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CalJOBS Featured on Bakersfield's KBAX Eyewitness News Mornings

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 16:49:35 GMT

CalJOBS was recently featured on KBAX/KBFX Eyewitness News in Bakersfield, California, highlighting how the statewide workforce platform connects job seekers and employers with employment and training resources.

During the station's "Putting You to Work Wednesday" segment, Marco Paredes with Kern County Employers' Training Resource discussed how Californians can use CalJOBS to search and apply for employment opportunities, create résumés, explore training options, and access workforce services. Employers can also use the platform to post job openings and connect with qualified candidates.

Paredes highlighted an upcoming NetxGen Job Fair designed to connect young adults in Kern County with employment opportunities and workforce resources.

CalJOBS is used by more than 1.1 million Californians each year, along with employers, training providers, workforce professionals, and California Employment Development Department staff. Geographic Solutions has been selected by EDD to help develop the next generation of the platform, with a focus on creating a more accessible, reliable, and customer-focused experience.

Read the original story and watch the segment on BakersfieldNow.

Geographic Solutions Named Finalist for Tech Company of the Year in 2026 Tampa Bay Tech Awards

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 15:02:34 GMT

TAMPA BAY, Fla. — October 1, 2026 — Geographic Solutions, a Tampa Bay-based technology company and leading provider of workforce technology solutions, has been named a finalist for Tech Company of the Year in the 2026 Tampa Bay Tech Awards. The recognition highlights Geographic Solutions’ commitment to innovation, employee development, and strengthening of Tampa Bay’s tech community, while delivering solutions that impact millions of people nationwide.

Founded in 1992, Geographic Solutions provides workforce technology used across more than 40 states and U.S. territories, supporting more than 1,100 American Job Centers and reaching more than 211 million people.

“We’re honored to be recognized alongside the innovative companies helping shape Tampa Bay’s technology community,” said Paul Toomey, Founder and President of Geographic Solutions. “For more than three decades, we’ve focused on pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and developing technology that creates opportunities for people and communities.”

Driving Workforce Technology Forward

Geographic Solutions continues to advance its flagship VOS Sapphire platform through AI-powered capabilities designed to improve the delivery of workforce services.

VOS Sapphire AI incorporates generative AI and redesigned user experiences to help workforce professionals streamline administrative tasks, improve job matching, and deliver more personalized services. Developed using Geographic Solutions technology, alongside Microsoft and OpenAI capabilities, the platform continues to gain adoption among state workforce agencies nationwide.

In 2026, VOS Sapphire AI was named the Best AI/ML Solution in the Tech Ascension Awards and was also recognized as a finalist in multiple SaaS Awards categories.

Investing in People and Tampa Bay

Geographic Solutions’ commitment to innovation extends beyond its technology to its employees and future of Tampa Bay’s technology workforce.

The company reported an 87.53% employee retention rate in 2025, with average employee tenure reaching six years and eight months. As a founding member of the Tampa Bay Tech Apprenticeship Network, Geographic Solutions currently has five apprentices participating in the program. The company also hosted 15 interns over the past year, six of whom transitioned into full-time positions.

Through the Paul Toomey IT Scholarship, now in its ninth year, Geographic Solutions has awarded more than 25 scholarships and invested more than $80,000 in technology-focused high school seniors across Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties.

The company also supports the region's technology ecosystem through the quarterly Pinellas Tech Network Meetup, hosted by Toomey, which brings technology professionals together to connect, share ideas, and strengthen the local tech community.

In 2026, Geographic Solutions was also named one of the Top 100 organizations in North America in the Inspiring Workplaces Awards, marking its third consecutive year of recognition.

The Tampa Bay Tech Awards recognize technology companies and professionals making an impact across the region. Geographic Solutions is a finalist for Tech Company of the Year, with winners to be announced November 13 at the Tampa Bay Tech Awards at Armature Works in Tampa.

