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Paul Toomey Featured in Fast Company Article on Turning Loss into Opportunity

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:09:00 GMT

Geographic Solutions' President and Founder Paul Toomey was recently featured in Fast Company's article, "14 leaders on Handling Major Client Loss," which shares leadership perspective on how companies can respond, adapt, and grow after losing a major client.

In the article, Toomey explains that an early contract loss became an opportunity to strengthen the company rather than view the experiences as a setback. By seeking direct client feedback, Geographic Solutions was able to refine internal processes, add stronger checkpoints, and improve executive-level communication around lessons learned.

Here's Paul's full quote text:

Early on, losing a major contract felt like a reflection on the company. Instead of treating it as a defeat, I used it as an opportunity to adjust and improve. My team met with the client and asked for candid feedback. We used this feedback to rebuild processes, implement checkpoints, and develop executive communication around what we learned. The loss sharpened our focus. It taught me that relationships have to be earned continuously, not just at the initial contract signing. Since then, we have been dedicated to building long-term partnerships, which has allowed us to maintain ongoing contracts with agencies for more than 10 years.

Toomey's perspective reinforces the importance of continuously earning client trust and building durable partnerships. That commitment has helped Geographic Solutions maintain long-term relationships with government agencies, including contracts that have continued for more than a decade.

Article first appeared at and distributed by Fast Company.

Paul Toomey Featured in Fast Company Article on Leadership and Decision-Making

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 14:27:29 GMT

Geographic Solutions' President and Founder, Paul Toomey, was recently featured in Fast Company's article Stand Your Ground or Cave In which highlights how business leaders approach major decisions when faced with disagreement from trusted advisors, investors, and senior team members.

In the article, Toomey discusses the importance of listening carefully to feedback, while using measurable milestones to validate strategic decisions. Reflecting on Geographic Solutions' continued investment in a comprehensive workforce platform, he noted that constructive disagreement helped strengthen the company's approach by clarifying the decision's purpose, risk, and measures of success.

Here's Paul's full quote text:

"When I believed we needed to keep investing in a more comprehensive workforce platform, some trusted voices urged a safer, narrower path. I listened carefully, pressure-tested the risks, and asked the team to prove the decision through milestones rather than conviction alone. Ultimately, disagreement made the strategy stronger because it forced us to clarify why the decision mattered, and how we would measure success."

Toomey's perspective underscores Geographic Solutions' long-standing commitment to thoughtful innovation, disciplined execution, and building solutions that support the evolving needs of workforce agencies and the communities we serve.

Article first appeared and distributed by Fast Company.

Paul Toomey Shares Insights on Employer Educator Collaboration in Fast Company Impact Council Article

Tue, 19 May 2026 19:10:41 GMT

High-quality employer-educator collaboration, skills building, and stackable credentials can lead to a strengthened workforce infrastructure and an aligned labor market, writes Geographic Solutions' President and Founder, Paul Toomey, in his most recent Fast Company Impact Council article.

Strong employer-educator partnerships produce several benefits: They identify real employer demand and translate that demand into curriculum and credentials. They also embed work-based learning and shared data to improve hiring and retention.

Partnerships that yield high quality relationships between employers and educators also help the close an important skills need. Commonly referred to as the middle skills gap, this mismatch presents itself when jobs require more than a high-school diploma, but less than a four-year degree. It's quantified by the number of workers with the training, credentials, or experience needed to fill them.

Stackable credentials play an important role in employer-educator collaboration, allowing students and workers to build skills in smaller, clearly defined increments.

Some of the most successful programs have been able to bring these factors together to create positive outcomes. This includes curriculum designed by Pathways in Technology Early College High Schools (P-TECH), Toyota's Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education program (FAME), and Northeastern University's co-op program model.

Read the entire article at Fast Company.

Paul Toomey Shares Insights on Rural Workforce Development in Forbes Business Council Article

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 14:21:53 GMT

How do we strengthen workforce development in rural parts of the United States? For the 46 million Americans who call rural communities their home, the answer is shaped by a complex mix of economic, demographic, and infrastructure-related challenges.

