Chapter Connections

The ability to create meaningful and impactful learning experiences is priceless. Every day, talent development professionals face the challenge of not just imparting knowledge, but truly engaging their audience, fostering an environment where learning is not just memorized but internalized and applied. This calls for a blend of understanding the learners' needs, creating the right environment, building rapport, and using appropriate delivery options to make learning engaging and effective​​.

Imagine possessing the skills to not only facilitate learning but to do so in a way that feels natural, seamless, and profoundly impactful. Imagine leading classes that attendees look forward to participating in, rather than (sometimes reluctantly) showing up and checking off a box.

High-impact facilitation can be the catalyst that sparks not just interest but transformation within each participant. 

This month's Learning Event facilitator, Kim Hayashi, founded Leadership Inspirations on a mission to create an army of fabulous facilitators with the ability to design leadership development programs and adapt to anything in order to serve a group’s true needs.  She'll combine that same mission with her years of experience in her session: Designing and Facilitating High-Impact Custom L&D Programs.

Join us in an event where you'll not only learn but experience a transformative journey in training delivery and facilitation.  This interactive, instantly applicable session will arm you with the knowledge and tools to elevate your facilitator game. Here’s what you’ll leave with:

• The Knowledge to Facilitate Experiences: Learn how to create learning experiences that are intentional, engaging, and maximize your audience's potential.

• A Stronger Understanding of Your Style: Gain insights into individual design and facilitation styles, and understand how they impact your process.

• Increased Knowledge: Discover how your style affects your design and facilitation, and how to adapt for greater effectiveness.

• Practical Takeaways and Tips: Walk away with actionable advice on how to custom design programs that resonate and engage​​.

Whether you're looking to refine your skills in designing custom programs, seeking to enhance your understanding of the complex dynamics of facilitation, or aiming to apply theoretical knowledge more effectively in your practice, this session is tailored for you​​.

Don't Miss Out - Reserve Your Spot Today!

Designing and Facilitating High-Impact Custom L&D Programs will be held on Wednesday, March 27, starting at 6:00 PM.  

Secure your place now and take a new step towards creating learning experiences that are not just educational but transformative.

#InvestInYou #GrowWithUs

In her role as Chapter President, Lynn perceives ATD-OC as a valuable platform for Learning and Development professionals to enrich their understanding of the field. Leading the Board of Directors, she ensures that the chapter has access to diverse programs, networking opportunities, and avenues for continuous learning. Recently, we had the opportunity to engage with Lynn to glean insights through a series of questions.

Why did you join the ATD-Orange County Board?

I joined the ATD Orange County Board in 2019 as Vice President of Talent Development because I was interested in volunteering in a leadership role. At the time I was in the middle of a career pivot and searching for a new job. In 2021 I became President Elect, In this role I supported the President in achieving the chapter goals, which prepare for the position of President in 2023. It’s been an action packed six years on the Board and I’ve learned a lot about leadership, non-profits, and volunteer run organizations.

What did you get out of your role?

My role as Chapter President has helped me gain experience leading leaders, developing strategy, and working with the board to find creative ways to accomplish our goals. Professionally, it’s increased my confidence in leadership situations and talking with leaders in my career.

What is your proudest accomplishment of the past year?

In 2023 I attended ATD ICE for the first time in San Diego. This might not sound like an accomplishment but in previous years I’d always found a reason not to attend. (Too busy at work, too expensive, too busy at home with the kids) In 2023 I made it a priority, finally! I met so many people in person I’d only met online. People from across the US, who I met while getting my CPTD certification, speakers who had lead sessions for our chapter, our National Advisor to Chapters (NAC), and industry thought leaders. (I took a selfie with Britt Andreatta!) I attended every Keynote, Networking Night, and several sessions each day. I caught up with chapter members that I hadn’t seen in months, or in one or two cases, years! It was a whirlwind of experience and I did my best to make the most of every opportunity.

