Edge Computing vs Cloud: What IT Leaders Need to Know in 2026

The Shifting IT Landscape

The digital world is evolving faster than ever. From AI-driven applications to real-time data processing, businesses are under constant pressure to deliver seamless experiences. For IT leaders, the conversation is no longer just about moving to the cloud—it’s about understanding where edge computing fits into the strategy. In 2026, the balance between cloud and edge is shaping up to be one of the biggest decisions technology leaders must make.

Cloud: Still the Backbone of Digital Transformation

Cloud computing remains the foundation of modern IT infrastructure. It offers scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency that traditional on-premise systems simply cannot match. Companies continue to rely on the cloud for:

• Storing massive volumes of data

• Hosting applications with global reach

• Leveraging advanced tools like AI, machine learning, and analytics

For organizations with distributed teams or complex software ecosystems, cloud platforms remain the go-to solution. Yet, as the demand for instant responsiveness grows, cloud alone isn’t enough.

The Rise of Edge Computing

Edge computing is stepping into the spotlight as the perfect complement to the cloud. Instead of sending all data to distant servers, edge technology processes information closer to where it’s generated—whether that’s a factory floor, a hospital, or even inside a self-driving car.

This localized processing means faster insights, reduced latency, and improved reliability. In industries like healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and retail, edge computing is enabling real-time decision-making where every second matters.

Why 2026 Is a Pivotal Year

By 2026, edge adoption isn’t just experimental—it’s becoming mainstream. Organizations are no longer asking “Should we adopt edge?” but rather “How do we integrate edge with our cloud systems?” IT leaders are expected to design hybrid strategies that combine the scale of cloud with the speed of edge.

Consider scenarios like smart cities or 5G-powered applications—these require real-time responsiveness that the cloud alone can’t provide. Edge computing fills that gap while still leaning on the cloud for heavy storage, advanced analytics, and long-term scalability.

Key Considerations for IT Leaders

To navigate this shift, leaders must evaluate:

• Use Cases: Identify where latency, bandwidth, and real-time insights are critical.

• Security: Ensure edge devices are secure, as decentralized systems can create new vulnerabilities.

• Costs: Balance the investment between cloud expansion and edge infrastructure.

• Integration: Build a seamless bridge between cloud and edge systems rather than treating them as separate silos.

The Future: Cloud and Edge, Not Cloud vs Edge

The conversation isn’t about choosing one over the other. It’s about synergy. The cloud will continue to be the powerhouse for big data and enterprise applications, while edge will act as the enabler of speed, responsiveness, and local intelligence. Together, they create a digital ecosystem that empowers organizations to be faster, smarter, and more resilient.

Final Thought

For IT leaders in 2026, success lies in mastering this balance. Those who see cloud and edge as partners, not rivals, will be best positioned to lead their organizations into the next era of digital innovation. The future belongs to those who can harness both — scaling globally with the cloud while acting instantly with the edge. Contact The Trevi Group if you need assistance finding talent that can accomplish that.

The Trevi Group | “Executive Search for Technology Professionals” | www.TheTreviGroup.com

#cloud #edgecomputing #cloudcomputing #thetrevigroup #recruitingtrends #informationtechnology #employmenttrends #jobmarket #hiringtrends

Strengthening Network Defenses: Five Proactive Strategies for IT Teams

In today’s fast-paced digital world, IT teams are not just problem-solvers—they are the frontline defenders of an organization’s reputation, trust, and future. Cyber threats evolve every day, growing more sophisticated, subtle, and damaging. That’s why simply reacting to attacks isn’t enough anymore. The true strength of a modern IT team lies in being proactive, anticipating challenges before they strike. Let’s explore five powerful strategies that can help IT teams stay one step ahead and safeguard their networks.

1. Build a Culture of Cyber Awareness

Technology can only go so far if the people behind it aren’t alert. Employees often become the weakest link in security, whether it’s clicking on a phishing email or using weak passwords. IT teams should prioritize creating a culture where cybersecurity awareness is second nature. Regular training sessions, engaging simulations, and simple reminders can transform employees into the first line of defense rather than a liability.

