Author: sHq_LoGiNz

This Women’s History Month, we’re celebrating women around the world who are helping build the future of technology and spotlighting the skills that helped them along the way. 

Through Cisco Networking Academy, millions of learners each year gain the skills and credentials they need to lead, create, and thrive in the tech industry. Here, we’re showcasing a few of Cisco Networking Academy’s inspiring women and their unique career journeys.

From the plains of Canada to the vibrant tech communities of Iraq, their stories show that with the right skills, the possibilities are limitless — and that together, we can build a more inclusive and innovative future for all.

Resilience and the power of connection in the Americas 

In Canada, Sharon Angus is redefining what it means to be a mentor. Drawing from her Plains Cree and Mohawk roots, Sharon uses the concept of wâhkôhtwin, or the belief that all things are interconnected, to teach IT. 

For Sharon, Cisco Networking Academy was more than just a curriculum; it was a career-defining anchor. “I feel like being here at Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, teaching this [Cisco Networking Academy] program has just been a culmination of my entire career, and I feel like I’m exactly where I need to be.”

Similarly, in Costa Rica, Pamela Soto’s journey from a factory worker to a High Touch Technical Support Engineer at Cisco showcases the necessity of structured learning. “Cisco Networking Academy courses were fundamental to my training,” Pamela explains. “Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to start my career in networking. From the beginning, they served as a basis for troubleshooting problems or configuring labs, something I still enjoy today.” 

Bridging the digital divide across EMEA

The impact of empowering women in technology is clear in the diverse pathways taken by our learners in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region. 

From Oumaima Ben Nasrallah in Tunisia, who transitioned from biotechnology and education to IT networking through Cisco Networking Academy, to Giada Bartoli in Italy, who made the jump from international relations to cybersecurity after earning a Cisco scholarship, our learners are proving that there is no one-size-fits-all background for technology. Both women took the leap and embraced new challenges, leveraging Cisco Networking Academy training to build confidence and advance their careers.

Meanwhile, in Iraq, our partnership with the nonprofit She Codes Too is creating a repeatable model for digital inclusion. In fact, Cisco Networking Academy was the catalyst that turned She Codes Too’s mission into an industry-aligned training experience with globally recognized credibility. By integrating this curriculum, we are helping more women in technology support national digital transformation agendas.

Curiosity and defense in the APJC region

Across the Asia-Pacific (APJC) region, we see how empowering women in technology have helped turn vulnerability into strength. 

After a ransomware attack compromised her architectural firm, Tasara DeRoche in Australia turned to the Academy to master the technology that had failed her. She reflects on the rigor of the program, sharing, “Without the structured path from Cisco Networking Academy, the transition from a ransomware victim to a certified security enthusiast would have lacked the technical rigor necessary for a true career pivot.”

Meanwhile, in China, Yao Tong’s journey began with a childhood fascination of electronic circuits, eventually leading to a role as a Technical Consulting Engineer at Cisco Japan where she has started a new life for herself in Tokyo. 

For Yao, the Academy provided essential groundwork for her professional life. “The foundational networking knowledge I acquired at the academy has been extremely important in my work at the Technical Assistance Center (TAC),” shared Yao. “It serves as the foundation, like the base of a building.”

Building a future without boundaries

Whether motivated by cultural background, career pivots, or cybersecurity, these women share a common thread: they utilized the resources of Cisco Networking Academy to help unlock their professional potential.

Through these efforts, we’re helping fuel the global labor market and help ensure that the digital world is built by a diverse set of voices, perspectives, and experiences. 

The path is open, the tools are ready, and the world needs your unique perspective. We invite you to explore the courses and opportunities available through Cisco Networking Academy and start your own journey toward a rewarding career in technology. 

View original content here.

This episode of Beyond the IT Headlines tackles the most urgent infrastructure challenge facing the tech world: AI’s insatiable hunger for energy. Host Shawn Rosemarin and this week’s co-host Don Kirouac argue that AI’s massive power draw is no longer just a “data center problem”—it’s a fundamental societal tension point. 

