Chapter Connections

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to effortlessly connect with anyone, while others struggle to get their message across? The B.A.N.K. Code may hold the key to unlocking this mystery. This innovative methodology, developed by renowned expert Cheri Tree, offers a unique approach to understanding personality types and tailoring your communication style to build rapport and achieve better outcomes.

What if you could:

• Develop a system for identifying personality types quickly and accurately, ensuring that your communication is always clear, concise, and credible?

• Learn how to close deals faster and become a more influential communicator, boosting your income and impact?

• Build deeper, more authentic connections with colleagues and clients, fostering a more harmonious and collaborative work environment?

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, unlocking deeper insights into communication and developing innovative solutions?

Which of these appeals resonates most with you? How you answer may already provide some insight into your own B.A.N.K. code. 

No matter your preference, the B.A.N.K. Code offers valuable insights and tools for L&D professionals at all levels. Whether you're an instructional designer, a consultant, or a business owner, understanding the four personality types – Blueprint, Action, Nurturing, and Knowledge – can transform your approach to communication, leadership, and team development.

Ready to Elevate Your Communication and Achieve Greater Success?

Join us for our upcoming B.A.N.K. Code for L&D Professionals series, three events designed to take you from beginner to adept in the art and science of authentic communication.

Here's what you can expect:

Lunch and Learn Webinar: Building Better Connections for Business Success (March 26, 2025)

• Why: Discover the power of the B.A.N.K. Code to transform your business and personal relationships. This introductory webinar provides a glimpse into the science behind "yes" and how personality coding can revolutionize your communication.  

• How: Learn the fundamentals of the B.A.N.K. methodology and its practical applications in various settings.  

• What: Gain insights into the four personality types (Blueprint, Action, Nurturing, Knowledge) and how to identify them quickly.  

2. Monthly Learning Event (In Person): Crack the Code: Understanding Clients to Deliver Results (April 23, 2025)

• Why: Deepen your understanding of the B.A.N.K. Code and its potential to supercharge your influence, income, and impact.  

• How: Engage in interactive exercises, group discussions, and real-world case studies to apply the B.A.N.K. Code in practical scenarios.  

• What: Master the art of cracking personality codes in under 90 seconds, tailoring your communication to resonate with any audience.  

3. Workshop (In Person): B.A.N.K. Fundamentals – Mastering the Art & Science of Influence (May 10, 2025)

• Why: Unlock the secrets to authentic communication and build deeper, more meaningful relationships in all aspects of your life.  

• How: Participate in interactive role-playing, collaborative workshops, and personal assessment tools to refine your understanding and application of the B.A.N.K. Code.  

• What: Develop advanced communication skills, strategic negotiation techniques, and a deeper understanding of your own communication style.  

Each event builds upon the last, providing a comprehensive learning experience that will transform your approach to communication and empower you to achieve greater success in all areas of your life.

Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the power of personality and elevate your impact!

Start by registering for our introductory webinar:  Building Better Connections for Business Success (March 26, 2025)

Once you see how quickly the B.A.N.K. Code can empower you to build stronger relationships, register for the remainder of our B.A.N.K. Code for L&D Professionals series.

vWhy do we design learning experiences? Is it merely to impart information, or is it to ignite genuine transformation? As learning and development professionals, we often focus on the "what" and "how" of our programs, but what about the fundamental "why"—the human brain itself?

Imagine designing learning experiences that resonate with the very core of how we learn, leveraging the brain's natural processes to foster lasting impact. That's the power of understanding neuroscience in learning and development.

Join us for an interactive session with the Learning Pirate, Lauren Waldman, where we'll delve into the science behind learning and memory. This isn't just another workshop; it's an exploration of how the brain engages with learning, allowing us to evolve our strategies and truly connect with our learners.

Watch this video to get a sneak peek into Lauren's insights: 

Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your approach to learning and development.

Join us and discover the "why" behind effective learning.

