Author: jadmin

Powering San Diego’s Cybersecurity Future: Celebrating CCOE’s 10-Year Anniversary

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A Decade of Transformative Impact

As the Cyber Center of Excellence (CCOE) celebrates its milestone 10-year anniversary, we’re proud to highlight its role in shaping San Diego into a hub of cyber innovation. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Lisa Easterly, CCOE has driven remarkable growth: expanding the region’s cyber firms tenfold, supporting 26,000 jobs, and generating $4 billion annually in economic impact.

Amid this progress, the challenge of unfilled cybersecurity positions remains. Journeys Map, in partnership with San Diego CCOE, is pioneering a fundamentally different approach. Instead of traditional “post and hope” job boards or disconnected training programs, we’ve created an innovative ecosystem that truly nurtures talent. Our platform empowers employers to actively develop their talent pipeline by identifying skills gaps, connecting candidates with targeted upskilling opportunities, and providing clear pathways to success. This human-centered approach transforms how companies invest in potential talent – moving beyond simple recruitment to create meaningful growth journeys for every individual in their pipeline. With San Diego’s cybersecurity talent growing 300%, Journeys Map’s approach to building career pathways and supporting individual growth isn’t just solving the talent gap – it’s creating a sustainable, thriving workforce ecosystem.

The Talent Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities

Our region’s cybersecurity growth tells a compelling story:

  • Cyber jobs expanded from 6,600 in 2016 to nearly 14,000 in 2023
  • A remarkable 300% growth in local employment talent
  • 75% of local cyber firms reporting challenges in finding qualified talent at all levels

Empowering San Diego’s Cybersecurity Workforce

We’re deeply honored to be recognized by the San Diego Business Journal with the 2024 Cybersecurity Stewardship Award for Workforce Development. As San Diego’s leading cybersecurity career exploration system, Journeys Map is proud to support regional employers with streamlined career discovery and advancement tools that power their teams’ growth journeys.

Discover how Journeys Map can elevate your workforce. Request a Demo Today.

Strengthening Our Regional Talent Pipeline

Our platform is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of San Diego’s cybersecurity community:

  • Enabling employee career growth through interactive tools
  • Supporting employers in building robust talent pipelines
  • Creating clear pathways for career advancement
  • Facilitating regional workforce development

Our Commitment to San Diego’s Cybersecurity Community

As we celebrate this milestone with CCOE, Journeys Map remains dedicated to:

  • Supporting regional employers’ workforce development needs
  • Nurturing local cybersecurity talent
  • Creating accessible career pathways
  • Strengthening the connection between talent and opportunity

The past decade has demonstrated the power of collaboration and innovation in San Diego’s cybersecurity sector. As we look to the future, Journeys Map will continue to evolve and enhance our platform to meet the growing needs of our regional employers and their teams. 

Let’s Talk Solutions: Schedule a personalized demonstration and discover how Journeys Map can help you overcome talent acquisition hurdles and power your team’s growth. Reach out today and take the first step towards building a more resilient, innovative cybersecurity workforce.

Sources: ISC2/WEF 2023 Cybersecurity Workforce Study, Cyberseek (August 2024), CCOE & EDC Reports

Building a 21st Century Talent Pipeline

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The Firms of Endearment Approach to Cybersecurity Workforce Development

In today’s rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, organizations face a critical challenge: building and maintaining a skilled workforce in an increasingly competitive market. The traditional approach of reactive hiring isn’t just costly—it’s unsustainable. Forward-thinking companies are adopting a Firms of Endearment (FoE) philosophy, recognizing that investing in talent pipeline development isn’t just good for society—it’s good for business.

The FoE Advantage in Cybersecurity

Firms of Endearment are companies that create value for all stakeholders—employees, customers, suppliers, communities, and shareholders. These organizations prioritize purpose alongside profit, leading to sustainable business success. In cybersecurity, where the talent gap continues to widen, the FoE approach to talent pipeline development offers compelling advantages.

