If they are intentionally finding information that is outside the scope of their own role and then exporting the information itself as opposed to actually learning it then that would be clearly stealing trade secrets. Of course there are some lesser actions that would be in a gray area.

> intentionally finding information that is outside the scope of their own role

some call that a positive initiative. cross training between departments or some such corp speak is used so people can "fill in" or just have a better understanding of the other departments so you can possibly work better with each other or come up with novel solutions for someone else.

companies that silo everyone off and prevent open discussion between groups are horrible places to work. ask Oppenheimer.

> intentionally finding information that is outside the scope of their own role AND THEN exporting the information itself

No. Ultimately courts have to make judgements.

> so, is there a clear line between: steal trade secret, and applied learned experience in new company the way everyone does?

There may be some grey, but copying information in writing is pretty clearly over the line.