At the forefront of IT talent development, Smoothstack Inc. utilizes a unique hire-train-deploy (HTD) approach that significantly diverges from traditional recruitment methods. The company specializes in strategic consulting and project support across essential sectors like Application Development, Cloud, Digital Platforms, Data Engineering and AI, and Cybersecurity. Its impressive roster includes partnerships with top Fortune 500 companies and federal agencies, effectively supporting over 46 federal entities. Notable clients include tech and financial leaders such as Verizon, Morgan Stanley, Accenture, Bloomberg, and Intel.
The collaboration extends to major technology players, including AWS, Databricks, and Salesforce, ensuring that the solutions provided are comprehensive and technologically advanced.
Operating out of McLean, Virginia, Smoothstack has revolutionized IT staffing by integrating modern apprenticeship concepts powered by AI and data science. This innovative model focuses on recruiting and nurturing talent from the early stages of their careers, guiding them through an intensive proprietary training process known as Mirrored Environment Immersion. This method closely replicates the tech environments of its client partners, ensuring that once deployed, the professionals are well-versed in the specific technologies required.
The HTD process begins by selecting individuals with a suitable aptitude for IT roles, focusing on software engineering and digital skills that align with client needs. Training lasts eight to 12 weeks, during which candidates are fully prepared to start their roles effectively on day one. Professionals are then deployed to client sites for a minimum of two years. Smoothstack manages all aspects of employment, from hiring to payroll, thus allowing clients to focus on core business functions.
Smoothstack was initiated in 2018 by John Akkara, Boris Kuiper, and Prasanth Ram, who saw a critical need for a sustainable solution to the IT talent shortage. Their backgrounds in IT consulting provided the necessary insight to develop the HTD model initially and enhance their capabilities. Recognizing its potential, they expanded this model to help other organizations facing similar challenges in sourcing skilled IT professionals.
Their vision has dramatically transformed how IT professionals are integrated into the workforce. They focus on creating career paths that align with future technological needs and ensuring high retention rates. Smoothstack boasts a 98% retention rate for two years, indicative of the success and effectiveness of its training and deployment strategies.
Smoothstack's training programs are recognized by the American Council on Education (ACE), which has recommended that several of its courses be eligible for college credit. This endorsement allows those who complete the training to convert their hands-on experience into academic credentials, further enhancing their professional and educational growth.
The partnership with the 2023 ServiceNow RiseUp program exemplifies Smoothstack's commitment to adapting its training to meet current technological standards, certifying its trainees as proficient in vital new IT skills.
Emphasizing diversity, Smoothstack's workforce includes 58% women and minorities, far exceeding the typical industry standard. The company actively supports veterans through partnerships with programs like the DOD SkillBridge and the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program, facilitating a smooth transition into civilian IT roles and addressing the ongoing demand for tech talent.
Moreover, Smoothstack advocates for flexible work arrangements and provides robust support systems for those re-entering the workforce after significant life changes, reinforcing its commitment to an inclusive and supportive work environment.
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