View Lynn Nissen's Member Profile

Contributing Authors: Denise Ross, Cyndi Nagel, Paul Venderley

“According to PwC’s annual CEO Survey, business leaders recognize the need to increase their organizations’ ability to learn and innovate.”

“CEOs also are seeking greater creativity from employees. One CEO in our survey described creativity as "a skill that is always in need."

“Learning executives must understand the technological capabilities needed for future business growth.”

The above quotes came from an ATD article - Creating Value with Talent Strategies - published nine years ago. Their sentiments are echoed today as business leaders continue to examine the disruptive technologies and question how they can utilize them to better achieve their own organizational goals.

How do we, as talent development professionals, support business leaders in developing innovation and creative mindsets in their organizations? Perhaps by reminding people that:

"Innovation does not come from the well-worn path."

Of the myriad insights shared by David Patrick at last week’s InsightXplore, this is the one that my mind was able to process best.

When we try to innovate, he asks, do we base our ideas on a flawed model? Do we tackle problems that have been analyzed until any further advancement would result in an incremental increase in efficiency? Or do we build upon an inspiration that picks apart the existing models?

For David, the inspiration that picked apart the existing models was one singular revelation: “The universe is spinning on three axes.” And from that motion the universe created six essential shapes that we see in the natural world around us.

"An innovation-friendly culture gives its people the freedom to imagine the unimaginable. The next big idea can come from anyone and anywhere, and failure is considered a learning opportunity."

David described innovation as a journey of constant failure. The idea may “fall out of the clear blue sky,” but manifesting the idea in a method that others can understand takes work and persistence. After his initial discovery, David’s pursuit was to create a model of a simple sphere rotating on three axes. His fantastic models and inventions, while remarkable, were at their heart practical applications to prove his premise correct.

Throughout his work, David validated if he was on the right track by asking:

1. Is this unique?  
   Stay off the well-worn path.
2. Is this simple?
   Don't overcomplicate the solution. 
3. Does this cover everything without exception?

In some cases, David didn’t have the technology to adequately represent the patterns he was envisioning. In other cases, he just needed to turn his inventions onto a different axis in order to manifest their benefit. However, he viewed each failure as a step towards his goal; a challenge to explore a new field or technology that would give him the tools he needed to succeed.

Allow that journey to unfold, and you'll have it in you to uncover the secrets of the universe.

How does this relate to talent development?

1. Question existing models. Models work and premises are true, until they don't and aren't and a different way of looking at things is discovered.
   At one point in time, the well-worn path asserted the earth was flat.
   
   
2. If something doesn't seem to fit or make sense any longer, explore other perspectives. There are other people in other fields who may be studying concepts similar to yours.
   David provided a fascinating example of the shape of an electron and how it is defined using the Standard Model vs. quantum mechanics.
   
   
3. Don't be afraid of change. Embrace it. How can you use technological disruptions to your advantage?
   The example here, of course, is AI, a tool that can make us more efficient, but not replaceable. How can we use AI to inspire, to initiate change within our own processes?

David Patrick shares his inspirations with ATDOC members

I’ve got to take some time to process the remainder of what was shared that night. Fortunately, David Patrick is very giving of his time, offering to continue the discussion any time we want to visit.  “I want medicine to change. I want energy to change,” he tells us. “I want everything to change.” This is how he intends to do that.

Paul started with ATD-Orange County as the Vice President of Communications some years ago. Since then he’s been the VP of Technology, Chapter President, Programs VP, and now VP of Marketing. He’s already activated an aggressive plan to ensure our Chapter Members remain informed via our various social media channels (“Like! Share! Comment! We’d love to hear from you!” he tells us). We asked him about his plans for the Marketing position.

Why did you join the ATD-Orange County Board?

I had some ideas for the Chapter and I wanted to see if they would make a difference.

Like what?

