who participate in CTE programs step into an environment that prioritizes in-depth technical training alongside company partnerships. 

Students of all abilities benefit from CTE programs. Over the years, CTE research studies have revealed that students with disabilities who participate in CTE programs are 5% more likely to graduate from high school on time and 20% more likely to be employed after graduation. 

Students Experience Cutting-Edge Technology

CTE information technology programs allow students to experience cutting-edge technologies and industry trends for projects. It means working on hard and soft skills for real-world tasks rather than just being exam ready. 

“People have such outdated and just wrong impressions of what career education is,” Paul Fain said in a CTE basics article. “It’s not for dirty jobs, as many people think – drill press operator comes to mind. Many of these roles are in high-demand, high-tech fields.”

Internship is often a part of CTE programs, and some employers see it as the key to developing their team, so that entry-level individuals can learn while they earn. The tech industry offers a lot of opportunity for people without traditional education because the industry changes so rapidly.

Students who participate in CTE programs build out their resume and acquire high-demand professional skills, including communication, collaboration, and leadership 

Students Learn How to Collaborate and Solve Problems

“They didn’t give me the answer, but they gave me the support.” Kume Goranson, Ed.D., Executive Director at CodeRVA, and Rob Simms, MAXX Partner discuss what makes work-based learning experience so important for today’s students who are gearing up for their careers.

When students take on a long-term, work-based project along with a team of classmates, they’re working for a client, whether real or simulated. The client often has an idea of what they want, and the students must figure out how to meet the client’s expectations, project manage, troubleshoot, and interact professionally.

What makes work-based learning experiences so different from a school group project is that the team of students face real-career frustrations. They may face a client who says one thing, but after seeing the rough draft, realizes they want something else.

A real part of any job is facing a project that has no instruction manual.

Students Take Risks in a CTE Program

A CTE program allows students to gain real-world experience through work-based learning that’s either a work simulation or an employer partnership. 

This hands-on learning helps students test the waters of their potential future IT career under the watchful eyes of CTE program facilitators. CTE information technology mentors are available to students to discuss difficult challenges within their long-term project. Students can take risks within the safety of the program without possible career repercussions.

CTE programs often rely on partnerships with local companies to provide industry information, examples of tech challenges, and other supplemental instruction. From these partnerships, students expand their knowledge and their network.

Future Trends and Opportunities in CTE for IT Professionals

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) career pathways are vital for future economic growth, societal adaptability, and innovation. The rapid changes within the tech industry means that traditional programs fall behind the cutting-edge advancements, and CTE programs have the ability to allow students to see what’s happening in tech careers right now.

Emerging technologies mean that textbooks cannot keep up with industry trends, and traditional education needs to find ways to help students be prepared for their futures beyond the typical user experience of smartphones and computers. CTE programs help students explore evolving tech career paths while prioritizing lifelong learning. 

Is your school district ready to jump into career exploration with a focus on work-based learning to empower students for their tech career paths? Schedule a consultation today at MAXXpotential.com/schedule-a-consultation.

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Professional black man sitting in front of two computer screens with code

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From Classroom to Career: How Career and Technical Education Transforms Students into IT Professionals

Equipping the Next Generation of IT Professionals

By MAXX Potential

  • Education
From Classroom to Career: How Career and Technical Education Transforms IT Professionals

For students interested in the tech industry, CTE programs transform the trajectory from classroom to career through work-based learning experiences.  

During the 1960s and 1970s, vocationally-based education reached a high point, and then in the 1980s, the focus shifted to college course preparation. A growing body of career and technical education research and data revealed that jobs are changing and new skills are required for tech careers.

“Young people used to follow a path right out of school to the factory with just a little bit of job training, [but] those jobs are not there anymore,” said Neil Ridley, director of the State Initiative at Georgetown University’s Center for Education and the Workforce, in an article about modernizing career and technical education. “High school shouldn’t be seen as just a pipeline anymore; it’s a building block.”

As of March 2022, the Association for Career & Technical Education (ACTE) conducted a study on CTE in the state of Florida that revealed that there’s a skills gap of 54% of jobs that require skills training at the educational level between high school and college. Meanwhile, only 45% of Florida workers possess this level of training.

