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Press releases from Geographic Solutions and news about our clients' sites

Geographic Solutions Named as Finalist for 2024 SaaS Awards.png

We are beyond honored to announce that Geographic Solutions’ VOS Sapphire software solution has been named a finalist in four categories for the 2024 SaaS Awards, including:

  1. Best Data Innovation in a SaaS Product 
  2. Best SaaS Product for Business Intelligence
  3. Best SaaS Product for Recruitment
  4. Best SaaS Product for Nonprofits or Education

The SaaS Awards celebrate the best software and Software-as-a-Service innovations and applications across 56 unique categories. This year’s finalists feature a broad range of exciting and innovative organizations from around the globe, including Geographic Solutions. Winners of the award will be announced on August 13, 2024.

Click here to see the full list of finalists here
 

fDi Intelligence Highlights Geographic Solutions in Op-Ed.png

We are thrilled to share that fDi Intelligence, a subsidiary of the Financial Times media publication, highlighted Geographic Solutions in an opinion piece on the many benefits second chance hiring can have on the United States and United Kingdom’s labor markets, economy, and society.

The author specifically showcases Geographic Solutions’ efforts in helping to improve the job search and recruitment process within the reentry and second-chance employment space throughout the State of California.

Click here to read the full article on fDi Intelligence's website. 

Government Technology Showcases Geographic Solutions in Feature Story.png

We are happy to share that Geographic Solutions was featured in an article published by the prominent trade publication, Government Technology! The story highlights the successful launch of CALPIA’s Entry to Employment Network as well as the impact this system will have on helping reduce recidivism in California.

Geographic Solutions’ President and Founder, Paul Toomey was also quoted in the article, stating “Recidivism is very high if you don’t have a job…The clock is ticking when you leave prison.”

Paul continues, “The new job seeking tool is open to inmates who have about six months left on their sentences. Correction officers must sign off on the process. After an inmate is released, they gain full access to the network, with no oversight from prison officials.”

Click here to read the full article on Government Technology’s website. The story was also featured on Government Technology daily newsletter, GovTech Today.

Louisiana Illuminator Features Geographic Solutions' Economist, Phillip Sprehe.png

We’re thrilled to share, Geographic Solutions’ Senior Economist, Phillip Sprehe was recently quoted in an article published by the Louisiana Illuminator! In the article Phillip shares valuable insight into why the State of Louisiana still hasn’t recovered all the jobs it lost during the pandemic.

In his quote, Phillip explains, taxes and regulations don’t appear to be the culprit, noting “We’re seeing this nationwide. There’s not an obvious law or regulatory hurdle that you can link to the employment numbers in leisure and hospitality.”

He continues, “…the current jobs numbers in the tourism sector are likely the new normal as many employers have adapted to the labor shortage in various ways including by implementing new technologies such as kiosks that have taken the place of cashiers and servers.”

Click here to read the full article on The Louisiana Illuminator’s website. The original story was also syndicated to Yahoo News, New Orleans City Business, KALB-TV News Channel 5, WVUE-TV FOX 8, and KTBS-TV ABC 3.

Geographic Solutions Unveils VOS Sapphire AI: The Next Generation of Its Flagship Software.gif

We are excited to announce the launch of VOS Sapphire AI, the next generation of the company's industry-leading VOS Sapphire software suite.

VOS Sapphire AI is a dynamic collaboration between OpenAI, Microsoft, and innovative functionality - showcasing the art of prompt engineering and the transformative potential of reshaping interactions for labor exchange. The introduction of Artificial Intelligence into multiple levels of VOS Sapphire will provide a more intuitive and seamless user experience for building résumés, interview preparation, job search, job posting, and more. VOS Sapphire AI is designed to streamline the job search process and reduce the time it takes for job seekers to find suitable employment. It also enables employers to quickly identify the most qualified candidates for their job openings.

"We are thrilled to introduce AI into the next generation of VOS Sapphire," said Paul Toomey, CEO of Geographic Solutions. 'This new system reinforces our ongoing efforts to provide cutting-edge solutions to our clients and users. Our goal with VOS Sapphire AI is to provide employers and job seekers with access to a broader range of adaptive tools and resources to help them thrive in today's ever-evolving and competitive job market.'

VOS Sapphire AI enables job seekers to effortlessly generate a new résumé and cover letter using their profile data and AI-generated text - creating a bespoke résumé that perfectly aligns with any requirements and specifications listed in a job description; as well as a cover letter that conveys enthusiasm, experience, and captures the attention of hiring managers. VOS Sapphire AI also aids job seekers in preparing for interviews by providing them with details about the employer and position, as well as a curated list of AI-generated questions they can use during an interview. Additional tools for AI-centric practice interview platforms also exist to aid job seekers in interview preparation.

