The training and development manager is one of the primary positions in many human resources (HR) departments. Training and development managers coordinate programs to develop the skills of company employees. They oversee training and development specialists, who are tasked with bringing in new employees and assisting in training.
Training and development management positions require expertise in all aspects of HR and professional development as well as the various departments and functions that comprise an organization. Aspiring professionals in this field can gain the breadth of skills and knowledge they need through the online Master of Science (MS) in HR Management program from Florida Institute of Technology.
Why Is Training and Development Important?
Company executives understand that developing the skills of their employees is essential to business success. In addition, employees want to work for companies that provide opportunities for education and skill development.
Training and development specialists contribute to profitability by weeding through a candidate pool to find top job applicants. These professionals work with departmental managers, executives and financial officers to create developmental strategies and training materials that align with company goals. They also oversee specialists to ensure that the materials are conveyed and training programs are executed effectively.
What Is a Training and Development Manager and What Do They Do?
Training managers ensure that employees have the capabilities to help grow the business and receive the training necessary to contribute to increased profitability and scalability. They typically create programs that training and development specialists administer to employees.
Training managers are responsible for overseeing the education and skill development of current employees. This can involve:
- Determining core training requirements
- Working closely with management to create e-learning courses
- Overseeing the creation of educational materials
- Teaching necessary training methods to specialists, who then educate employees
- Creating client-targeted training for software and services
- Developing internal and external training metrics reports
What Is the Average Training and Development Manager’s Salary?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment opportunities for training and development managers will increase 7% from 2023 to 2033. According to BLS wage data, training and development managers earned a median annual salary of $125,040 in 2023.
The typical 2023 salary range for training and development managers was $94,240 to $166,780. Salaries vary according to numerous factors including employer, job role and location as well as the professional’s level of experience and education.
Where Are the Best Training and Development Jobs Found?
Training and development managers and specialists work in every sector of the economy. BLS reports that the following industries have the highest levels of employment of training and development managers:
- Management of companies and enterprises
- Colleges, universities and professional schools
- General medical and surgical hospitals
- Computer systems design and related services
- Management, scientific and technical consulting services
How to Become a Training and Development Manager
Becoming a training and development manager generally requires at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field like human resources, business or communications. According to BLS, some employers require or prefer a master’s degree, usually with a concentration in training and development, HR management, organizational development or business administration.
Aspiring training and development managers can also benefit from studying instructional design, behavioral psychology or educational psychology. Additionally, building experience in HR management and professional development is necessary to succeed in leadership roles.
Important Skills for Training and Development Managers
Training and development managers should be decisive and have critical-thinking, interpersonal, managerial and speaking skills. Being a collaborative leader and possessing well-honed instructional skills are also important qualities for training and development managers. Aspiring training and development professionals can develop these skills and qualities while gaining a competitive edge in the job market through earning an MS in HR Management from Florida Tech.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online MS in HR Management program.