To prepare students for their future careers in tech, CTE is crucial.

How CTE Transforms the IT Career Pathway

Career and technical education goes hand-in-hand with traditional education by elevating technical skills and professional abilities through real-world work and experience. Students who participate in CTE programs step into an environment that prioritizes in-depth technical training alongside company partnerships. 

Students of all abilities benefit from CTE programs. Over the years, CTE research studies have revealed that students with disabilities who participate in CTE programs are 5% more likely to graduate from high school on time and 20% more likely to be employed after graduation. 

Students Experience Cutting-Edge Technology

CTE information technology programs allow students to experience cutting-edge technologies and industry trends for projects. It means working on hard and soft skills for real-world tasks rather than just being exam ready. 

“People have such outdated and just wrong impressions of what career education is,” Paul Fain said in a CTE basics article. “It’s not for dirty jobs, as many people think – drill press operator comes to mind. Many of these roles are in high-demand, high-tech fields.”

Internship is often a part of CTE programs, and some employers see it as the key to developing their team, so that entry-level individuals can learn while they earn. The tech industry offers a lot of opportunity for people without traditional education because the industry changes so rapidly.

Students who participate in CTE programs build out their resume and acquire high-demand professional skills, including communication, collaboration, and leadership 

Students Learn How to Collaborate and Solve Problems

“They didn’t give me the answer, but they gave me the support.” Kume Goranson, Ed.D., Executive Director at CodeRVA, and Rob Simms, MAXX Partner discuss what makes work-based learning experience so important for today’s students who are gearing up for their careers.

When students take on a long-term, work-based project along with a team of classmates, they’re working for a client, whether real or simulated. The client often has an idea of what they want, and the students must figure out how to meet the client’s expectations, project manage, troubleshoot, and interact professionally.

What makes work-based learning experiences so different from a school group project is that the team of students face real-career frustrations. They may face a client who says one thing, but after seeing the rough draft, realizes they want something else.

A real part of any job is facing a project that has no instruction manual.

Students Take Risks in a CTE Program

A CTE program allows students to gain real-world experience through work-based learning that’s either a work simulation or an employer partnership. 

This hands-on learning helps students test the waters of their potential future IT career under the watchful eyes of CTE program facilitators. CTE information technology mentors are available to students to discuss difficult challenges within their long-term project. Students can take risks within the safety of the program without possible career repercussions.

CTE programs often rely on partnerships with local companies to provide industry information, examples of tech challenges, and other supplemental instruction. From these partnerships, students expand their knowledge and their network.

Future Trends and Opportunities in CTE for IT Professionals

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) career pathways are vital for future economic growth, societal adaptability, and innovation. The rapid changes within the tech industry means that traditional programs fall behind the cutting-edge advancements, and CTE programs have the ability to allow students to see what’s happening in tech careers right now.

Emerging technologies mean that textbooks cannot keep up with industry trends, and traditional education needs to find ways to help students be prepared for their futures beyond the typical user experience of smartphones and computers. CTE programs help students explore evolving tech career paths while prioritizing lifelong learning. 

Is your school district ready to jump into career exploration with a focus on work-based learning to empower students for their tech career paths? Schedule a consultation today at MAXXpotential.com/schedule-a-consultation.

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Fast-Track to Success: Leveraging Apprenticeships as a Talent Pipeline Accelerator

Unlocking Potential for Future Technologist Careers

By MAXX Potential

  • Apprenticeship
Fast-Track to Success: Leveraging Apprenticeships as a Talent Pipeline Accelerator

What if you could stop posting entry-level roles and build out a robust talent strategy to find and equip the workers you want for your team? Rather than hoping someone would apply to your company who would be the right fit, you knew you had a go-to group of skilled individuals who met your hiring criteria. 

Welcome to the idea of Apprenticeship as a Talent Pipeline Accelerator.

Tech Apprenticeship: The Talent Pipeline Accelerator

Hiring and attrition is costly. Companies spend two times the new hire’s salary to make one new hire, and this doesn’t have to be your company. This is where tech apprenticeship becomes an impactful solution. 

Apprenticeship allows your company to invest in future tech talent or upskill a current team for the evolving technology environment, developing a type of internal talent pipeline. This can be a great addition to the company’s current recruitment pipeline process. 