Employers can use similar AI features throughout VOS Sapphire AI to generate job descriptions and interview questions tailored to any candidate's background. Recruiters can also use AI to create job descriptions that include position details, the company's preferences, and requirements for a role.

VOS Sapphire AI reflects Geographic Solutions' commitment to providing its users with innovative tools that drive better outcomes, reduce inefficiencies, and adapt to the individual's ever-evolving needs. As a testament to the company's efforts, the system was recognized by the 2024 Tech Ascension Awards as the Best AI / ML Powered Solution for its modular, customizable design, robust security protocols, and ability to help employers and job seekers in today's competitive job market.

You can read the complete press release here - which has been syndicated to The Associated Press, Yahoo Finance, Benzinga, Seeking Alpha, and 359 additional publications.

Geographic Solutions Wins the Tech Ascension Award for Best AI / ML Powered Solution Graphic

We are proud to announce our VOS Sapphire AI system has been recognized as the Best AI / ML Powered Solution by the 2024 Tech Ascension Awards!

VOS Sapphire AI is the newest version of Geographic Solutions' industry-leading software suite, VOS Sapphire. The new integration provides a more intuitive and seamless user experience using AI tools for building résumés, interview preparation, job search, job posting, and more. VOS Sapphire AI is designed to streamline the job search process and reduce the time it takes for job seekers to find suitable employment. It also enables employers to quickly identify the most qualified candidates for their job openings.

The VOS Sapphire AI system was recognized for its robust data security protocols and safeguards for user privacy. The system limits AI access to user data only where measurable benefits can be realized, ensuring safety through advanced prompt injection and response filters. VOS Sapphire AI also features a modular and fully customizable design, which allows clients to tailor the solution to their unique needs. This enables the Geographic Solutions' team to deploy the system more efficiently and at a significantly lower cost compared to building a solution from the 'ground up'. Moreover, this strategic flexibility enables VOS Sapphire AI to seamlessly adapt to new technologies, maintaining a consistent user interface while delivering cutting-edge upgrades.

David Campbell, CEO of the Tech Ascension Awards, commented on the significance of this year's winners: "We are thrilled to recognize this year's winners in the DevOps category. Their groundbreaking achievements exemplify the pinnacle of innovation, showcasing the dynamic evolution of our industry. In the age of AI, DevOps is not just about improving operational efficiencies; it's about leveraging intelligent technologies to drive transformative changes. Our winners have demonstrated how AI integration can lead to unparalleled advancements in automation, scalability, and overall performance. As we move forward, the importance of fostering such innovation in DevOps cannot be overstated, as it lays the foundation for the future of technology and business."

The Tech Ascension Awards recognized the very best innovations in technology. Tech Ascension Awards judged applicants based on technology innovation, market research, and competitive differentiators. The class-leading vendors that received recognition from the Tech Ascension Awards showcased technology that solves critical industry challenges and produces invaluable business outcomes for their customers.

"Receiving this recognition from the 2024 Tech Ascension Awards is an honor that all of us at Geographic Solutions accepts with immense pride," said Paul Toomey, President and Founder of Geographic Solutions. "This award reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering an intuitive, future-proof solution that addresses our clients' ever-changing needs. With VOS Sapphire AI, employers and job seekers will now have access to a range of adaptive tools and resources to help them thrive in today's labor market."

For more information about the Tech Ascension Awards, please visit http://www.techascensionawards.com. You can also read the complete press release here - which has been syndicated to The Associated Press, Yahoo Finance, Benzinga, Seeking Alpha, and 236 additional publications

 

IW Press Release Awards Image

We are proud to announce the recent recognitions Geographic Solutions has received during the during the 2024 North American Inspiring Workplaces Awards ceremony held in Chicago.

The company was honored to be listed among the Top 50 most inspiring workplaces and was named a winner in the Culture & Purpose category for its commitment to its employees’ overall well-being and its dedication to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive corporate culture.

Geographic Solutions also received high praise from the Inspiring Workplaces’ independent panel of judges, stating, "Very impressive employee retention and DEI hiring along with representation across leadership team. Well done."

“We are so proud to receive these honors from the Inspiring Workplace Awards organization,” said Candace Bacon, Human Resource Director at Geographic Solutions. “These achievements underscore our commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and engaging environment where our team members can thrive, innovate, and contribute to the company’s overall success.”

The Inspiring Workplaces Awards recognizes and celebrates organizations that have created exceptional people-first workplaces. The award aims to honor those that have created a positive and inspiring work culture for their people – where they feel like belong, resulting in increased engagement, productivity, and overall success.

To view the Top 2024 North American Inspiring Workplaces, click here.

 

CALPIA’s Entry to Employment Network Paves the Way to Employment for Incarcerated Individuals.png

For the first time, incarcerated individuals are able to connect with employers and secure job offers before leaving prison through the Entry to Employment (E2E) network. The California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA), in partnership with the California Employment Development Department (EDD), is offering the web-based employment network through contract provider Geographic Solutions.

