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At Sterling Training, we believe that the best workforce development solutions are informed by the experiences, challenges and successes of the organisations they serve.
That’s why we established the Sterling Training Industry Advisory Group (IAG), bringing together senior leaders, training professionals, HR specialists and operational experts from across defence, logistics, education and industry. Operating under Chatham House rules and chaired independently, the group provides a trusted forum for members to share insight, discuss emerging workforce challenges and identify practical solutions that can help organisations respond more effectively to changing skills, leadership and workforce demands.
The group’s discussions focus on some of the most significant issues facing employers today, including leadership development, workforce engagement, skills shortages, generational differences, learning culture and the impact of digital transformation.
One of the strongest messages to emerge from the inaugural meeting was that learning and development can no longer be viewed as something that happens only during induction or promotion. Organisations are increasingly recognising the importance of continuous learning, coaching, mentoring and professional development as part of everyday working life. However, many participants identified challenges around time, resources and creating the right culture to make this a reality.
The discussion also highlighted the growing importance of understanding workforce expectations across different generations. Members agreed that the challenge is not confined to younger employees but lies in creating workplaces that support people with different experiences, learning preferences and career aspirations. Several organisations shared successful approaches including mentoring, reverse mentoring, apprentice buddy schemes and clearer career development pathways.
Another key theme was recognition and engagement. Contributors noted that many employees, particularly those early in their careers, want to feel listened to, valued and supported in their development. The quality of the relationship with managers, mentors and trainers was identified as one of the most influential factors affecting engagement, retention and performance.
Leadership was also a recurring topic throughout the session. Members discussed the importance of moving beyond qualifications and job titles to focus on observable leadership behaviours, coaching, self-awareness and the development of people. There was broad agreement that organisations need clearer frameworks and a common language for leadership if they are to develop capability consistently across teams and sectors.
Commenting on the initiative, Sterling Training’s Managing Director, Emma Lacey, said:
“One of the real strengths of the Industry Advisory Group is the willingness of members to share both challenges and good practice. The conversations are incredibly open, practical and relevant, and the insights generated have value far beyond the group itself. We hope the findings encourage organisations to reflect on their own approaches to learning, leadership and workforce development.”
The Industry Advisory Group will continue to meet throughout the year, exploring topics such as organisational culture, learning culture, workforce expectations, mentoring, leadership and skills development. The intelligence gathered from each session is consolidated into a written Insight Report, available upon request, allowing organisations to benefit from the collective experience and perspectives of professionals from across defence, logistics, education and industry. By bringing together expertise from different sectors, the group aims to help organisations learn from one another and contribute to a stronger, more skilled and more adaptable workforce.