At MAXX Potential, we use Career Lab as a starting point for people who are interested in advancing or starting a career in technology. Through a multi-session, hands-on workshop series, tech-interested individuals explore different areas of technology.

Clients have used the MAXX Potential Career Lab as part upskill and part testing ground for current team members to learn and apply for IT roles within their company. Upskilling their team means that the company isn’t taking a chance on someone new.

Tech Apprenticeship Increases Employee Retention and Loyalty

In a report on apprenticeship, the Department of Labor noted that 94% of workers who completed an apprenticeship program were hired, and their 3-year retention rate is 89%. At MAXX Potential, Apprentices solve Customer problems, fill in the gaps, and pave the way for continued Customer success.

The payoff is amazing for apprenticeship program participants and employers. Research shows that apprentices triple their income and transform their lives while organizations gain workers who remain on the team for longer than the average hire. 

Gone are the days where workers stayed with companies for their entire careers; however, studies have revealed that workers stay when they feel that their companies invest in them.

Tech Apprenticeship is a Win for Apprentices, Employers, and Cities

Apprenticeship is an amazing opportunity for cities and communities of people because it offers an alternate route to gaining skill and experience in specific industries. Earn-while-you-learn work empowers individuals to pursue a career pathway and lifestyle that may have been out of reach via traditional education.

People from all walks of life and background can pursue an apprenticeship and corresponding career pathway. Apprenticeship becomes a talent pipeline as a service that can serve individuals, companies, and communities. Meanwhile, employers achieve more diversity and the corresponding higher-than-average financial performance.

As each person learns on the job, they strengthen their skill set for the specific role, filling talent gaps and tailoring their skills to the specific organization. Apprenticeship as a talent pipeline accelerator means your company taps all potential candidates alongside more traditional hiring tools.

The Future of Tech Talent is Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship keeps up with the rapidly evolving technology industry. Employers who use the apprenticeship model ensure that new workers are up to date in their technical skills. Apprentices get on-the-job experience, know the work culture, and understand technical work.

At MAXX Potential, we’re always iterating on our Apprenticeship program as a Talent Pipeline Accelerator so we can provide our Customers with smart and eager workers who will get the job done. Interested in hearing more about how we can transform your talent strategy with apprenticeship and building a strong candidate pipeline? Reach out MAXXpotential.com/contact.

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Fast-Track to Success: Leveraging Apprenticeships as a Talent Pipeline Accelerator

Unlocking Potential for Future Technologist Careers

By MAXX Potential

  • Apprenticeship
Fast-Track to Success: Leveraging Apprenticeships as a Talent Pipeline Accelerator

What if you could stop posting entry-level roles and build out a robust talent strategy to find and equip the workers you want for your team? Rather than hoping someone would apply to your company who would be the right fit, you knew you had a go-to group of skilled individuals who met your hiring criteria. 

Welcome to the idea of Apprenticeship as a Talent Pipeline Accelerator.

Tech Apprenticeship: The Talent Pipeline Accelerator

Hiring and attrition is costly. Companies spend two times the new hire’s salary to make one new hire, and this doesn’t have to be your company. This is where tech apprenticeship becomes an impactful solution. 

Apprenticeship allows your company to invest in future tech talent or upskill a current team for the evolving technology environment, developing a type of internal talent pipeline. This can be a great addition to the company’s current recruitment pipeline process. 

At MAXX Potential, we use Career Lab as a starting point for people who are interested in advancing or starting a career in technology. Through a multi-session, hands-on workshop series, tech-interested individuals explore different areas of technology.

Clients have used the MAXX Potential Career Lab as part upskill and part testing ground for current team members to learn and apply for IT roles within their company. Upskilling their team means that the company isn’t taking a chance on someone new.

Tech Apprenticeship Increases Employee Retention and Loyalty

In a report on apprenticeship, the Department of Labor noted that 94% of workers who completed an apprenticeship program were hired, and their 3-year retention rate is 89%. At MAXX Potential, Apprentices solve Customer problems, fill in the gaps, and pave the way for continued Customer success.

The payoff is amazing for apprenticeship program participants and employers. Research shows that apprentices triple their income and transform their lives while organizations gain workers who remain on the team for longer than the average hire. 

