From Strategy to Skill: How L&D Closes the Gap Featuring SAE International

Join us for the kickoff of a NEW ATD Pittsburgh Talent Strategy series designed to explore how learning and development leaders connect workforce capability to business strategy. From Strategy to Skill: How L&D Closes the Gap brings together leaders from respected organizations to share the strategic thinking behind their talent and workforce development efforts. Rather than focusing only on programs and solutions, this series examines how organizations identify capability gaps, align development with business priorities, and prepare their workforce for what comes next.  These events are FREE to all ATD Pittsburgh Chapter Members. Our inaugural session will be hosted by SAE International, a global organization known for developing the technical standards that support today’s leading companies in industries that include automotive, aerospace, and commercial vehicles. Pearl Walker, Senior Director of Professional Development, and Amanda Paciorkowski, Director of Strategic Product Line, will share how SAE International is building the workforce of the future. From helping early-career engineers bridge the gap between emerging technologies and legacy systems to supporting experienced professionals as they adapt to rapidly changing industry demands, SAE is creating a coordinated approach to workforce development that spans the entire talent lifecycle. They'll discuss how workforce development priorities are identified and aligned with business needs, the capability gaps emerging across technical industries, and how SAE is building pathways that support talent from early education through professional careers. They will also share lessons learned from creating scalable, connected workforce development systems and offer insights into the role learning leaders play in preparing organizations for future workforce challenges. We've intentionally created space before and after the program for attendees to connect with one another. Whether you're looking to exchange ideas, compare approaches, discuss common challenges, or simply expand your professional network, we hope you'll take advantage of the opportunity to meet other learning and talent professionals in the region. Space is limited and this event is free to all ATD Pittsburgh chapter members.  Free onsite parking available.

Agenda

9:00 – 9:15 AM - Registration, networking, and member connections

9:15 – 9:30 AM - ATD Pittsburgh welcome and introductions

9:30 – 10:15 AM - Featured presentation

10:15 – 10:30 AM - Q&A discussion

10:30 – 11:00 AM Networking and program close

Event Running Time:  2 Hours

Our Speakers:

Pearl Walker is Senior Director of Professional Development at SAE International and brings more than 25 years of experience across the automotive, aerospace, and commercial vehicle industries. She leads enterprise learning strategies and scalable development solutions that strengthen workforce capability and support business performance. Pearl is passionate about creating practical, high-impact learning experiences that connect people to purpose, performance, and long-term growth.

Amanda Paciorkowski is Director of Strategic Product Line at SAE International, where she leads initiatives that connect strategy, operations, and industry engagement to build scalable workforce development solutions. With experience spanning nonprofit leadership, higher education, and enterprise strategy, Amanda focuses on creating coordinated talent pathways that support learners from early education through professional careers. She is known for bringing clarity to complex challenges and turning ideas into meaningful results.