My passion for this career began in 2008 in an online classroom at Mississippi State University. I was an undergraduate student majoring in secondary education with a concentration on technology and business. I knew I loved the idea of teaching and I loved technology, but I wasn’t convinced I had chosen the right career path. At the time, I was enrolled in an elective that studied the positive impact on learning retention when teachers effectively used technology as a tool in the classroom.
Little did I know, I had finally discovered a field that truly united my favorite things: teaching, learning, and COMPUTERS!
I became obsessed with principles of instructional design, adult learning theory, and the latest advancements in technology that allowed instruction to be delivered creatively through online platforms.
This course opened my eyes to a whole new world of possibilities through teaching and learning in an online environment.
I graduated soon after and immediately pursued a masters degree in Instructional Design & Technology (an entire degree on this topic - a dream come true!). In the interim, I spent a couple years as a high school Digital Media teacher in Madison County, MS (shoutout to the fellow educators!). In 2011, I landed my “first” instructional design job in Memphis, TN and it required that we relocate to the area. I worked as a contractor for the United States Air Force for a couple of years, then moved into the legal services industry, and then consumer services, designing both instructor-led/classroom training and e-learning. It was e-learning that I fell in love with!
Seven years later, with a nearly-two-year-old daughter and a 5-month-old son, my husband and I made the decision that I would leave my corporate job and "come home," which would allow me to spend more time with the kiddos. My family is my ultimate motivation: to be nearer to them, to love and nurture them as they grow; I know these are precious times! I have worked with some amazingly supportive professionals (several of which have become personal friends) and I am thankful for the impact each of them has had on my career and professional growth.
Spending all my days (and nights!) with my children was an absolute joyful time for me personally, but I really began missing my work - my creative outlet!
It was late-2018 when I decided to “go back to work” - but for myself this time. I began consulting with companies, marketing my skillset to businesses who were hiring freelancers to design and implement their training. And that has led to where I am today! I’ve been fortunate to work for Fortune 500 companies like Salesforce and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This career has afforded me the flexibility to work remotely from my home office and set my own hours, which is hard to put a price tag on as a Mama!
God has truly blessed me with the creativity to do work I love while staying home and spending more time with my babies than would ever be possible as a working parent otherwise! I thank Him frequently for leading me to this career and giving me the talents to do it well.
Currently, I have 10+ years of experience in the world of instructional technology and design. If you need custom training materials developed or a refresh of your current content - contact me! I love referrals as well!
My goal as a consultant is to be your champion: to truly understand you, your business, your needs, and your goals.
Check out my website and LinkedIn for work samples and recommendations from former clients and colleagues. I would love to share my expertise with you!