Business Impact

  • Recruitment Efficiency:  Traditional recruitment in cybersecurity involves significant costs in time and resources
  • Enhanced Retention: FoEs typically experience lower turnover rates through stronger employee engagement
  • Improved Productivity: Engaged employees demonstrate higher levels of productivity and innovation
  • Sustainable Growth:  Companies following FoE principles show consistent long-term performance

The Journey’s Map Solution: Aligning FoE Principles with Talent Development

Journeys Map’s innovative platform enables cybersecurity companies to embrace FoE principles while building their talent pipeline through:

1. Stakeholder Integration

  • Connect with educational institutions and training providers
  • Engage with community organizations
  • Build relationships with potential candidates early in their career journey
  • Create value for the broader cybersecurity ecosystem

2. Technology-Driven Efficiency

  • AI-powered career pathing streamlines recruitment processes
  • Real-time skills gap analysis improves training effectiveness
  • Automated matching algorithms enhance screening efficiency
  • Cloud-based platform scales with organizational growth

3. Value Creation

Direct Benefits:

  • Streamlined recruitment processes
  • More efficient training programs
  • Faster hiring cycles
  • Improved employee retention

Long-term Value:

  • Enhanced employer brand value
  • Improved workforce diversity
  • Stronger community relationships
  • Greater market competitiveness

The Business Case for Purpose-Driven Talent Development

Companies implementing Journeys Map’s FoE-aligned approach experience:

  1. Operational Improvements
    • More efficient recruitment processes
    • Higher employee retention rates
    • Faster time-to-productivity
    • Increased employee engagement
  2. Operational Benefits
    • Expanded talent pool
    • Stronger pipeline of qualified candidates
    • Better skills alignment
    • Improved succession planning
  3. Strategic Advantages
    • Enhanced industry reputation
    • Stronger educational partnerships
    • Better positioning for future workforce needs
    • Increased market adaptability

Building Tomorrow’s Workforce Today

The cybersecurity talent gap presents not just a hiring challenge, but a strategic opportunity. Organizations that embrace the FoE approach to talent pipeline development through Journeys Map’s platform are positioned to:

  • Create sustainable competitive advantages
  • Build stronger community relationships
  • Optimize operational efficiency
  • Improve workforce quality and retention

Measurable Impact

Organizations using Journeys Map’s platform can track improvements in key areas:

  • Time-to-hire efficiency
  • Recruitment cost optimization
  • Candidate quality
  • Workforce diversity
  • Employee satisfaction

The Path Forward

In the 21st century, cybersecurity companies must view talent development as a strategic investment rather than a cost center. By adopting Journeys Map’s FoE-aligned approach, organizations can:

  1. Transform talent pipeline development into a strategic advantage
  2. Create measurable returns on workforce development
  3. Build stronger relationships with all stakeholders
  4. Position themselves for sustainable growth

The most successful cybersecurity companies of tomorrow will be those that invest in their talent pipeline today. Through Journeys Map’s platform, organizations can align their talent development strategies with FoE principles, creating value for all stakeholders while building the workforce they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Ready to transform your approach to talent pipeline development? Discover how Journeys Map can help your organization become a true Firm of Endearment while building a sustainable competitive advantage in the cybersecurity talent market. Reach out to us today to learn more.

How Journeys Map is Solving the Reskilling & Upskilling Crisis

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The Growing Skills Emergency and Opportunity

The global economy faces an unprecedented talent shortage, with projections indicating an $8.5 trillion gap by 2030. This crisis presents both a challenge and an opportunity for organizations ready to embrace innovative solutions.

Understanding the Core Challenge

Recent data shows that over 87% of companies either currently face skills gaps or anticipate them in the near future. With workplace skill requirements evolving at an unprecedented rate – having changed 25% since 2015 and expected to transform by 50% in the next four years – organizations must act decisively.

The Human Element in Digital Transformation

Industry expert Dr. Tran emphasizes a crucial point: while technology is essential, organizations must not lose sight of human connections. “Shifting to a skills-based organization means putting skills at the center of all talent practices,” she notes, “from hiring to development, internal mobility, and rewards.”

