Fake Candidates Are Getting Better – the Problem is getting worse - Is Your Hiring Process Ready?
AI is making it easier than ever to create convincing resumes, fake identities, and cheat on interviews. Learn how Benchmark IT combines experienced recruiters with AI-powered validation tools to help clients identify authentic talent before costly hiring mistakes happen.
Have you encountered fake candidates in your hiring process? We'd love to hear your experience.
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Consultant Spotlight: Lonnie Garris
From military intelligence to cybersecurity leadership, Lonnie Garris has spent more than three decades helping organizations navigate risk, build trust, and develop strong leaders. Discover the experiences and principles that continue to shape his approach today.
Letters from the Readers
Our recent article, The Impact of AI Coding Tools on Junior Developers in the Job Market, generated thoughtful responses from readers and industry experts alike. Below are two perspectives that continue the conversation on how AI is reshaping software development—and what that means for the next generation of developers.
Missed the original article? Read it here.
Derek B.
Principal Engineer & Product Owner
"The consensus emerging among my circle of experienced developers is that development AI looks a lot like previous generations of computer languages, only more meta.
Originally, you would program a digital computer by feeding in 1's and 0's. This was replaced by the abstraction of assembly language, which was replaced by C, and then by runtime languages like Java and C#. AI allows us to generate code in any and all of the languages I just mentioned using some simple English language prompts.
So, the skill shifts from being able to construct abstractions in computer languages to being able to accurately describe intended systems, including their architectures and constraints. In the programming world, this architectural activity used to be reserved for late-career smarties. But now, with AI, it is the starting point.
Junior developers have to be educated enough to write the right prompts and accurately evaluate the results. It's not that there is no need for junior developers. It's that there is scant need for junior coders, and a smaller—but still important—need for junior architects. Colleges will be able to navigate this shift neatly with time."
Wei Chen
Technology Educator, Researcher & Author
"The answer is not to stop hiring juniors. You need juniors to develop into seniors.
The real question is: How do we train junior developers for the market that exists today? The repetitive work—writing template code, debugging, and testing—is increasingly being handled by AI. But we can redesign workflows so junior employees manage AI systems and critically evaluate their output.
Even if they're only responsible for a small module, they're responsible for the outcome. We're building frameworks that teach students how to execute work with AI, evaluate AI-generated output, and provide strategic oversight. As AI becomes more capable, understanding where humans need to intervene becomes an essential skill.
If AI is used as a learning tool rather than a shortcut, junior developers can actually become stronger. Historically, it might take one or two years for a junior developer to become fully competent. Today, because they're evaluating AI-generated work from day one, that learning curve may be significantly shorter."
Benchmark IT in Action
Throughout Q2, Benchmark IT remained actively involved in Connecticut's technology community by sponsoring industry events, hosting leadership discussions, supporting emerging technology talent, and connecting employers with technology professionals.
Managing Risk in an AI-Driven World.
March 26, 2026
Risk management is no longer just about compliance—it's a strategic business priority. During this engaging BTN session, John Preli shared actionable frameworks to help organizations identify, prioritize, and navigate today's evolving risks with confidence.
AI Governance: Beyond Policies.
April 23, 2026
What does responsible AI governance really look like? During this WITS event, Alyssa Harvey Dawson challenged attendees to think beyond policies and focus on aligning innovation, accountability, and organizational leadership. Benchmark IT was proud to support another meaningful conversation shaping the future of AI.
Strengthening Connecticut's Technology Community.
Leadership in the Age of AI.
June 2, 2026
What does responsible AI leadership look like? During CT Tech Week, Benchmark IT joined WITS and Stamford BTN in bringing together technology leaders to discuss AI governance, innovation, cybersecurity, and accountability. The evening was filled with practical insights, engaging conversations, and valuable networking across Connecticut's technology community.
AI for Impact Hackathon: Local Talent Solving Real Business Challenges
May 4 - 7, 2026
Benchmark IT sponsored the grand prize at AI for Impact: Small Business Challenge, where the Synchrony Skills Academy adult cohort, with education partner The Knowledge House, built working AI tools for three Stamford small businesses in a matter of days.
The winning team took on Vitality Bowls Stamford, a first-year açaí café surrounded by offices and medical buildings but with no marketing staff to reach them. Their AI growth engine scores nearby businesses by catering fit, drafts the outreach and social content, and tracks every lead through follow-up. A busy owner can review a week's worth in about eight minutes.
That's the point for us. Connecticut's tech pipeline gets stronger when new talent solves real problems for real businesses.
Organized with Synchrony Skills Academy, The Knowledge House, NeoLumin, and The Stamford Partnership.
Stay Updated on Events & Our Network
Business Tech Network (BTN) Stamford brings together technology leaders, executives, and innovators for thoughtful conversations around digital transformation, AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise strategy. BTN creates a space where business and technology intersect — offering practical insights, meaningful networking, and access to forward-thinking leaders shaping the future of work. For companies navigating rapid change, BTN serves as a trusted forum for staying informed, connected, and competitive in the evolving tech landscape.
Women in Tech Stamford (WITS) is a growing community dedicated to supporting, connecting, and elevating women across technology and business. Through curated events, collaborative workshops, and peer-driven conversations, WITS fosters an environment where women can exchange ideas, seek guidance, and offer support. It’s more than networking — it’s about building confidence, creating opportunity, and strengthening the pipeline of female leadership in tech across the region.
Exploring ways to build stronger IT teams? Reach out for a one-on-one session to discuss how the right talent can help achieve your business goals.
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