When JodiAnne Ellis joined ATD Orange County (ATDOC), she was looking for more than a professional organization—she wanted a true community. As a passionate learning and development professional, she saw ATDOC as the perfect place to build meaningful relationships, grow her network, and stay ahead of industry trends.

Now, as the chapter’s Vice President of Talent Management, JodiAnne is taking that passion a step further by helping shape the chapter’s future and creating opportunities for others to thrive.

Finding Community and Growth at ATDOC

Like many members, JodiAnne was drawn to ATDOC for the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals who share a love for learning and development. 

“I joined ATDOC to build meaningful relationships with other passionate L&D professionals, grow my professional network, and stay informed about the industry's latest developments and best practices,” she shares.  

Whether it’s exchanging ideas, staying updated on best practices, or simply having a support system of industry peers, JodiAnne  believes that ATDOC provides an invaluable space for both personal and professional growth.

Why Serve on the Board?

For JodiAnne, stepping into a leadership role was about giving back and making an impact.

“I wanted to help advance the chapter’s vision and mission, share my insights and experience, and contribute to strengthening ATDOC’s presence within the L&D community,” she says.

By serving on the Board, she’s able to help create an even stronger, more engaged chapter—one that continues to be a go-to resource for learning professionals at all career stages.

A Vision for Connection, Learning, and Growth

JodiAnne’s goals for her role are all about fostering engagement and professional development.

“I want to design and host dynamic events that inspire active participation and learning,” she shares. “I’d also love to create mentorship opportunities that connect members with experienced professionals, and curate valuable resources to help individuals advance their skills and achieve their career goals.”

She’s on a mission to ensure every member feels supported, empowered, and connected.

With JodiAnne’s leadership, ATDOC is continuing to grow as a vibrant, welcoming community for L&D professionals. Whether you’re looking to network, develop new skills, or find mentorship opportunities, she’s dedicated to making sure you have the resources and support to thrive.

We’re thrilled to announce the relaunch of ATD OC’s Training & Technology Special Interest Group (TT-SIG)—a space where L&D professionals explore the latest tools, trends, and innovations shaping the future of learning. Whether you’re passionate about instructional design, AI, virtual learning, or emerging technologies, this SIG is for you!

‍☠️ And what better way to kick things off than with a pirate? That’s right! We’re setting sail on our first meeting with Lauren Waldman, the Learning Pirate, who will show us how to join forces with the brain to design learning experiences that truly stick. This is one adventure you won’t want to miss!

Topic: The Evolution of Learning: Designing in Partnership with the Brain

Date: Thursday, March 13th

Time: 12:00 PM PST

Virtual

You’re already recognized as a skilled trainer and instructional designer within your organization—but how do you stand out as a true leader in talent development beyond your immediate network?

Achieving ATD’s CPTD certification can set you apart, opening doors to enhanced credibility, leadership roles, and continuous career growth. But preparing for the exam can feel overwhelming—and that’s where we come in!

Our CPTD Study Group is designed to provide a structured, supportive, and collaborative environment to help you stay accountable and confident in your journey toward certification. Led by experienced moderators who have successfully passed the exam, this group offers:

• A guided approach to mastering CPTD concepts
• Peer learning through group discussions and presentations
• Valuable insights from past CPTD candidates across multiple ATD chapters

Not sure if it’s right for you? 

Join our free information session to learn what to expect, how the study group works, and how it can help you succeed.

Date & Time: 4:30 - 6:30 PM Pacific Time
Where: Virtual (link sent 24 hours before the session)

Who Can Join?

Anyone pursuing the CPTD or APTD certification—worldwide! ATD membership is not required, though partner chapter members (like ATDOC) receive discounted pricing for the full cohort.

Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in your future!  Register now and take the first step toward earning your CPTD certification.

Some people seek out the world of learning and development (L&D) with intention. Others, like Paul Venderley, find themselves in it by chance.