Three Strategic Pillars for Successful Upskilling

1. Defining the Purpose (The Why)

Organizations must clearly articulate their upskilling objectives:

  • Maintaining competitive advantage
  • Driving profit growth
  • Building organizational resilience
  • Attracting and retaining top talent

2. Identifying Skill Needs (The Who)

Modern skill development requires:

  • Forward-looking job descriptions that anticipate future needs
  • Recognition of emerging skills through peer feedback
  • Identification of natural mentors and learning champions
  • Understanding of existing skill gaps

3. Implementation Strategy (The How)

Research indicates that 70% of skill development occurs through on-the-job learning (source: McKinsey). Journeys Map facilitates this through:

How Journeys Map Addresses These Challenges

Comprehensive Skill Development Platform

AI-Powered Career Navigation

  • Interactive tools for personalized career planning
  • Real-time skill gap analysis
  • Future-focused development paths

Culture of Continuous Learning

Collaborative Learning Environment

  • Peer recognition systems
  • Knowledge sharing platforms
  • Cross-functional skill development

Flexible Implementation

Customizable Solutions

  • Industry-specific career pathways
  • Scalable deployment options
  • Integration with existing systems

Employee Retention Through Growth

Studies show that lack of professional development is a primary driver of employee turnover. Journeys Map addresses this by:

  • Creating visible career progression paths
  • Providing immediate access to learning resources
  • Connecting skill development to tangible rewards
  • Facilitating internal mobility opportunities

Future-Proofing Your Workforce

As organizations adapt to rapid technological change, particularly AI integration, the need for agile skill development becomes critical. Journeys Map provides:

  • Adaptive learning pathways
  • Real-time skill tracking
  • Proactive gap analysis
  • Comprehensive progress monitoring

See how Journeys Map can transform your workforce—Schedule Your Free Trial.

The future of work demands a strategic approach to upskilling and reskilling. Organizations that invest in comprehensive skill development platforms like Journeys Map position themselves to:

  • Navigate the talent shortage successfully
  • Build resilient, adaptable teams
  • Create engaging employee experiences
  • Drive sustainable growth

By combining technological innovation with human-centered design, Journeys Map offers organizations the tools they need to transform their workforce development strategies and thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Empower your workforce today—Contact Us to learn more.

Smooth Transitions for Military Families

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Military service members and their families face unique challenges during the transition to civilian life. At Journeys Map, we appreciate these challenges and are here to help. We support National University, a Veteran-founded nonprofit that’s been a guiding light for military-affiliated students since 1971. National University’s commitment to support for non-traditional students has earned them Gold status as a Military Friendly School and also a Top 10 Military Friendly Spouse School for 2024.

Turning Military Skills Into Civilian Success

One of the biggest challenges for service members is figuring out how their military skills translate to civilian careers. Journeys Map not only helps veterans see exactly how their military experience can open doors to new opportunities in the civilian world, but with powerful tools like our Skills Matcher, they can align and translate their military skills to exciting new  careers. Additionally, our Interest Survey guides career seekers through a variety of exercises and experiences, helping them discover the career paths that best fit their interests and strengths. It’s more than just a job search; it’s about envisioning the entire path to make the transition smoother.

Helping Military Spouses and Their Children Thrive

Military life can be tough on families, especially when it comes to frequent moves. Journeys Map is designed to help both spouses and their children overcome these challenges. Our platform offers flexible, location-independent career options, so spouses can continue to thrive professionally no matter where they go. For military children, Journeys Map highlights essential resources to help them stay on track with their education. We’re always up to date with state career and education standards for every grade level and provide targeted resources for each required benchmark, helping students build confidence in their subject matter.

Guiding Students Toward Success

At Journeys Map, student success is at the heart of what we do. We understand that frequent relocations and school changes can disrupt a child’s educational journey leading to gaps in learning and a loss of confidence. That’s why we’ve designed our tools to help students not only catch up, but to excel. By providing resources that align with state standards and offering guidance tailored to each student’s unique needs, Journeys Map ensures that every child can achieve their academic goals, no matter where life takes them.

A Shared Commitment to Your Success

At Journeys Map, we’re proud to support the goals of National University in serving the military community. Together, we are committed to providing the resources that empower service members and their families. Whether it’s helping veterans transition into civilian careers or supporting military families through educational and professional disruptions, we’re here to make a positive impact on the lives of those who have served our country.

We are dedicated to making the journey from military to civilian life as smooth and successful as possible so military families can confidently take the next step in their professional and educational journeys.

Ready to take the next step in your journey? Sign up for a free trial and explore Journeys Map today to unlock your future!

Journeys Map: A Catalyst for Change in Cybersecurity

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Did you know that only 24% of the cybersecurity workforce is female? This statistic highlights a significant gender gap in the industry. At Journeys Map, we’re committed to closing this gap and empowering women to pursue successful careers in cybersecurity.

Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) Event

Recently, I had the privilege of attending the Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) San Diego Speakers Series. This event was a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting women in tech and creating a more inclusive environment. The panelists offered invaluable insights into how organizations can foster diversity and inclusion in their cybersecurity teams.

Key Takeaways

  • Hire more women at all levels: Organizations need to actively seek out and hire women in cybersecurity roles, from entry-level positions to leadership roles.
  • Include diverse voices and perspectives: Creating a diverse team can lead to better problem-solving, innovation, and overall success.
  • Sponsor programs for women’s career growth: Offering mentorship programs, training opportunities, and networking events can help women advance their careers.
  • Partner with organizations like WiCyS: Collaborating with organizations dedicated to empowering women in cybersecurity can make a significant impact.

How Journeys Map Can Help

Journeys Map is a comprehensive career navigation tool that can help organizations develop and sustain cybersecurity employer engagement and talent pipeline management.

Here’s how we can support your efforts:

  • Identify and attract top female talent: Our platform can help you find qualified women candidates within and outside your organization ready to fulfill your cybersecurity needs.
  • Provide targeted career development resources: We offer a variety of resources, including assessments, access to skill-building opportunities, and technical training to support women’s career growth in cybersecurity.
  • Measure and track individual career goals and professional growth: Our analytics tools can help you monitor the progress of your employees as they develop their skills, explore career paths, and achieve their professional goals.
  • Support business growth: By creating personalized career maps for your employees, you can identify skills gaps within your organization and access qualified individuals to fill those roles. This helps you build a high-performing team and achieve your business objectives.

The involvement of women in cybersecurity is not just a matter of filling seats; it’s about leveraging women’s distinctive skills, perspectives, and values to enhance the field. Their participation is key to driving innovation, ensuring balanced decision-making, and building a resilient digital defense against cyber threats. By fostering a diverse and inclusive cybersecurity workforce, we can create a stronger, more effective, and more secure digital world.

By working together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable cybersecurity industry. Journeys Map is committed to empowering women and supporting organizations in their efforts to close the gender gap.

Contact our team to learn more about how Journeys Map can help your organization.

AI Generated Pathways: Real or Fiction

Posted on by jadmin

There is a rash of AI generated career finding tools on the market today. The questions on my mind are — are they any good? Can AI really help me find my path to a successful career quicker, or at least with less indecision? And can AI replace the individuals who have dedicated their lives to helping others find fulfilling careers? 

Let me begin by stating that it’s been my feeling for some time that the process of career or pathway development is extremely flawed. Back when I knew little about the career-finding space (2014) I founded a company called CareerPath to help students and dislocated workers find their path to success. I was as one might say, green, and perhaps overly optimistic about what we could achieve and what the landscape looked like at that time. What we did do well was engage students via our mobile application, and proved through numerous case studies that by connecting with them on their devices first (low friction/high yield) they were more likely to participate during in-person events at the career centers we worked with.

Career exploration has always been part science, part interpersonal connectedness. What I mean by this is there are plenty of structural pathways and tools created that will get a person part or most of the way to understanding the possibilities, but there most often is another human helping guide the way, be it advisor, mentor, counselor, teacher, parent, coach, or friend. As humans, we respond to other humans, it’s part of our DNA. The problem is twofold. First, many are not trained to advise others on career planning and pathways, and second, quite often the professionals who are trained (advisors, guidance counselors, etc.) are overloaded with so many students, they are often overwhelmed and cannot provide the level of service they would like to. 

The rise of new AI driven career pathways technology makes perfect sense, but like with any gold-rush, in the haste to reap rewards, it seems many new solution providers are slapping some lipstick on the pig and proclaiming victory. AI is indeed powerful, and will benefit the process in myriad ways. With Journeys Map, we have been utilizing Machine Learning and AI for a number of years now to improve the alignment process of skills to CTE standards. This discrete application is yielding significant benefit, as the speed in which we are able to create pathways to any career opportunity has increased significantly.

Before taking the leap with a new piece of AI driven software, ask yourself a few questions. Does the solution solely rely on AI to produce results? Has the company been in business long enough to really understand the career services space? Does the technology enable the people doing the work, or attempt to replace them? Is the app relying on existing paradigms, like personal interest assessments, to produce ‘fast’ pathway options? All of these situations may have some merit, but applied in a vacuum may simply pander to peoples curiosities rather than truly solve a problem. 