Gone are the days where workers stayed with companies for their entire careers; however, studies have revealed that workers stay when they feel that their companies invest in them.

Tech Apprenticeship is a Win for Apprentices, Employers, and Cities

Apprenticeship is an amazing opportunity for cities and communities of people because it offers an alternate route to gaining skill and experience in specific industries. Earn-while-you-learn work empowers individuals to pursue a career pathway and lifestyle that may have been out of reach via traditional education.

People from all walks of life and background can pursue an apprenticeship and corresponding career pathway. Apprenticeship becomes a talent pipeline as a service that can serve individuals, companies, and communities. Meanwhile, employers achieve more diversity and the corresponding higher-than-average financial performance.

As each person learns on the job, they strengthen their skill set for the specific role, filling talent gaps and tailoring their skills to the specific organization. Apprenticeship as a talent pipeline accelerator means your company taps all potential candidates alongside more traditional hiring tools.

The Future of Tech Talent is Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship keeps up with the rapidly evolving technology industry. Employers who use the apprenticeship model ensure that new workers are up to date in their technical skills. Apprentices get on-the-job experience, know the work culture, and understand technical work.

At MAXX Potential, we’re always iterating on our Apprenticeship program as a Talent Pipeline Accelerator so we can provide our Customers with smart and eager workers who will get the job done. Interested in hearing more about how we can transform your talent strategy with apprenticeship and building a strong candidate pipeline? Reach out MAXXpotential.com/contact.

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How to Cultivate Company Culture in a Virtual Workplace

Staying People-Focused and Flexible in an AI World

By MAXX Potential

  • Businesses
three cartoon characters paddle a canoe together, representing cultivating company culture in a virtual space

As work from home becomes more common, companies and employees alike wonder how to maintain company culture in a virtual workplace. When everyone was in the office, the glue of workplace culture solidified during watercooler chats, lunchroom overlap, and “do you have a second?” conversation starters.

Employers and employees alike benefit from the virtual workplace, and the list of benefits for the employer who employs virtual workers includes streamlined communication, higher productivity, larger talent pool, lower turnover rates, reduced overhead costs, and improved inclusivity. Yet, some worry about the loss of company culture without in-person interactions.

The future of work is flexible, and personal connection can thrive virtually. Get your work done in a way that’s best for your people and your company whether that’s in person or virtual. 

The Future of Work is People-Focused

While AI streamlines many aspects of our jobs, it’s important to understand the measurements of great work. ChatGPT provides the data in response to targeted prompts, and yet, while it’s faster, it does need a person to check its work. 

People with the skills, experience, and judgment to understand how a process works have the ability to troubleshoot. AI can help work get done, and it needs to be managed by people with strong mental models.

With many people working from home, it’s important that managers define clear success criteria for projects. This ensures that work is completed whether in the office or at home.

Now is the time to be investing in your team of people. The MAXX Apprenticeship program teaches MAXX Apprentices different processes around technology, Artificial Intelligence, learning, mental models, and decision-making. 

Defining and Communicating Company Core Values

Beyond mission and vision statements, many companies have defined core values to guide company and employee behavior as well as overall alignment. These core values are key to ensuring that your team understands what qualities are applauded. 

For MAXX Potential, these values are Initiative, Curiosity, Collaboration, Authenticity, and Perseverance. We hire people who demonstrate these values. We talk about these values in meetings, training, and interviews. They are part of annual reviews, and they are what Apprentices are measured by for Apprentice of the Month social posts. 

Each person who joins MAXX Potential already embodies our company values. As Kim Mahan, MAXX Founder, likes to say, “For lasting change, you want believers. Start by being the change, while focusing on common ground (like “productivity” rather than “social”) and make it safe for people to watch and learn. Attitudes and opinions will then progress and evolve much faster on their own.”

Clear company values with associated behaviors builds company culture and Customer trust. If your employees’ behavior aligns with company values, then Customers know what to expect for their partnerships with your company.

Virtually Connected Company Culture

Company culture is more than watercooler conversations. A couple of key elements for inspiring strong company culture include a strong onboarding process, clear expectations, and tactile elements, such as company swag.