2. Embrace Zero Trust Architecture

Gone are the days when organizations could trust everything inside their network walls. The Zero Trust model assumes that every user, device, or application could pose a risk. By verifying every access request—whether it’s from within the office or halfway across the globe—IT teams can dramatically reduce vulnerabilities. Think of it as the digital equivalent of checking IDs at every door, not just the main entrance.

3. Prioritize Regular Patch Management

Cybercriminals are quick to exploit outdated systems, and neglected patches are like open doors inviting them in. IT teams must stay vigilant with patch management, ensuring that operating systems, applications, and devices are updated on time. Automating this process not only saves time but also closes security gaps before they become a crisis. It’s a small step that creates a huge shield.

4. Strengthen Endpoint Security

With hybrid and remote work becoming the norm, laptops, smartphones, and tablets have multiplied access points to company data. Each endpoint is a potential entryway for cyberattacks. Deploying strong endpoint protection, enforcing device encryption, and enabling multi-factor authentication help keep these gateways secure. IT teams must remember—if every door is locked, the chances of a break-in fall dramatically.

5. Proactive Monitoring and Threat Hunting

Instead of waiting for alarms to go off, forward-thinking IT teams actively hunt for signs of unusual activity. Proactive monitoring, backed by tools like intrusion detection systems and AI-driven analytics, allows early detection of potential breaches. By spotting anomalies before they spiral into full-blown attacks, teams can respond with speed and precision. In cybersecurity, time is not just money—it’s survival.

The Bottom Line

Strengthening network defenses isn’t about building walls higher; it’s about building smarter. IT teams that stay proactive create a resilient ecosystem where threats are minimized, and confidence is maximized. By embedding awareness, adopting Zero Trust, keeping systems patched, protecting endpoints, and monitoring actively, organizations empower their IT teams to lead with foresight, not fear.

In the end, proactive strategies don’t just defend networks — they build trust, ensure business continuity, and give organizations the confidence to innovate boldly in a connected world. Contact The Trevi Group now if you need assistance in finding talent that can strengthen your network defenses.

The Trevi Group | “Executive Search for Technology Professionals” | www.TheTreviGroup.com

#networkengineering #networksecurity #zerotrust #thetrevigroup #recruitingtrends #informationtechnology #employmenttrends #jobmarket #hiringtrends

Beyond Migration: Unlocking the Full Potential of Cloud Optimization

For many organizations, moving to the cloud was once the finish line—a milestone signaling modernization and agility. But today, migration is just the first step. The real value lies in what happens after the move: optimizing how the cloud is used to deliver speed, efficiency, and innovation. Cloud optimization is not about simply existing in the cloud; it’s about thriving there.

From Cost Center to Value Driver

One of the most immediate opportunities in cloud optimization is cost management. Businesses often migrate quickly without fully considering usage patterns, leading to unexpected expenses. Optimization ensures resources match real needs—right-sizing workloads, leveraging reserved instances, and eliminating underutilized services. The result is a shift from viewing the cloud as a costly necessity to recognizing it as a driver of measurable business value.

Performance That Fuels Innovation

A well-optimized cloud environment goes beyond saving money—it powers performance. Faster load times, seamless scalability, and greater reliability create the foundation for innovation. When systems run smoothly, teams are free to experiment, adopt new technologies, and build solutions that set them apart from the competition. Optimization ensures that cloud infrastructure isn’t a bottleneck but a launchpad for growth.

Security and Compliance Without Compromise

As businesses handle more sensitive data in the cloud, security cannot be an afterthought. Optimization involves embedding advanced security controls, monitoring tools, and compliance frameworks directly into the cloud environment. This not only minimizes risk but also provides peace of mind, allowing organizations to innovate with confidence. A secure, optimized cloud ensures that agility never comes at the expense of safety.

Empowering People, Not Just Processes

At its core, cloud optimization isn’t only about technology—it’s about people. Employees benefit from faster tools, smoother collaboration, and access to data that drives smarter decisions. With the right optimization strategies, teams work more efficiently, creativity flourishes, and job satisfaction grows. A people-first approach ensures that the full potential of the cloud is unlocked across every layer of the organization.

