Our Learning & Leadership Development Philosophy
The 70/20/10 Learning Model:
70%: Focuses on on-the-job experiences, allowing employees to develop through hands-on tasks. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of their roles and encourages problem-solving in real-time.
20%: Allocated to social learning, where mentorship, collaboration, and feedback from peers help employees grow and develop new perspectives.
10%: Dedicated to formal education, such as training programs or coursework, providing foundational knowledge to support the other areas of learning.
By embracing the 70/20/10 learning model, Carhartt demonstrates a strong commitment to developing well-rounded, adaptable leaders at all levels.
empower our associates to excel in their roles and become agile leaders ready to tackle any challenge. Together, we strive to create a community of lifelong learners, driving Carhartt’s success with purpose and passion.Our Learning Mission
At Carhartt, leading with purpose is to inspire and invest in our associates' learning & leadership development. We believe in fostering a culture of continuous growth and innovation. By providing challenging experiences, exposure to diverse perspectives, and access to structured education, we empower our associates to excel in their roles and become agile leaders ready to tackle any challenge. Together, we strive to create a community of lifelong learners, driving Carhartt’s success with purpose and passion.
Carhartt Learning Strategy
The Learning Strategy is designed to create an easy and structured approach to all associate development that is aligned with our organizational goals:
Competency-Based Learning:
Ensuring that our workforce has the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles.
Career Level-Specific Learning: Developing targeted career level programs to support associates at various career stages. This includes both associates and leaders.
Continuous Improvement: Regularly updating our programs to meet evolving business needs and associate expectations.
A well-defined learning strategy is crucial for organizational growth. It aligns training with Carhartt goals, enhances associate development, and promotes continuous improvement.
Key Components of the Learning Strategy
New Hire Orientation (NHO)
The
New Hire Orientation (NHO)
Program is a component of onboarding that focuses on the first 3 days of a new hires’ immersion to Carhartt that includes the following elements:
Introduction to Carhartt’s history, mission, values, and organizational structure.
Live instructor-Led sessions from various Carhartt stakeholders
Self-paced modules
Cultural Integration and activities designed to immerse new hires into the Carhartt culture, fostering a sense of belonging and engagement.
Audience:
Newly hired Carhartt associates or newly converted contractors (All levels).
When:
NHO will be offered every two weeks (Monday & Tuesday) virtually.
New Leader Orientation (NLO)
The New Leader Orientation (NLO) Program is a cohort-based learning program designed for newly promoted people leaders at Carhartt. It aims to help them understand their operational responsibilities and align with Carhartt's leadership principles. The program consists of virtual, facilitator-led sessions, various self-paced weekly modules featuring short computer-based trainings and concludes with a virtual group debrief where participants can discuss their new insights, knowledge, and feedback.
Audience:
Newly promoted and/or hired people leaders at Carhartt leaders. Also available to all existing leaders, regardless of tenure, can request to join the next cohort.
When: NLO will be offered on a quarterly basis.
Communicating with Impact
Leadership Mindset
The Leadership Mindset session is an interactive session designed to help associates develop a leadershiporiented approach to their work. The course focuses on cultivating key traits like self-awareness, accountability, resilience, and a growth mindset. Through engaging discussions, realworld examples, and practical exercises, participants learn how to inspire others, take initiative, and align their actions with organizational goals. The session aims to empower participants to lead from any position, fostering a culture of proactive problem-solving and collaboration.
Newly promoted and/or hired people leaders at Carhartt leaders. Also available to all existing leaders, regardless of tenure, can request to join the next cohort.
NLO will be offered on a quarterly basis for leaders to sign up through Carhartt Learning.
Languages of Appreciation
DiSC Management
DiSC Management is a tool within DiSC designed to identify the DiSC styles of direct reports and help leaders understand how those styles match up with can differ from their own style. The Coaching with DiSC session held within New Leader Orientation will help leaders understand how they can embrace their team's different personality dynamics to work most effectively by adjusting coaching behaviors to optimize performance through effective DiSC coaching techniques.
Audience:
Newly promoted and/or hired people leaders at Carhartt leaders. Also available to all existing leaders, regardless of tenure, can request to join the next cohort.
When:
Coaching with DiSC will be offered on a quarterly basis during our NLO Program for leaders to sign up through Carhartt Learning.
LinkedIn Learning
What is LinkedIn Learning?