From population decline and an aging workforce to limited access to education and training, broadband gaps, industry concentration, and healthcare barriers, these communities face obstacles that can restrict job opportunities, slow career advancement, and make it more difficult for employers to build sustainable talent pipelines.

Yet there is also reason for optimism.

Rural employment sits at the crossroads of economic transformation, population change, and the opportunity to address infrastructure limitations. While these communities continue to face longstanding structural challenges, they also offer strong potential for sustainable growth when workforce strategies are aligned with local needs and opportunities.

Geographic Solutions’ President and Founder, Paul Toomey, explores these issues in greater detail in his latest Forbes Business Council article, highlighting both the challenges face and the opportunities ahead.

Follow this link to read the full council article.

Geographic Solutions’ President and Founder Paul Toomey Named to TAtech Honors Spring 2026 Class

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:09:26 GMT

Geographic Solutions is proud to announce that its President and Founder, Paul Toomey, has been selected for TAtech Honors Spring 2026 Class, a prestigious recognition program celebrating extraordinary leaders in talent acquisition and technology.

TAtech Honors recognizes individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to advancing the field of talent acquisition. Each year, just 40 leaders are selected based on their sustained excellence and industry impact. Honorees are celebrated as innovators and trailblazers shaping the future of talent technology worldwide.

Paul Toomey joins an elite group of professionals recognized for driving meaningful progress and innovation in the field. This distinction reflects his ongoing commitment to pushing technological boundaries, advancing workforce solutions, and delivering state-of-the-art technology that supports employers, job seekers, and workforce agencies alike.

The Spring 2026 Class was formally announced on March 19, with additional recognition taking place at the TAtech North America Conference, held May 6–8 in Charleston, where honorees will be featured on the TAtech Walk of Fame.

To learn more about TAtech Honors and view the full list of honorees, visit TAtech.org.

Paul Toomey Examines Unemployment Fraud Prevention in Forbes Business Council Article

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 17:31:11 GMT

The pandemic not only changed the way we work but also exposed deep fractures in our aging government technology infrastructure. This raises a critical question: Are state unemployment systems ready for the next crisis?

In a recent Forbes Business Council article, Geographic Solutions’ President and Founder, Paul Toomey, examines this issue and explores the post-pandemic push for system modernization. He also delves into how states are transforming fraud risks into opportunities to build a smarter, more secure infrastructure.

Follow the link here to read more!

Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey Featured On Equus’ Workforce in Action podcast

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 20:19:00 GMT

Our President and Founder, Paul Toomey, has been featured as a guest on Equus Workforce Solutions’ Workforce in Action podcast! During his talk with host Marion Akers, Paul shares insights on how vocational rehabilitation programs bridge the employment gap for individuals with disabilities. He also discusses the transformative impact of AI on workforce development technology and explains how Geographic Solutions is helping justice-impacted individuals successfully secure employment.

Follow the link here to listen to the full episode!

Geographic Solutions' Paul Toomey Recognized as Tech Leader of the Year by 2025 Tampa Bay Tech Awards

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 21:34:00 GMT

Please join us in extending a huge congratulations to our President and Founder, Paul Toomey, for being recognized as the Tech Leader of the Year by the 2025 Tampa Bay Tech Awards.

This prestigious award recognizes Paul for his outstanding contributions to creating long-term value for his company, the workforce development industry, and the Tampa Bay community. The Tampa Bay Tech Awards celebrate exceptional technology leaders, organizations, projects, and professionals across seven categories.

"This recognition is a great honor, not just for me, but for the entire Geographic Solutions team," said Paul Toomey, President and Founder of Geographic Solutions. "Our success comes from a shared vision to create an innovative ecosystem of software solutions that serves a diverse range of job seekers, from skilled professionals to individuals facing barriers to employment."