Continuous Optimization for Continuous Growth

The cloud is not static, and neither is optimization. Regular monitoring, fine-tuning, and adopting new innovations keep businesses ahead of the curve. By treating optimization as an ongoing practice rather than a one-time project, organizations future-proof their technology and maintain a competitive edge in an ever-changing digital landscape.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the First Step

Cloud migration was the beginning, not the end. To truly capture the promise of the cloud, organizations must focus on optimization—turning infrastructure into an engine for performance, security, innovation, and people empowerment. Going beyond migration unlocks not just efficiency, but the ability to grow, adapt, and lead in a digital-first world. Let us know how we at The Trevi Group can help you build a team that can handle that for your organization.

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The Trevi Group | “Executive Search for Technology Professionals” | www.TheTreviGroup.com

#cloud #cloudcomputing #aws #azure #gcp #thetrevigroup #recruitingtrends #informationtechnology #employmenttrends #jobmarket #hiringtrends

Why Cybersecurity Talent Is Non-Negotiable for Modern Manufacturing—And How To Find It

Like all economic sectors, manufacturing has evolved rapidly as new technologies make it more agile and productive. While today’s factories still rely on blue-collar workers, they’re also powered by information technology (IT), the internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and operational tech. In many cases, you will find these and other technologies working side-by-side with human employees, helping companies reach their manufacturing targets while controlling costs.

These technologies are essential to ongoing success, but they might also create access points for cybercriminals who want to disrupt economies (whether for political purposes or just because they think it’s amusing). 

As we continue adding new tech to modern manufacturing, we must heed the words of David Carter, RSM Industrials Senior Analyst, “For industrial companies, cybersecurity is the new safety.”

Safety now includes protecting data stored in the cloud, trained AI models, and IoT connections. Even small mistakes could give hackers access to your systems. Finding the right cybersecurity staffing solutions can help resolve these threats.

Middle Market: A Snapshot of the Cyber Risk Landscape

Middle market manufacturers (those that are bigger than small businesses but smaller than large corporations) are common targets for hackers. In the first quarter of 2025, 18% of mid-market firms reported data breaches. While that’s down from last year’s record high of 28%, it still shows that companies need to take the threat seriously.

Thankfully, most businesses seem to understand the threat they face. That’s likely why 91% of them plan to increase cybersecurity spending over the next year.

Even with increased spending, choosing the right professionals to fill manufacturing cybersecurity jobs is essential. The tools you put in place can only work as well as the people managing them.

What This Means for Manufacturing Employers

As digital technology becomes increasingly essential to manufacturing processes and infrastructure, employers need to ensure that they have qualified professionals working for them. In the manufacturing industry, a data breach means more than bad PR. It causes downtime that prevents companies from reaching their production goals.

Sophisticated AI is a double-edged sword for the industry. While it can help companies discover more efficient processes and avoid equipment malfunctions, it also makes cybercrime easier. Today’s criminals don’t need to craft emails that trick employees into handing over sensitive information or downloading malware. The criminals can just ask generative AI tools to write emails for them. Since these cybercriminals can scale their attacks, you need staff members trained to recognize, avoid, and report threats.

You might have already taken steps to protect your data, but it’s never a good idea to get complacent. Hackers will keep looking for new ways to target victims, so manufacturers need effective cybersecurity recruitment strategies that choose lifelong learners eager to stay ahead of attackers. The second you think you have cybersecurity under control is the exact moment you become an easy target.

Strategic Talent Moves for Hiring Leaders

Hiring cybersecurity talent in manufacturing is an obvious requirement for businesses of all sizes. But there are a lot of factors to consider before you bring someone onto your team.

When hiring IT and cybersecurity leaders, you should:

• Look for candidates who understand manufacturing technology as well as information technology

• Consider whether candidates have experience working with managed services to bridge skill gaps your in-house staff can’t cover

• Focus on candidates who understand that cybersecurity protocols are just as essential to workplace safety as helmets, gloves, and OSHA requirements

How The Trevi Group Can Help Improve Your Cybersecurity

Manufacturing relies on digital technology now more than ever. These tools make companies more efficient, but they also open doors to cyberthreats. Every owner and manager needs to take these threats as seriously as they take safety guidelines on the production floor.

Of course, needing cybersecurity experts doesn’t necessarily mean that your HR team has the experience or ability to find those professionals. That’s why it makes sense for companies to partner with The Trevi Group.

The Trevi Group works with nationwide manufacturing staffing experts who can find, recruit, and onboard the talent your business needs. Whether you employ 10 or 1,000 workers, The Trevi Group can find cybersecurity professionals who fit your needs.

