Preparing for Tomorrow: Jim Mason on ADT’s Learning and Development Strategy

What does it take to stay ahead in a fast-evolving industry? At ADT, it’s all about preparing employees for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. Jim Mason, ADT’s Director of Learning and Development, is at the heart of this effort. His work is shaping how ADT’s employees not only adapt to the future, but lead it. From cutting-edge training to fostering a culture of growth, Jim’s initiatives are creating a workforce that will power ADT’s success for years to come. But how exactly does he do it? In this Life at ADT blog, we’ll unpack how Jim’s leadership in learning and development is ensuring ADT’s people and business are ready for what’s next.

Describe your current role and responsibilities at ADT

At ADT, I have three main areas of responsibility: driving employee growth through learning and talent technology, creating learning experiences aligned with business goals, and supporting skill-building for learning professionals at ADT through a Learning Community of Practice. I also lead a small team of instructional designers and specialists who help me accomplish all this.

Share a bit about yourself, your purpose and what drives you both personally and professionally

I’m passionate about new experiences—especially travel and connecting with people from different cultures. I even have a degree in Intercultural Studies, and that passion has carried through in everything I do. Alongside that, I’ve always been fascinated by technology, and I’ve been fortunate to apply that to my work in learning, making experiences more engaging and effective.

What do you enjoy most about your job and working at ADT?

What really drives me is knowing that ADT genuinely helps save lives. Watching our lifesaver videos can be emotional because they show the real impact we have. I’m also passionate about supporting my team and helping them exceed their own expectations. I love the variety in my work and the chance to leverage technology to impact many parts of the business.

Share a bit about your career journey and how you came to work at ADT

I’ve been in learning and development for 19 years, starting out as a call center representative where I supported training classes. Eventually, I transitioned into a full-time trainer role, then moved into instructional design. My career led me to the restaurant industry, where I worked my way up from Senior Instructional Designer to Director of Learning for an organization that was operating in 60 countries. When the opportunity at ADT came along, I was excited by the chance to work in a more complex organization and to leverage technology in new ways.

Share an example of how the company’s values are reflected in your day-to-day work

I deeply resonate with ADT’s belief that “everyone deserves to feel safe.” As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I know what it’s like to feel unsafe, and I’m proud of the work ADT has done with Business Employee Resource Groups to create an inclusive environment. In terms of my day-to-day work, I also see ADT’s focus on quality and efficiency reflected in everything we do.

What inspired you to pursue a career in this industry?

I’ve always enjoyed helping people understand things, and that initially led me to coach other contact center agents. A great leader saw my potential and guided me toward a path in training others full-time, which became the foundation for my career in learning and development.

How do you feel like your role contributes to ADT’s mission?

In learning and development, we get to be “people multipliers,” helping employees excel in their work, which benefits the entire company. Through our efforts, we embody the ADT Blueprint’s message that “Our people are our greatest asset,” and we help make ADT the best place to work.

Are you ready to shape the future of security at ADT?

Jim Mason leads ADT’s Learning and Development efforts — helping shape the future of the company by helping to develop our most valuable asset: our people. If you’re ready to join a team prepared to meet the demands of today and propel the company forward into the future, explore open opportunities here: https://jobs.adt.com/corporate/