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IN A NUTSHELL

My professional journey did not commence with Instructional Design as my primary objective. A strong foundation in effective communication and writing skills, acquired through my work in journalism, paved the way for employment with Fortune 500 and U.S. government entities. During my tenure, I cultivated proactive and problem-solving abilities, demonstrating exceptional teamwork and attention to detail. My unwavering commitment to the fundamentals of effective learning solutions led me to pursue a Master’s degree in Instructional Technologies, where I developed a keen eye for multi-media and graphic design. My visual professional portfolio (link provided above) showcases creative solutions through various pillars of successful project implementations, utilizing industry-standard Instructional Systems Design (ISD) development tools. My greatest strength lies in my ability to identify and resolve complex problems by devising innovative solutions to intricate training requirements, evaluating alternative options, and implementing forecasted solutions. 

EDUCATION & DEGREES

San Jose State University: 2005
M.A. Education, Instructional Technologies, emphasis in Multimedia & Graphic Design

San Jose State University: 2004
Multiple Subject CA State Teaching Credential, supplemental authorization to teach Business Applications and Computer Concepts at the college level.

University of Utah: 1993 
B.A. Mass Communications,  emphasis in Broadcast Journalism & Photography 

Brigham Young University: 1991
Spanish & Elementary Education

INDUSTRY adventures

tek Systems for Amazon MSP Automation solutions

Technical Project/Program Manager-(Technical writer-ISD ) (REMOTE)
feb 2024current

At the forefront of innovation, identified organizational learning needs and developed high-quality innovative learning solutions for the Teamcenter Product Lifecycle Management platform migration. Created captivating, scalable Articulate 360 SCORM courses and interactive training elements for effective learning experiences and to drive user adoption of supported applications to meet Amazon’s evolving learning needs for a global and technically diverse audience within BA&T.  Produced compelling video content (Adobe Premiere) to communicate learning objectives in an engaging and memorable manner. 

Actively participated in the comprehensive ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Deliver, Implement, and Evaluate) process model, incorporating triage from user feedback, LMS metrics, and ongoing course administration. This included the integration of Sprints and UI updates. Furthermore, developed and managed online tools and resources to support learners through Amazon Learn (LMS) and wiki resources. Additionally, created Robotics-MSP WorkDocs training materials, provided wiki informational support, and resolved user issues in SIM ticketing administration.

Collaborated with cross-functional stakeholders, including engineering disciplines, manufacturing, quality, safety, and product/program managers, to develop high-quality internal and external-facing user and process guides, as well as application UI configuration documentation. Employing Adobe Creative Suite, crafted exceptional presentations, infographics, storyboards, training concept maps, templates, and marketing communications while upholding Amazon’s stringent quality and professionalism standards. Conducted in-depth research and designed comprehensive reports that effectively conveyed the impact and efficacy of supported training programs.

Instructional Designer & Technical Writer

VF Corporation, DENVER, CO
20222023

Successful implementation of Agile methodologies to integrate a global migration from Oracle to Saviynt as the Global Identity & Access Management infrastructure to safeguard VF System resources. My responsibilities included: infographics, job aids, SharePoint design, UX/UI, beta testing with engineers, standard operating procedures (SOPs), knowledge-based (KB) articles, VILT presentations in PowerPoint, voiceovers, and training videos. Collaborated with the Marcom department on strategic initiatives through email newsletters and digital displays in global corporate offices. Additionally, prepared statistical data and forecasting reports on the success of Marcom and training initiatives. VILT training with Workday (LMS) administration duties. (contractor)

Virtual INSTRUCTOR LED TRAINING Producer & INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGNER

U.S. Department of Defense, Defense Acquisition University, FORT BELVOIR, VA
20212022

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic-induced learning restrictions, we successfully completed a university-wide LMS and MS Teams Agile-style migration. This initiative provided technical support through Service Now to instructors, staff, and students stationed globally for their LMS (CSOD) integration, MS Teams, and SharePoint requirements. To create engaging virtual learning artifacts, we employed rapid prototyping techniques with Articulate Storyline and Rise, coupled with UX design strategies. Additionally, we administered SharePoint administration to manage training databases, image asset repositories, manuals, content creation, infographics, and instructional aids. Furthermore, we produced VILT course offerings in MS Teams with DoD professors. (contractor)

Instructional Systems Designer, Sr.