The conversation explores the startling numbers: from wholesale electricity costs skyrocketing near data clusters and the projection that AI power demand could grow 30x by 2035, to the invisible cost of every single chatbot query. The discussion frames AI’s trajectory as a collision course with the global grid, pushing utilities to plan controversial new gas plants and forcing citizens to foot the bill. Don and Shawn then shift from crisis to solution, exploring how industry leaders must embed efficiency as a first-class design parameter. 

This includes rethinking AI pipelines, exploring smart scheduling, and utilizing AI itself to become an ally in grid optimization. Cut through the hype with actionable insights—Subscribe Now! We’re also on Spotify! (Search “Beyond the IT Headlines by Everpure”) 

Explore The Data Wire by Everpure for more executive POVs on AI leadership, cyber resilience, and the future of data management: https://www.thedatawire.com/

KeyBank’s cherished partnership with the Cleveland Guardians was on full display on Friday, April 3, as more than 200 KeyBank teammates stepped onto the field ahead of the team’s home opener, helping to hold the American flag during the pregame ceremony.

As a proud sponsor of the Guardians, KeyBank was honored to be part of this meaningful moment that brought together teammates, fans and the Greater Cleveland community to celebrate the start of another exciting baseball season. The opportunity reflected KeyBank’s deep roots in Northeast Ohio and its ongoing commitment to standing alongside the communities it serves.

Among the KeyBank teammates on the field was KeyBank Chairman and CEO Chris Gorman, who joined colleagues from across the organization to participate in the on‑field tribute. Together, teammates proudly represented KeyBank while sharing in the excitement and anticipation that marks Opening Day in Cleveland.

“At KeyBank, partnerships like this go beyond sponsorships,” said Grace Sullivan, KeyBank Sponsorship Marketing Consultant. “They’re about showing up for our community, celebrating local tradition and creating shared moments that bring people together.”

KeyBank proudly supports the Cleveland Guardians, reinforcing the bank’s belief in teamwork, resilience and community connection. Whether through sports partnerships, neighborhood initiatives, or volunteerism, KeyBank remains focused on helping its clients and communities thrive.

• Learn more about KeyBank’s commitment to helping clients and communities thrive

CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 8, 2026 /3BL/ – Discovery Education, the edtech leader trusted by 45% of U.S. K-12 schools, today introduced a free collection of cross-curricular resources designed to help educators engage students with the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, while delivering inquiry-driven, standards-aligned instruction.

The downloadable resource guide equips educators to turn this historic milestone into meaningful civics and social studies learning across all grade bands. Featuring ready-to-use resources that connect history to real-world topics, the collection supports flexible instruction while building students’ critical thinking, literacy, and civic awareness skills. The sampler draws from both Social Studies Essentials and Discovery Education Experience, giving any educator a hands-on feel for two of Discovery Education’s most powerful social studies solutions.

The free collection offers educators an early access preview of Social Studies Essentials, the new K-5 product launching for back-to-school 2026, giving educators an up-close look before it’s widely available. Designed to build knowledge, strengthen literacy, and support sustained inquiry, Social Studies Essentials is a C3-aligned solution that combines immersive multimedia with ready-to-teach lessons. Its grab-and-go design saves teacher time while developing students’ critical thinking and civic awareness.

The collection provides free access to engaging content from Discovery Education Experience, resources typically only available to subscribing districts. The sampler includes original multimedia content introducing students to government structures and national symbols, alongside deeper‑dive lessons on topics like the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. With the free downloadable resource guide, educators will find a collection of:

• Inquiry-driven lessons that encourage critical thinking and student-led exploration
• Real-world connections linking historical events to today’s civic issues
• Grade-banded, ready-to-use activities aligned to classroom needs
• Integrated literacy supports within social studies content

“The 250th anniversary of the United States isn’t just something to celebrate. It’s a powerful opportunity to elevate how students experience history,” said Dr. Todd Wirt, Executive Vice President of Partner Engagement at Discovery Education. “Having spent years leading school systems, I’ve seen how impactful it is when students connect what they’re learning to the world around them. We’re helping educators turn this moment into meaningful, engaging instruction that bridges the past to the present. By making this collection free to any teacher, all students will have access to inquiry-based, personally relevant civics learning.”

