Blog

  • Testimonials

    Mike S.

    Rusty’s energy and tenacity were evident in his role as my recruiter, demonstrating a genuine care for his job and everyone involved. His flexibility and commitment to on-time delivery made the process seamless. Rusty excelled in communication and follow-up, ensuring a smooth collaboration. Working with him was a great experience.

    Daniel S.E.

    For anyone seeking a technical recruiter, I wholeheartedly recommend Rusty. He invested time in understanding my unique skill set and provided tailored suggestions to highlight specific skills for open positions. Rusty’s timeliness in responses and consistent efforts to align my skills and interests with current opportunities make him a reliable and effective recruiter.

    Steve S.

    Throughout my association with Nortec/Rusty, he has consistently displayed a high level of professionalism, reliability, and responsiveness. Rusty has made the working experience more enjoyable through his commitment to excellence. I wholeheartedly recommend him as an expert in his field, and for those fortunate enough, Rusty also proves to be a great friend.

    Kris K.

    I have had the privilege of collaborating with Nortec/Rusty for numerous years, initially as a client, then as a mentor, and now as a friend. Rusty exudes a high level of professionalism, coupled with an approachable demeanor. His willingness to assist is unwavering, backed by extensive industry knowledge. Rusty’s motivation is consistently driven by a commitment to ethical practices, making him a standout professional in our interactions.

    John B.

    As the Director and Global Client Partner for Sales and Business Development, I have had the pleasure of knowing Rusty for several years. He stands out as an exceptional professional, surpassing others in his field. Rusty’s professional yet welcoming approach immediately puts one at ease. His genuine desire to help and strive for excellence sets him apart. I confidently recommend Nortec Rusty to anyone seeking a dedicated and capable professional in his domain.

    Anil K. Development Director

    Russell / Nortec is a man of integrity whose values shine through in everything he does. His personal and professional life are both guided by the highest standards—built on honesty, reliability, and a genuine commitment to doing what is right. Whether working on complex projects or navigating challenging situations, Russell approaches each task with thoughtful precision, clear communication, and an unwavering dedication to excellence. He treats people with respect, follows through on his commitments, and consistently exceeds expectations. It is rare to encounter someone who so seamlessly blends strong character with exceptional professional capability. I recommend Russell without a moment’s hesitation and with the utmost confidence in his ability to bring value, trust, and results to any endeavor.

    Dr. Mark A.

    Rusty Goodright at Nortec is the perfect combination of efficiency and expertise. His exceptional skill with numbers allows him to craft solutions that are not only accurate but ideally suited to our needs. Rusty’s deep knowledge, coupled with his attentive and personalized service, makes every interaction a positive experience. It’s this rare blend of professionalism and genuine care that will keep us returning to Nortec for many years to come.

    Jason G. Tech Sale Director

    Having worked with more than a hundred staffing firms, I can confidently say that Russell stands out as one of the easiest and most enjoyable professionals to partner with. His deep understanding of the staffing industry allows him to anticipate needs and consistently exceed expectations. Beyond his expertise, Russell’s professionalism, integrity, and personable approach make every interaction a pleasure. He is a truly exceptional individual and an asset to anyone fortunate enough to work with him.

    Teage C.

    I’ve known Rusty and Nortec personally for over 15+ years, and during that time, we’ve entrusted him with our business on multiple occasions. He demonstrates a rare and valuable balance of assertiveness and respect—always advocating for the best outcome while maintaining the highest level of professionalism. Rusty’s reliability, expertise, and genuine commitment to his clients have made him a trusted partner we’re proud to recommend. We have referred him to numerous friends and will continue to do so without hesitation whenever the opportunity arises.

    Jim H. Senior VP Global Services

    Rusty/ Nortec has been instrumental in elevating the quality and efficiency of staffing solutions for my clients. His high energy, combined with a strategic yet highly practical approach, consistently delivers outstanding results. With exceptional interpersonal skills and a keen ability to identify candidates who align seamlessly with organizational culture, Rusty proves himself to be an invaluable partner. I recommend him with complete confidence to any organization seeking top-tier talent and a trusted staffing professional.

    Lawrence G. Senior VP Benefits Services

    Rusty / Nortec is an exceptionally proactive and responsive professional, consistently ranking among the top technical recruiters. His clear and timely communication throughout the recruitment process ensures that clients and candidates are always well-informed. Coupled with his approachable demeanor and positive attitude, Rusty’s dedication, diligence, and professionalism make him highly recommended for any organization seeking a skilled and trustworthy recruitment partner.

