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The world of learning and development (L&D) is always changing, but nowhere is that more evident than in the energy sector. With new technology emerging every day, governments investing in clean energy, and a new generation entering the workforce, training professionals have a lot on their plates. Anne Campbell, founder of Campbell Training Solutions, is someone who has embraced these challenges head-on. Her journey into the field of L&D is a reminder that sometimes the best career paths are the unexpected ones.

From Aspiring Archaeologist to Training Pro

Anne’s career didn’t start where you might expect. In fact, she originally planned to become an archaeologist. But, as life often does, things took a turn, and a casual conversation pointed her in a different direction. “I didn’t see myself in training at all,” she says, “but once I got into it, I realized how rewarding it could be to help people learn and develop in their careers.” That shift in direction led her to create Campbell Training Solutions, where her team focuses on providing custom training solutions tailored to specific industries. The energy sector, in particular, offers exciting opportunities, but also some serious challenges when it comes to workforce training.

The Energy Sector’s Unique Training Needs

Training in the energy sector isn’t your average classroom experience. With the rapid pace of technological advancements and the need for specialized skills, particularly in areas like nuclear energy and hydrogen fuel cells, the stakes are high. Workers not only need to be skilled, but they must also stay current with safety regulations and the latest industry standards. For example, as hydrogen-powered vehicles become more common, first responders need to be trained to handle the specific challenges that come with them. Similarly, as nuclear energy is increasingly viewed as a viable net-zero solution, training for nuclear plant operators must focus on both safety and efficiency. Anne’s company is meeting these challenges with custom programs that are as dynamic as the industry itself. “We can’t take a one-size-fits-all approach,” she explains. “Each organization has unique needs, so we develop training solutions that are tailored to those complexities.”

Building Relationships is Key

For Anne, the success of a training program is all about relationships. In an industry like energy, where things can be highly specialized and technical, understanding the people you’re working with is essential. “The energy sector is a close-knit community,” she says. “The better we understand each other’s goals, the more impactful our solutions will be.” With government investments pouring into clean energy projects, workforce training is becoming even more critical. The pressure is on to ensure that workers are equipped with the right skills to meet the demands of a growing industry.

Gen Z, Virtual Reality, and the Future of Learning

One of the most exciting trends shaping workforce training today is the use of technology—particularly virtual reality (VR). Imagine stepping into a virtual nuclear reactor to practice operations in a completely safe, controlled environment. That’s the kind of training that’s already happening, and it’s only going to expand as VR technology becomes more sophisticated. This approach is especially appealing to the new Gen Z workforce, who thrive in interactive and immersive learning environments. Anne recognizes that keeping this generation engaged means meeting them where they are. “Gen Z wants learning experiences that are relevant, interactive, and conversational,” she says. “It’s a shift from traditional, lecture-based training to more dynamic, engaging experiences.” But it’s not just about the tech. Anne also notes that Gen Z is highly motivated by purpose-driven work, so connecting training to broader social or environmental goals is essential for keeping them engaged. “They want to know that what they’re learning will make a difference, not just in their careers but in the world.”

Continuous Improvement: Always Staying Ahead

In an industry that’s constantly evolving, continuous improvement is critical. Whether it’s through incorporating feedback or staying ahead of industry trends, there’s always room to grow. Anne’s team focuses on making sure their training programs are not only effective today but remain relevant in the future. “Adaptability is key,” she says. “We need to be agile in our approach to training, especially as the industry continues to change.” One area of focus is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into training programs. AI has the potential to personalize learning experiences, provide real-time feedback, and track progress, making training more effective and efficient.

Learning for a Sustainable Future

At the end of the day, Anne is passionate about one thing: using learning as a tool for growth—both for individuals and for the industry as a whole. Whether it’s helping workers adapt to new technologies or fostering energy literacy, the impact of well-designed training is far-reaching. “Learning doesn’t just benefit the individual,” she says. “It strengthens the community and helps the industry become more resilient, especially in a sector as critical as energy.” As professionals in learning and development continue to navigate these changes, staying connected through webinars, conferences, and industry groups is essential. It’s all part of ensuring that learning solutions stay as dynamic as the industries they serve.

Wrapping Up: Training for Tomorrow’s Energy Sector

The future of learning and development in the energy sector is filled with opportunities, but it also requires a forward-thinking approach. With the integration of new technologies like VR and AI, a focus on continuous improvement, and an understanding of what motivates today’s learners, the energy workforce will be ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing industry. Anne Campbell and Campbell Training Solutions are leading the way, making sure that training is not just a box to check, but a powerful tool that can drive innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. As Anne puts it, “We’re not just training for today—we’re preparing the workforce for the future.”