When I started with ATD-OC, we had a newsletter that shared the thoughts and ideas of our members with our membership, as well as promoted Chapter events and the other Chapter business. I think that was a special part of ATD-OC, a means of connecting our community by tapping into and spreading the expertise of our members. The idea of ATD-OC has always been to leverage a strong community of learning and development professionals with each other so that we can be better than the sum of our parts. I’m seeking ways to bring that back.

What did you get out of your role?

I’ve always viewed ATD-OC as a sandbox in which I can test my ideas and the best practices that I glean from ATD research. ATD National promotes some exciting ideas and best practices, but I need a place to pilot those ideas before I try to roll them out at work or with a client. ATD-OC is willing to let me try stuff like that here, although they may have to tamper my exuberance a bit.

What is your proudest accomplishment of the past year?

I spent the latter half of 2023 trying to resurrect the https://atdoc.org/tech-trainingTraining and Technology Special Interest Group. I’m pleased to say that it's coming back strong this year with a chance for our members to experience some mixed and virtual reality training applications (you can read a brief summary what our members experienced here). We’ll be following that up with a panel discussion on the impact of AI in L&D. We just lined up our third panelist. Following that, we’ll be returning to our roots, tapping into finding ways for our members to apply the stuff everyone’s talking about.

Paul Venderley's Member Profile

How can immersive technology aid in the achievement of learning objectives? That's what the Training and Technology SIG asked in last month's meeting exploring extended reality.

The group met at the CraneMorley offices, where a team of instructional designers with experience creating mixed reality and virtual reality training interventions showed off the various projects they had worked on.

After a networking event that got everyone talking (once they translated what they had been prompted to talk about), participants were given a quick introduction to what extended reality covers and then split into two groups. 

One group experienced L&D content created using mixed reality tools within the Hololens 2.  The other group experienced L&D content in virtual reality via the Meta Quest 2. The groups swapped midway through the event.

As participants experienced the training courses in each of these mediums, they saw how both mixed reality and virtual reality take advantage of the ability to augment or completely change the environment in which the learner exists to provide more engaging and resonant learning opportunities.

TTSIG attendees discussing and experiencing how Mixed Reality applications can support L&D initiatives.

Learning Objectives achieved in the Mixed Reality content:

• Spatially locate HVAC components within a Porsche 911
• Connect and assemble a residential meter set assembly
• Locate the position of underground gas lines within two inches

Learning Objectives achieved in the Virtual Reality content:

• Explain and perform shoulder dystocia resolution maneuvers
• Reduce the associated risks when working on or near electrified propulsion vehicles

“We’ve heard a lot about XR, but this is the first time we’ve had the chance to see it in an L&D environment,” said one participant.

"It was really great to connect in person, and actually experience how these tools can work in person, rather than watching a video," shared another.  "It was cool."

What’s next for the Training and Technology SIG?

“Recently, KPMG published a report in which business leaders shared their opinion that the top three emerging technologies that will have the biggest impact on their business over the next year will be Generative AI, 5G, and Augmented Reality.  We’ve tackled augmented reality, so we figured next we’ll look at Generative AI,” said SIG Leader Paul Venderley. 

• April 30, 2024:  Impactful Learning: Transforming L&D with Generative AI

• May 30, 2024: Practicing Prompts: A Generative AI Sandbox

“However, at our heart, we’re focused on training solutions that can be applied to the bulk of the organizations with which we work.”

Linked in this post: AR Icebreaker used to kick off the event.

You can learn more about the Training and Technology SIG here.

Effective talent management involves planning for future leadership and other critical roles within the organization. Within ATD-Orange County, it also means identifying and matching our members to professional development opportunities available within our Chapter.

Our new VP of Talent Management, Taylor Dickey, loves helping people land their dream job, and is excited to collaborate with our members to connect them to invaluable roles within the Chapter that will help them grow and master their own skills. With years of experience as a recruiter through a wide variety of industries, Taylor brings with her the tools and experience(and the energy!) to help you make the most out of your involvement with ATD-OC. In this installment of Meet the Board, we invite you to meet Taylor Dickey and hear her perspectives on her role in our Chapter as Vice President of Talent Management.