    Vickie T. Senior Technical Project Manager

    Rusty / Nortec played a pivotal role in helping me secure my position as a Technical Project Manager at Nortec on contract with MS-GFS. His professionalism, assertiveness, personable approach, and deep industry knowledge made the entire process seamless and stress-free. Rusty’s exceptional support, strong communication skills, and consistently positive attitude set him apart from other recruiters. He provided invaluable guidance and coaching, ensuring I found the perfect career fit. Without hesitation, I can say Rusty is the most responsive and effective recruiter I’ve had the pleasure of working with. I wholeheartedly recommend him for any IT recruiting needs.

    Rick C. Senior Software Developer

    Rusty’s effortless ability to connect with people, combined with his sense of humor, made working with him an enjoyable and engaging experience. His thorough investigative approach and deep understanding of the software industry allowed him to fully grasp my background and career goals. Rusty’s careful and thoughtful selection of opportunities aligned perfectly with my skills, providing direct access to hiring teams and leading to outstanding results. His guidance and expertise truly made the entire process exceptional.

    Christine F. Senior Program Manager

    Rusty exemplifies tenacity, energy, and an infectious enthusiasm in pursuing business opportunities, setting him apart in any professional setting. I highly recommend Rusty for situations that demand a relentless, never-say-die commitment to getting results. Beyond his exceptional professionalism, Rusty is a trusted friend and a collaborative colleague. Our brief time working together not only drove tangible business results but also fostered a lasting friendship. Rusty comes highly recommended for any business endeavor; he is, without question, the consummate professional.

    John S. Senior Management

    Having collaborated with Rusty for several years, I can confidently say that our professional relationship has been enriching. Rusty is a steadfast and trusted partner whose dedication consistently exceeds expectations. He has a remarkable ability to build genuine rapport while maintaining professionalism, making every interaction both personal and productive. Rusty’s expertise in identifying opportunities that align seamlessly with both client and candidate needs demonstrates his commitment to excellence. His insightful guidance on positions, employers, and work environments, combined with a pragmatic and level-headed approach, has been invaluable. I wholeheartedly endorse Rusty for his recruiting expertise, unwavering support, and exceptional professionalism.

    Rick A. Applicant & Service Provider

    Having worked with Rusty both as an applicant and later as a service provider seeking top talent, I can attest to his unwavering professionalism, sharp focus, and tireless dedication. Rusty has an exceptional ability to match the right candidate with the right role, presenting only those who are truly aligned with the position’s requirements. In every interaction—whether I was seeking a role myself or partnering with him to fill one—Rusty’s full attention, support, and commitment were evident. He is, without question, the best recruiter I have ever worked with, and along the way, he has also become a valued personal friend. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone in need of a trusted recruiting partner.

    Blaine E. Senior Corporate Sales Executive

    In today’s competitive business landscape, Rusty stands out as far more than an experienced representative—he is a strategic partner who transforms potential into opportunity. His combination of technical expertise and passion-driven insight consistently guides careers toward paths that might otherwise remain undiscovered. Trust, dedication, and integrity are rare qualities in any professional, yet Rusty embodies all three at the highest level. Having known him for nearly two decades, I have seen firsthand his exceptional capabilities and unwavering character. He is not only a valued client and trusted business professional but also a caring and loyal friend. Any individual or organization fortunate enough to work with Rusty will benefit from his expertise, commitment, and genuine investment in their success. I offer him my strongest personal and professional endorsement.

    Patrick T.

    Rusty is a dedicated, results-driven, and personable team player whose expertise can elevate any HR or recruiting organization to success. During my time working with him at Siemens, I witnessed his exceptional ability to deliver results while building strong, strategic relationships with both candidates and hiring managers. His talent for thriving in high-volume, fast-paced, and often ambiguous environments sets him apart as a true professional and an invaluable asset to any team.

  • The Fear Factor of AI

    Unraveling the Trepidation Surrounding Artificial Intelligence in the Tech Industry

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a groundbreaking force, transforming the landscape of technology and redefining the way we interact with machines. Despite the promising advancements and potential benefits, a palpable sense of fear and trepidation has enveloped the tech industry. This essay aims to explore the reasons behind the apprehension surrounding AI and why it has become a source of concern for many.