U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, D.C.
20202021

During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, I conducted virtual meetings with key stakeholders, including medical doctors, change management teams, and SMEs to analyze hospital data and develop training materials for nationwide Veterans Hospital sites. This marked a significant shift in hospital safety initiatives, resulting in the implementation of change management strategies for all hospital executive leaders to safeguard patients and mitigate the risk of loss of life. Furthermore, I designed and delivered experiential learning experiences to help new operations achieve the status of a recognized High Reliability Organization (HRO). These experiences incorporated best practices from behavioral and cognitive sciences to effectively address business and performance objectives.

Utilizing Articulate products and Microsoft Office 365, I created instructional led trainings (ILTs), virtual instructional led trainings (VILTs), course manuals, student materials, training aids, rubrics, and assessments, all of which were integrated into the Learning Management System (LMS). Additionally, I composed strategic marketing communications newsletters and created graphic designs to raise awareness about the mandatory training requirements for HROs. Furthermore, I provided constructive feedback on the presentation skills of medical doctors and registered nurses and offered training solutions to enhance their communication abilities. (contractor)

Senior IT Trainer / Instructional Designer

CareFirst - Blue Cross / Blue Shield, Washington, D.C.
20192020

In my capacity at headquarters, I provided support to the Learning & Development and Executive Leadership Teams (ELT) in a prominent position. I collaborated effectively with other trainers, business analysts, engineers involved in Agile practices, and project/program managers to develop and deliver comprehensive employee training programs, encompassing ILT and VILT.

My responsibilities included the storyboarding and content development of blended learning solutions and asynchronous learning platforms utilizing Adobe Creative Cloud and other Instructional Design and authoring (ISD) tools. Additionally, I designed engaging job aids for the “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) initiative for smartphones, conducting beta testing with engineers.

Furthermore, I contributed to the editing and maintenance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring their adherence to corporate style guides and branding requirements. Notably, I was appointed as the editor and graphic designer for all documents, further enhancing the company’s visual identity and communication standards. (contractor)

Senior Instructional Systems Designer

U.S. Dept. of State, Foreign Service Institute, Arlington, VA
2019

Developed online courseware to train Ambassadors, Diplomats, and Foreign Service Officers. Analyzed student needs across various computer platforms employing responsive web design best practices for globally stationed officers. Collaborated cross-functionally with the graphic design department to create instructional materials for modules. Supported professors in transitioning face-to-face ILT into remote learning environments. Developed custom Articulate 360 products incorporating gamification technologies, pedagogical principles, and adult learning theories to facilitate immersive training experiences in crisis management and leadership development. (contractor)

Instructional Designer, SR.

Department of Homeland Security, USCIS Washington, D.C.
20172019

In an Agile environment, I collaborated with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to scale and analyze procedures across the agency, thereby enhancing business intelligence for senior leaders and adjudicators. USCIS, a data agency, significantly improved its business intelligence across the organization by making information more accessible and actionable.

The agency’s senior leadership (Field Directorates) were provided with timely and easily accessible insights through virtual dashboard webinars and live training sessions during the beta testing phase of Agile software development. This software development provided a comprehensive list of all live applications within the entire immigration tracking system.

Furthermore, training was conducted through real-life scenarios that demonstrated how to utilize real-time data using intricate graphs, charts, and data analysis techniques. Additionally, modules were developed for application tracking and methods were established to escalate various immigration scenarios. These measures enabled the provision of the first-of-its-kind, rapid electronic application approval methods for immigrants. (contractor)

Science assessment writer

McGraw-Hill Education, Monterey, CA
20092014

In collaboration with the Department of Education in Georgia, Washington, D.C., and Oklahoma, I spearheaded the development and editing of standardized testing and assessment materials that conformed to the Common-Core State Standards. Within an Agile framework, I conducted rigorous testing of online assessments with engineers. Furthermore, I provided support in the publication, layout, and design of printed test booklets. In conjunction with the art department, I contributed to the development and design of graphic images. Additionally, I addressed ongoing complex and conceptual challenges, including the analysis of testing data to elucidate problem assessment questions and methodologies for enhancing test development. Notably, I spearheaded the creation of virtual online tests, encompassing the editing, research, and testing of assessment accuracy and effectiveness. (contractor)

Senior Instructional Designer

Department of Defense, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA
20082009