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The Trevi Group | “Executive Search for Technology Professionals” | www.TheTreviGroup.com

#security #cybersecurity #thetrevigroup #recruitingtrends #informationtechnology #employmenttrends #jobmarket #hiringtrends

Cloud Fluency Is the New Currency: Building Resilient Careers in Tech

Introduction

In today’s digital economy, cloud computing is the foundation of innovation. From startups to Fortune 500 companies, businesses rely on cloud platforms to deliver scalability, agility, and cost efficiency. For professionals, this shift means one thing: cloud fluency is now a career currency. Those who master cloud concepts, tools, and strategies are better positioned to build sustainable and resilient careers in the technology sector.

Why Cloud Skills Matter

The demand for cloud professionals continues to rise across industries such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. Roles are no longer limited to “cloud engineers” or “architects.” Instead, every function—whether in development, security, or operations—requires a level of cloud literacy.

Career Opportunities in the Cloud Era

• Cloud Architecture & Engineering: Designing and maintaining scalable infrastructure.

• DevOps & Automation: Using cloud platforms for CI/CD pipelines and agile deployment.

• Cybersecurity: Protecting cloud environments with advanced monitoring and compliance practices.

• Data & AI Integration: Leveraging cloud resources for big data analytics and machine learning.

Building Resilience Through Continuous Learning

The cloud ecosystem evolves rapidly, with providers like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud frequently introducing new features. Professionals must adopt a continuous learning mindset through certifications, hands-on labs, and real-world projects to stay ahead of the curve.

Beyond Technical Skills

Cloud fluency also requires business awareness. Understanding cost optimization, compliance, and cloud strategy helps professionals align technology decisions with organizational goals—making them more valuable to employers.

Conclusion

As technology reshapes the future of work, cloud fluency has become as critical as traditional technical skills. It is the currency that empowers professionals to adapt, grow, and thrive. Those who invest in cloud expertise today are not just securing jobs—they are building resilient, future-proof careers.

The Trevi Group | “Executive Search for Technology Professionals” | www.TheTreviGroup.com

#cloud #azure #aws #thetrevigroup #recruitingtrends #informationtechnology #employmenttrends #jobmarket #hiringtrends

Forbes Recognizes MRINetwork for the Ninth Year in a Row

Each year since 2016, Forbes — a global leader in business news and information — has surveyed thousands of HR managers, hiring authorities, job seekers and external recruiters to answer a simple question: “Who are the best recruiting firms in the U.S.?”

For the ninth consecutive year, MRINetwork has been recognized as an elite performer among the thousands of executive search firms meeting Forbes criteria in “filling positions with salaries of at least $100,000.” In fact, Forbes and their survey partner, Statista, has not only ranked MRINetwork for 2025 in the top 10 for America's Best Executive Recruiting Firms, but also awarded recognition for MRINetwork in their America's Best Professional Recruiting Firms, and America's Best Temp Staffing Firms categories.

We are proud to receive this designation for the eighth consecutive year.

The Trevi Group | “Executive Search for Technology Professionals” | www.TheTreviGroup.com

#thetrevigroup #recruitingtrends #informationtechnology #employmenttrends #jobmarket #hiringtrends #forbes

AWS vs Azure: Which Cloud Platform Fits Business Model?

In today’s digital-first economy, choosing the right cloud platform is more than just a technical decision—it’s a strategic one. Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure are the two titans in the cloud computing market, each offering an impressive range of services, global reach, and advanced capabilities. But which one truly aligns with your business model? The answer lies in understanding how each platform’s strengths, pricing structures, integrations, and ecosystems match your organization’s goals, size, and industry.

Understanding the Two Giants

AWS
Launched in 2006, AWS pioneered cloud computing and remains the market leader in terms of market share, service variety, and maturity. It offers over 200 fully featured services, ranging from computing and storage to AI, IoT, and advanced analytics. AWS is renowned for its scalability, flexibility, and pay-as-you-go pricing, making it ideal for startups, global enterprises, and everything in between.

Azure
Microsoft Azure entered the cloud scene in 2010 but has quickly become AWS’s biggest competitor. Azure’s strength lies in its deep integration with Microsoft’s software ecosystem, including Windows Server, Active Directory, Office 365, Dynamics 365, and more. This makes it especially appealing to organizations already invested in Microsoft products and seeking a seamless hybrid or multi-cloud strategy.