Paul Toomey Featured in Fast Company on Measuring the Return on Investment of Artificial Intelligence

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 14:20:14 GMT

In an ongoing Expert Insights series from Fast Company Impact Council, Geographic Solutions' own President and Founder, Paul Toomey, shared his outlook on the how to measure the ROI of artificial intelligence. Here is Paul's excerpt from the article:

"I measure the ROI of AI against the process it’s meant to improve and not the novelty of the model. I establish a baseline for time, accuracy, cost, and user outcomes, then determine whether AI reduces administrative work, improves service delivery, and helps people reach better decisions faster. For workforce and benefits systems, outcomes must be balanced against security, fairness, and human oversight."

Leaders across several organizations, including Twilio, UNICEF USA, and ServiceNow, shared their insights, too. From measuring outcomes and not activities, looking beyond time savings, and accounting for quality and trust, these leaders provide important thought leadership for workers in any industry.

Read the entire article by visiting the Fast Company Impact Council Expert Insights series.

Paul Toomey Featured in Fast Company on AI's Benefits for the Public Workforce System

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 12:28:18 GMT

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping how public workforce systems connect job seekers, employers, and workforce professionals with services and opportunities.

In a recent Fast Company Impact Council article, Geographic Solutions' President and Founder, Paul Toomey, explored how AI can make workforce services more proactive, personalized, and accessible. AI-powered tools can support job matching, resume development, interview preparation, career pathway recommendations, and around-the-clock assistance, while also helping employers identify qualified candidates more efficiently.

Toomey highlights the growing importance of AI literacy as workers prepare for an evolving labor market. Federal initiatives and partnerships are expanding access to AI training, helping job seekers, workforce staff, and agency leaders build practical skills for using and governing the technology responsibly.

The article points to WorkSource Georgia as an example of AI integrated workforce service delivery. Through AI-enabled tools, job seekers receive tailored employment support, employers streamline recruiting tasks, and workforce professionals reduce administrative workloads.

Toomey emphasizes that AI should complement, not replace, human expertise. With strong governance and oversight, AI can help workforce agencies expand access, improve responsiveness, and create a more connected experience for the people and businesses they serve, while better preparing communities for changing skill needs and economic conditions nationwide.

Read the entire article at Fast Company.

Geographic Solutions Named a Finalist in The 2026 A.I. Awards

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 17:59:45 GMT

Palm Harbor, FL – September 22, 2026 – Geographic Solutions has been named a finalist in The 2026 A.I. Awards in three categories: Best AI Platform, Best Use of AI in Public Sector or Government Services, and the AI for Good Award.

Operated by The Cloud Awards, a global awards program recognizing excellence in cloud computing and technology, The A.I. Awards celebrate international leaders driving the next generation of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Now in its third year, the program received entries from organizations around the world, ranging from established technology companies to disruptive startups across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific region.

The awards recognize transformative advances across the entire AI ecosystem: from core infrastructure and governance to emerging agentic workflows and AI assistants. Special emphasis is placed on practical implementations that deliver measurable value within dedicated operational units and specific vertical markets.

“Unveiling the finalists for the 2026 A.I. Awards is a significant moment,” said James Williams, CEO of The Cloud Awards. “With the sheer volume of entry submissions this year, the competition is fierce, and the quality of work on display is extraordinary.”

“Being named a finalist across three categories in The 2026 A.I. Awards is meaningful recognition of the work our teams are doing to apply artificial intelligence in ways that create real value for our clients,” said Geographic Solutions’ President and Founder, Paul Toomey. “Our focus has always been on building practical, responsible AI solutions that help workforce agencies operate more efficiently while improving the experience for the people and the communities they serve.”
 
The program will now begin its final round of judging, where The Cloud Awards judges will select a winner in each category. A.I. Awards winners will be revealed on October 13.

To view the full list of finalists, please visit: https://www.cloud-awards.com/ai-awards/2026-finalists

Press release first distributed via PR Newswire.

Why Labor Force Participation Matters: Paul Toomey Insights Featured in Fast Company

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 18:19:13 GMT

Geographic Solutions President and Founder Paul Toomey was recently featured in Fast Company’s article, “15 Leaders on the Economic Indicators Companies Should Watch,” which explores the data business leaders should monitor to better understand changing economic conditions.

In his contribution, Toomey highlighted the importance of labor force participation rates as a valuable complement to traditional unemployment data. His perspective underscores the value of comprehensive labor market data in helping organizations better understand workforce availability and respond to evolving economic conditions.

