Photo by Bill Carson
Training magazine Managing Partner and longtime learning and development (L&D) advocate Phil Jones passed away on May 17 following complications from recent back surgery.
Jones was integral to the history and identity of the Training brand. From the earliest days of Training’s transition from Ziff Davis ownership in New York in 1975 to Lakewood Publications in Minneapolis in 1976, Jones helped shape the publication and conference into the industry institution it is today.
Retired Lakewood Publications President Jim Secord credits Jones as being “instrumental” in transforming the publication into a commanding presence within the training profession and nurturing Training’s annual conference by embracing the emerging breakout session/expo floor model event. “He led the brand’s restructuring and redesign and set it on the path to where it is today through his creativity, energy, leadership, and vision,” Secord notes.
Decades later, as Managing Partners Bryan Powell and Mike Murrell put together the team to acquire the Training brand, Jones was the first person they recruited (out of retirement), thanks to the immense trust and respect he carried throughout the industry.
Commitment to Helping Others Grow
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jones will be remembered for his calm, sage-like presence; steady leadership; and unwavering professionalism. A Veteran U.S. Navy diver, skilled craftsman, and philanthropist, Jones embodied the values he helped define for the Training brand itself: integrity, authenticity, and a commitment to helping others grow. He often reiterated that Training’s role was to serve as a roadmap to excellence for L&D professionals at every stage of their careers. Jones personally lived that philosophy. No task was ever beneath him, and he was always eager to lend a helping hand at conferences and events. His wisdom and quiet strength will leave an immeasurable void for the Training team and for the training community overall.
Share Your Memories
In addition to a tribute in an upcoming print edition of Training magazine, the team is planning a remembrance at Training’s 50th Annual Conference and Expo, Feb. 22-24, 2027, in Orlando. A bittersweet celebration, as Jones helped to launch the very first Training conference in 1977.
Please e-mail your personal stories, anecdotes, memories, and photos of Phil Jones to Training Editor/Publisher Lorri Freifeld at: lorri@trainingmag.com. They will be incorporated into the reflection on his many contributions to the L&D industry.
