Talent leaders need to create programs with measurable insights, and that's easier when they ensure they're aligned with the business, said talent executives from Comcast, Choice Hotels, Gilead Sciences and Plains All American at ATD 2019. "It's less about my ability to create Net Promoter Score; it's more about my ability to create a moment in which I can keep someone, help them make a better decision," said Brian Miller, vice president, talent, development & inclusion, at Gilead Sciences.

Ford's restructuring eliminates 7,000 white-collar jobs, about 10% of its salaried workforce worldwide. Factory workers haven't been affected as the company gets ready for a future dominated by autonomous and electric vehicles.

Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., will attend Walmart's annual meeting this year to urge the company to improve wages and benefits for its employees. Sanders, a presidential candidate, also plans to present the idea of putting hourly workers on Walmart's board.

A high school in Michigan recently installed a "work cell" to help prepare students for careers in robotics. The $1 million project includes a robot, controller and other equipment designed to aid in manufacturing.

Google collects feedback from employees by asking a series of questions, such as whether their managers value them or give them feedback. Google also uses open-ended questions to solicit opinions about what the manager should keep doing or change, writes Zack Friedman.