“The Entry to Employment network is a game changer when it comes to successful reentry for incarcerated individuals,” said CALPIA’s General Manager Bill Davidson. “CALPIA wants individuals to have a career before they return to their communities and this first-of-its-kind network is definitely helping in the process.” 

The E2E network opens the door for incarcerated individuals to access EDD’s second-chance employer list and job offerings through CalJOBS, in addition to other popular employment websites.  The E2E Network also allows the private business sector to access a more qualified and trained workforce in a market that frequently struggles to find qualified employees.

“It all starts with a meaningful job!” emphasized Rusty Bechtold, CALPIA’s Assistant General Manager over Workforce Development. “Current and future employers use technology and web-based recruitment tools to hire new employees. Individuals who leave prison find it difficult to get a job with limited exposure to job search technology. The E2E Network provides that valuable guidance on how to get a job in the modern world and allows incarcerated individuals to take that experience with them.” 

CALPIA’s Workforce Development Coordinators help incarcerated individuals at California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) prisons with their résumé and pre-employment preparations.  Once an individual is on the network, they can search for jobs that match their skills and qualifications. E2E displays positive employer matches and provides the functionality for incarcerated individuals to apply for available opportunities.  

Douglas Woodall was the first applicant who was hired using the E2E network while incarcerated at California State Prison, Solano.  Mr. Woodall was hired by a leading manufacturing company in mid-April and is extremely grateful. 

“The E2E system helped me land a job,” said Woodall.  “I was able to build a professional résumé and get an early start applying for jobs in prison which was beneficial in the job hunt.” 

Individuals who have approximately 180 days left on their sentence and who are part of CALPIA’s job training programs can participate in the secure job-seeking network.   

“EDD is excited to be part of this collaborative program to help those soon-to-be released adjust successfully to reentry with the help of a good job,” said EDD Director Nancy Farias. “We are committed to improving California's economic growth while meeting the evolving needs of employers, workers, and job seekers.”

The E2E network started at California State Prison, Solano and has now expanded to Central California Women’s Facility, Valley State Prison, San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, and Avenal State Prison.  The goal is to have the E2E network available at every prison in California.

“We are honored to partner with CALPIA to help close the skills gap and increase job placement for those leaving prison,” said Paul Toomey, President and Founder of Geographic Solutions. “Our E2E software solution will provide incarcerated individuals with the necessary tools and resources needed to help them find employment and thrive outside of prison, from one integrated online platform.”

It is expected that 600-800 individuals will go through the E2E program per year. 

“I am thrilled to see how the E2E network secures career opportunities for people about to leave prison,” added Davidson. “CALPIA is all about second chances and now we are seeing individuals in our programs find true success with employment before returning home.” 

You can also read the complete press release here - which has been syndicated to Yahoo Finance, Benzinga, Seeking Alpha, and 364 additional publications.

Geographic Solutions Partners With World Employment Confederation.png

Geographic Solutions is excited to announce it has officially partnered with the World Employment Confederation (WEC), the global authority of the private employment services industry. 

Through this partnership, Geographic Solutions will join a worldwide network of employment and recruitment experts who are committed to driving innovation, sharing best practices, and making a positive impact on the employment sector. Geographic Solutions’ ability to meld concepts and experiences with diverse employment agencies will help WEC members highlight relevant labor market trends across countries as well as compliance needs – further reinforcing the company’s stance as a knowledge hub on all things labor market.

“Our mission to help individuals and families find meaningful employment and thereby drive economic development across geographies perfectly aligns with WEC’s vision and international scope,” explains Paul Toomey, Founder and CEO of Geographic Solutions. “The World Employment Confederation offers a sophisticated, policy-oriented and technology-forward environment. A software service provider like our company can share a unique vantage point from the public employment sector, as well as from the higher education space.”

The WEC is the global voice of the private employment services industry, representing national federations and workforce solutions companies from around the world. The WEC plays a crucial role in shaping policies, regulations, and best practices for the industry. By collaborating with the WEC, Geographic Solutions aims to contribute to the collective effort of improving access to quality employment services and strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors.

For more information on the partnership, visit the link here.
 

ConsumerAffairs Features Geographic Solutions' Economist, Phillip Sprehe.jpg

ConsumerAffairs recently published an article discussing the likelihood of an economic recession in the near future, which features a quote from Geographic Solutions’ Economist & Labor Market Analyst, Phillip Sprehe. In his quote, Phillip explains why he believes that an economic recession is unlikely to happen anytime soon, noting, “…Not only are we not in a recession, but it’s unlikely one will occur for at least the next six months.” 

He continues, “According to data across Geographic Solutions client systems, job openings have steadily declined by four million since the inflation rate peaked in mid-2022. Despite this, employment growth has been unexpectedly strong, indicating that these job openings have been filled, rather than removed.”

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