The HR Research Institute has announced the formation of the 2026 Future of Learning Technology and Upskilling Advisory Board. This panel of industry leaders, learning and development specialists, and technology experts will guide a comprehensive research initiative and virtual event focused on workplace learning strategies. The board's formation responds to organizations placing greater emphasis on employee development and measurable outcomes from upskilling investments.
The advisory board will provide guidance to HR leaders on several critical fronts. A primary focus will be on using learning technologies effectively and measuring the impact of upskilling programs. The board will also work to identify and address gaps that currently hinder learning success within organizations. This initiative is designed to equip HR and L&D professionals with actionable tools and frameworks for improving organizational performance through workforce development.
Emerging trends in the learning technology space will be a key area of exploration for the board. Specific trends highlighted for examination include AI-driven personalized learning, advanced workforce skill tracking systems, and the development of effective digital learning strategies. The insights generated will directly shape the research and events produced by the institute, including the upcoming HR.com Future of Learning Technology and Upskilling 2026 Virtual Event scheduled for July 7, 2026.
The board comprises distinguished experts from across the industry. Members include Christopher Allen, President of Allen Interactions; David Creelman, CEO of Creelman Research; JD Dillon, VP of Strategic Alignment at Axonify; and Sheila Jagannathan, Global Head of Capacity Building and Digital Learning at The World Bank. Other notable members are Christine Janssen, PhD, Founder and CEO of Edstutia; Stacy Marshall, Associate Vice President of People and Technology Consulting at HUB International; and Caitlynn Sendra, PhD., Sr. Research Scientist at the Future of Work Research Lab, SAP SuccessFactors.
Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com, emphasized the board's strategic importance, 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 knowledge needed to boost employee skills, engagement, and overall organizational performance. The HR Research Institute, which powers this initiative, is known for its annual "State of the Industry" reports. This new board will inform the latest research, building upon previous work such as the HR.com's Future of Learning Technologies 2025 report.
For business and technology leaders, this development signals a concentrated effort to translate the potential of advanced learning technologies into tangible business results. The focus on measurement and addressing implementation gaps is particularly relevant for executives seeking a clear return on investment in employee development. The exploration of AI and skill tracking points to a future where learning is increasingly data-driven and personalized, potentially reshaping how organizations manage talent pipelines and competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
