Join host Seth Robinson for the next episode of our 2026 outlook series on Trend Watch. In this episode, we examine why cybersecurity continues to grow in scale and complexity, and why training must evolve to keep up with the changing threat landscape

As organizations expand their digital footprint, security is no longer confined to traditional IT boundaries. Privacy remains the top strategic driver, fueled by increased data collection and greater reliance on data-driven decision making At the same time, AI is reshaping the security landscape from both sides, empowering defenders with automation and analytics while also enabling more advanced and higher-volume attacks

In this episode, we cover:

• Privacy as Priority: Why data protection continues to lead cybersecurity strategy discussions year after year
• AI on Both Sides: How security teams are leveraging AI while defending against AI-enabled threats and data poisoning risks
• The Rise of Operational Technology: How digitized physical infrastructure is creating new vulnerabilities and blending IT and OT responsibilities
• Evolving Skill Demands: The four key areas organizations must strengthen, from core component security to workforce-wide awareness and hands-on readiness

We also discuss why experiential learning, labs, and cyber ranges are becoming essential as security professionals operate in real-time, high-pressure environments

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Why Choose CompTIA? CompTIA is the world's leading vendor-neutral information technology (IT) certification and training body. CompTIA is a mission-driven organization committed to unlocking the potential of every student, career changer, or professional seeking to begin or advance in a technology career. CompTIA's best-in-class learning platform, career resources, research, and community events equip individuals and companies with the tools to succeed. We're a hub for advancing the tech industry and its workforce through education, training, certifications, philanthropy, and market research.

Success Stories: Read about inspiring success stories from individuals who have transformed their careers with CompTIA certifications and resources. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, these stories will motivate you to take the next step.

Educational Resources: CompTIA offers a wide range of educational resources to help you succeed in your tech career. From online courses and study guides to practice exams and certification training, we provide everything you need to achieve your goals.

Contact Us: Have questions or need assistance? Contact our support team for help with certifications, resources, or any other inquiries. We're here to help you succeed.

Join host Seth Robinson for the first episode of our 2026 outlook series on Trend Watch. In this episode, we move past the headlines and the "bubble" rhetoric to explore how Artificial Intelligence will genuinely influence the technology workforce and business landscape this year.

Seth breaks down the "tale of two AIs" currently creating tension in the market: the rapid adoption of AI as an individual productivity tool versus the complex, longer-term integration of AI as a scalable corporate asset. While consumer tools like ChatGPT have democratized access, businesses face unique hurdles in turning these capabilities into organizational value.

In this episode, we cover:
• The Dual Hype Cycle: Understanding why individual and corporate AI adoption operate on different timeframes and expectations.
• Barriers to Scale: Why cybersecurity remains the leading challenge, followed closely by data readiness and defining clear ROI.
• Human-AI Balance: How companies are striving to augment—not replace—workforce efforts to ensure accuracy and relevance.
• The Skills Gap: A look at the demand for AI fluency, the necessity of strong core skills, and why 80% of companies plan to invest in AI training in the coming year.

We also discuss CompTIA's AI framework and how skill domains like AI security and data interaction are weaving into every job role, from help desk to software development.

Subscribe to stay ahead of the 2026 tech trends!

Ready to start your own journey? Explore more at www.CompTIA.org

CompTIA Career Pathways: Discover various career pathways in the tech industry and find the right one for you.
CompTIA Certifications: Learn about the certifications that can help you advance your tech career.
CompTIA Resources: Access a wealth of resources, including articles, webinars, and guides to help you succeed in tech.
CompTIA Blog: Stay updated with the latest trends, tips, and success stories in the tech industry.
CompTIA Events: Participate in events and webinars to network with industry professionals and enhance your skills.

Connect with Us:
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comptiaofficial/
💭 X: https://x.com/CompTIA
💌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CompTIA
📲 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/comptia/

Why Choose CompTIA? CompTIA is the world's leading vendor-neutral information technology (IT) certification and training body. CompTIA is a mission-driven organization committed to unlocking the potential of every student, career changer, or professional seeking to begin or advance in a technology career. CompTIA's best-in-class learning platform, career resources, research, and community events equip individuals and companies with the tools to succeed. We're a hub for advancing the tech industry and its workforce through education, training, certifications, philanthropy, and market research.

Success Stories: Read about inspiring success stories from individuals who have transformed their careers with CompTIA certifications and resources. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, these stories will motivate you to take the next step.

Educational Resources: CompTIA offers a wide range of educational resources to help you succeed in your tech career. From online courses and study guides to practice exams and certification training, we provide everything you need to achieve your goals.

Contact Us: Have questions or need assistance? Contact our support team for help with certifications, resources, or any other inquiries. We're here to help you succeed.

As we wrap up the year, CompTIA's Seth Robinson dives into the 2026 forecasts from leading research firms IDC and Gartner. The big headline? Worldwide IT revenue is projected to see its most significant growth in 30 years.

While AI infrastructure investment is the primary catalyst, this video explores why the ripple effects are much broader. We look at how the shift from building infrastructure to deploying software and services is stabilizing the digital economy and what this means for the future of IT skills.

Key Takeaways:

• Historic Growth: IDC predicts 2026 will see the largest jump in IT spending since 1996.

• The "Dual Effect" of AI: Beyond large-scale hardware, AI is driving essential spending in networking, cybersecurity, and data management.

• From Hardware to Services: Gartner data suggests that while data center spending remains strong, the focus is shifting toward Software and Services as companies begin building on their new infrastructure.

• The Digital Economy Reality: IT spending continues to outpace GDP growth, signaling that technology is no longer a luxury but a fundamental requirement for business differentiation.

• Workforce Impact: Despite automation, the demand for specialized IT skills remains steady as companies navigate complex digital transformations.

IDC Article mentioned: https://my.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prUS54010425