KONE, a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry, has officially launched its first KONE Academy in the Philippines — a dedicated training campus in Mandaluyong City aimed at developing a highly skilled workforce to support the country’s smart city ambitions and rapid urban growth.

Currently, the facility trains 620 elevator and escalator (E&E) professionals annually, with plans to expand its capacity to 800 by 2027.

By 2030, KONE aims to certify 4,400 professionals, significantly strengthening the country’s infrastructure talent pipeline.

In a statement, the elevator company said the milestone complements KONE’s broader commitment to talent development in the Philippines, which includes initiatives such as the Service Operations Apprenticeship Program for high-potential graduates and the Delivery Operations Development Program for future operations leaders.

“At KONE, we believe that people are the driving force behind progress. The KONE Academy is not just a training center—it’s a launchpad for the Philippines’ smart city aspirations,” said Petteri Kyrklund, Managing Director of KONE Philippines.

“By empowering local talent with the expertise to keep elevator and escalator systems safe, efficient, and future-ready, we are actively shaping the future of urban living and seamless people flow.”

The Academy’s opening comes at a pivotal moment for the Philippines, where nearly 102 million residents are projected to live in cities by 2050.

With 70 percent of urban local government units preparing smart city programs and 61 percent already piloting initiatives, the facility directly supports the country’s need for intelligent infrastructure and skilled professionals.

“At KONE, we strive to be a true partner in sustainable national development across every market,” said Edward Loy, Managing Director of KONE Southeast Asia. “The KONE Academy sits at the heart of our ‘Rise’ strategy, driving digital innovation in the E&E sector and equipping technicians with the skills to modernize infrastructure. In doing so, we’re proud to support the Philippines’ journey toward smarter, more connected, and more livable cities—built on a foundation of long-term sustainability.”

KONE’s “Rise” strategy for 2025–2030 centers on four strategic shifts: accelerating digital service delivery, driving modernization, winning the residential segment, and cutting carbon, all anchored by a people-first approach. Building on 50 years in Southeast Asia, “Rise” will guide KONE’s continued investment in talent, technology, and sustainability across the region.

The Academy plays a critical role in delivering the strategy, as trainees receive hands-on instruction in installation, commissioning, maintenance, and modernization—aligned with KONE’s globally certified methods to ensure the highest standards of safety, quality, and equipment reliability.

They will also gain exposure to real-world scenarios using advanced simulation systems and smart building technologies, including API-enabled robotics, smart access systems, and connected elevator technologies. and connected elevator technologies. (RAFFY AYENG)