ABOUT ME
An Evolving Career
Like many people currently working in the L & D field, I started out as a teacher. I absolutely loved teaching, but I soon discovered a passion for educational technology. I spent nights and weekends researching the latest tools and programs to maximize student engagement and my own productivity. I was especially focused on creativity software that allowed me to create high-interest, interactive lessons. This led me to a mostly unpaid side gig as a district technology trainer. In addition to narrowing the computer skills gaps for staff, I was given the freedom to develop an ed tech curriculum that I deemed most beneficial for my peers. When I discovered a new way to leverage the power of technology I would start creating instructional materials for my peers just for fun!
At some point, I wised up and began looking for teaching roles that would center around my passion, which lead me to the role of Technology Teacher for a K-5 technology magnet school. This allowed me more time to dig deeper into the world of computers where I discovered a new passion for coding. So I decided to challenge myself more by taking a job teaching middle school computer science. Eventually, I honed my programming skills enough to create curriculum for and teach courses like Web Development, App Creation. and Video Game Design. If you are still reading this, you probably gathered that I embrace change and love challenging myself to achieve new goals. This is what fueled my decision to leave the classroom behind to pursue a career in corporate instructional design.
Life Beyond L&D
Believe it or not, I do still have a full life outside of instructional design. I have always lived along the Connecticut coast, and when I’m not at my computer you’ll likely find me on, in, or near the ocean. Most summer weekends involve paddle boarding on Fisher’s Island Sound or exploring New England hiking trails with my husband. In the winter we often head inland for some cross-country skiing or hiking. Family is everything to me. Our children are all adults now, and we value family time as much as we did when they were growing up.
If you are STILL reading this, then I can only assume it is an extremely slow news day or your Kindle is on the charger. I’d much rather be talking with you about the value I could bring to your organization as an instructional designer or eLearning developer!