Districts and schools with Discovery Education Experience will discover additional captivating cross-curricular lessons with impactful educator-tested strategies on the new Honoring 250 Years of United States History channel. Educators can learn more about Social Studies Essentials by joining the Engage K-12 webinar on April 23.

Learn more about how Discovery Education supports educators in honoring 250 years of the U.S. at www.discoveryeducation.com/america-250. 

###

Discovery Education
Discovery Education is a global education technology leader whose innovative solutions empower educators and progress student learning. Discovery Education’s solutions have served more than 100 million students globally, supporting effective teaching and learning in 45% of U.S. K-12 schools and in 100+ countries and territories. The company’s portfolio includes award-winning core and supplemental curriculum, high-quality standards-aligned content, and AI-enabled teaching and learning tools. Solutions span math, science, literacy, social studies, and career-connected learning, including instructionally-aligned content developed through one-of-a-kind partnerships with industry leaders to bring real-world relevance into every lesson. Learn more at www.DiscoveryEducation.com.

Contact
Grace Maliska
Discovery Education
gmaliska@discoveryed.com

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., April 8, 2026 /3BL/ – Aetna Better Health of Missouri, a CVS Health company (NYSE: CVS), announced that Aetna provided a total of $35,000 in funding to two community-based organizations in central Missouri to improve access to health care and support child and family well being. The donations support community programs that directly address persistent barriers to care faced by rural communities, including long travel distances for medical services, limited transportation options, and challenges accessing early childhood and family support resources.

“We’re committed to supporting the health of communities by collaborating with trusted organizations and advancing initiatives that address care needs,” said Dr. Michelle Bucknor, Regional Chief Medical Officer, Aetna Better Health. “By working together to reduce barriers like transportation and gaps in family support, we help connect individuals and families—especially in rural areas—to the care and resources they need to thrive.”

Expanding access to transportation in west central Missouri

Aetna provided funding to West Central Community Development Corporation to support New Growth Transit, a volunteer based driver program that provides free and safe transportation across west central Missouri.

Many residents in these rural regions must travel long distances for non emergency health care such as dialysis, chemotherapy and specialist appointments, as well as to access employment and food. In 2025 alone, New Growth Transit drivers covered more than 550,000 miles, with the average one way trip measuring 39 miles—most requiring round trip service the same day.

Funding from Aetna will support in-person volunteer driver training, including rider engagement best practices, vehicle inspections and program policy education.

“Our volunteer drivers often make the difference between a person getting the care they need or going without,” said Kelly Ast, Regional Mobility Chief Officer, New Growth Transit. “The support from Aetna helps us provide quality training and strengthen a program that so many rural residents rely on.”

Dean Kneller, a rider supported by the program, added, “Without New Growth Transit, I would have missed critical treatments. The volunteers don’t just provide rides—they provide people a chance to stay healthy.”

Supporting child and family well-being

Aetna also awarded funding to The Community Partnership, an organization dedicated to improving child welfare, maternal and child health and early childhood development outcomes across rural south central Missouri. The funding will support programs focused on parenting education, developmental support for children with disabilities and coaching for early childhood providers.

###

About Aetna Medicaid

Aetna Medicaid Administrators LLC (Aetna Medicaid), a CVS Health company, has over 30 years of experience managing the care of Medicaid members, using innovative approaches and a local presence in each market to achieve both successful health care results and effective cost outcomes. Aetna Medicaid has expertise serving high-need Medicaid members, including those who are dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare. Currently, Aetna Medicaid owns and/or administers Medicaid managed health care plans under the names of Aetna Better Health and other affiliate names. Together, these plans serve members in 15 states, including Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. For more information, see www.aetnabetterhealth.com.

