FDM Group & Cisco team up to bridge digital skills gap

The digital skills gap could soon be bridged with the recent partnership between FDM Group, a global tech consultancy, and the Cisco Networking Academy. The alliance has been formed to ensure the next generation of networking talent meets the high demand for skilled consultants who are proficient in networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and digital transformation.

This partnership follows FDM's latest initiative, which rolled out five new specialist practices aimed at transforming digital skills development. The practices, which focus on Software Engineering, Data and Analytics, Change and Transformation, Risk, Regulation and Compliance, and IT Operations, have been established in response to the swift pace of tech innovation and shifting expectations from employers and employees.

The Cisco Networking Academy's ethos of training the tech workforce of the future is aligned with FDM's vision for their IT Operations practices. Through their joint collaboration, participants will now benefit from having access to notable Cisco programmes such as the Cisco Certified Network Engineer (CCNA). Esteemed for preparing budding tech consultants with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the rapidly changing world of technology, these programmes will provide a substantial advantage to those aspiring to excel in this field.

More than just offering programmes, the Cisco Networking Academy is renowned for providing an abundant pool of resources and training programmes that aid individuals in tech upskilling. The academy prepares them for promising careers in networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and digital transformation.

Describing the high demand for digital skills, Andy Brown, Chief Commercial Officer of FDM Group, stated, "As businesses increasingly rely on digital technologies to drive innovation and growth, the demand for skilled consultants proficient in networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and digital transformation has never been higher." To fulfil this demand, he explained, "We have joined forces with the Cisco Networking Academy to leverage our training and coaching capabilities to meet the evolving needs of today's businesses."

Elizabeth Barr, Head of the Cisco Networking Academy, highlighted the shared ambition and mutual commitment that both entities have towards bridging the digital skills gap and empowering individuals for success in the digital economy. She affirmed, "Together, we are paving the way for a more skilled, diverse, and resilient workforce capable of driving innovation and driving growth in the digital age."

FDM Group has made a significant impact in the tech consultancy sector over the last 30 years. Committed to addressing tech and innovation needs with timely, expert-led solutions, the firm has successfully kickstarted almost 25,000 careers worldwide. Serving as a trusted ally to more than 200 companies across the globe, FDM's workforce comprises more than 5,000 employees, representing over 90 nationalities, working together in their 18 centres located across Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific region.