Smoothstack Inc. is a leader in the IT services sector, championing an innovative hire-train-deploy (HTD) model that redefines IT professional development and integration trajectory. Specializing in strategic consulting and project support, the company focuses on essential technological fields, including Application Development, Cloud Infrastructure, Digital Platforms, Data Engineering, AI, and Cybersecurity. It has a formidable client base of prominent Fortune 500 companies and significant government agencies, having successfully supplied expert IT talent to more than 46 federal agencies. Smoothstack’s prestigious client list includes renowned corporations such as Verizon, Morgan Stanley, Accenture, Bloomberg, and Intel.

The company’s strategic alliances with top tech entities like AWS, Databricks, and Salesforce ensure it delivers solutions at the forefront of technology. From its headquarters in McLean, Virginia, Smoothstack has revolutionized IT staffing by implementing an advanced apprenticeship model that leverages AI and data science. This model is designed to attract and nurture early-career IT talent through a tailored training initiative known as Mirrored Environment Immersion. This training meticulously simulates the technological environments of its clients, ensuring that candidates are fully prepared and technologically adept before their deployment.

The HTD process begins by selecting individuals who exhibit strong potential in software engineering and other crucial digital skills for meeting client-specific needs. The training program, which lasts between eight to 12 weeks, is comprehensive and aims to equip candidates with all the skills needed to ensure they are fully operational from their first day at work. After training, these professionals are deployed to client sites for at least two years. Smoothstack manages all aspects of their employment, including benefits and payroll management, thus allowing clients to focus on their core business functions. Smoothstack was established 2018 by John Akkara, Boris Kuiper, and Prasanth Ram, who identified a significant void in the market for skilled IT professionals. Using their extensive IT consulting background, they initially developed the HTD model to enhance their consulting capabilities. Recognizing the effectiveness of this model, they expanded it to provide a solution to other organizations experiencing similar challenges in securing competent IT talent.

This company’s mission is to create a pipeline of IT professionals who are capable of meeting current technological demands and are equipped to face future challenges. This mission is reflected in the company’s notable two-year retention rate of 98%, which speaks to the efficacy and appeal of its training and deployment strategies. Smoothstack’s training programs have received considerable recognition from the American Council on Education (ACE), which has recommended several of its courses for college credit. This recognition allows trainees to leverage their practical experience to obtain recognized academic credentials, thereby enhancing their professional and educational growth.

In 2023, the company also participated in the ServiceNow RiseUp program, reinforcing its commitment to adapting its training to the evolving technological needs of the IT industry and ensuring that its trainees are equipped with cutting-edge skills.

Smoothstack is committed to promoting diversity within the IT industry. 58% of its workforce is composed of women and minorities, a figure that substantially exceeds the industry average. The company is also dedicated to supporting veterans, participating in programs such as the DOD SkillBridge and the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program, which help veterans transition smoothly into civilian IT roles and meet the growing demand for skilled technology professionals.

Additionally, Smoothstack supports flexible working arrangements and offers extensive support for individuals re-entering the workforce, emphasizing its commitment to an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Through its groundbreaking HTD model and its focus on diversity, education, and veteran integration, Smoothstack Inc. continues to lead and innovate within the IT staffing industry, consistently enhancing the development and integration of IT talent across various sectors.

Portfolio: https://smoothstack.com/