Read the full article here.

Resilience in Leadership: Paul Toomey Highlights Team Alignment Strategies in Fast Company

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 20:15:26 GMT

In the Fast Company article, “25 Leaders on Keeping Teams Aligned During Uncertainty,” executives from across industries share how they help their organizations stay focused and resilient when the path ahead is unclear.

Featuring insights from 25 members of the Fast Company Impact Council, including Geographic Solutions President and Founder Paul Toomey, the article highlights practical strategies for navigating change, maintaining clear communication, and preparing organizations for unexpected challenges. The leaders emphasize adaptability, transparency, thoughtful planning, and keeping teams focused on shared goals during periods of uncertainty.

Read the full article here.

Paul Toomey Shares Insights on Work Opportunity Tax Credit Modernization in Forbes Business Council Article

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:30:06 GMT

The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal hiring incentive administered by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that encourages employers to hire individuals facing barriers to employment.

In his latest Forbes Business Council article, Modernizing Work Opportunity Tax Credit Administration to Maximize Workforce Outcomes, Geographic Solutions President and Founder, Paul Toomey, explores how modernizing the administration of WOTC can help strengthen the workforce.

Toomey examines how WOTC helps employers connect with individuals who may face significant barriers to employment while providing businesses with federal tax incentives for eligible hires. He also addresses some of the administrative challenges that can limit the program's effectiveness, including complex eligibility requirements, manual processes, disconnected systems, certification timelines, and employer engagement.

Toomey emphasizes that technology can play an important role in improving WOTC administration by streamlining workflows, supporting more accurate data exchange, and providing greater visibility into program activity. However, he notes that successful modernization requires more than implementing new software. Organizations should also prioritize thoughtful change management, staff training, clearly defined requirements, and processes designed around measurable outcomes.

Ultimately, Toomey outlines how a more modern and connected approach to WOTC administration can reduce burden, strengthen participation, and expand employment opportunities for individuals facing barriers to work.

Read the full article on Forbes: Modernizing Work Opportunity Tax Credit Administration to Maximize Workforce Outcomes

Puerto Rico Department of Labor and Human Resources Launches Desempleo Digital for Unemployment Insurance Claimants

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 18:29:27 GMT

Puerto Rico has modernized its unemployment insurance system with the launch of Desempleo Digital, a new online platform developed by Geographic Solutions for the Puerto Rico Department of Labor and Human Resources (DTRH).

The system is designed to make unemployment services faster, more secure, and more accessible for claimants, employers, and agency staff. Through the platform, individuals can complete a range of unemployment-related transactions online, reducing the need for in-person visits to department offices.

Desempleo Digital also expands electronic communications and supports direct deposit of unemployment benefits. Employers can use a dedicated online portal to manage tasks and interact with the department more efficiently.

The launch marks an important step in Puerto Rico’s broader effort to modernize government services and improve the unemployment insurance experience through secure, streamlined technology.

By replacing legacy processes with a modern digital platform, the department aims to improve accessibility, strengthen service delivery, and provide a more efficient experience for Puerto Rico’s workforce and employers.

Visit Metro Puerto Rico to read the official announcement.

Geographic Solutions' VOS Sapphire Shortlisted in the 2026 A.I. Awards

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Geographic Solutions is excited to announce shortlist inclusion at The 2026 A.I. Awards for Best AI Platform, AI for Good Award, and Best Use of AI in Public Sector or Government Services categories.

First launched in 2024, and operated by global cloud computing awards body, The Cloud Awards, The A.I. Awards has rapidly grown to become one of the biggest programs in the Cloud Awards annual calendar. Nominees into the 2026 awards include organizations located all over the world, from household names and established technology giants to exciting new startups.

The program recognizes outstanding AI-driven solutions, and excellence in AI platforms and infrastructure. Agentic solutions and AI assistants are new areas celebrated in this year’s program, joining established categories focused on areas including automation, natural language processing, and AI governance. The program also recognizes AI solutions built to support specific business operations (such as HR or cybersecurity), and industry use cases (including retail, finance, or utilities).