About CVS Health

CVS Health is a leading health solutions company building a world of health around every consumer, wherever they are. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had approximately 9,000 retail pharmacy locations, more than 1,000 walk-in and primary care medical clinics and a leading pharmacy benefits manager with approximately 87 million plan members. The Company also serves an estimated more than 37 million people through traditional, voluntary and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services, including highly rated Medicare Advantage offerings and a leading standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. The Company’s integrated model uses personalized, technology driven services to connect people to simply better health, increasing access to quality care, delivering better outcomes, and lowering overall costs.

Media contact

Monica Prinzing
Monica.Prinzing@CVSHealth.com

EMERYVILLE, Calif., April 7, 2026 /3BL/ – SCS Global Services, a leading international third-party certification and standards organization, announced the appointment of John Parker as Managing Director of its Energy, Biomaterials and Circularity (EBC) Division.

Parker will oversee a portfolio of programs spanning low-carbon fuels, sustainable biomaterials, circularity, and responsible sourcing — including verification and certification services under the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) programs in California, Oregon, Washington, and Canada; the federal 45Z Clean Fuel Production tax credit; Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes; the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) standard; Bonsucro; and sustainable palm oil frameworks.

Parker brings more than two decades of leadership experience across sustainability, water, and natural resources markets. He joins SCS from Tetra Tech, where he served as Vice President of Operations, directing a large, complex portfolio of global sustainability programs across more than 30 countries in Latin America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Europe. He also led the firm’s international Environment and Natural Resources division, with responsibility for growth, global expansion, and technical leadership.

Earlier in his career, Parker directed global water stewardship initiatives in support of the U.S. Government’s first Global Water Strategy and managed multi-country natural resources programs in Central America and East Africa. He began his career as a Peace Corps Volunteer in aquaculture in Ecuador’s Amazon Basin.

Parker has published research on water resources management, climate risk and resilience, and sustainable food systems. He holds a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy in International Environment and Resource Policy from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University and a Master of Science in Agriculture, Food and Environment from the Friedman School of Nutrition at Tufts University.

“We couldn’t be happier to welcome John to SCS. John’s track record managing a large and complex sustainability program at Tetra Tech is exactly the kind of leadership the EBC division needs as it continues to scale globally,” said CEO Matthew Rudolf. “His deep operational experience in energy, natural resources, and international business makes him the ideal person to take SCS to the next level and we are thrilled to have him join the team.”

“SCS has spent four decades building the credibility and technical rigor that this work demands. I’m joining at a moment when the stakes for getting low-carbon and responsible sourcing certifications right have never been higher, and there’s no organization better positioned to lead,” added Parker.

The EBC Division supports companies and organizations seeking certification and verification across some of the world’s most consequential sustainability challenges, including decarbonizing fuel supply chains, advancing circular material flows, and ensuring responsible sourcing of agricultural commodities.

About SCS Global Services

SCS Global Services is an international leader in third-party environmental and sustainability verification, certification, auditing, testing, and standards development. Its programs span a cross-section of industries, recognizing achievements in climate mitigation, green building, product manufacturing, food and agriculture, forestry, consumer products, and more. Headquartered in Emeryville, California and celebrating over 40 years in business, SCS has representatives and affiliate offices throughout the Americas, Asia/Pacific, Europe, and Africa. Its broad network of auditors are experts in their fields, and the company is a trusted partner to companies, agencies, and advocacy organizations due to its dedication to quality and professionalism. SCS is a chartered Benefit Corporation, reflecting its commitment to socially and environmentally responsible business practices. SCS is also a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact and adheres to its principles-based approach to responsible business. For more information, visit www.SCSGlobalServices.com.

Media Contact 

Rachel Barnhart  
Director, Corporate Communications and Public Relations  
SCS Global Services  
Email: rbarnhart@scsglobalservices.com