The future of tech is at a pivotal point. With the advancement of artificial intelligence and other intelligent technologies, we are entering a time when AI is taking on enormous influence on the technology landscape.
It is crucial to stay on top of the newest advancements and discoveries and understand that the landscape will continually change. Think about the fact that 20 years ago, we didn't have smartphones, cybersecurity was not a huge concern for most people, and coding was still following a basic format.
Today, smartphones can answer almost any question within seconds, cybersecurity is as essential as any other application, and coding can be done through AI services by imputing basic information.
We are at the tipping point, and you must decide what you want to do next.
While obtaining certifications and continuing learning through ISACA courses is an excellent idea and can keep you ahead of the game, you will need to seek help from others in your network to keep pace with all that is transpiring in the industry.
Think of it like owning an office building and leasing out space. Sure, you could handle the duties of one client, or even two or three, but what happens when ten companies get involved and all want to share a conference room, but only on Thursdays? Or what about businesses with virtual stay-at-home days so other companies can come in on their off days? Suddenly, the process gets very complicated, and it's time to hire a property management company to help out. The same goes for tech …
Ten years ago, with enough training and practice, you could proficiently understand and run IT, cybersecurity, SEO, audits, and coding. However, today, all of those areas have become so advanced that staying on par with them is impossible. For this reason, it is essential to find connections.
Your cybersecurity is only as safe as the trust you have in it. The same goes for coding, IT, and other areas. Putting yourself out there, making connections with people, and staying up to date in these various tech fields can give you confidence in the new advancements and changes. But how can you make connections? Here are a few ideas:
- Talk: As simple as it sounds, talk to people with expertise and see who or what are doing. In the case of cybersecurity, ask about what tools and techniques other security practitioners are using to protect their organizations.
- Seminars: Whether it's attending ISACA's Digital Trust World or other tech conferences and seminars, talk with people who may be attending classes you still need to take. Most people attending these seminars are experts in their field and could be resourceful contacts for you and your needs.
- University and company leaders: If you have a specific question outside of your expertise, go straight to the top. Often, you can contact a former professor or other university resource with industry contacts that you need and can answer your questions on where to go. Or, go right to professionals in prominent roles at companies with your questions – you might be surprised at how willing people are to share their expertise.
- ISACA Engage communities: ISACA's Engage communities are another excellent platform to surface questions and leverage the collective expertise of ISACA's global community.
If you are someone who has always been able to stay on top of everything tech, this can be tough to accept. But the world is changing, and it may be in your best interest to stay on top of one or two areas and let your connections help you elsewhere. By doing this, you can also make yourself a valuable contact for others and can be the expert they need in your field.