LinkedIn Learning provides comprehensive skill development paths to strengthen core capabilities, including Carhartt's Core Capabilities like Change Leadership, Sustainability, Inclusion, and 23,000 more courses!
When and Where:
These courses are offered on LinkedIn.com and are offered as self-paced modules structured around skill enhancement for individuals of all career levels. The Building Capabilities page features curated skill lists with direct links to related LinkedIn Learning Paths. These paths cover vital proficiencies such as Leadership, Technology, Project Management, and Diversity & Inclusion.
Why LinkedIn Learning?
By leveraging expert-led LinkedIn Learning content, learners can develop essential competencies in alignment with Carhartt's core capabilities. Whether refining leadership skills, mastering technology, or promoting inclusivity, these paths empower learners to boost their expertise and drive organizational progress. LinkedIn Learning bridges ambition and achievement, equipping individuals to excel in their roles while contributing to their fields' advancement.
Carhartt Coffees
What is Carhartt Coffees?
Carhartt Coffees is getting a fresh update on the classic brews we know and love. With a simple meeting invite, participants are grouped into breakout sessions to connect with Carhartt peers from around the globe. These sessions create a space for virtual conversations that break away from formalities – more like a casual chat from the comfort of your work office or home.
When and Where:
Meeting invites will be sent out twice each quarter, giving you multiple opportunities to join at a time that works best for you. Just bring your Wi-Fi—no extra preparation needed!
Why Carhartt Connections?
At Carhartt, we understand the value of building meaningful connections within our vibrant community. Carhartt Connections, a unique virtual networking experience that brings colleagues together in a casual and engaging setting.
Step into the spirit of connection and collaboration! Take a refreshing pause from your routine to share stories, build relationships, and grow your network in a fun and meaningful way. Looking forward to building bonds, beyond global boundaries!
On the Horizon
New programs are on the horizon, designed to equip our associates with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive. These programs will focus on key competencies for each associate’s level. Whether you're an individual emerging leader, a seasoned professional, or someone looking to sharpen specific competencies, these new programs will provide tailored training to meet your goals.
As part of this initiative, we are introducing a structured set of competencies that will guide our associates through their development journey. These competencies are designed to align with our business objectives and foster growth across all roles, ensuring that everyone has a clear roadmap for success. Peek at the following programs outlined to elevate your personal and professional growth!
Why Carhartt Competencies
Competencies serve as a powerful lever to elevate talent and drive business success by aligning our team's skills and behaviors with strategic goals. They provide a clear framework for expectations, development, and performance, ensuring that everyone is equipped to excel and contribute to our collective growth.
By embedding competencies into our talent processes—such as hiring, development, and performance management—we create a shared language and roadmap for success, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability.
They provide clear expectations on “HOW” leaders and associates are expected to show up and perform in their role. Identifying the skills and competencies for different levels is essential to our strategic goals and crucial for effective talent management.
Understanding our needs and who possesses these competencies, both internally and externally, is key to achieving our business objectives. They are vital in guiding our recruitment, development, performance evaluation, and overall strategic execution. They provide a clear framework for “HOW” we drive business success.
Inclusive Leadership Series
The Inclusive Leadership Series
series of three 45-minute sessions over the course of the associates first 120 days at Carhartt. The sessions focus on the awareness of important forms of bias, targeted to managers, and how to mitigate and lift situations where you may need additional support. Setting up and managing expectations across your team of associates who have different life experiences, needs, wants. Inclusive communication and team dynamics. These sessions will include many handson scenarios and will model a safe environment for vulnerability, exploration, and growth.
Audience:
Newly promoted and/or hired people leaders at Carhartt leaders. Also available to all existing leaders, regardless of tenure, can request to join the next cohort.
Delivery:
Inclusive Leadership Series will be offered in Q3 of 2025.
The Connected Leader
Connected Leader Program is designed to empower leaders to foster a foundation of trust within their teams by creating meaningful connections and engaging in quality conversations. Through this program, leaders will develop the skills to tune into associate needs, uncover hidden drivers of engagement, and address them effectively. Additionally, participants will learn a reliable framework to ensure meaningful work is accomplished, promoting a cohesive and productive team environment. This program equips leaders with the tools to enhance relationships, support team success, and drive impactful outcomes.
Newly promoted and/or hired people leaders at Carhartt leaders. Also available to all existing leaders, regardless of tenure, can request to join the next cohort.
The Connected Leader will be offered on a quarterly basis for leaders to sign up through Carhartt Learning in FY26.