Engaged remote workers demonstrate a high morale and high productivity. It’s even better when virtual employees feel like they have autonomy, flexibility, and agency within their role.

At MAXX Potential, we encourage regular communication and feedback through virtual meetings, specified stand-up meetings, and communication channels. Periodic one-on-one meetings offer a great check-in on projects, morale, and other items.

A great way to boost morale is to highlight outstanding employees, and MAXX Potential does this every month with a nominated Apprentice of the Month who has exhibited the MAXX core values. The announcement is celebrated in our monthly Town Hall gathering, on Slack with emojis, comments, gifs, and a social media post. 

While our offices may be separate, technology connects each of us. 

“When I joined MAXX Potential, I was astounded that my supervisor and the founders of the company encouraged me to set up 30-min chats with my coworkers just to get to know them.” Barbara Brutt, Content Marketer, said. “I’ve been working remotely since 2017, and this was the first company who saw these conversations as an important part of my workday.” 

Many tools exist to support the remote workplace and company culture. Some ideas to build company culture include Slack donut, gaming groups, specific channels for different interests, virtual coffee breaks, and online stretches or workouts. 

When employees connect about life interests or in real life, this creates pathways for future collaboration and great teamwork. 

WFH in Co-working Spaces

Co-working spaces have existed for years as the entrepreneur’s best friend, and in the last few years, these spaces gained momentum and popularity for corporate workers who no longer work at the office.

At Durham’s American Underground, a co-working space, a researcher intended to interview entrepreneurs. Instead, he met corporate employee after corporate employee. While he wasn’t meeting his research goals, he observed something interesting: remote employees were seeking community.

Co-working spaces have become a haven and a hub for corporate workers and entrepreneurs. Workers choose co-working for a variety of reasons, whether it’s to find a quiet space or to be with others.

“We’ve had a few Apprentices make frequent use of ReCity,” John Spauls, MAXX Potential Director of Operations, said. He pointed out that the co-working space provided a quiet, focused working space for Apprentices who’s families had grown, houses were under construction, or needed community.

“I enjoy ReCity because of the connections it provides us in the Durham community.” Spauls shared. “ReCity is a local shared working space, not part of a larger national chain. As such, they have favorable pricing for non-profits and other socially conscious companies, and so we are able to rub shoulders and network with a lot of community good focused companies and individuals around Durham. It helps us connect more locally.”

At MAXX Potential, we offer our local Apprentices the option of working at Gather or ReCity, and we have Apprentices who work in person at Customer offices.

Virtual employees build their own network and community, becoming ambassadors for their company in their coworking spaces.

Are you ready to partner with a company who’s figured out the in-person and virtual workplace? MAXX Potential transforms company talent strategies, allowing you to tap into your company’s full potential when you’re not busy worrying about your next hire. Reach out today at MAXXpotential.com/contact to find out what we can do for you and your team!

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Antonio Scott

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Professional black man sitting in front of two computer screens with code

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How to Cultivate Company Culture in a Virtual Workplace

Staying People-Focused and Flexible in an AI World

By MAXX Potential

  • Businesses
three cartoon characters paddle a canoe together, representing cultivating company culture in a virtual space

As work from home becomes more common, companies and employees alike wonder how to maintain company culture in a virtual workplace. When everyone was in the office, the glue of workplace culture solidified during watercooler chats, lunchroom overlap, and “do you have a second?” conversation starters.

Employers and employees alike benefit from the virtual workplace, and the list of benefits for the employer who employs virtual workers includes streamlined communication, higher productivity, larger talent pool, lower turnover rates, reduced overhead costs, and improved inclusivity. Yet, some worry about the loss of company culture without in-person interactions.

The future of work is flexible, and personal connection can thrive virtually. Get your work done in a way that’s best for your people and your company whether that’s in person or virtual. 

The Future of Work is People-Focused

While AI streamlines many aspects of our jobs, it’s important to understand the measurements of great work. ChatGPT provides the data in response to targeted prompts, and yet, while it’s faster, it does need a person to check its work. 

People with the skills, experience, and judgment to understand how a process works have the ability to troubleshoot. AI can help work get done, and it needs to be managed by people with strong mental models.

With many people working from home, it’s important that managers define clear success criteria for projects. This ensures that work is completed whether in the office or at home.