Service Portfolio: Breadth vs. Integration

When it comes to service variety, AWS takes the lead. It offers an unmatched array of specialized tools, allowing businesses to customize solutions for virtually any need—from advanced machine learning models to satellite data processing.

On the other hand, Azure shines in integration. If your business heavily relies on Microsoft tools, Azure’s native compatibility reduces setup complexity, accelerates deployment, and ensures smooth data flow between applications. Its hybrid cloud capabilities, such as Azure Arc and Azure Stack, also make it a favorite for industries that require both on-premises and cloud environments.

Key takeaway:

• AWS = Best for innovation, niche requirements, and broad service options.

• Azure is best suited for businesses closely tied to Microsoft’s ecosystem and those with hybrid setups.

Pricing and Cost Management

Pricing is a critical factor, and both platforms operate on a consumption-based model, where you pay for what you use. However, cost-effectiveness depends on your workload patterns.

• AWS offers highly granular pricing, with multiple instance types and cost-optimization tools, such as AWS Savings Plans and Reserved Instances.

• Azure offers competitive pricing, particularly for Windows-based workloads, and provides Hybrid Benefit discounts for businesses with existing Microsoft licenses.

While AWS may appear more expensive for some workloads, its flexibility often allows fine-tuned cost control. Azure, meanwhile, can yield significant savings for companies entrenched in Microsoft licensing agreements.

Tip: Always conduct a total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis tailored to your specific workload needs before making a decision.

Performance and Global Reach

Both AWS and Azure have extensive global networks of data centers, ensuring low latency and high availability.

• AWS operates in over 30 geographic regions with more than 90 Availability Zones.

• Azure spans over 60 regions, often outperforming AWS in geographic diversity.

The choice here depends on your audience location and compliance needs. For example, businesses serving niche markets may prefer the provider with a data center closer to their customers for optimal performance.

Security and Compliance

Security is a non-negotiable factor for any business model. Both AWS and Azure maintain industry-leading security frameworks, offering encryption, identity management, compliance certifications, and advanced threat detection capabilities.

• AWS has a long-standing reputation for enterprise-grade security and a robust shared responsibility model.

• Azure leverages Microsoft’s decades of enterprise security expertise and integrates seamlessly with Azure Active Directory, a plus for identity and access management.

For highly regulated industries such as healthcare, finance, or government, both platforms offer specialized compliance programs. The decision may come down to which provider has deeper experience in your specific sector.

Innovation and Emerging Technologies

If innovation speed is a priority, AWS often leads the way. Its early-mover advantage and continuous investment enable faster adoption of emerging technologies, such as quantum computing (Amazon Braket), advanced AI services, and industry-specific cloud solutions.

Azure, however, is closing the gap, particularly in AI and analytics. Its partnership with OpenAI and the integration of AI tools in Microsoft 365 and Dynamics 365 are compelling for businesses seeking AI-powered productivity gains without requiring heavy development work.

Ecosystem and Support

• AWS boasts the largest partner network (AWS Partner Network) and a massive developer community.

• Azure leverages Microsoft’s existing global support infrastructure, including enterprise-grade service agreements and partner collaborations.

For organizations seeking vendor relationships that include not just cloud but also enterprise IT, Azure’s unified approach can be advantageous. AWS, in contrast, excels for companies prioritizing developer-centric innovation and third-party integration.

Choosing Based on Business Model

Startups and Innovation-Driven Companies
AWS’s scalability, variety of services, and rapid innovation cycle make it the go-to for businesses that need to experiment, pivot, and scale globally without infrastructure limitations.

Enterprises with Deep Microsoft Investments
Azure is the natural fit for businesses already using Microsoft’s productivity and enterprise tools. The integration reduces complexity, accelerates migration, and maximizes ROI on existing licenses.

Hybrid and Regulated Industries
Azure’s hybrid solutions and compliance depth often give it an edge for organizations that must maintain on-premises systems while leveraging the cloud.

Global-First Businesses
Both AWS and Azure offer extensive global coverage, but Azure may have a slight advantage in specific geographic regions due to its more extensive data center presence.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the AWS vs Azure debate. The right choice depends on your existing technology stack, business objectives, compliance requirements, and growth plans.