    While AI holds immense promise for transforming industries and enhancing our lives, the fear surrounding its development and deployment is rooted in the uncertainties and potential risks associated with its rapid evolution. Addressing these concerns requires a collaborative effort from researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to establish ethical guidelines, regulatory frameworks, and transparent practices that prioritize the responsible development and deployment of AI. By acknowledging these fears and actively working to mitigate the associated risks, the tech industry can foster a more inclusive, ethical, and secure AI future.

    Unprecedented Advancements

    The rapid pace of AI development has outstripped our ability to fully comprehend and regulate its potential consequences. As AI systems become increasingly sophisticated, there is a growing fear that they may surpass human intelligence, leading to unintended and uncontrollable outcomes. The idea of machines outsmarting their creators raises existential questions and challenges our understanding of control and autonomy.

    Job Displacement and Economic Impact

    One of the primary concerns related to AI is the potential for widespread job displacement. Automation and the integration of AI in various industries may render certain jobs obsolete, leading to unemployment and economic instability. The fear of AI contributing to growing income inequality and creating a job market that favors machines over humans has fueled anxiety among workers and policymakers alike.

    Ethical Dilemmas and Bias

    AI systems, often trained on massive datasets, have been known to perpetuate and even exacerbate existing societal biases. From discriminatory algorithms in hiring processes to biased decision-making in criminal justice systems, the ethical implications of AI are a significant source of concern. The fear that AI might amplify societal inequalities and discriminate against certain groups has prompted calls for increased transparency, accountability, and ethical guidelines in AI development.

    Lack of Regulation and Oversight

    The rapid evolution of AI technology has outpaced regulatory frameworks, leaving a void in oversight and accountability. The absence of clear regulations raises concerns about the ethical use of AI, as developers and organizations may exploit the technology for purposes that could be detrimental to society. The fear of a “wild west” scenario, where AI is deployed without appropriate safeguards, has spurred calls for comprehensive regulations to ensure responsible AI development and deployment.

    Security and Privacy Concerns

    The integration of AI in various aspects of our lives, from smart homes to autonomous vehicles, raises significant security and privacy concerns. The fear of AI being exploited for malicious purposes, such as cyberattacks and surveillance, is a legitimate worry. Ensuring the security and privacy of AI systems has become a critical challenge that demands innovative solutions and robust safeguards.

    Infor@NortecStaffing.com

  • How Companies Subtly Gauge Your Age – And How to Handle It

    Did you know that during the hiring process, some companies subtly try to estimate your age? While directly asking for your age is often illegal, there are ways employers might skirt around this with seemingly harmless questions.

    Age should never overshadow the value you bring to the table. Your skills, experience, and continuous learning are what truly matter. Be prepared to steer conversations toward your expertise and show employers that your capabilities are timeless!

    Here’s how it happens and how you can handle it like a pro:

    Common Ways Companies Hint at Age

    Graduation Dates: “What year did you graduate from college?”
    Career Start Dates: “When did you start your first job?”
    Skill Familiarity: “How long have you been using [specific tool or tech]?”
    Historical References: “Were you working during [specific event]?”
    Certifications: “When did you get certified in [specific skill]?”

    These questions may seem casual, but they can be used to infer your age.

    How to Handle It

    How to Handle It

    Redirect the Question
    Focus on your qualifications instead of providing unnecessary details:

    “I completed my degree in [field] and have been successfully applying it ever since.”

    Highlight Continuous Learning
    Show that you’re staying current with industry trends by mentioning recent certifications, tools, or training programs.

    Omit Graduation Years
    Leave off graduation dates from your resume or LinkedIn profile unless absolutely required.

    Set Boundaries
    If asked about irrelevant dates, politely steer the conversation back to your value:

    “I’d prefer to focus on how my skills align with this role.”

  • Seattle

    Seattle

    Great Place to LIVE

  • Articles

    GITHUB for Recruiters

    An IT technical recruiter should be familiar with GitHub for several important reasons, especially when sourcing and assessing technical candidates

    Being familiar with GitHub helps an IT technical recruiter make more informed hiring decisions and engage more effectively with the developer community.