“I was the epitome of an accidental trainer,” Paul shares. “A subject matter expert who fell into the role because I was good at explaining things. As my responsibilities grew, I found myself floundering—searching for guidance and a community of peers who understood the challenges I faced.”

That search for support led Paul to ATD Orange County—thanks to a chance meeting one morning on the Metrolink.

“She noticed what I was doing had the hallmarks of a trainer prepping for a course and suggested I join the Chapter,” Paul recalls. “From my first experience, I knew I had found my people—a group of professionals eager to share their experiences and insights.”

From there, Paul immersed himself in the Total Trainer program, learned from seasoned practitioners, and discovered that ATDOC was more than a professional association—it was a community where he could belong, learn, and contribute.

Stepping Into Leadership

Paul’s journey with ATDOC didn’t stop at membership—he became a volunteer, taking on the role of Communications Manager and helping publish the Chapter’s newsletter, Orangespiel.

“I probably would have been content in that role for quite some time,” he admits. “But someone saw leadership potential in me and encouraged me to step up as VP of Communications.”

Since then, Paul has held several Board positions, each time stepping up because someone believed in him—and he wanted to live up to that trust.

Reviving Conversation & Community

As VP of Marketing, Paul’s vision goes beyond promotion—he wants to spark meaningful conversations.

“I probably dated myself with Orangespiel, but it was more than just a means of promoting the Chapter—it was a way for members to share expertise and connect,” Paul explains. “I want to bring that sense of community back to our eNewsletter so people look forward to reading it, not just scan it for updates.”

But he doesn’t want the conversation to stop there.

“I want people to talk about the Chapter like someone did with me. It's my hope that people who encounter ATD Orange County share something of their experience and invite others to join this community,” he says. “So many of us say, ‘I’m here because I received so much from ATDOC, and I want to give back.’ I want others to have that same experience—to connect with this talented group of L&D professionals and interact in ways that go beyond the digital world.”

With Paul at the helm of ATDOC’s marketing efforts, expect more storytelling, more shared insights, and more ways to engage with the Chapter’s vibrant L&D community.

Are you ready to be part of the conversation? Stay connected with ATDOC and discover how you can learn, grow, and give back!

For Patrick DelRosario, joining ATD Orange County (ATDOC) was about finding a sense of direction in an overwhelming sea of information. 

After attending the 2023 International Conference & Expo (ICE), he quickly realized that having a local chapter to connect with made all the difference. “Finding out there was a local chapter gave me a way to grow into the organization and work with others in the field.”  Patrick recalls. 

That sense of community and shared learning ultimately led him to step into a leadership role within ATDOC, where he’s now helping others navigate their own professional journeys.

Getting Involved and Giving Back

Patrick didn’t just want to be part of the chapter—he wanted to play an active role in shaping it. That’s what inspired him to join the ATDOC Board.

“I love the events ATDOC hosts and wanted to see how they come together,” he says. “I was curious about the different ways we engage learning professionals and how I could contribute ideas alongside like-minded individuals.”

By taking on the role of Chapter Secretary, Patrick gets to be right in the middle of it all, helping to keep things organized while also bringing fresh ideas to the table.

Inspiring Engagement and Growth

Patrick’s mission is clear: he wants to inspire others to get involved and make the most of what ATDOC has to offer.

“There’s so much opportunity to reskill and upskill, but sometimes we just need someone to help push us forward,” he shares. “I believe I can be that person.”

Whether it’s helping new members feel welcome, ensuring information flows smoothly, or encouraging others to take advantage of learning opportunities, Patrick is committed to making ATDOC a place where everyone feels supported in their professional growth.

With Patrick on board, ATDOC continues to thrive as a hub for learning and development professionals looking to connect, invest in themselves, and grow. His journey is a testament to how finding the right community can turn an overwhelming experience into an empowering one.

Ready to get involved?

Join ATD Orange County and take the next step in your L&D journey!