The Tech Leader of the Year award specifically honors a C-level executive who has made a significant impact on their organization and the broader technology industry. It highlights leaders who drive transformative changes, champion innovation, and advance the technology sector. This recognition builds on a series of recent honors, including the 2025 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Florida Award, selection to the 2025 Tampa Bay Titan 100, and invitations to join both the Fast Company Impact Council and Forbes Business Council as a respected thought leader.

Follow the link here to read more!

Paul Toomey Named to 2025 Tampa Bay Titan 100 for Outstanding Leadership and Industry Innovation

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 13:32:00 GMT

Geographic Solutions’ President and Founder, Paul Toomey, has been named a 2025 Tampa Bay Titan 100 honoree! This honor recognizes Paul’s outstanding leadership, innovative spirit, and clear sense of purpose. It also reflects his significant contributions to building long-term value for his company, the workforce industry, and the Tampa Bay business community.

The Titan 100 program recognizes Tampa Bay’s Top 100 CEOs & C-level executives. They are the area’s most accomplished business leaders in their industry, using criteria that include demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision, and passion.

Collectively, the 2025 Tampa Bay Titan 100 and their companies employ upwards of 235,000 individuals and generate over $56 billion in annual revenue, an impressive set of statistics. Honorees were recognized at the Tampa Bay Titan 100 Awards Celebration on October 30, 2025.

This recognition follows Paul’s recent achievements, including winning the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Florida Award and being a finalist in the Tech Leader of the Year category at the Tampa Bay Tech Awards.

Follow the link here to read more!

Paul Toomey Explores Benefits of Second-Chance Hiring in Fast Company Article

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 13:58:00 GMT

As labor shortages persist, companies need to look beyond traditional hiring methods. Geographic Solutions’ President and Founder, Paul Toomey, discusses this in his latest article as a member of the Fast Company Impact Council. In the article, Paul explains how overlooked talent pools, such as second-chance workers or graduates of prison education programs, can help struggling industries fill key employment gaps.

By changing perceptions and implementing strategic programs, forward-thinking companies can access a dependable source of millions of skilled workers while also making a positive social impact.

Follow the link to learn more!

Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey Featured in The Tampa Bay Business Journal

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 18:33:00 GMT

Our esteemed President and Founder, Paul Toomey, was recently featured in an article from The Tampa Bay Business Journal! The article highlights Paul as one of two Tampa Bay business leaders who were named Florida winners of EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year award.

The Entrepreneur of the Year award is the leading competitive program for entrepreneurs and executives of high-growth companies. Paul was selected by an independent panel of past winners, top CEOs, and business leaders for his entrepreneurial spirit, strong sense of purpose, and substantial contributions to building long-term value for his company and the workforce industry.

Follow the link here to read more!

Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey Named an Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Florida Award Winner

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 19:05:00 GMT

Geographic Solutions’ President and Founder, Paul Toomey, has been named an Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Florida Award winner! Paul was selected by an independent panel of past winners, top CEOs, and business leaders for his entrepreneurial spirit, strong sense of purpose, and substantial contributions to building long-term value for his company and the workforce industry.

The Entrepreneur Of The Year award is the leading competitive program for entrepreneurs and executives of high-growth companies. For 40 years, EY US has honored visionary entrepreneurs who are reshaping industries, influencing communities, and delivering lasting value. This award acknowledges various types of business leaders for their inventiveness, bravery, and entrepreneurial drive.

“Receiving the Entrepreneur Of The Year award is an incredible honor, which I’m proud to share with the entire Geographic Solutions team,” said Toomey. “This achievement celebrates our dedication to delivering solutions that build long-term value for our clients, users, and the communities we serve, not just in Florida, but across the nation.”

It celebrates original founders who have either bootstrapped their startups from the ground up or secured external funding to expand their enterprises; innovative CEOs who have introduced transformative ideas within existing organizations to elevate their paths; and leaders of multigenerational family businesses who have redefined traditional business models to enhance future sustainability.

As a Florida award winner, Paul is now eligible for consideration for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 National Awards. The National Award winners, including the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner, will be announced in November at the Strategic Growth Forum®.

Follow the link here to read more!

Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey Named Finalist for EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 Florida Award

Wed, 14 May 2025 12:56:00 GMT

Geographic Solutions’ President and Founder, Paul Toomey, has been named a finalist for the prestigious EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 Florida Award! Paul was selected by an independent panel of judges for his entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth, and lasting impact in building long-term value.

The Entrepreneur of the Year program, now in its 40th year, celebrates the bold leaders who disrupt markets through the world’s most ground-breaking companies, revolutionizing industries and making a profound impact on communities.

Regional award winners will be announced on June 13 during a special celebration in Orlando. The winners will then be considered by the National judges for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards, which will be presented in November at the annual Strategic Growth Forum®.

Follow the link here to read more!

Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey Shares Thought Leadership Article on Forbes

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:40:00 GMT

We’re thrilled to share that Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey has shared his second article on Forbes as a member of the Forbes Business Council. In his article, Paul honors the 10th anniversary of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by exploring the history, impact, and future of this landmark piece of legislation.

Click here to read the full article on the Forbes website.

Geographic Solutions' Paul Toomey Profiled in WriteSea Executive Interview Series

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 19:55:00 GMT

We are excited to share that Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey was profiled in WriteSea’s Executive Interview Series! The episode dives into the world of workforce development, the evolution of Geographic Solutions, and the role AI will play in the company’s flagship software solution, VOS Sapphire AI.

Click here to watch the full interview.

Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey Published Forbes Article

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 20:09:00 GMT

We’re thrilled to share that Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey has published a contributed article on Forbes as part of the Forbes Council. In the article, Paul breaks down five workforce trends that business leaders should follow in 2024, such as the resurgence of apprenticeships and the decline of remote work.

Click here to read the full article on the Forbes website.

Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey Featured in Forbes

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 17:07:29 GMT

We’re excited to share that Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey, contributed to a collaborative Forbes article for the Forbes Council, called “20 Innovative Strategies For Unlocking Local Business Potential”. In the article, Paul emphasized the importance of giving back and supporting the local tech community while also showcasing the many initiatives Geographic Solutions has started and the ways they are fostering tech careers through apprenticeships and internships.

Click here to read the full article on the Forbes website. And, while you are there, don't forget to check out Paul's Forbes Council profile.

Geographic Solutions’ Paul Toomey Featured in an Episode of the Workforce180 Podcast

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 20:50:00 GMT

In a recent episode of the Workforce180 podcast, Geographic Solutions’ President and Founder, Paul Toomey sat with host, Mike Fazio, to talk about what’s in store for Geographic Solutions’ upcoming Workforce Technology Conference in Monterey, California on October 16 and to discuss the future and current state of the workforce industry, noting:

“The world has changed, since the pandemic and it's become quite common now to embrace the idea that many of the services that were once offered inside an American Job Center will now be done online. So, looking ahead, I think we're going to see more and more progression towards these online services.”

Click here to listen to the full episode on Workforce180’s website.

Paul Toomey Named as a Finalist for 2023 Apogee Awards

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 15:01:00 GMT

We’re excited to share that Geographic Solutions' President, Paul Toomey has been selected as a finalist for CEO of the Year of a Large Company for the 2023 Apogee Awards, presented by Tampa Bay Business & Wealth (TBBW) Magazine. The award was created by TBBW to recognize the dedication and contribution both C-Suite leaders and companies from across Southwest Florida have made in their respective industries and local communities.

On September 27th, Paul and the Geographic Solutions’ team attended the 2023 Apogee Awards reception dinner at Tampa's Armature Works, which honored the finalists from each category.

International Publication, Le Monde, Features Geographic Solutions' Paul Toomey

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:41:58 GMT

The international publication, Le Monde, featured a story about the employment shift happening in the tech industry. It mentions how more and more tech workers heading away the tech giants such as Google and Apple and focusing their sights on smaller businesses where their tech talents are greatly needed. Geographic Solutions’ Founder and President speaks to our own experience with finding talented software engineers amid the pandemic.

Read the full article on the Le Monde Website.

Can't access the article? Download a PDF version here.