"Geographic Solutions are well deserving of their shortlist place, and we wish them luck in the next round of judging," said James Williams, CEO of The Cloud Awards.

The program will now begin its second round of judging, where The Cloud Awards judges will select, and take forwards, a group of finalists in each category. A.I. Awards finalists will be revealed on September 22. Winners will be announced in October.

To view the full shortlist, please visit: https://www.cloud-awards.com/ai-awards/2026-shortlist.

Guam Explores Strengthening Workforce Services with VOS Sapphire AI

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 19:43:51 GMT

The Guam Department of Labor (GDOL) is exploring how AI could strengthen workforce services through HIREGUAM. VOS Sapphire AI, developed by Geographic Solutions, helps job seekers build résumés, prepare for interviews, discover career opportunities, and connect their skills with in-demand jobs. Employers can also benefit from AI-assisted job descriptions, interview questions, and candidate matching. For GDOL staff, the technology could streamline routine administrative work, creating more time to focus on serving residents and businesses.

“This is an exciting opportunity to take the workforce system Guam already has and bring it into the next generation, GDOL Director David Dell’Isola said in a release.

“We are putting powerful AI tools directly into the hands of those looking for work or a career and employers. Our vision is simple: make it easier for people to find opportunities, make it easier for businesses to find talent, and give our staff better tools to serve our community,” Dell’Isola added.

As Guam looks to the future of work, initiatives like this could help open more doors for job seekers, give employers better tools to find the right talent, and make workforce services more responsive to the community. The opportunity is bigger than simply adopting new technology. It’s about using innovation thoughtfully to connect more people with meaningful careers and help build stronger, more resilient workforce for Guam.

Parts of this article first appeared at The Guam Daily Post.

Building a Better CalJOBS Experience

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 20:33:06 GMT

The California Employment Development Department (EDD) has selected Geographic Solutions to help develop the next generation of CalJOBS, a platform used annually by more than 1.1 million Californians, as well as employers, training providers, workforce professionals, and EDD staff.

The modernization effort will create a more reliable, accessible, and customer-focused experience, making it easier for job seekers to find employment and training, employers to connect with qualified candidates, and workforce partners to deliver services.

Designed with customers in mind, the updated CalJOBS platform will offer simpler navigation, improved accessibility across devices and assistive technologies, stronger connections to workforce programs, and greater flexibility to meet California’s evolving workforce needs.

Read the original press release here. News provided by the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency.

Geographic Solutions Welcomes Max Schelkopf as Business Development Executive for the Midwest

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 13:18:57 GMT

Geographic Solutions is pleased to announce that Max Schelkopf has joined the company as Business Development Executive for the Midwestern Region. He will lead business development efforts across the Midwest, helping workforce agencies use innovative technology to improve service delivery and workforce outcomes.

Schelkopf will work closely with workforce agencies to expand adoption of Geographic Solutions' workforce development platform. His focus will include identifying opportunities to streamline operations, increase access to services, and improve outcomes for job seekers, employers, and workforce professionals.

Schelkopf brings extensive experience in workforce technology and public sector consulting. Before joining Geographic Solutions, he served as a Senior Consultant at Engage by Cell, helping workforce organizations implement communication and engagement technologies that strengthened outreach, increased program participation, and improved communication between case managers and clients.

Throughout his career, Schelkopf has worked with workforce agencies across more than 30 states and territories to deliver technology solutions that drive measurable results. He has also presented at state workforce development conferences on using technology to increase participation and improve program outcomes.

North Carolina Expands NCJET Reentry Employment System Across 22 State Prisons

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 20:31:28 GMT

The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction and the North Carolina Department of Commerce are expanding access to the NC Jobs Exploration in Transition system, known as NCJET, following the success of an initial pilot program.

NCJET is now available in 22 correctional facilities and has registered nearly 700 men and women. The system was developed by Geographic Solutions in partnership with the state and is built on the company's Virtual OneStop Reentry Employment Opportunities, or VOS REO, platform.

Designed specifically for correctional environments, VOS REO helps justice-impacted individuals prepare for employment and connect with workforce resources as they approach release. Geographic Solutions' platform can be customized to reflect each client's identity, programs, and workforce infrastructure. In North Carolina, the technology has been branded as NCJET and integrated with the statewide NCWorks Online system.

