Training & Development Specialists

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Delivering an effective training program takes creativity along with communication skills and the ability to adapt teaching methods to a particular audience. Training and development specialists plan and conduct programs that train employees and improve their skills and knowledge. These specialists often begin developing a program by assessing needs through surveys, interviews, and meetings with managers. Taking what they learn, they develop curriculum, manuals, videos, or online applications. They may include different formats to engage learning through group discussion and team activities, and often follow up their training with evaluation to improve for the next session. Training and development specialists increasingly develop tools and materials for use on computers and tablets. Administrative tasks are also common, such as scheduling classes or webinars, setting up equipment, and taking registrations. Training and development specialists work in nearly every industry— from healthcare and finance, to education and government. They spend much of their time working with people, giving presentations, and leading training activities. They generally work full time, during regular business hours. Training and development specialists need a bachelor’s degree and work experience in a field such as training, human resources, teaching, or instructional design. A master’s degree may take the place of work experience.