Ultimately aiding people, young or old, in finding a career path means understanding what they have interest and aptitude in, applying their skill set and seeing how it matches up to the careers of interest, and learning enough about their past activities to assemble suggestions of meaning. AI has its place, but so do the individuals who have made it their career mission to help others in need. Perhaps the most important question to ask is, can technology truly replace empathetic human interactions? 

Advocating for Early Career Exploration

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Have you ever stopped to think about how exploring career paths shaped your journey? During our middle school years, we are taught the importance of planning and goal setting, when our young minds are open to the endless possibilities and eager to explore the world we live in.

At this age, students should be encouraged to explore their career options to foster their curiosity, self-awareness, and interests. By encouraging young individuals to explore different career paths, we can empower them to make informed choices about their future and establish realistic goals.

According to a study conducted by the American Student Assistance® (ASA) and Education Strategy Group (ESG), a student’s academic performance, motivation, and overall job satisfaction can be greatly impacted by early exposure to a variety of occupations. By introducing students to a wide range of career options, we can help them discover their passions, strengths, and interests, setting them on a path towards success and fulfillment.

This is where Journeys Map can make a difference in guiding students in their career exploration. Journeys offers students a personalized roadmap that navigates them through different career paths based on interests, skills, and values. Journeys Map powerful data analysis capabilities match students with potential career options that align with their unique situation. Through interactive quizzes, resources, and real-world insights, Journeys Map enables students to make informed decisions about their future with confidence. Whether it’s diving into apprenticeships, exploring vocational training, or even dreaming up entrepreneurial ventures, Journeys is like a compass guiding students toward paths that truly speak to them.

In addition to beginning exploring career options earlier, school advisors need ways to connect better with their students. Advisors are reliable and essential guides when it comes to navigating the jungle of career discovery. They can help students confidently explore many career paths by utilizing Journeys as their companion. Journeys offers a vast array of resources so advisors can craft tailored guidance that aligns perfectly with each student’s dreams and abilities.  Using Journeys resources, advisors can help students in their own personal journey, whether it’s discovering a hidden skill or pursuing unusual career paths.

Advisors also face challenges in career guidance with high student-to-advisor ratios or limited time working with individual students. Journeys offers a solution to these challenges by providing advisors with resources to help personalize support, or even empower the students to navigate on their own.

One career that’s currently in high demand and sparking interests in middle schoolers is cybersecurity. As technology continues to shape our world, the need for cybersecurity professionals likewise continues to grow. To highlight this growing career path, Journeys partners with educational institutions like the Cyber Center of Excellence (CCOE) to offer virtual career exploration events. These events provide students with insights into the world of cybersecurity to potentially spark their interest in the field.

Many states are now recognizing the importance of earlier career exploration. In Indiana, the Commission for Higher Education has developed a Comprehensive Career Coaching and Navigation Framework that is focused on career exploration, engagement, and experience. Kentucky has also developed statewide efforts to support its advising needs. They offer the Kentucky Advising Academy (KAA) which includes a College and Career Advising Toolkit. This toolkit includes career exploration, financial aid and literacy, and information on postsecondary opportunities.

Middle school is a place where dreams begin to take shape. By emphasizing career exploration during this crucial time, we’re raising the next generation of professionals who are equipped to succeed in a world that is always changing, in addition to getting students ready for the workforce. 

Interested in seeing how Journeys can help your students on their career exploration? Journeys Map is free to try today! Explore the possibilities!

Bridging the Gap: How Journeys Map Empowers San Diego’s Cybersecurity Workforce

Posted on by jadmin

San Diego’s reputation as a national leader in cybersecurity is well-established. The city boasts a booming tech sector, a wealth of job opportunities, and a constant demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals. However, this creates a challenge: employers struggle to find qualified candidates, while learners from diverse backgrounds seek clear pathways into this exciting field.

This was the topic of conversation on a recent episode of Spotlight on the Community, where Erin, Client Services Consultant, and Peter, CEO, from Journeys Map joined host Drew Schlosberg.

Here’s a look at the key points discussed:

Emerging Tech Opportunities for All

The good news is that cybersecurity offers career opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Journeys Map highlighted the growing trend of mid-career transitions, where professionals from other sectors leverage their transferable skills to enter the cybersecurity field. Additionally, “gray collar” workers, those with valuable experience but lacking formal qualifications, can find pathways to build the necessary skills and certifications for cybersecurity careers.