The system has been highly effective. A little more than a year since its implementation, several justice-impacted individuals shred their stories in a recent article published on Correction Connection, the NC Department of Adult Correction's Blog.

“This is a great thing,” said Candra Mullins, the associate warden of programs at medium-custody Albemarle Correctional Institution – one of the non-Correction Enterprises designated reentry facilities. “We piloted it last fall and it has been successful. Our peer support men have been open to it.”

Samuel Mayfield, who has been housed at Albemarle Correctional Institution since April 2005 and is scheduled to be released in 2032, has instructed others on how to use the system. He assists the men in working on the laptops in the education classroom, setting up accounts and answers any other question. He sees this as a win/win situation for the men as well as the community.

“This has been very beneficial to me,” said Mayfield, who received his associate degree in business administration from Stanly Community College while incarcerated. “And think about the offender once he gets out of prison and comes into your community. You don’t want them to return without any fundamental skills when they come back into society. This is a tool you can use that’s big to help yourself and keep the public safe.”

NCWorks has more than 70 career centers across the state. When an offender completes their incarcerated time, they can go to a center or access service virtually by logging in with their registration. The same username and password access from NCJET works across both systems, allowing the individual to continue their job search with their saved information.

“The more successful our justice-involved individuals can be, the safer our communities can be,” said Torrey Leach, the Workforce Development Manager for Correction Enterprises and one of the driving forces behind NCJET. “It started as an idea, and it’s grown into a vision to assist the incarcerated.”

Parts of this article first originated at the NC Department of Adult Correction's Blog. Read the article in its entirety by visiting Correction Connection.

Geographic Solutions Successfully Completes First Nationwide NASWA SIDES Module Modernization Deployments

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 21:01:38 GMT

PALM HARBOR, Fla., July 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Geographic Solutions has successfully completed the first production deployments of the National Association of State Workforce Agencies' (NASWA) latest modernization of the State Information Data Exchange System (SIDES), becoming the first vendor in the nation to transition client states to the updated platform.

SIDES is a secure, web-based system developed by NASWA in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor that enables the electronic exchange of unemployment insurance (UI) claims information between state workforce agencies, employers, third-party administrators (TPAs), and professional employer organizations (PEOs). The platform streamlines UI claims processing by improving speed, accuracy, security, reducing improper payments, and helping employers better manage UI tax costs.

As part of its ongoing modernization efforts, NASWA periodically updates SIDES modules to incorporate state-requested enhancements and improve system performance. Geographic Solutions began preparing for the latest modernization in November 2025 by implementing the infrastructure enhancements needed to support the platform.

Geographic Solutions worked closely with NASWA and four client states to coordinate testing, certification, and implementation. The production upgrades were successfully completed on July 16, with all four Geographic Solutions client states transitioning to the modernized SIDES platform without issue, becoming the first production implementations completed nationwide.

"Successfully completing the nation's first production implementations of NASWA's modernized SIDES module reflects our commitment to delivering reliable, secure unemployment insurance technology," said Paul Toomey, President and Founder of Geographic Solutions. "Working alongside NASWA and our client states, we achieved a seamless transition that allows agencies to immediately benefit from the platform's latest enhancements while continuing to provide efficient service to employers and claimants."

Geographic Solutions continues to partner with state workforce agencies to modernize unemployment insurance systems through secure, scalable technology that improves efficiency, strengthens program integrity, and enhances service for employers and claimants.

Article first published and distributed via PR Newswire.

Paul Toomey Named as Tampa Bay Titan 100 Honoree for Second Consecutive Year

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:51:22 GMT

We’re excited to announce Geographic Solutions’ Founder and President, Paul Toomey, as a 2026 Tampa Bay Titan 100 honoree.

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. Combined, the 2026 Tampa Bay Titan 100 honorees and their companies generate more than $10 billion in annual revenue and employ over 60,000 people across the region and beyond.

This year’s honorees will be published in a limited-edition Titan 100 book and profiled exclusively online. They will be honored at the annual awards ceremony on October 22nd, 2026, and will be given the opportunity to interact and connect multiple times throughout the year with their fellow Titans.

