Learning & Development Trends in 2025

By Val Harlow

As each year starts, it’s a great time to look at what will be trending, especially in the Learning & Development space. Focusing on trends in organizational learning helps companies increase their connection to employees, understand what they need in the learning space and how to deliver on it.

What are the 2025 L&D watch items? According to https://blog.clearcompany.com/employee-learning-and-development-trends, #1 is Generative AI in Learning & Development.  Since AI has come on the stage, its biggest L&D use and success has been to create content. But now there is recognition that it can go in another direction – skills validation and coaching.

“AI-driven coaching is a newer trend aimed at enhancing the ways learners develop and demonstrate skills and knowledge. Born from the need for more actionable, feedback-oriented assessments delivered in real-time, AI-driven skill validation uses video and audio analysis to assess technical knowledge and soft skills such as tone, clarity, and empathy.” 

Skills-based training is listed as #2.  Providing learning on specific skills helps align employees to what the organization needs but also provides a development path for employees. Upskilling and peer-to-peer learning help foster growth and a learning culture.  

Lastly, leadership training for leaders. Soft skill gaps are widening because leaders are given leadership roles without experience or training. Skills like communication, conflict resolution, emotional intelligence are needed for leaders to be able to transform the workforce.

Give leaders a “shot in the arm” by attending EANE’s Leadership Summit. It is the premier professional event for leaders and managers in all sectors looking to attract, engage and retain talent. At this year’s comprehensive event, get big-picture perspectives and actionable ideas for navigating the new workforce, and learn how innovation, leadership and cultural transformation converge to shape the future of your organization. Join us on April 8. 2025 at the Sheraton Monarch Springfield MA.

Visit https://www.eane.org/event/leadership-summit-2025/ to learn more.