Joining a new community can be daunting, especially for introverts, but for James Skee, stepping into the world of ATD Orange County (ATDOC) has been an incredibly rewarding experience. As the chapter’s Chief Financial Officer, James has found unique ways to connect, grow, and give back. Here’s a look at his journey and the plans he has for the chapter.

Why ATD Orange County?

For James, it all started with a desire to meet the local Talent Management community, connect with like-minded individuals, and embrace opportunities for personal and professional growth. Despite being a member of ATDOC since 2019, he did not actively participate until he began studying for his CPTD certification and joined the multi-chapter CPTD Study Group. That led to him becoming ATDOC’s Certifications Manager and chapter representative on that Study Group. But where his chapter membership really took off was at the 2023 International Conference & Expo (ICE) in San Diego.

“Being an introvert, large social gatherings aren’t my thing,” James admits. “But knowing a group from ATDOC was there made the whole experience much more enjoyable.” Seeing the friendly faces from ATDOC at the Conference helped him navigate the event and form meaningful connections.

“I think it’s fair to say that without ATDOC, my ICE experience would’ve been far less enjoyable, if not outright overwhelming,” James reflects.

Stepping Up as a Board Member

Inspired by his positive experience, James became an active ATDOC member, expanding his service to the chapter by joining the Finance Committee under  and then CFO Michele Bivens. 

From there, James saw an opportunity to learn and apply skills and knowledge in ways that extend beyond his day job. This year, he joined the ATDOC Board, driven by a desire to give back and stretch beyond his comfort zone. 

“As an introvert, coming out of my shell is a challenge,” he shares. “But representing the Chapter as a board member has actually made it easier. It’s kind of like the ‘act my way into right thinking’ approach—I can’t just hide in the corner anymore!”

Connecting, Investing, and Growing Together

When it comes to his vision as CFO, James is all about empowering members while ensuring the chapter stays financially strong.

“I’m here to support the Board with solid financial controls,” he says. “But I also want to create opportunities for members interested in the financial side of things to learn and get involved.”

For James, the ATDOC community is a place where members can connect with fellow L&D professionals, invest in themselves, and grow in ways they never thought possible—something he’s experienced firsthand.

James’ journey is a testament to the power of community and stepping outside your comfort zone. Whether you’re an introvert like him or a seasoned networker, ATD Orange County offers a supportive space to learn, grow, and thrive. And with leaders like James at the helm, the chapter’s future is brighter than ever.

Ready to take your next step with ATD Orange County? Join the community and discover how you can connect, invest, and grow!

Our first Learning Event of the year was an intimate gathering featuring James Heideman, Ph.D., who engaged ATD Orange County members in a thought-provoking conversation about identifying and applying competencies in the workplace. He also shared insights into his process for writing a book.

Local author James Heideman, Ph.D., talks with Doaa Saleh, CPTD, as other ATD Orange County members network at the CraneMorley headquarters.

This is the second time CraneMorley has hosted an ATD Orange County event in their corporate headquarters in Irvine. Last year, the CraneMorley team had shared their work incorporating XR into Learning and Development interventions. This year, they introduced local author James Heideman, Ph.D. to the community as he shared his vision of adopting forward-looking competencies for exceptional performance, no matter what job role we assume throughout our career.

The Key Analogy

Dr. Heideman explained the idea of applying competencies with an analogy: riding a bicycle. 

“What,” he asked us, “are you focusing on when you are riding a stationary bike?” 

“Heart rate,” one suggested, and others took up the thread. “Distance. Calories.”

“These are all internal measures of your performance,” Jim agreed. “Now let’s say you’re riding a real bicycle. What are you focusing on then?”

There was general agreement that the focus had shifted. Even if we were riding the real bicycle as a form of exercise, while on the bike we were more likely to focus on the path we were taking. Obstacles in that path. Traffic.

This was analogous to the shift between job abilities and competencies.