• If breadth of service and innovation speed are your top priorities, AWS might be your winner.

• If seamless integration with Microsoft products and hybrid cloud capabilities are critical, Azure could be the better fit.

Ultimately, the most effective approach may involve a multi-cloud strategy, leveraging the strengths of both platforms to optimize performance, resilience, and cost-effectiveness. By aligning your cloud choice with your business model rather than just technical specs, you position your organization for sustainable growth in the ever-evolving digital economy.

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The Trevi Group | “Executive Search for Technology Professionals” | www.TheTreviGroup.com

#thetrevigroup #aws #azure #cloud #cloudengineer #recruitingtrends #informationtechnology #employmenttrends #jobmarket #hiringtrends

AI in Network Infrastructure: Preparing for the Next Evolution in IT Operations

Introduction

The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in IT operations is no longer experimental—it is becoming a necessity. As networks expand in size and complexity, traditional approaches to monitoring, troubleshooting, and managing workloads are reaching their limits. AI offers a transformative way forward, enabling predictive insights, automation, and more intelligent decision-making that will define the next phase of IT operations.

The Shift from Reactive to Proactive

Conventional network management often relies on reacting to alerts after issues occur. AI changes this model by continuously analyzing patterns across devices, applications, and traffic. Instead of waiting for outages, AI can predict potential bottlenecks, latency spikes, or hardware failures and recommend proactive measures to mitigate them.

Enhancing Efficiency with Automation

AI-driven automation reduces the manual workload of IT teams. Intelligent systems can handle tasks such as load balancing, routing optimization, and anomaly detection. This allows IT professionals to focus on strategic initiatives, rather than repetitive troubleshooting.

Security in the AI-Powered Network

As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, AI plays a crucial role in enhancing security. Machine learning algorithms can identify unusual traffic behaviors, detect zero-day vulnerabilities, and even respond in real-time. By integrating AI into security operations, organizations gain an adaptive shield against evolving risks.

Preparing for Adoption

Implementing AI in network infrastructure requires:

• Data readiness: Clean, high-quality data for training models.

• Skill development: Upskilling IT staff in AI tools and frameworks.

• Scalability mindset: Designing systems that can evolve as AI matures.

Conclusion

AI is not just an enhancement—it represents a fundamental evolution in IT operations. Organizations that embrace AI-enabled networks will achieve greater resilience, security, and efficiency. The future of IT belongs to those who integrate intelligence at the very core of their infrastructure.

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The Trevi Group | “Executive Search for Technology Professionals” | www.TheTreviGroup.com

#thetrevigroup #recruitingtrends #informationtechnology #employmenttrends #jobmarket #hiringtrends

Hiring in IT: What Skills Matter More Than Tools

In the rapidly evolving world of Information Technology, the tools we use today may be outdated. New programming languages emerge, frameworks rise and fall, and automation changes how we work almost overnight. But one truth remains constant: while tools are essential, they are never the whole story. In fact, the most successful IT professionals aren’t defined by the software they know, but by the skills that allow them to adapt, solve problems, and thrive in any environment.

So, when it comes to hiring in IT, what skills truly matter more than tools? Let’s explore.

1. Problem-Solving Mindset

Technology exists to solve problems, and the ability to approach challenges creatively is what distinguishes exceptional IT professionals. Tools can help execute solutions, but figuring out what the solution should be is a human skill. A problem-solving mindset means:

• Breaking down complex issues into manageable parts.

• Thinking beyond the immediate fix to find sustainable solutions.

• Anticipating future challenges before they arise.

A candidate who can navigate ambiguity and still find a clear path forward will thrive in any role, regardless of the specific tech stack.

2. Adaptability and Continuous Learning

In IT, change is the only constant. Whether it’s a new cloud platform, an updated security protocol, or the rise of AI-driven development, adaptability is non-negotiable. Employers need people who:

• Learn quickly when faced with unfamiliar technology.

• Can pivot strategies when a tool becomes obsolete.

• See change not as a disruption, but as an opportunity.

A great hire isn’t the person who knows every tool today — it’s the one who can learn tomorrow’s tools before anyone else.

