Peer review is essential to software engineering research, yet reviewer training remains largely implicit. We describe the ICSE 2026 Shadow PC, a redesigned program emphasizing deliberate practice at scale. Key innovations include multi-phase structure with calibration and peer feedback, strict separation from the main PC, and a pathway toward leadership development. With 102 participants completing the program and reviewing 117 papers, 97% recommending the experience, and positive reception from authors (67% finding reviews helpful), the program demonstrates that rigorous reviewer training is achievable at scale. We share lessons learned and propose shadow PC area chairs as a mechanism for sustainable scaling and leadership development.
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Kästner et al. (2026) studied this question.
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