Why did you join the ATD-Orange County Board?

I was introduced to ATD-OC by a dear friend named Susmitha Valvekar, who reached out to me about this exciting opportunity. The idea of being part of a board has always resonated with me, and ATD-OC appeared to be the perfect fit, with its shared values and promising beginnings.

What do you hope to get out of your role?

In this role, I hope to gain valuable experience and insights that will not only contribute to the success of this organization but also help me grow both professionally and personally. I'm eager to collaborate with talented individuals, learn from their expertise, and make meaningful contributions to our community.

What is your proudest accomplishment of the past year?

Upon joining a new organization I led a project to revamp our recruitment process, implementing new strategies and tools that resulted in a remarkable reduction in time to hire. This improvement not only enabled us to secure top talent more swiftly but also contributed to cost savings and increased productivity within the organization.

Check out Taylor’s Membership Profile for more info.

The opening sentences of the BizSIG web page show an inclusive invitation to pretty much everyone in our Chapter. “The BizSIG serves the needs of internal and external organizational development practitioners. If you are a facilitator, trainer, instructional designer, organizational development specialist, manager, coach, consultant…the BizSIG is for YOU!”

But still, the abbreviation at the start of the SIG’s name — “Biz” — may throw some of those internal and external OD practitioners off.  We joined ATD-OC for Learning and Development skills, right? 

“When I joined ASTD in 1990 for business and skill development,” shared BizSIG leader Jeffrey Hansler. “I quickly realized the value of executive business and organizational skills alongside L&D expertise.”

While there are multiple roles in organizational development, all of them focus on skill development and growth of individuals improving the organizations they serve.  This requires not just L&D skills, but business skills — perhaps explaining why the ‘Impacting Organizational Capability’ component of the ATD Capability Model includes segments on: 

• Business Insight

• Consulting and Business Partnering

• Organization and Development Culture

“I proposed the BizSIG in 2014 to elevate L&D professionals through executive business and skill development,” recalls Jeffrey. “Economic pressures often lead organizations to cut L&D activities first, affecting compensation levels. BizSIG equips professionals with essential skills to advance economically and professionally, both independently and internally.”

The ATD Capability Model also contains a segment titled: “Future Readiness,” and perhaps it is here where the BizSIG shines. Jeffrey continually experiments with content, delivery, pricing, media, presenters, topics, and design of the group.

• In 2015 they experimented with hybrid meeting formats. Years before the pandemic you may have seen Jeffrey applying those formats to our Learning Events as well!

• For 2022, the BizSIG innovated again, with a mastermind format and Spotlight Program. 

• And in 2024, the BizSIG continues its innovation with the InsightXplore series, a series of meetings bringing together a select group of forward-thinking individuals for a transformative learning experience.

“BizSIG's programs, covering hybrid skills, communication, business development, finance, podcasting, marketing, AI, C-Suite insights, foster innovation and success.” says Jeffrey.  “Despite CEO surveys highlighting a gap between L&D efforts and organizational success, BizSIG alumni flourish by applying learned skills.”

Stay in touch with ATD-OC to see how Jeffrey continues to innovate with his BizSIG program.

If you’re ready to embark on a journey of growth and innovation, register for the inaugural InsightXplore meeting this Thursday, March 14.

Our membership is the heart of our community. Our Membership VP thrives in the midst of this community, seeking feedback on how the Board can enhance member value and promote opportunities for our members to connect, invest, and grow. This year’s VP of Membership is none other than Cyndi Nagel, who looks forward to leading and coordinating ATD-OC’s membership activities.

We asked Cyndi about her new Board role:

Why did you join the ATD-Orange County Board?  

