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When it comes to leadership, few people bring as much clarity and practicality to the conversation as Adam Hickman. With over 23 years of experience in learning and development, a stack of accolades, and a resume that includes Gallup and the Walt Disney Company, Adam doesn’t just talk theory. He’s lived it. In our latest episode of Learning Matters, we sat down with Adam, Vice President of Organizational and Employee Development at Partners FCU, to unpack what really matters in L&D today.

Leadership That Actually Leads

According to Adam, the biggest strategy gap in most organizations happens during career transitions, specifically the jump from individual contributor to manager. Too often, we wait until someone’s already in the role to start training them for it. Adam emphasizes the need to develop leadership capabilities before the promotion, not after. His benchmark? If someone doesn’t wake up with the drive to coach and develop others, they probably shouldn’t be in the role.

So, what does Adam look for in a manager? A few key traits: the ability to motivate others, the courage to have real (and sometimes tough) conversations, a strong sense of accountability, and relationship-building skills that go beyond surface-level networking.

Decision-Making: The Underrated Skill

One of Adam’s biggest takeaways from his time at Gallup (and life in general) is the power of good decision-making. Not just what decision you make, but how you make it. In his house, it’s not “How was your day?” It’s “What was the hardest decision you made today?” That mindset builds muscle memory for making thoughtful, intentional choices, something that pays dividends in the workplace.

And for him, the ability to navigate the gray areas, to be comfortable with ambiguity, is a hallmark of high-performing professionals.

From Trash Cans to Thought Leader

Adam’s journey into L&D wasn’t a straight line. It started with 4 a.m. shifts cleaning up a flea market and bounced through jobs in restaurants, airports, call centers, and recycling plants. But each role added to his understanding of people, leadership, and what it takes to make work meaningful.

His big break came at AT&T, where a role in training gave him the chance to travel, lead, and eventually move into more strategic L&D positions. After a long run at Gallup, he found his way to Partners FCU, where he’s now leading efforts to shape the future of employee development.

Practical AI Over Theoretical AI

While many in the industry are still caught up in AI hype, Adam is more interested in how AI can be useful today. He shared how his team adopted a tool that builds course outlines and PowerPoint decks, cutting down development time from a week to just a few hours. That’s the kind of efficiency boost that matters.

But he’s also quick to point out that AI needs a human touch. Someone still has to review the content, ensure accuracy, and make sure it aligns with the organization’s voice and goals.

Generations, Hybrids, and Headlines

One of Adam’s biggest frustrations? The constant focus on generational differences at work. Instead of obsessing over what makes each generation unique, he argues we should focus on what we all have in common, like the desire for purpose, flexibility, and connection.

And don’t get him started on the “hybrid work doesn’t work” headlines. As someone who’s lived remote and hybrid life for years, Adam knows it can work and work well when managers are equipped to lead beyond line-of-sight.

Building Pipelines and Onboarding People Leaders

Currently, Adam’s team is focused on two big initiatives: enhancing career pipelines and improving leadership transitions. Whether it’s ensuring the right talent is in the right role at the right time, or figuring out how to support a new Chief People Officer before they even walk through the door, Adam believes that onboarding is a leadership responsibility and a strategic one at that.

Grit & Gratitude

Adam also recently co-authored a book called Grit and Gratitude, based on a commencement speech he gave. The book explores how these two traits—working hard and giving thanks—have shaped his career. It’s full of real stories and reflections that serve as a reminder that the journey matters just as much as the destination.

Final Thoughts

Adam’s advice to his younger self? Listen more. Bulldozing through problems might get results, but it’s relationships and reflection that make the impact stick.

As always, if you’re ready to evolve your L&D strategy and want to connect with leaders who’ve walked the walk, reach out to us at TTC Innovations. We’d love to support your next learning initiative.