Now is the time to be investing in your team of people. The MAXX Apprenticeship program teaches MAXX Apprentices different processes around technology, Artificial Intelligence, learning, mental models, and decision-making. 

Defining and Communicating Company Core Values

Beyond mission and vision statements, many companies have defined core values to guide company and employee behavior as well as overall alignment. These core values are key to ensuring that your team understands what qualities are applauded. 

For MAXX Potential, these values are Initiative, Curiosity, Collaboration, Authenticity, and Perseverance. We hire people who demonstrate these values. We talk about these values in meetings, training, and interviews. They are part of annual reviews, and they are what Apprentices are measured by for Apprentice of the Month social posts. 

Each person who joins MAXX Potential already embodies our company values. As Kim Mahan, MAXX Founder, likes to say, “For lasting change, you want believers. Start by being the change, while focusing on common ground (like “productivity” rather than “social”) and make it safe for people to watch and learn. Attitudes and opinions will then progress and evolve much faster on their own.”

Clear company values with associated behaviors builds company culture and Customer trust. If your employees’ behavior aligns with company values, then Customers know what to expect for their partnerships with your company.

Virtually Connected Company Culture

Company culture is more than watercooler conversations. A couple of key elements for inspiring strong company culture include a strong onboarding process, clear expectations, and tactile elements, such as company swag.

Engaged remote workers demonstrate a high morale and high productivity. It’s even better when virtual employees feel like they have autonomy, flexibility, and agency within their role.

At MAXX Potential, we encourage regular communication and feedback through virtual meetings, specified stand-up meetings, and communication channels. Periodic one-on-one meetings offer a great check-in on projects, morale, and other items.

A great way to boost morale is to highlight outstanding employees, and MAXX Potential does this every month with a nominated Apprentice of the Month who has exhibited the MAXX core values. The announcement is celebrated in our monthly Town Hall gathering, on Slack with emojis, comments, gifs, and a social media post. 

While our offices may be separate, technology connects each of us. 

“When I joined MAXX Potential, I was astounded that my supervisor and the founders of the company encouraged me to set up 30-min chats with my coworkers just to get to know them.” Barbara Brutt, Content Marketer, said. “I’ve been working remotely since 2017, and this was the first company who saw these conversations as an important part of my workday.” 

Many tools exist to support the remote workplace and company culture. Some ideas to build company culture include Slack donut, gaming groups, specific channels for different interests, virtual coffee breaks, and online stretches or workouts. 

When employees connect about life interests or in real life, this creates pathways for future collaboration and great teamwork. 

WFH in Co-working Spaces

Co-working spaces have existed for years as the entrepreneur’s best friend, and in the last few years, these spaces gained momentum and popularity for corporate workers who no longer work at the office.

At Durham’s American Underground, a co-working space, a researcher intended to interview entrepreneurs. Instead, he met corporate employee after corporate employee. While he wasn’t meeting his research goals, he observed something interesting: remote employees were seeking community.

Co-working spaces have become a haven and a hub for corporate workers and entrepreneurs. Workers choose co-working for a variety of reasons, whether it’s to find a quiet space or to be with others.

“We’ve had a few Apprentices make frequent use of ReCity,” John Spauls, MAXX Potential Director of Operations, said. He pointed out that the co-working space provided a quiet, focused working space for Apprentices who’s families had grown, houses were under construction, or needed community.

“I enjoy ReCity because of the connections it provides us in the Durham community.” Spauls shared. “ReCity is a local shared working space, not part of a larger national chain. As such, they have favorable pricing for non-profits and other socially conscious companies, and so we are able to rub shoulders and network with a lot of community good focused companies and individuals around Durham. It helps us connect more locally.”

At MAXX Potential, we offer our local Apprentices the option of working at Gather or ReCity, and we have Apprentices who work in person at Customer offices.

Virtual employees build their own network and community, becoming ambassadors for their company in their coworking spaces.

Are you ready to partner with a company who’s figured out the in-person and virtual workplace? MAXX Potential transforms company talent strategies, allowing you to tap into your company’s full potential when you’re not busy worrying about your next hire. Reach out today at MAXXpotential.com/contact to find out what we can do for you and your team!

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