3. Critical Thinking

Critical thinking goes beyond technical knowledge. It’s the skill of evaluating information, identifying risks, and making decisions that strike a balance between speed and quality. In IT, where every choice can impact security, performance, and scalability, critical thinking ensures:

• Solutions are not just fast, but right.

• Risks are identified before they become crises.

• Data and sound reasoning back decisions.

Even the most advanced tool can’t replace a well-trained mind making thoughtful, informed calls.

4. Collaboration and Communication

The stereotype of the lone coder in a dark room no longer fits reality. IT work is highly collaborative, often involving cross-functional teams, clients, and stakeholders. Effective communication means:

• Explaining technical details in a way that non-technical colleagues understand.

• Listening actively to understand business needs before proposing solutions.

• Documenting processes clearly for future reference.

When teams collaborate well, projects move faster, mistakes are reduced, and customer satisfaction soars — regardless of the tech used.

5. Business and User Awareness

Technical skills alone can lead to great systems that fail in the real world. Why? Because they don’t align with business goals or user needs. The best IT professionals:

• Understand the industry they’re working in.

• Consider how technology impacts the bottom line.

• Design solutions with end-users in mind, ensuring usability and adoption.

A candidate who understands both the “how” and the “why” is far more valuable than one who can only execute instructions.

6. Security-First Mindset

With cyber threats growing in complexity, security isn’t just an IT department issue — it’s everyone’s responsibility. The most valuable hires:

• Consider security from the outset, not as an afterthought.

• Stay informed about common vulnerabilities and effective protection strategies.

• Weave secure practices into every stage of development or deployment.

A security-conscious mindset ensures that tools are used responsibly and risks are minimized.

7. Time Management and Prioritization

IT projects often involve competing priorities, unexpected bugs, and tight deadlines. Tools can help organize tasks, but self-discipline and prioritization make the real difference. Professionals with strong time management skills:

• Deliver consistently, even under pressure.

• Balance urgent requests with long-term goals.

• Avoid burnout by managing workload effectively.

8. Resilience and Problem Ownership

In IT, things break — servers crash, code fails, networks go down. What matters isn’t avoiding every problem, but how you respond when they happen. Resilient professionals:

• Stay calm under pressure.

• Take responsibility instead of passing blame.

• Learn from failures to prevent repeat issues.

This sense of ownership builds trust within teams and with clients.

9. Creative Innovation

Beyond fixing problems, IT thrives on innovation. The best hires are those who:

• Spot opportunities for automation or optimization.

• Think outside the box to improve processes.

• Suggest solutions that drive competitive advantage.

Innovation often occurs when the tools at hand don’t limit people, but rather see them as a starting point.

10. Ethics and Integrity

As technology becomes more powerful, so do the ethical challenges. Data privacy, AI bias, and cybersecurity threats all demand professionals who:

• Make decisions that prioritize fairness, transparency, and responsibility.

• Follow best practices and regulations, even when shortcuts are tempting.

• Build trust with colleagues, clients, and the public.

In many cases, ethical judgment outweighs technical expertise.

Why Skills Matter More Than Tools

Tools are just that — tools. They are designed to serve the user, not define them. Hiring solely for tool expertise is like hiring a carpenter just because they own a hammer. Without the skills to design, plan, adapt, and collaborate, even the best toolset is underutilized.

When employers focus on transferable skills, they future-proof their teams. A developer who knows how to learn can master a new programming language in a matter of weeks. A systems engineer with strong problem-solving skills can quickly adapt to new infrastructure. A project manager with strong communication skills can lead effectively, regardless of the software the team uses.

Final Thoughts

In today’s IT hiring landscape, the most valuable candidates are not defined by a static list of technical proficiencies. Instead, they bring a mix of adaptability, problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and business acumen — skills that will serve them well, regardless of which tools come and go.

For companies, this means shifting hiring strategies:

• Look beyond the résumé list of software and programming languages.

• Ask interview questions that uncover problem-solving, adaptability, and communication abilities.

• Invest in training to keep your team’s skills future-ready.

And for IT professionals, it’s a reminder that the tools you use today are just part of your journey. Focus on building the skills that make you versatile, resilient, and valuable in any technological era.

Because in IT — and in most of life — it’s not the tools you have, but how you use them that truly matters.

