Showcase defence learning innovation at ADL Conference 2027
ADL Conference 2027 is expanding its practical programme and invites workshop proposals from across the Nordic region and the wider NATO community.
The conference provides a unique opportunity to showcase solutions, test ideas, exchange lessons learned and connect with professionals working at the intersection of defence, learning, training and technology.
The organisers are placing greater emphasis on interactive workshops, responding to participants' requests for more practical demonstrations, deeper discussions and opportunities to collaborate with peers facing similar challenges.
A meeting place for defence learning and innovation
For more than 15 years, the ADL Conference has served as a leading Nordic forum for innovation in defence learning and training. Organised under the auspices of the Nordic Defence Cooperation (NORDEFCO), the conference brings together military professionals, educators, learning designers, technology specialists, researchers and decisionmakers from across the international defence community.
In 2026, the conference attracted more than 200 participants from 17 nations, reflecting its growing role as a platform for international cooperation and knowledge exchange.
ADL, or Advanced Distributed Learning, focuses on how learning, technology and organisational development can help defence organisations meet evolving operational and strategic requirements. The conference explores how emerging technologies, modern training methods and new approaches to learning can strengthen readiness, competence development and military effectiveness.
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Why host a workshop?
Defence organisations across the Nordic region and NATO are developing new approaches to training, education and capability development. Many of these initiatives can benefit from direct feedback from an international audience.
A workshop offers an opportunity to:
- demonstrate a solution, concept or capability in practice
- test ideas and gather feedback from experienced practitioners
- share lessons learned from implementation and operational use
- engage with experts from different military, educational and technological backgrounds
- establish contacts and identify opportunities for future cooperation
Whether your project is still under development or already operational, the workshop format provides a valuable environment for discussion, validation and knowledge sharing.
Presentation and two workshop formats
Apart from a traditional presentation, contributors may choose between two different workshop formats:
40-minute workshop
- Delivered twice during the conference
- Designed to maximise participant access and interaction
90-minute workshop
- Delivered once
- Suitable for more comprehensive demonstrations, exercises or discussions
Both formats are intended to encourage active participation and practical engagement rather than traditional presentations.
Topics of interest
The conference welcomes practical contributions that address current challenges and opportunities in defence learning, training and organisational development, including:
- Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies
- Learning design and educational development
- Digital transformation and leadership
- Security, governance and implementation
- Lessons learned and operational learning
- Innovation in military education and training
- Technology-enabled learning and performance support
Proposals should focus on practical experience, demonstrations, methods, tools, case studies or innovative approaches that can provide value to an international defence audience.
Join the conversation
Beyond its professional programme, the ADL Conference provides extensive opportunities for networking and collaboration. Participants are able to engage with colleagues from across defence organisations, military academies, training centres and research environments throughout the Nordic region and beyond.
As defence organisations continue to adapt to rapid technological change, evolving operational demands and increasing requirements for interoperability, international dialogue and collaboration have never been more important.
If you have an idea, a project, a methodology or a lesson worth sharing, we encourage you to submit a proposal and contribute to the conversation shaping the future of defence learning and training.
ADL Conference 2027 at a glance
Date: 27–29 April 2027
Location: Gol, Hallingdal, Norway
Submission deadline for workshops and presentations: 15 January 2027