When we focus on our abilities, we focus on performing the task and using our skills to complete the task. We rely on internal measures to identify if the task has been completed. However: we perform our jobs within a larger organization teeming with a wide range of external factors which influence what we do, and which are influenced by us. If we cannot read situations and then take practical, rational, and logical action in response to those situations, we cannot excel in meeting the organizational goals associated with that task.

Competencies are not new concepts in the business world. They've been studied for quite some time, and Dr. Heideman addressed some of the business leaders who had identified as many as 21 competencies that would support professional success. What differentiates Dr. Heideman's book is its focus on the instructional design profession, and the personal stories that exemplify how the competency can be applied.

Which led to a key point of discussion in the second half of the program: on writing a book. We can find a myriad of books in the library — the ATD Catalog has nearly 350 books on talent development alone — but none of those books will have the perspective and experiences that we bring to the field.  If you have something you would like to share, Jim tells us, you might as well get started now. 

Dr. Heideman used just five slides to outline his key concepts before opening the floor for Q&A.

Applying Competencies Ourselves

We decided to get started applying the competencies by the conclusion of the meeting.

One of the competencies that Dr. Heideman stressed was quite important: Self-Assessment.  He gave the example of conducting, after every project, an after action assessment to determine how well his actions had met organizational goals.  

In that spirit, we performed a bit of an after-action assessment ourselves.

• Add agenda details, highlighting focus on community
  We recognized that we did not include the event agenda in its description.  We want the community to know that networking and community socialization is a planned part of each of our Learning Events going forward.
  
  
• Include the full address, including suite numbers
  We neglected to include the Suite number in the venue address, causing the dedicated few to slowly drive through the parking lot looking for a likely place to meet. We’re sincerely hoping that everyone who had arrived at the location was able to find us, and didn’t give up and return home.
  
  
• Adjust event start times based upon attendee preferences
  Long ago, we had begun our evening Learning Events at 6:00 PM. We recently shifted to meet at 5:30 PM with the intent of getting folks home earlier. But we recognize that traffic can be daunting in the evenings, and dissuade folks from attending if they realize they’re going to be late.  So: 6:00 PM it is. We’ll start with the networking activity, so even if you’re stuck in traffic, you’ll have that much more time to make the presentation portion of the event.

"There is a reality to this, and that reality is in our everyday jobs. So whether you're in the medical industry or whether you're in communications or airline industry, it doesn't matter. You face the issue and resolve it." – Dr. James Heideman, Ph.D.

Dr. James Heideman shared this insight during an interview about his newly released book, Practically Competent: Navigating Organizational Currents. The book transcends theories and abstract ideas, offering a practical guide to tackling the real challenges professionals face every day.

Drawing on decades of experience in the automotive industry, Dr. Heideman introduces his framework for “competency application,” built around 14 key competencies. When applied strategically, these competencies help professionals move beyond technical expertise into actionable, results-driven performance. “I feel what I call competencies are what play a key role in producing effective performance,” he explained. “It’s not just matching the skill to the task—it’s applying those skills to tasks in that environment.”

Dr. Heideman underscores that while technical skills can be learned, it’s the ability to adapt and apply those skills in diverse, ever-changing environments that distinguishes exceptional performers. “The agility and ability of an instructional technology professional to recognize their environment becomes a key differentiator in effective performance,” he explained. By focusing on these adaptable core competencies, Dr. Heideman’s framework transcends industry-specific demands, offering a universally applicable approach to achieving excellence.

Instead of viewing challenges as obstacles, Practically Competent reframes them as opportunities for growth. Whether it’s navigating regulatory changes in automotive manufacturing or adapting to rapid technological advancements, Dr. Heideman’s book offers a structured yet flexible approach to problem-solving. By focusing on real-world applications, Practically Competent equips professionals to meet challenges head-on, fostering not just competence but true excellence.

You can listen to our full interview with Dr. Heideman here.