Leadership Circles
The Leadership Circles Program is a development program that brings together small groups of participants to enhance leadership skills through guided discussions, peer collaboration, and structured learning. Facilitated by a mentor or leader, these circles focus on building key competencies like communication, emotional intelligence, and decision-making in a supportive and confidential environment. Participants work toward personal and professional growth, set actionable goals, and strengthen relationships across teams to foster a culture of collaboration and effective leadership.
Audience:
Executive leaders will be introduced to Leadership Circles as part of a pilot program.
When:
Leadership Circles will be offered as a pilot starting in FY26.
Leadership Development Programs
Carhartt’s Leadership Development programs are designed to nurture and enhance the skills of aspiring, new, and experienced leaders. These programs include executive training, interactive workshops, mentorship opportunities, performance feedback, and leadership forums, all tailored to empower leaders at every stage of their journey. By fostering growth, collaboration, and strategic thinking, these programs ensure leaders are equipped to drive success and align with Carhartt’s values and vision.
Leadership Program Audience
Emerging Leader:
Individual contributors
Sr individual contributors
Foundational Leader:
Newly promoted or hired leaders
Mid-level managers and supervisors
Strategic Leader:
Mid-level managers and supervisors
Sr leaders
Advanced Leader:
Directors
Sr Directors
VPs/SLT
The Emerging Leader Program
The Emerging Leadership Program helps individual contributors with leadership potential to develop their skills. It offers a structured pathway, including leadership assessments and personalized coaching, to prepare participants for future leadership roles. The program emphasizes building strong, inclusive leadership and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
Competency Focus:
Values Differences
Nimble Learning Collaborates Resourcefulness
Optimizes Work Processes
Programs
New Leader Orientation
Inclusive Leadership Series
Roundtable Discussion
Leadership Fireside Chat
Communicating with Impact
DiSC Workplace
Leading Without Authority
Interpersonal Savvy Manages Ambiguity
Action Oriented
Instills Trust
Self Development
Resources Get Involved
LinkedIn Learning 360 Assessment Performance Management Leaders Integrations Continuing Education Credits *Masterclass
Aspiring Leader Coaching Series BRG Member Community Service Participation Being a Mentee and/or Mentor
The Foundational Leader Program
The Foundational Leadership Program focuses on equipping new leaders with the essential skills and mindset needed to effectively guide teams and contribute to organizational success. It emphasizes building strong internal networks and leveraging these connections for team performance. By focusing on foundational principles, the program ensures that participants are well-prepared to lead with integrity, empathy, and effectiveness.
Competency Focus: Values Differences Manages Conflict Plans & Aligns Ensures Accountability Balances Stakeholders
Programs
New Leader Orientation
Enhancing 1:1s
Leading in a Hybrid Environment
Inclusive Leadership Series
Leadership Fireside Chat
Communicating with Impact
DiSC Workplace
Aspiring Leader Coaching Series
Being Resilient Develops Talent Strategic Mindset
Situational Adaptability
Resources
Get Involved
Being a Mentee and/or Mentor
The Strategic Leader Program
The Strategic Leadership Program is designed for experienced leaders at Carhartt who drive high-level initiatives. Emphasizing strategic thinking and advanced decision-making, participants engage in strategy exercises and leadership simulations to enhance their ability to navigate complex business challenges and achieve long-term goals.
Competency Focus:
Values Differences
Financial Acumen
Directs Work
Builds Networks
Organizational Savvy
Programs
Leadership Mindset
Hiring Overview for Leaders
Communicating with Impact
DiSC Workplace
Coaching for Performance
Manages Complexity Develops Talent
Strategic Mindset
Situational Adaptability
Resources Get Involved
LinkedIn Learning
360 Assessment
Performance Management Leaders Integrations
Continuing Education Credits *Masterclass
BRG Member
Community Service Participation
Being a Mentee and/or Mentor
The Advanced Leader Program
The Advanced Leadership Program is tailored for seasoned leaders who aim to refine their expertise and drive significant organizational impacts. Focusing on highlevel strategic initiatives, this program offers in-depth strategy exercises enhancing participants' capabilities in navigating complex business landscapes. Through this program, leaders will hone their strategic thinking, advanced decision-making, and ability to achieve long-term organizational goals.
Competency Focus:
Values Differences Drives Results
Decision Quality Drives Vision & Purpose
Courage
Building Effective Teams Manages Complexity
Develops Talent
Strategic Mindset
Situational Adaptability
Coaching for Performance