TubbTalk: The Podcast for Managed Service Providers · Richard Tubb

[176] Why Now is the Time to Join GTIA and Grow the MSP Community

·1 hr·5 clips

MJ reveals how CompTIA sold its brand for a huge sum, creating an endowment to fund GTIA forever.

Richard Tubb hosts MJ Shua, Chief Community Officer of the newly formed Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA). This episode explains the recent acquisition of the CompTIA brand and its implications for managed service providers. MJ clarifies that the nonprofit association sold only its commercial certification business and brand, not the membership community itself. The association received a substantial sum from the sale, creating an endowment to fund its operations permanently. It has rebranded as GTIA, while the for-profit certification business continues as CompTIA Incorporated. GTIA will maintain a 20% member discount on CompTIA certifications because its members collectively purchase significant volume. The organization plans to dramatically increase its charitable giving, aiming for tens of millions of dollars annually directed toward technology-related charities. A professional philanthropic manager will help distribute these funds to verified charities focused on technology education and access. Early feedback from members has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding the enhanced charitable mission. GTIA's first in-person community meeting in Belgium saw record attendance and high engagement. The new logo features a turned corner at the bottom, symbolizing "turning the page," and a red color distinct from CompTIA's. The organization is hosting global town halls to gather member feedback on future initiatives. Key member benefits remain unchanged, including vendor-neutral events, educational courses, research, and a mentorship program. GTIA will rename its EMEA conference to "Channel Con EMEA" to align with its premier event brand. The strict no-pitching policy at events continues, preserving its role as a vendor-neutral forum. Membership dues are all-inclusive, providing unlimited access to events and resources for all company employees. MJ shares an anecdote about using former CompTIA resources to build credibility with clients as a former MSP owner. She encourages hesitant attendees to visit gtia.org/events and try a meeting with an open mind. The tone is conversational and explanatory, reflecting a partnership between two industry veterans. The style is educational and forward-looking, focusing on new opportunities rather than dwelling on the past. This episode is ideal for MSP owners and IT channel professionals curious about the future of industry community support. Listeners solely interested in CompTIA certifications with no community involvement might find less relevance.

As heard by us

A clear look at a major rebrand that keeps MSP value and community at the center.

This episode tracks the CompTIA acquisition and the shift to GTIA, with Richard Tubb keeping the discussion grounded in what the change means for MSPs.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

Decode the GTIA shift before the jargon takes over.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from TubbTalk: The Podcast for Managed Service Providers