The 2026 ESI Trainers Forum brought together trainers, assessors, supervisors, learning and development professionals, and industry leaders from across New Zealand’s electricity supply industry.
The theme for this year’s forum was ‘The Human Side of Training’ and focused on mentoring, communication, learner support, and effective assessment. Over two days industry trainers heard from vocational education experts, took part in interactive workshops, and heard directly from apprentices and trainees about what helps them succeed.
One of the strongest themes to emerge from the forum was the shared commitment to developing capable, confident people. Across presentations, workshops, panel discussions, and informal conversations, participants explored practical approaches to training, assessment, workplace learning, and capability development.
The forum provided an opportunity for attendees to step back from their day-to-day responsibilities and reflect on how training is delivered within their organisations. Many participants shared examples of innovative practice, lessons learned, and opportunities for improvement, creating an environment where honest discussion and knowledge sharing could flourish.
Feedback from attendees highlighted the value of hearing different perspectives, connecting with peers facing similar challenges, and gaining practical ideas that could be applied within their own workplaces. The willingness of participants to openly share their experiences reinforced the collaborative culture that exists across the electricity sector.
Importantly, the forum also reinforced that effective training is about more than compliance or competency frameworks. It is about supporting people to learn, grow, and succeed in environments that are becoming increasingly complex and demanding.
The EEA would like to thank all presenters, facilitators, panel members, and attendees who contributed to making the forum a success. Your willingness to share knowledge, challenge thinking, and contribute to the discussion continues to strengthen capability across our industry.
We look forward to continuing these conversations and building on the momentum generated at this year’s forum as we work together to support the future workforce of New Zealand’s electricity supply industry.
ESI Trainers Forum 2026 – Flyer
Below are the presenters slides to view and/or download:
Stem NZ – Key Aspects for Success in Technical Training
RippleEd – Training Skills for Impact