By Gary Dawson
In today’s dynamic business landscape, forecasting training needs isn’t just beneficial, it’s mission critical. With accelerating AI, green economy shifts, demographic changes, and geopolitical instability, organization-wide learning strategies must evolve. Here’s how you can futureproof your workforce.
Align Training with Strategic Goals
Training should be directly tied to long-term business objectives. If your company is heading toward AI adoption or sustainable operations, prioritize training in data literacy, AI collaboration, and ESG compliance.
Monitor Emerging Skill Trends
The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 reveals that by 2030, 92 million jobs will be displaced and 170 million new ones created—a net gain of 78 million jobs. It also forecasts that 39% of core job skills will need updating by 2030, slightly lower than the 44% estimated in 2023.
Significant job growth is expected in:
- Green roles (e.g., 34 million more farm workers)
- Delivery services, construction, healthcare, caregiving, and education.
On the tech front:
- AI, big data, cybersecurity, fintech, and software continue to surge. Technology is projected to create 19 million jobs and eliminate 9 million by 2030, reinforcing the need for digital fluency and analytics acumen.
Engage Employees in Skill Mapping
Platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Degreed can crowd‑source insights on emerging workforce needs. Giving employees a voice boosts buy-in and aligns training to actual demand.
Scenario Planning for Uncertainty
Develop “what‑if” scenarios— “What if AI adoption accelerates?” or “What if regulatory changes drive green job creation?” This approach allows HR leaders to build modular learning pathways that adapt to different futures.
Resources:
- The Future of Jobs Report 2025 – WEF’s in-depth analysis of job creation, displacement, and skill trends
- Coursera summary of the Future of Jobs Report 2025 – Highlights GenAI skills boom and employer upskilling plans
- AI and the Future of Work (Sand Technologies, 2025) – Tech-driven workforce implications
- ATD: Bridging the Skills Gap – Soft skills shortages and training strategies.
EANE is here to assist you with strategic learning plans, skill gap analysis, and career mapping. Please reach out to me to schedule your free needs analysis: gdawson@eane.org.