Deskless workers, those who perform their jobs away from a computer or desk, make up over 80% of the global workforce and more than 60% in the United States. Yet, most training programs are designed for desk-based employees, leaving frontline teams underserved. Traditional compliance-driven training (“check-the-box”) often fails to address the real needs of these workers, who face unique operational demands and rarely have access to the same technology or communication channels are their desk-bound peers.
The urgency to modernize training is driven by two major trends:
Without effective training and knowledge capture, organizations risk operational disruption, safety incidents, and costly turnover.
Pulling frontline employees off the floor for training can hurt productivity and morale. Instead, “in-the-flow learning” integrates training into daily work, allowing employees to learn while performing their tasks. For example, AI-powered tools can surface machine manuals or safety protocols in real time, enabling workers to get answers and support as they need it—without leaving their post.
This approach:
Effective training is not just about delivering information but listening. Deskless workers often lack channels to ask questions, share feedback, or report safety concerns. The webinar highlighted that most distribution centers still don’t offer tech-enabled ways for workers to communicate with employers.
Organizations must:
Barriers like language, shift schedules, and technology access can exclude workers from effective training. The best programs:
Even simple efforts, like translating materials or using SMS for communication, signal respect and inclusion which boosts retention and performance.
AI training tools can personalize learning, provide instant feedback, and prompt managers to recognize achievements. For supervisors overseeing large teams, technology helps scale the “personal touch” that drives engagement and competency.
Modern workforce development relies on data to identify skill gaps, track progress, and optimize programs. Analytics reveal what’s working, where workers struggle, and how training impacts retention and safety.
Investing in training for deskless workers is key for operational success, safety, and retention. Organizations must move beyond compliance to build capability, leveraging in-the-flow learning, two-way communication, and inclusive, AI-enabled programs. The future belongs to employers who value and empower their frontline teams.