I find great pleasure in taking part in the ATD-OC events and have been eager to become a board member for some time. It's a personal commitment of mine to contribute annually to the L&D community. The ATD-OC community has supported me in various ways over the years, and I wish to extend that same support to fellow members. I genuinely believe our industry is inclusive and welcoming, and I'm excited about welcoming new members who bring diverse perspectives and expertise to our community.

What do you hope to get out of your role?

My goals are to establish new connections, introduce fresh ideas and individuals to the community, and build new friendships along the way.

What is your proudest accomplishment of the past year? 

I am most proud of developing an in-house mentorship program within my organization, which we have named "Belkin Mentor Connect." Unlike conventional mentorship programs, our focus at Belkin is to focus skill development through mentorship from peers. This program is designed to be skill-centric, enabling us to establish micro-mentorships with specific objectives and shorter engagement periods throughout the year. As a result of this initiative, I am honored to announce that I will be speaking at the ATD International Conference & Exposition (ATD ICE) in May (2024), where I will proudly share my Mentor Program ideas with a global ATD audience.

Connect with Cyndi Nagel via her Member Profile!

Ask any business person, and they'll tell you the CFO plays a critical role in shaping a company's strategy and future. Beyond managing finances, they provide insights that influence decision-making, drive growth, and ensure long-term sustainability. Our CFO, Michele Bivens, is entering her third year in this position. Her experience, both as a Treasurer for PIHRA Long Beach and as a business owner, has honed her ability in financial stewardship and in fostering sustainable growth. This aligns perfectly with our company’s values and vision, positioning us for enduring success.

We asked Michele to share a bit more about her experience on ATD-Orange County’s Board:

Why did you join the ATD-Orange County Board?

I joined the board to give back to the L&D community. I'm passionate about developing others and helping them be successful in their chosen field. I was also interested in networking with other learning leaders to share best practices, technology, and ideas.

What did you get out of your role?

All of that and more! I have mentored several people new to the field who are now working in L&D roles - so exciting! I am also giving back to our community, which is important to me in a 'service above self' capacity. I have met so many wonderful professionals at all levels, and it has enriched my life at many levels - as a mentor and as a mentee.

What is your proudest accomplishment of the past year?

We know that it is critical to change with the times, thus we are working to ensure the chapter is impactful to members in this post-pandemic world. I have been working with the current President and President-elect to develop several focus groups where we might engage with members to learn what is most important to them in a professional organization. I'm very excited about what we will learn and the new ideas we can implement.

You can learn more about Michele by visiting her Member Profile. 

As Past-President of ATD-Orange County, Gillian Wilson offers invaluable guidance and support to the current President and President-Elect. We asked her, as she approaches the final year of serving in our “C-Level Suite” to reflect on her experience with the Chapter.

What did you join the ATD-Orange County Board?

I was serving on the Board as Vice President of Technology when Susmitha was President Elect. I think very highly of her. I had never planned to be President but was when Susmitha asked if I would be interested I was persuaded along that path to try and keep the Chapter going strong.

What do you get out of your role?

I get a chance to meet lots of different people. Meeting new people is always impactful personally and professionally. Susmitha and I have continued our friendship beyond ATDOC. Lynn Nissan and I work for the same company on different sites and have connected at work as well as at ATD-OC.

Additionally, I get a better appreciation for L&D. When I first joined ATD-OC I was more on the LMS side. The MLEs and other Chapter programs let me see what else there was related to L&D. Coaching, DISC, etc., to help you grown professionally and personally.

What is your proudest accomplishment of the past year?

The introduction of different L&D tools in a GMP manufacturing environment. I have introduced Simpleshow for communications and micro-learnings and we've adopted Absorb LMS for instructor-led sign ups in place of ComplianceWire LMS. Simpleshow I have used before and like it. Absorb was already in place at Gilead, and although not a validated GMP system, it has some features that can be used that are more user friendly.

Want to know more about your Past President?

View Gillian Wilson's Member Profile.