“This year’s Titans represent more than success; they embody resilience, purpose, and transformation,” said Jaime Zawmon, President of Titan CEO. “Being a Titan is not just a title; it is a mindset, a way of leading with courage, serving with integrity, and creating something that outlasts you. It is about lifting those around you and leaving a legacy that inspires others to rise. These leaders stand as proof that the future of business is driven by those who turn vision into lasting impact.”

For more than three decades, Paul has helped shape the future of workforce technology by tuning complex employment challenges into practical, innovative solutions. His leadership has guided Geographic Solutions’ growth into an industry leader known for delivering award-winning software, trusted implementation expertise, and responsive customer service to workforce agencies nationwide. His inclusion among the 2026 Tampa Bay Titan 100 marks the second consecutive year he has received the honor, further recognizing his leadership, industry impact, and dedication to advancing workforce technology. This recognition follows his selection for the TAtech Honors Spring 2026 Class, continued contributions to the Fast Company Impact Council and Forbes Business Council, and leadership in advancing VOS Sapphire AI, which was named the Best AI/ML Powered Solution in the 2026 Tech Ascension Awards.

“Being recognized as a Tampa Bay Titan 100 honoree for the second consecutive year is an incredible honor that I proudly share with the entire Geographic Solutions team,” said Paul Toomey, President and Founder of Geographic Solutions. “This recognition reflects the dedication, creativity, and passion our employees bring to developing technology that addresses real employment challenges," said Toomey. “Together, we remain committed to strengthening workforce systems, expanding access to opportunity, and helping communities throughout Tampa Bay and across the nation thrive.”

Paul will be honored at the Titan 100 awards celebration on October 22nd, 2026, which will be held at Yuengling Center.

HR Tech Edge Features VOS Sapphire AI's 2026 SaaS Awards Finalist Recognition

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 19:18:00 GMT

Geographic Solutions and VOS Sapphire AI has been featured by HR Tech Edge following its selection as a finalist in four categories at the 2026 SaaS Awards, an international program recognizing innovation and excellence in cloud-based software. The finalist categories include Best SaaS Product for Education and Nonprofits, Best SaaS Solution for HR and Workforce Management, Best Data-Driven SaaS Innovation, and Best Bespoke or Specialized SaaS Solution.

HR Tech Edge highlights Geographic Solutions’ specialized role in public-sector workforce technology. As agencies modernize employment services, purpose-built platforms, such as VOS Sapphire AI, can help reduce administrative burdens, improve access to services, strengthen data-informed decision-making, and create more personalized experiences for job seekers and employers.

The competitive environment around Enterprise HR and workforce technology has intensified in recent years. Many providers have continued to expand AI capabilities across talent acquisition, workforce planning, employee and employer experience, and skills intelligence. Specialized workforce technology vendors are differentiating themselves through vertical expertise, particularly in government workforce systems and public employment infrastructure.

The digital publication notes that Geographic Solutions’ focus on workforce agencies positions the company within a niche segment of HR technology where digital transformation initiatives continue to accelerate. Governments worldwide are modernizing employment systems to improve service accessibility, and AI is becoming central to these modernization efforts.

Article originally published at HRTechEdge.

Geographic Solutions Named a Finalist in The 2026 SaaS Awards

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 13:38:56 GMT

PALM HARBOR, Fla., July 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Geographic Solutions has been named as a finalist for the 2026 SaaS Awards in four categories: Best SaaS Product for Education and Nonprofits, Best SaaS Solution for HR and Workforce Management, Best Data-Driven SaaS Innovation, and Best Bespoke or Specialized SaaS Solution.

Celebrating a decade of recognizing software excellence since its launch in 2016, The SaaS Awards is operated by the global cloud computing awards body, The Cloud Awards. The SaaS Awards recognizes cutting edge innovations and applications of software-as-a-service solutions across a broad range of use cases and sectors. Geographic Solutions among the selected organizations representing all corners of the globe progressing to the finalist stage.