The Employer’s Challenge & Journeys Map’s Solution

Filling high-paying tech jobs is a significant challenge for San Diego’s cybersecurity firms. According to the San Diego Cyber Cluster 75% of these companies struggle to find qualified candidates. This talent gap hinders economic growth and national security.

Journeys Map tackles this challenge by connecting employers with a wider pool of qualified candidates. The platform leverages AI-assisted skills and gap analysis to identify potential candidates with the right capabilities. Additionally, Journeys Map collaborates with learning providers to ensure that educational programs align with current industry needs, preparing graduates for success in the workforce.

Supporting Our Military and Building a Robust Talent Pipeline

The interview with Journeys Map emphasized their commitment to supporting San Diego’s unique cybersecurity ecosystem, with a particular focus on empowering transitioning military members:  

Empowering Military Transition:

Journeys Map understands the valuable skill sets veterans possess, from analytical thinking to cyber defense experience. Our platform helps translate those strengths into relevant cybersecurity qualifications, facilitating a smooth transition to rewarding careers. This in turn, develops a robust talent pipeline to support the military’s growing cybersecurity needs and strengthens our national security posture.

A Focus on San Diego’s Needs

Beyond military transition, Journeys Map offers additional solutions to address San Diego’s specific needs:

Building a Sustainable Pipeline:

The platform connects employers with a wider pool of qualified candidates, promoting long-term workforce sustainability for San Diego’s cybersecurity sector.

Empowering Learners, Employers, and the Community

By providing learners with personalized career journeys and insightful data-driven tools, Journeys Map empowers individuals to navigate the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape. Employers benefit from a wider pool of qualified candidates and a more efficient recruitment and retention process. Ultimately, this collaborative approach strengthens San Diego’s cybersecurity posture and ensures the region’s continued success in the digital age.

Are you interested in learning more about how Journeys Map can help you? 

Whether you’re a job seeker, employer, or educator, Journeys Map offers valuable resources and personalized support. Contact us to learn more today.

Charting Your Course: A Guide to Personal Career Mapping

Posted on by jadmin

In today’s dynamic job market, where nearly half of employees change jobs by age 24 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, taking control of your career path is more important than ever. Traditionally, career mapping was a tool used by employers to outline potential advancement opportunities for their employees. However, career mapping remains a valuable strategy for both employers and employees to not only chart internal promotion paths, but also to identify opportunities for skill development and increased employee engagement.

As the pace of digital innovation accelerates and the demand for highly skilled talent builds, gaps are becoming common – a report by the World Economic Forum estimates up to 50% of employees will need reskilling by 2025. That’s why Journeys Map is excited to soon launch their skills gap analysis tool to assist both employers and employees. This feature helps identify any discrepancies between an employee’s current skill set and the requirements of their desired future role. For organizations, Journeys Map will offer capabilities to create customized maps specific to their company structure. This allows employees to see how their skills and strengths profiles align with other positions within the company, potentially increasing retention rates and allowing for employees to explore new spaces. 

What is Career Mapping and Why is it Important?

Career mapping, also known as career pathing, is the process of visualizing your professional journey. It involves identifying your current position, defining your long-term goals, and outlining the steps necessary to bridge the gap between the two. This roadmap provides a clear picture of your desired career trajectory, allowing you to avoid the pitfalls of:

  • Career Complacency: Without a clear direction, it’s easy to fall into a routine and stagnate in your current role. Career mapping forces you to proactively seek out growth opportunities, keeping your skills sharp and your career on an upward trajectory. A study by LinkedIn found that 76% of professionals with career maps reported feeling more confident about their career direction.
  • Missed Opportunities: The dynamic job market offers a wealth of potential opportunities, but they can be easy to miss if you’re not actively looking.  Career mapping helps you identify skills that are in demand and positions that align with your goals, making you more likely to seize the right opportunities when they arise. 
  • Skill Gaps: The skills required for success are constantly evolving. Career mapping exposes any gaps between your current skill set and your desired future role, allowing you to take targeted action to bridge those gaps through training, education, or on-the-job experiences.

