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Formadorformador, often written formador-formador, is a term used in education and development to refer to a trainer who trains other trainers. The concept, commonly known in English as “train-the-trainer,” emphasizes building local capacity by cascading training through a network of instructors rather than relying on external experts. In Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking contexts, a formador-formador may design, deliver, and evaluate training programs, and coach the trainees to become effective instructors themselves.

In practice, a formador-formador program typically includes needs assessment, curriculum development, delivery of training modules, and a structured mentoring or coaching phase. Trainees are prepared to adapt content to local contexts, assess learner needs, manage group dynamics, and apply learning methodologies appropriate for adults. The model often features stages such as initial training, practice teaching, feedback, and performance assessment, followed by ongoing support and quality assurance.

Benefits include scalability of capacity building, sustainability, and local relevance, as trained trainers can reach wider audiences. Challenges involve maintaining consistency and quality across cascaded trainings, securing resources, and ensuring adherence to standards as the program expands. Success depends on clear standards, effective supervision, collection of performance data, and a culture of continuous improvement.

The term is widely used in international development, education, and public administration where transferring training capacity to local practitioners is a strategic objective. It overlaps with the broader concept of professional development for trainers and may be implemented in both formal and informal learning settings.