"Being named a finalist in the SaaS Awards for the second consecutive year is a testament to our team's relentless focus on innovation and customer success," said Paul Toomey, President and Founder of Geographic Solutions. "We are committed to advancing AI-powered workforce technology that helps agencies modernize service delivery, improve operational efficiency, and create better outcomes for the individuals, businesses, and communities they serve."

James Williams, CEO of The Cloud Awards, said: "This year's SaaS Awards nominees are proving that the future of software lies in absolute reliability and performance. Our judges look for products that don't just innovate but actively solve complex business hurdles. Geographic Solutions has demonstrated the exact mix required to lead the market. Reaching this stage is a prestigious benchmark of quality. We congratulate the team on their finalist placement and look forward to celebrating their continued success."

The program's judges will now determine which of the finalists should be crowned the winner in each category. The SaaS Awards winners will be announced on Tuesday August 11, 2026.

Article first published at and distributed by PR Newswire.

Kansas Department of Labor Receives Two National Awards for T.O.T.O. Career Exploration Platform

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 11:38:36 GMT

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) is proud to announce that the Labor Market Information (LMI) Division has received two national awards from Geographic Solutions (GSI) during the 2026 Workforce Technology Conference for Today's Occupations, Tomorrow's Opportunities (T.O.T.O). The state’s free online career exploration application is designed to help Kansans explore careers, education pathways and workforce opportunities.

Built on GSI's Virtual Career Center platform, T.O.T.O. earned the Largest Annual Increase in Traffic to an Education Site award for the highest year-over-year traffic growth and the Most Innovative Application award for its customized career exploration tools, Kansas-specific labor market information, educational resources and the Wizard of Jobs budgeting application.

"We are committed to providing innovative tools that prepare Kansans for successful careers and strengthen our state's workforce," said KDOL Secretary Amber Shultz. "Receiving these national awards is an incredible honor and a reflection of the LMI team's commitment to creating meaningful resources for students, educators and job seekers.”

"Being recognized with the Most Innovative Application award is a testament to the department's vision for transforming career exploration through technology,” said Paul Toomey, Founder and President of Geographic Solutions. “Together, we're helping build a stronger talent pipeline that benefits students, educators, employers and communities across Kansas. We are honored to partner with Kansas in developing T.O.T.O.”

Article first published at the Kansas Department of Labor's News List page. For more information about T.O.T.O., visit toto.dol.ks.gov.

Promote from Within or Hire Externally? Paul Toomey Shares His Strategy in Fast Company

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 19:04:31 GMT

We are thrilled to share that our Founder and President, Paul Toomey, was recently featured in a Fast Company article exploring one of the most critical decisions facing modern business leaders: when to promote talent from within versus when to hire externally.

As a member of the prestigious Fast Company Impact Council—an invitation-only collective of innovative founders, executives, and leaders redefining the future of business—Paul joined 18 other national business minds to share his leadership philosophy on organizational growth and talent development.

Aligning Talent Decisions with Company Lifecycle

The feature, titled "19 leaders on promoting from within versus hiring externally," highlights the delicate balance of building a sustainable, high-performing workforce. When asked how he approaches this critical decision-making process, Paul emphasized that leadership choices should always be driven by a forward-looking assessment of what the company needs at its specific stage of growth.

Rather than relying on a rigid formula, Paul advocates for evaluating a role's immediate demands against the long-term impact on company culture and client success:

"I start by asking what the role requires at this stage of the company. If we have someone internally who has earned trust, understands our clients, and is ready to grow and succeed at the next level, promoting from within is especially valuable. It reinforces culture and continuity. In some circumstances, senior roles can require experience or expertise we have not yet developed internally, so an external hire can bring needed perspective or scale. The key is to make decisions based on future impact, and not just past familiarity."— Paul Toomey, Founder and President of Geographic Solutions

Cultivating Culture While Embracing Innovation

At Geographic Solutions, this philosophy is woven directly into our DNA. Promoting from within rewards dedication, preserves our deep institutional knowledge, and honors the trust our team has built with the workforce development agencies we serve. At the same time, selectively introducing fresh, external perspectives allows us to scale our technology, stay agile, and continuously innovate.

To read the full article and explore insights from all 19 featured Impact Council members, you can head over to the official piece on Fast Company.