Crafting Your Personal Career Map: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to take charge of your career? Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your personal career map:

Bridge the Gap Between Your Starting Point and Your Destination:

  • Specific Job Titles: Journeys Map empowers you to search by specific job title. This search delivers an in-depth understanding of the chosen career path. You’ll gain valuable insights into the: Skills and Qualifications Needed: Journeys Map equips you with a clear picture of the  essential and desirable skills and qualifications for your target job title. This allows you to identify areas where you excel and any skill gaps you need to address.
  • Training Programs and Educational Pursuits: Journeys Map recognizes the importance of continuous learning. The platform offers details about  institutions and programs that align with your specific career goals. Whether you’re considering a formal degree program or a certificate course, Journeys Map helps you find the educational resources to bridge your skill gaps and enhance your qualifications.

Detail the Requirements: Don’t just list desired job titles; research the specific skills and experience required for each position using the information provided by Journeys Map. This will help you identify any skill gaps you need to address.

By taking the time to create your personal career map, you’ll gain clarity, purpose, and direction in your professional journey. Remember, your career is yours to own, so take charge and map your course to success with Journeys here to support you every step of the way.

To begin charting your course visit Journeys Map today!

Journeys Map Makes Connections and Sparks Innovation in San Diego

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We at Journeys Map are buzzing with excitement after a whirlwind of incredible events in our beautiful city. It’s been a journey (pun intended!), and we’re thrilled to share it with you!

The Power of Partnership!

A huge shout-out to our amazing partners at the Cyber Center of Excellence (CCOE)! Thanks to their connection, we were guests at the WiCyS San Diego career fair, setting up a booth to connect with participants and learn more about their aspirations in cybersecurity. The energy at the event was electric, with a strong focus on community and collaboration.

Inspiring Stories and Shared Journeys

The theme we heard most often at WiCyS? Transformation! People from all walks of life, with years of experience, were eager to explore how Journeys Map could support their pathways to fulfilling careers in cybersecurity. It was truly inspiring to see how our platform empowers users to connect their passions with purpose, ultimately shaping their dream futures.

Investing in the Future: A Day with CFF

We didn’t stop there! We also journeyed to the Classroom of the Future Foundation‘s 7th Annual College & Career Pathways Summit. This event was an enriching day filled with insightful discussions and valuable connections. We were especially grateful to see the unwavering support for our long-standing partner, the College Futures Foundation (CFF), and their dedication to advancing education in our community. Let’s not forget the excitement when we raffled off a brand new Apple Watch – congrats to the lucky winner!

Celebrating STEAM and the Future Leaders of San Diego!

Next, the San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering Expo Day was a blast for curious minds of tomorrow’s STEAM leaders! We proudly represented CCOE (Cyber Center of Excellence) at the College & Career EXPO, showcasing the Cyber Security portion of our map to the young minds that came through. We were excited to see the addition of the “College & Career” spaces, connecting students with higher education and industry partners. 

A Shared Vision for a Brighter Future

Every event we attended reinforced our core belief: community and collaboration are the cornerstones of innovation. Whether it’s empowering career transitions, nurturing a diverse tech workforce, or igniting a passion for STEAM, we’re all on this journey together.

Thank You, San Diego!

We’re so grateful for the opportunity to participate in these incredible events. A heartfelt thank you to all the organizers, volunteers, and participants who made them possible.

Stay tuned! We have even more exciting things planned for San Diego. Keep an eye out for upcoming events and partnerships!

In the meantime, explore your own journey with Journeys Map! Visit our website and see how we can help you connect your who, what, and future!

Discover Your Path: How Career Planning and AI Can Shape Your Journey

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Are you feeling a bit lost in your career journey? You’re not alone. Many of us find ourselves unsure of where to go next or how to reach our goals. But fear not! We’re here to guide you through the process.

In today’s world, the job market is constantly evolving. It’s not just about climbing the corporate ladder anymore; it’s about finding a path that’s meaningful to you and helps you grow both personally and professionally. That’s where career planning comes in.

Career planning isn’t about following a set path; it’s about creating your own. It’s about figuring out what you’re passionate about, what skills you have, and where you want to go, and then mapping out a plan to get there. But with so much information out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

That’s where AI comes in.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help streamline the process by providing personalized insights and recommendations based on your unique profile. Whether you’re a recent graduate exploring your options or a seasoned professional looking for a change, AI can help you find your way.

Harnessing the power of AI

And remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. There are tools and resources available to support you every step of the way. One such tool is Journeys Map.