Led faculty in the planning, design, and development of materials for graduate level ILT and distant-learning courses. Successful completion of a university-wide LMS migration and designed and delivered training to instructors and staff. Created online course architecture,  teaching tools, user guides, training videos, and development and refinement of existing online courses. Used Dreamweaver, Captivate, and Adobe Premier for audio and video production and media development.  Designed informational posters, educational program brochures, and published college newsletters using Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and MS PowerPoint. Responsible for online image repository and creation of graphic assets. Worked cross-functionally within the various college staff at the university,  marcom department, and top-secret course offerings.  (contractor)

Credentialed Public School Instructor

california state
20022017

As an instructor in Science, Computers, English, and Social Studies, I have sought temporary teaching contracts between ISD contracts. Notably, I designed and delivered a comprehensive district-wide science program that emphasized field and classroom investigation and experimentation for students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. Additionally, I developed and delivered STEM lessons that complemented classroom instruction in small groups, fostering in-depth scientific experiments and computer application projects. Furthermore, I designed and delivered differentiated computer and software instruction, working with socioeconomically disadvantaged populations to create and deliver instruction aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS).

COPY Editor

Oracle Corporation, SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, Ca
19961999

Collaborated with instructional designers and subject matter experts to develop comprehensive online and print-based courseware materials for enterprise software training certification. Proficiently utilized Adobe Framemaker, HTML, Photoshop, Illustrator, and PowerPoint to create original graphic designs and publish books utilized within the Universal Oracle Education division. (contractor)

Senior Public Relations Associate

GLOBAL FLUENCY, San Francisco Bay Area, Ca
19992002

Proficient in crafting comprehensive strategy documents, white-papers, press kits, case studies, and press releases tailored to Fortune 500 security technology companies. Skilled in pitching compelling stories to national broadcast news agencies and trade publications. Cultivated strong marketing communication skills through interactions with high-level executives and government leaders. Spearheaded a trade show and keynote speaking-opportunity program for Executive Leadership, while simultaneously mentoring in public speaking and presentation skills acquired during my tenure as a broadcast news journalist. 

TDI Design- Contract & Freelance

California & Utah
20022007

ZIONS BANK - Commercial Loan Specialist: Part-time commercial loan processing and approval specialist during college. Proficient in accounting principles, general ledger management, and lending practices. 

SAMSUNG - As the IT support team manager of service tickets, provided comprehensive support to employees, including remote desktop access and phone assistance. Additionally, assisted on-site staff with configuring and maintaining computer operating systems and peripherals, and managed computer assets and inventory effectively. ((contractor)

INTEL - Collaborated with sales and engineering Subject Matter Experts to develop an employee training program that assisted in marketing new products. Designed marketing strategies utilizing Harvard Business School methodologies, incorporating creative web design. Employed Dreamweaver and Adobe Creative Cloud products. (contractor)

NOKIA - Designed and developed retail global sales F2F training presentations on security and mobile connectivity products. Mentored and evaluated the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) on best practices in public speaking and training presentation skills. (contractor)

BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY - Website architecture, graphic design, and advertising strategies employed to attract students to pursue an Environmental Science degree. (freelance)

LABCORP -  As an employee of Intermountain Healthcare, I was responsible for maintaining medical billing records while collaborating with physicians and nurses. Additionally, I managed patient intake, conducted specimen collection, and performed laboratory analysis. Furthermore, I specialized in diagnostic microbiology and clinical pathology. 

TOOL BOX of expertise

INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN

  • ADDIE expert
  • Formative analysis: training needs, task, & gap
  • Storyboard, roadmap & concept maps
  • Content design & creation
  • Graphic design (infographics/job aids)
  • Implementation of design & training objectives
  • Assessment Strategies
  • Summative Evaluation
  • Statistical Analysis 
  • Quality Assurance reviews with revision advice
  • Instructor-Led Training (& VILT)
  • Responsive Design
  • Rapid Prototyping
  • Pedagogical Theories
  • Adult Learning Theories
  • SCORM
  • ADA-508 compliance 
  • LMS Administration
  • ELT Presentations