The Trevi Group | “Executive Search for Technology Professionals” | www.TheTreviGroup.com

#thetrevigroup #networkengineer #networkengineering #recruitingtrends #informationtechnology #employmenttrends #jobmarket #hiringtrends #automation #security #networksecurity

Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS): What Tech Leaders Need to Know—and Why Your Talent Strategy Must Evolve

The tech industry is booming, contributing to a range of business applications, opportunities, and challenges. 

One area experiencing significant growth is cybersecurity, as organizations respond to threats such as ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS). This subscription-based model for deploying ransomware makes cybercrime accessible to non-experts. RaaS is a common criminal activity, accounting for 20% of all cybercrime incidents, and is only becoming more accessible and increasingly sophisticated. 

Since the barrier for entry for cybercriminals is low when using the RaaS model, businesses are becoming extremely vulnerable. In 2025 and beyond, RaaS will no longer be just an IT issue. It is a talent strategy challenge that must be addressed now. 

The Rise of RaaS and Its Business Implications

RaaS is a business model that involves the sale of ransomware code or malware. Developers sell ransomware code to hackers and threat actors, many of whom have little technical expertise. Those who purchase the code are known as affiliates. These affiliates utilize pre-developed code to initiate attacks, thereby creating a mutually beneficial relationship. 

Affiliates profit from extortion without having to create their own malware, while developers increase their profits without launching attacks on networks. These models may be priced as a subscription, a one-time fee, or a revenue split agreement. 

In recent history, there have been attacks that resulted in the loss of billions of dollars. For example, in 2024, ALPHV/BlackCat attacked Change Healthcare/UnitedHealth Group. This attack cost the company approximately $2.5 billion overall.

Although the initial ransom can be millions of dollars, there are other costs that contribute to overall losses. From operational downtime to reputational damage and legal fallout, these attacks can destroy a company, regardless of its size. 

The Cybersecurity Talent Gap

Companies, regardless of industry or sector, are starting to see the value in having a tech strategy and team dedicated tocyber defense. However, this growing demand for cybersecurity professionals is creating its own challenges, as the supply is relatively scarce. 

Some of the most-needed roles include threat analysts, SOC experts, incident responders, and ethical hackers.

And while you may already have an IT team in place, this team alone may not be enough. Cybersecurity is evolving and requires specialized expertise and a strong security culture; responsibility may also be organization-wide. It is not just your IT team that needs to implement security measures — all departments, including HR and legal, need to ensure a holistic security approach. 

What Tech Leaders Must Do Now

It is highly recommended that all tech leaders conduct immediate talent audits. Identifying cybersecurity talent gaps now before issues arise could mean all the difference. Do you have the right bench strength? Meaning, do you have the depth of talent you need available to you when the time comes? Are there enough qualified people to step into specific roles when needed?

If not, start by building cross-functional response teams that include IT, legal, PR, and operations. Next, focus on attracting and retaining top talent. The need for cybersecurity professionals will only grow, which is why you’ll want to source talent and also demonstrate a commitment to employee development.

Unsure where to begin?

Partner with recruiters who specialize in cybersecurity placements.

Evolving Talent Strategy to Meet Evolving Threats

There are many strategies available, many of which are not one-size-fits-all. 

That said, there are some talent strategies to consider, including:

• A shift from reactive hiring to proactive pipelining of cyber talent

• An emphasis on upskilling, not just headcount

• Leveraging executive search for specialized or leadership cyber roles

RaaS is a Recruiting Challenge, Too

The ransomware threats to businesses are immense, as they can take a significant financial and operational toll. What’s worse is that this threat is evolving so fast. So, RaaS is no longer just a tech issue; it is also a recruiting challenge. As RaaS models evolve and become more sophisticated, your tech hiring strategy must react and move faster. 

Organizations that build strong cybersecurity teams are much more likely to weather the storm and gain a competitive advantage.

If you have yet to initiate your cybersecurity recruitment strategy, it is best to speak with experts who have deep expertise and access to top talent. The Trevi Group is that partner you seek. Our team goes beyond filling roles. At The Trevi Group, we build teams that help drive success. It’s all about placing the right individuals in the right roles, and when it comes to cybersecurity talent, there is no room for error. 

The Trevi Group | “Executive Search for Technology Professionals” | www.TheTreviGroup.com

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