Journeys Map harnesses the power of AI to assist you in developing your career path. By analyzing your skills, interests, and goals, Journeys Map provides personalized recommendations and actionable insights to help you make informed decisions about your career.

Whether you’re considering a career change, seeking opportunities for growth within your current role, or exploring new paths altogether, Journeys Map can be your trusted companion. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive database of job trends and industry insights, it’s like having a career coach right at your fingertips.

So why wait?

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Taking Stock of Our National Pathways Infrastructure

Posted on by jadmin

This week (March 3-5, 2024) was the Educating for Careers Conference, curated by the California ACTE (Association for Career and Technical Education) and California Partnership Academies. Nationally, the need for the creation of educational resources, guidance, and pathways to high quality careers has been gaining more attention, but only because the cost of college has become so egregious and out of reach for so many, that policy makers are finally taking notice. Of course the COVID pandemic threw gas on the proverbial fire, as more and more graduating high school students began to choose alternate pathways to employment. 

The Higher Education Act:

In his book Apprentice Nation, author Ryan Craig discusses how we were once a nation of apprenticeships (think George Washington and Paul Revere) which slowly began to introduce higher education as a way for the merchant elite to distinguish themselves. The tide fully turned in the 1960’s with the Higher Education Act which put into law provisions for financial assistance to students and to strengthen the educational resource of the colleges and universities of the United States. Craig states “The ethos of college — equipping young people to fulfill their potential in whatever direction it may take them — is the ethos of America.” He goes on to say how the tide is turning again, and the country has fallen far behind other industrialized nations in the development of robust apprenticeship programs. Far too many students are being left behind, and too many well paying, high quality jobs are going unfilled. Craig offers solutions for addressing these problems, which includes the development of robust pathways programming and a national apprenticeship system. 

One of the keystones of Craig’s augment is the lack of Federal Funding and leadership, with the little money that is trickling into the existing programs often being spent in the wrong places. Having been in the pathfinding space for the past 12+ years, I wholeheartedly agree with Craig’s assessment. 

Building Pathway Programs:

What was clear from the Educating for Careers Conference was that there are legions of dedicated individuals and small teams out there doing yeoman’s work building pathway programs, helping our children find their way, and doggedly staying as current as humanly possible on all the new career clusters, jobs, technologies and industries that are cropping up like daisies after a springtime shower. If you’re a guidance counselor today — you have to familiarize yourself with careers in AI, Cybersecurity, Green Energy, Transportation, and a plethora of new Healthcare jobs — just to name a few. There are so many great new high paying jobs available that don’t require a college degree, that these overworked souls are finding it difficult to keep pace with change. To top it off, they are not given the tools and support to enable enough advancement to keep pace with the rate of change.

Advancement with Little Funding:

Unlike the many higher education and EdTech conferences I’ve attended with fancy graphics & logos, clear leadership organizations, and the extra ‘bells and whistles’ that add to their cache, this conference was bare bones in comparison — a meat and potatoes event as they say. There were hundreds of great speakers and sessions, a solid hall of vendors ready to service the market, but little else. I don’t say this to disparage the organizers, but rather make an example of the fact that there is so little funding and leadership from a national level, that any advancement of the work being done in this space is possible through the sheer will of those involved, and little else. 

I was blown away by the dedication and passion of the attendees — all searching for better ways to guide their charges in the exploration of careers of meaning. They are truly heroes without capes, mild-mannered citizens dedicating their lives in the service of others. 

Just like President Johnson’s Higher Education Act did in 1965, it’s time that our current administration establishes programmatic leadership and funding for the development of a robust pathways program, including apprenticeships. The United States has fallen behind countries like Germany, Great Britain and Australia who have funded, developed and maintained pathways to solid middle class jobs, far outpacing the United States. While access to college remains important for many students, pathways to non-college careers today require skill-based training and systematic change — not college debt. I say let’s support our friends in guidance and pathway management programs, and those students looking for career options that may not require a 4-year degree. There is plenty of financial incentive to do so, as the painful college debt epidemic and >700,000 open cybersecurity positions will attest. 

Final Thoughts:

A big thank you to the wonderful people I met at the 2024 Educating for Careers Conference who dedicate their time, talents and treasures to our nation’s youth. It is my mission to support your work through the development of world-class pathway tools, and advocacy to our elected officials who have the power to affect change on a national scale, which is sorely needed today more than ever.