TECH 

  • Slack, Chime, WebEx, Adobe Connect, Zoom, and Teams
  • Tableau (Dashboard training & analysis)
  • UX/UI dev and testing
  • SharePoint Design & Management
  • Broadband and network security
  • LMS:  Amazon Learn, Cornerstone, Workday, Canvas, Blackboard, & Sakai
  • BrainStorm and other cloud-based ILT SaaS products
  • Global Identity & Access Management
  • IT Security (MFA / SSO / authentication)
  • Service Now, SIM ticketing resolution
  • PC & MAC Operating Systems
  • File Management: WorkDocs, SharePoint, Google, OneDrive, & iCloud 
  • eLearning Software: Articulate 360, Rise, Storyline,  Adobe Captivate, Elucidat & Camtasia
  • Web & Wiki Design: Dreamweaver, WIX, Word Press, HTML, XML, CSS
  • Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop & Illustrator
  • Video Production: Adobe Premiere, iMovie, Kaltura
  • Audio Production: Adobe Audition 
  • Publishing: FrameMaker, InDesign, Word, MS Publisher
  • Project Management: Visio,  Jira,  Kanban, Scrum
  • PowerPoint expert and instructor
  • Adobe Inc. Beta Tester for Adobe Express
  • Teamcenter Product Lifecycle Management

INDUSTRY 

  • Audio & Video Production
  • Graphic & Web Design
  • Marketing Communication
  • IT Security
  • Editing & Technical Writing
  • Photography
  • Program/Project Management
  • Change Management 
  • Banking Industry
  • Leadership - Regent of NSDAR
  • Public Relations & Media 
  • Newscasting & Reporting
  • Voice-over training 
  • University Experience (gov't, public, & private)
  • Healthcare Industry
  • Biotech & Clinical Lab
  • Genealogy & DNA 
  • Hi-tech companies
  • U.S. Government Entities
  • Public Education
  • Business Applications & Technologies

in my spare time

  • Trust for the National Mall, Washington DC- White House Garden Tour Guide, Park Police Horse stables docent
  • Bridle-Up Hope- A Stephen Covey Foundation, volunteer
  • National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) - Chapter Regent, Vice Regent; Media and Public Relations Chair
  • National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) - Executive Board Member, Washington D.C. Capital Chapter
  • HBO - Featured "Extra" Actor- Big Little Lies 
  • ABC, NBC, FOX - Freelance correspondent 
  • William Randolph Hearst Award -  Excellence in Radio Journalism 
  • Awarded Best Female Broadcast Voice -  University of Utah
  • Monterey Peninsula Yacht Club - Competitive sailor, volunteer, event planning, and special event coordinator
  • Monterey Historic  State Park Assoc. - Costumed docent
  • Freelance Book Publisher - providing services for personal narratives (private publication of 300 + page books)
  • PADI-Deep water ocean diver
  • California Central Coast Writers - Member
  • George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate-  Costumed docent and costume designer
  • Regional Genealogy Training Manager -  Volunteer for large non-profit as a regional trainer (Utah) & ISD

ARTICULATE SAMPLE Scorm COURSES

Amazon - Teamcenter Quick Start Guide for SolidWorks Mechanical Hardware Engineers

https://rise.articulhttps://rise.articulate.com/share/Ucgcl2y7xmKaoGQuSjNJBeDJTejLIFGK

Amazon - Robotics-MSP WorkDocs Administrator Training

https://rise.articulate.com/share/q19Td3_VdzYxZX02uXUoiIO6W9DofbU4#/

Amazon- Out of Office Procedures

https://rise.articulate.com/share/Ep8FBxk3xKrplGon_n1t1giODyhevtu3

Amazon - Teamcenter Introduction to Basics & Navigation

https://rise.articulate.com/share/BnMBUhSu41sdK3Jc3xJonBuHkhxPkx0-

Amazon - Teamcenter Document Management

https://rise.articulate.com/share/R-qEA_J2uQCyHXxEoy7hVmzETkDp6YVd

My work in the news

USCIS Deploys an Enterprise-Wide, Data-Driven Platform that Unlocks Efficiencies Across its Casework

https://www.tableau.com/solutions/industries/public-sector/federal-defense

Defense Acquisition University-Becoming a Modern Learning Platform in 2021

https://www.chieflearningofficer.com/2021/01/25/dau-becoming-a-modern-learning-platform-in-2021-its-about-the-song/

Veteran's Health Administration Movement for Change: Implementing High-Reliability Principles and Practices

https://psnet.ahrq.gov/issue/vhas-movement-change-implementing-high-reliability-principles-and-practices