With AI transforming how we design, deliver, and measure learning, and with organizations shifting toward skills-based development and performance-focused learning ecosystems, L&D leaders are reimagining how people grow at work.
Here are 15 influential voices shaping the future of L&D in 2026.One of the best ways to stay informed is by following the thinkers, practitioners, and creators who consistently share valuable insights and generously contribute to the learning community. Here are 15 influential voices shaping the future of L&D in 2026.
1. Dr. Philippa Hardman, PhD
A learning scientist and creator of the DOMS™ methodology, Philippa translates rigorous research into practical frameworks that learning teams can apply immediately. Her Substack has become a staple for evidence-informed practitioners.
2. Lavinia Mehedințu
As co-founder of Offbeat, Lavinia remains one of the most influential community builders in L&D. Her curated insights, conversations, and research help practitioners expand their thinking and stay on top of emerging trends.
3. Ross Stevenson
Founder of Steal These Thoughts, Ross offers thoughtful, practical commentary on learning, leadership development, and performance. His mental models and systems-thinking approach resonate with leaders in fast-moving organizations.
4. Heidi Kirby, PhD
Through her courses, content, and former podcast (The BLOC Podcast), Heidi supports the development of the next generation of instructional designers. She consistently shares actionable guidance on learning strategy, experience design, and career growth.
5. Anamaria Dorgo
Founder of L&D Shakers, Anamaria is a champion of community-led learning. Her work focuses on social learning, facilitation, and the power of collective development within modern organizations.
6. Melissa Kruminas
Melissa’s work sits at the intersection of learning, technology, and measurable business outcomes. She specializes in Learning & Development, Enablement, and Customer Education, blending human learning principles with the possibilities of AI to create strategies that drive real organizational impact. Her posts offer clear, practical insights for anyone focused on performance, innovation, and the future of learning as a true growth engine.
7. Eugenia Dabu
Eugenia’s content explores strategic, people-focused learning through the lens of capability building and organizational development. Her thoughtful posts continue to gain momentum within the L&D community.
8. Julie Dirksen
Author of Design for How People Learn, Julie is a respected expert in learning science. Her work on behavior change, motivation, and instructional decision-making remains essential reading for learning professionals. (Julie will also be the opening keynote for the 2026 Customer Education Management Association conference!)
9. Patti Shank, PhD
Patti publishes deeply practical research on how people learn and how to design instruction that drives performance. She is known for translating complex learning science into clear, actionable insights.
10. Sarah Cannistra
Sarah helps aspiring and transitioning L&D professionals build meaningful careers. Her content blends mindset development with practical steps toward breaking into and succeeding in learning roles. She also published her book Land Your Next L&D Role this year!
11. JD Dillon
As Chief Enablement Architect at Axonify, JD offers clarity on frontline learning, performance support, and real-world learning ecosystems. His approach emphasizes practicality, simplicity, and business alignment. He is the author of The Modern Learning Ecosystem and is launching a new book in 2026: The Frontline Enablement Playbook.
12. Lori Niles-Hoffman
Lori shares strategic insights on culture, capability building, and organizational learning transformation. Her frameworks help teams create impactful, business-aligned learning strategies. She’s also the author of The Eight Levers of EdTech Transformation.
13. Laura Overton
Laura’s decades of research on learning impact and organizational maturity make her one of the most trusted voices in L&D. Her content helps learning teams align more closely with business value.
14. Ashley Hinchcliffe & Hannah Clark
Ashley and Hannah are huge champions of L&D marketing, helping organizations increase engagement and adoption through strategic communication. Their content challenges L&D to think more like marketers.
15. Hadiya Nuriddin
An award-winning talent development leader, author, and facilitator, Hadiya shares thoughtful insights through workshops, books, and her consistently valuable LinkedIn presence. Hadiya is also the author of the books StoryTraining and Quality Management in Learning & Development.
These practitioners, researchers, facilitators, and creators continue to elevate the practice of Learning & Development. Their work helps L&D professionals stay informed, inspired, and prepared for the rapidly changing future of workplace learning. If you’re looking to expand your perspective, sharpen your skills, or find community within the industry, these 15 voices are an excellent place to start.
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