Skills development has always been at the heart of learning and development (L&D), but in today’s ever-changing workplace, it’s taken on a new urgency. As technology reshapes how we work — and the skills required to keep up — L&D leaders are under pressure to ensure their training strategies are not just reactive, but forward-looking and adaptable. 

It’s no longer enough to build training programs based solely on today’s roles. Job responsibilities are evolving, and entirely new roles are emerging. In this environment, skills have become the currency of agility, helping individuals and organizations respond to change with confidence. But that raises important questions: Which skills matter most? How can we assess what’s missing? And how do we embed a culture of continuous development into the workplace? 

This issue of Training Industry Magazine is designed to help answer those questions. Articles in this edition explore practical, strategic approaches to building the capabilities your workforce needs now and in the future. You’ll find guidance on building a culture where real skills development can thrive. One that goes beyond the training plan and supports employees through active listening, creative problem-solving and self-reflection. 

In addition to technical skills, this issue highlights the growing importance of soft skills like communication, feedback and adaptability — competencies that support collaboration and resilience amid disruption and uncertainty. You’ll also find insights on how to leverage skills data to inform decisions, personalize learning and align development with evolving business needs. 

As we know, effective training is not a one-time event. Skills development is an ongoing process that requires intention, adaptability and empathy. As you read, we encourage you to reflect on your current approach: Are you building the kind of workforce that’s ready for what’s next? 

L&D leaders are uniquely positioned to guide their organizations through this transformation — not just by delivering training, but by building a culture that values growth, curiosity and continuous improvement. By staying aligned with business needs, embracing innovation and empowering learners at every level, L&D can turn skills development into a true competitive advantage. No matter where you are along your journey, this issue offers ideas, inspiration and tools to help you move forward with purpose.