Dagmara Aldridge
Chief people & culture officer at Zumo
What kind of people and education do you look for in talent?
Our strategy is centred around identifying individuals who exhibit a strong capacity for continuous learning and adaptability rather than focusing solely on traditional academic qualifications.
We prioritise a growth mindset; a term popularised by psychologist Carol Dweck that refers to the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This mindset is critical in the crypto industry, where technologies and best practices are continually evolving.
What is lacking in the industry?
Whilst the industry is rich in innovation and opportunities, there is a noticeable gap in accessible, consistent, and high-quality educational resources.
Another significant gap is regulatory education. As the regulatory landscape around crypto continues to evolve, there is a growing need for professionals who are not only technically proficient but also well-versed in the legal and regulatory aspects of the industry.
Finally, there is a scarcity of interdisciplinary education. The crypto industry intersects with various fields such as finance, technology, and law. Yet most educational programs remain siloed, focusing only on technical aspects or financial implications without integrating a broader perspective. This limits the industry's ability to produce well-rounded professionals who can approach problems holistically.
How should the industry approach crypto education? What initiatives or tools are already implemented and what effect do they have on crypto knowledge?
The industry must take a multi-faceted approach to crypto education, combining formal academic programs, professional certifications, and self-directed learning opportunities.
Given the fast-paced nature of the industry, there should also be a greater emphasis on continuous learning and professional certifications to offer a faster route to education for individuals already in the industry, or looking to move into it.
Organisations like the CryptoCurrency Certification Consortium (C4) have begun offering certifications, but there is room for more specialised programs that cater to different aspects of the industry, such as blockchain development, crypto compliance, and decentralised finance (DeFi).
What initiatives or tools are already implemented and what effect do they have on crypto knowledge?
Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer courses on blockchain and cryptocurrencies, often developed in partnership with universities. These courses have democratised access to crypto education, allowing anyone with an internet connection to learn about the technology. Often, these foundational courses are free, which helps all learners gain foundational knowledge in crypto without financial limitations, which will help fuel the industry's growth.
Companies in the crypto space also often sponsor hackathons, workshops, and coding bootcamps. These events provide practical, hands-on experience and have proven to be effective in quickly ramping up participants' skills.
They also serve as recruitment tools, helping companies identify top talent.
