The HR Research Institute has announced the formation of the 2026 Future of Learning Technology and Upskilling Advisory Board, comprising industry leaders, learning and development specialists, and technology experts. This board will guide a research initiative and virtual event focused on workplace learning as organizations increasingly prioritize employee development and measurable outcomes. The advisory board will provide direction on effectively utilizing learning technologies, measuring the impact of upskilling initiatives, and addressing gaps that impede learning success within organizations.
The board will explore emerging trends in the learning technology landscape, including AI-driven personalized learning, workforce skill tracking, and digital learning strategies. This exploration will shape research and events designed to equip HR and learning and development professionals with actionable tools and frameworks. The initiative includes the HR.com's Future of Learning Technology and Upskilling 2026 Virtual Event scheduled for July 7, 2026.
The newly formed advisory board features distinguished experts from various sectors. Members include Christopher Allen, President of Allen Interactions; David Creelman, CEO of Creelman Research; JD Dillon, VP Strategic Alignment at Axonify; Sheila Jagannathan, Global Head of Capacity Building and Digital Learning at The World Bank; Christine Janssen, PhD, Founder and CEO of Edstutia; and Heidi Schisel, VP of People & Culture at Genentech. Other members are Matthew Casey-Sudvary, Sam Herring, Brad Kogut, Heather Lambert, Christopher Lind, Stacy Marshall, Lisa Menke, Todd Moran, Philip Pinkerman, and Caitlynn Sendra, PhD.
Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com, emphasized the board's role, stating it will help the HR industry stay ahead of the curve by sharing guidance for upcoming research and events. These thought leaders aim to equip HR professionals with the insights needed to enhance employee skills, engagement, and overall organizational performance. The HR Research Institute regularly releases annual "State of the Industry" reports on various HR topics, building on previous research such as the HR.com's Future of Learning Technologies 2025 report. This and other research resources are available through the institute, which serves over two million HR professionals by providing informed and insightful research findings to support strategic decision-making.
