The Internet of Things is penetrating nearly every industry in existence, from health care to manufacturing, oil and gas to utilities.
In order for these devices to communicate with one another in a secure manner, enterprises require professionals capable of optimizing networking assets. Leaders at Cisco, one of the largest providers of network technology, are developing solutions and training programs to support IoT-driven endeavors.
Adapt or die: IoT has arrived
The impact of IoT transcends industry-focused development and implementation plans. Workers are beginning to bring smart devices into offices and job sites on a more consistent basis, accessing employer networks to use Web-based applications, share information and perform other tasks.
This means companies need to figure out how to keep their networks protected and deliver more bandwidth to ensure mission-critical software can still be used by the workforce. ZDNet contributor Josh Taylor noted that Cisco aims to satisfy this need by signing up 11 organizations, both in the private sector and academia, for a global consortium that intends to educate current and future network engineers about IoT technology.
Jeannne Beliveau-Dunn, Cisco’s VP and general manager of services, spoke with reporters in Chicago on October 14, asserting that the networking industry is undergoing a monumental shift, calling for a gross reeducation of those in the field.
“The business world is look for people who can take all this information from these things and do something new with it,” said Beliveau-Dunn, as quoted by Taylor.
Encouraging interest
Cisco isn’t just calling for action, it’s putting its money where its mouth is. ITProPortal noted the company is launching the “Introduction to the Internet of Everything,” a collection of courses that will provide people with entry-level knowledge of IoT. The program is intended to educate students considering careers in IT.
Lessons will be hosted online via the Cisco Networking Academy in English, but is expected to be available in Chinese, French, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish as time goes on.
“Realizing [IoT’s] potential depends on individuals having the skills and knowledge to harness the opportunities provided by IoE,” said Cisco Senior Director of Corporate Affairs Laura Quintana, as quoted by the source. “Our new IoE curriculum offers a fantastic springboard for anyone wanting to seize this opportunity.”
For those with a desire for more in-depth instruction in Cisco’s networking technology, enrolling in instructor-led, extensive courses is a progressive choice to make. Preparing for IoT in the workplace necessitates comprehensive education.