A network of global learning leaders looks to the future.

Since 2017, a small group of talent development executives have gathered at the ATD International Conference & Exposition to learn from progressive thought leaders. CTDO Next is a network of global learning leaders who are passionate about transformations that are having an impact on the field.

Through its work, members (called Nexters) explore a variety of forward-focused topics—such as how to activate employee learning and what skills TD leaders need for success in the future of work—with the goal to take a position and lead the profession.

From Paul DePodesta, chief strategy officer of the Cleveland Browns, to humanitarian and chef José Andrés to Aaron Dignan, founder of the Ready and author of Brave New Work, the exclusive CTDO Next program at ATD’s annual conference has hosted some big thinkers and inspiring visionaries.

This year, attendees of CTDO Next at ATD23 enjoyed 90 minutes with conference keynote Priya Parker, author of The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters, and executive producer and host of the New York Times podcast, Together Apart.

On Tuesday, May 23, 40 executives gathered for a private conversation with Parker following her keynote. ATD extended the invitation to members of CTDO Next, along with special guests.

Following Parker’s session, associate director of ATD Research, Rocki Basel, led a discussion about ATD’s future research agenda and State of the Industry report. Attendees provided insights and advice to inform upcoming research surveys and work products.

Finally, the meeting concluded with a group conversation facilitated by CTDO Next Catalyst John Coné about current transformations in the field such as the new-employee experience and hyper-personalization of learning.

Following that afternoon of idea sharing with peers and learning from thought leaders inside and outside the field, attendees left feeling inspired about how they could continue to drive change in their organizations. They established a new network of peer connections with executives representing various industries and organizations such as 3M, Amazon, WM, and Florida Blue, and they experienced firsthand the valuable programming ATD23 offers for practitioners who are leading the profession.

On Monday, May 22, Nexters convened for their own members-only half day program to share best practices and current challenges. ATD President and CEO Tony Bingham joined them to hear which major talent development and workplace trends they believe are most important to consider in the months to come. The afternoon concluded with a session led by Chris Yeh—writer, investor, and entrepreneur—about what’s next for the hybrid workplace.

Since the pandemic, Nexters have prioritized shared experiences, connection, and personal well-being more than ever before.

“CTDO Next is a unique opportunity for me to expose myself to important topics of the future,” says Nexter Eivind Slaaen, head of people and culture development at Hilti Corporation. “Together with a diverse group of outstanding professionals, I can contribute to shape the future of talent development and prepare for the discussions we need to have in our company. The openness and trust are special and we have built the solid foundation we need to address the challenges ahead.”

Learn more about CTDO Next’s history and recent highlights in its 2022 Annual Report. If you would like to discuss how you or an executive at your organization can join CTDO Next, contact Ann Parker at [email protected].