    • Portfolio of Work: GitHub allows developers to showcase their code, projects, and contributions to open-source work. A recruiter can review a candidate’s GitHub repository to gauge their skills, coding style, and problem-solving abilities.
    • Technical Competence: Recruiters can assess the quality of a candidate’s code, the complexity of the projects they’ve worked on, and their ability to contribute to larger collaborative projects. This helps identify candidates with hands-on experience.
    • Candidate Engagement: GitHub allows recruiters to find candidates who are active in the developer community. The platform provides insights into how often they contribute, the types of projects they work on, and the technologies they use.
    • Open-Source Contributions: A candidate who contributes to open-source projects shows initiative and the ability to collaborate with others globally. This can be a valuable trait, especially for roles that require teamwork and collaboration.
    • Technological Familiarity: Understanding GitHub demonstrates that a recruiter has a basic knowledge of version control systems and development workflows. This helps when discussing technical skills with candidates or hiring managers.
    • Candidate Sourcing: GitHub has search features that allow recruiters to find developers based on languages, repositories, and project involvement. This makes it a valuable tool for finding passive candidates who may not be actively looking for jobs on traditional platforms.

    A tech recruiter can use GitHub in various ways to find, assess, and engage with potential candidates, particularly in the tech and developer community. Here are some keyways a recruiter can effectively use GitHub:

     GitHub is a powerful platform for tech recruiters to not only find and assess candidates but also build lasting relationships within the developer community. By using GitHub effectively, recruiters can gain deeper insights into a candidate’s skills and interests, making the recruitment process more efficient and targeted.

    • Candidate Sourcing:

    Search for Developers: GitHub has an advanced search feature that allows recruiters to find developers based on specific criteria such as location, language (e.g., Python, Java), number of contributions, and project involvement. A recruiter can search for developers by typing relevant search terms or using filters like:

    `location:”Seattle” language:”JavaScript”`

    `language:”Python” stars:>100`

    `contributions:>100`

    Explore Trending Repositories: By exploring popular and trending repositories, recruiters can find developers who are involved in notable projects.

    • Assessing Candidates:
      • Evaluate Code Quality: By reviewing a candidate’s public repositories, a recruiter can see firsthand the quality of their code, the complexity of their projects, and their problem-solving skills. It also gives insight into how candidates write documentation, structure projects, and maintain code.
      • Analyze Contributions: GitHub tracks contributions across different projects. A recruiter can look at a candidate’s contribution history to understand their activity level, consistency, and involvement in various projects (e.g., contributions to high-profile open-source projects).
      • Project Types: A recruiter can see what types of projects a candidate has worked on (e.g., web apps, machine learning, cloud infrastructure), which helps assess their skills against job requirements.
    • Identifying Niche Skills:
      • Find Developers with Specific Skills: GitHub allows recruiters to search for developers proficient in specific languages, frameworks, or tools. For instance, if a role requires expertise in React or Docker, recruiters can search for developers who contribute to projects using these technologies.
      • Check for Collaboration Skills: By examining the number of pull requests, issues reported, and involvement in collaborative repositories, recruiters can gauge a candidate’s ability to work in a team or within a larger codebase.
    • Engaging with Candidates:
      • Direct Messaging: GitHub profiles often list email addresses or have a way to directly message developers. Recruiters can reach out to developers with personalized messages, highlighting why they are interested in the candidate’s work.
      • Follow Developers: Recruiters can follow developers who may not be looking for a job at the moment, but who could be interesting for future opportunities. By staying connected, they can monitor when candidates become more active or change their status.
    • Building Relationships in Developer Communities:
      • Join Open-Source Communities: By following certain open-source projects or even participating in discussions on issues and pull requests, recruiters can gain visibility in the developer community and demonstrate genuine interest in the technologies and projects that developers care about.
      • Commenting and Networking: Leaving meaningful comments on interesting projects or repositories can help build rapport with developers before reaching out to them with job offers.
    • Personalized Job Outreach:

    Tailor Messaging to Candidate’s Work: A recruiter who has reviewed a candidate’s GitHub portfolio can craft personalized messages that refer to specific projects, code, or contributions. This shows the recruiter is genuinely interested in the candidate’s work, making outreach more likely to result in a response.

    • Learning Trends:

    Discover Emerging Technologies: By exploring the most starred repositories or active developers, recruiters can stay up-to-date on new technologies, frameworks, and programming languages that are gaining popularity, helping them anticipate future hiring needs.

    Infor@NortecStaffing.com