In this episode of
Learning Matters, host Doug Wooldridge sat down with
Chris Harry, Chief Learning Officer at
TEKsystems, to explore how one of the world’s leading IT services and talent solutions providers is transforming the way learning, development, and organizational effectiveness come together.
Chris shared how TEKsystems has spent the past four years reimagining its approach to talent visibility, career growth, and data integration — creating a holistic ecosystem that connects learning strategy directly to business performance.
From Silos to Synergy: Uniting OD, Learning, and Enablement
For Chris, today’s most effective learning strategies are all about connection. Organizational development, learning, and enablement — once treated as separate functions — now operate as a
woven framework that drives alignment across the company.
“These three facets can’t function in isolation anymore,” Chris explained. “We’ve built a connected environment where systems, people, and resources all work together to help employees excel and engage with customers globally.”
That philosophy has led TEKsystems to create a
Strategic Implementation Office supported by
cross-functional “tiger teams.” These teams pull talent from across the business to break down silos, ensure alignment, and deliver unified learning and performance strategies at scale.
Turning Data Into Insight: The Power Behind TalentX
When Chris began this transformation, talent data lived in spreadsheets and disconnected systems. The goal was simple but ambitious — to build a
comprehensive view of every employee’s skills, aspirations, and readiness to meet future business needs.
The result was
TalentX, TEKsystems’ internal data platform that brings together over
100 data points per employee, creating what Chris calls the “baseball card view” of the workforce.
“It covers everything from career pathing and performance history to certifications and aspirations,” he shared. “Now, we can see where skills are strong, where we need to develop, and where opportunities for mobility exist.”
This data now fuels an annual
talent marketplace where leaders can make informed decisions about workforce planning, leadership development, and large-scale upskilling initiatives.
Role Clarity: The Foundation of Growth
Interestingly, this massive transformation began not with technology — but with
role clarity.
During an innovation session with 80 company leaders, the top theme that surfaced wasn’t coaching or leadership development. It was understanding what each role truly contributes to the business.
That discovery led to the creation of more than
400 success profiles, each outlining the behaviors, skills, and competencies needed for success. These profiles became the backbone of TEKsystems’ career architecture — influencing performance reviews, learning academies, and compensation structures.
“Tying compensation to skill development was one of the hardest things we’ve done,” Chris admitted. “But it’s also one of the most powerful. It reinforces growth as a business driver.”
Creating Community Through Cohort Learning
While data powers the system, Chris believes
human connection powers the experience.
One of TEKsystems’ most innovative initiatives has been the move to a
20-week cohort-based learning model for new sales hires. Instead of short, intensive onboarding sessions, learners now progress through an extended journey guided by a consistent facilitator — what Chris calls a “learning sherpa.”
“By the time they come together in person, they already know each other,” he said. “It’s like reuniting with classmates. They’re ready to learn and perform right away.”
Early results show higher engagement, faster ramp-up times, and stronger team cohesion — proof that community-driven learning can drive both performance and belonging.
Looking Ahead: AI, Agility, and the Future of Learning
Like many learning leaders, Chris is cautiously optimistic about the potential of
AI in corporate learning.
“Don’t do AI just for the sake of AI,” he cautioned. “But used wisely, it can improve speed, curation, and agility in ways we’ve never seen before.”
From AI-enabled content design to intelligent coaching tools, TEKsystems is exploring how automation can
enhance—not replace—the human element of learning. The goal, Chris explained, is to use technology to create more personalized and connected learning experiences.
“True learning happens in community,” he added. “Whether it’s AI or cohort models, the goal is the same: to help people grow together.”
Lessons from the CLO’s Journey
Chris’s own career path reflects his passion for growth and curiosity. From teaching in higher education to leading global talent strategies, his journey has been defined by taking risks and staying open to learning.
When asked what advice he’d give to his younger self, he didn’t hesitate:
“Be curious. Take risks. Read more. Learn something every day. If you’re not learning, you’re falling behind.”
Final Thoughts
TEKsystems’ transformation shows what’s possible when
data, learning, and leadership development converge. Under Chris Harry’s guidance, the company has built a model that not only empowers employees to grow but ensures learning directly supports business outcomes.
By weaving together technology, community, and clarity, TEKsystems is proving that the future of learning isn’t just digital — it’s deeply human.
