How Do I Become a Training Director?

A training director is responsible for developing and overseeing continuing education programs designed to maximize the productivity of a workforce. To become a training director, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree in human resources management. You will also need a certain amount of practical work experience in a human resources department. After gaining sufficient work experience, apply for an instructor position in your chosen industry and work your way up to training director. You will probably need to earn a master’s degree in business administration before you can become a training director.

Training directors are employed at the senior-management level of a human resources department. They are responsible for identifying employee-aptitude weaknesses and implementing the necessary corrective training measures. These professionals often supervise a staff of trainers, analysts, and consultants. A training director must continuously evaluate the results of continuing education programs to maximize employee productivity. To become a training director, you must meet certain educational and work experience requirements.

A bachelor’s degree in human resources is usually required to become a training director. Some employers may accept a degree in management or psychology for entry-level training. In order to prepare for this position, you must learn how to design and carry out employee training programs for various business activities. Classes in ethics, management communications, innovation, and culture will further prepare you for the challenges of this career. Obtaining your degree from a recognized college may give you a hiring advantage in the future.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, you must gain entry-level and middle-management work experience to become a training director. The career services department of your college can provide you with job-hunting resources. An entry-level position allows you to receive valuable hands-on training in the human resources field. You must be very knowledgeable in all aspects of the human resources profession to work at the senior-management level. It may take several years to acquire the work experience needed to become a training director.

After gaining sufficient entry-level experience, seek promotion to a middle-management trainer position. Field directors are typically chosen from within an organization. In order to be promoted to this position, you may need to be employed by the same company for an extended period of time. You will probably need to earn a master’s degree in business management to become a training director. Your employer might be willing to pay your college tuition if you have demonstrated the ability and potential for this career.