Chapter Connections

Welcome to Chapter Connections, your Community Hub for everything related to our Chapter's journey. More than just a space for reading, it's where you'll find the heartbeat of our community—connecting you to the insights, stories, and opportunities that empower your professional development.


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  • 02/15/2025 7:09 AM | Paul Venderley (Administrator)

    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!


  • 02/11/2025 9:33 AM | Paul Venderley (Administrator)

    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!




  • 02/02/2025 7:42 PM | Paul Venderley (Administrator)

    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!


  • 01/27/2025 9:01 AM | Paul Venderley (Administrator)

    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.




  • 01/16/2025 11:00 AM | Paul Venderley (Administrator)

    "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.

    You can meet Dr. Heideman in person as he joins our Local Author Meetup January 22, at the CraneMorley offices in Irvine.



  • 01/15/2025 9:19 AM | Paul Venderley (Administrator)

    Something new appeared on the ATD Orange County calendar this month: the PowerTable.

    What is it?

    The PowerTable is a virtual roundtable discussion exclusively for ATD Orange County Power Members. It’s designed to blend the expert knowledge and research provided by ATD National with the vibrant, supportive community we’re building here in ATD Orange County.

    This month, we piloted this new format with a discussion on “Drip-Feed Learning”, a concept introduced in the November issue of TD @ Work: "Improve Retention with Drip-Feed Learning."

    The goal of the PowerTable is to create an open space for members to explore relevant topics and brainstorm practical solutions. During this session, we:

    • Shared Ongoing Projects: We began by discussing our current training initiatives, particularly the transition from instructor-led to self-directed learning.
    • Explored Drip-Feed Applications: The group explored how drip-feed learning could support this transition, brainstorming ideas like integrating social enterprise networks such as Microsoft Teams or Slack for continuous learning.
    • Considered Diverse Learning Channels: Participants discussed using chatbots, AI tutors, and podcasts as tools for delivering bite-sized learning content. We even debated whether webinars—or their recordings—could serve as drip-feed learning.
    • Agreed on the Power of Drip-Feed Learning: The group aligned on one key takeaway: a well-structured drip-feed learning approach can spark curiosity and sustain learner motivation over time.

    Lessons Learned & Next Steps

    As a pilot session, this PowerTable taught us valuable lessons:

    • Improve Resource Accessibility: Each PowerTable will reference a TD @ Work issue (free for ATD National members), so we'll make those resources easier to access before the session.
    • Simplify Event Access: Since this is a members-only event, we’ll include the Zoom link directly in the event description to streamline access.
    • Experiment with Timing: The group liked the idea of a lunchtime session but suggested starting earlier, perhaps at 11:30 AM. We’re also considering a breakfast session to take advantage of fresh morning energy for thoughtful discussion.

    The PowerTable is a work in progress, and we’re excited to keep refining this space for meaningful, member-driven conversations.

    Have ideas for future topics or feedback on the session? Let us know!



  • 01/02/2025 1:45 PM | Paul Venderley (Administrator)

    A Show Of Hands. ATDOC members gather around a table filled with magazines, glue sticks, and scissors, sharing not only their Vision but their process for getting such a Vision affixed to paper.  Community and chatter. ATDOC members discuss the Vision Boards they're creating with others at their tables. Shown in this image are two tables; one in the foreground, one in the back.

    At our December event, members came together to create Vision Boards—a creative representation of our goals, dreams, and aspirations. Among the boards shared that day was one by Kim Khue-Chieffo, who is preparing to take on the mantle of Chapter President. Her Vision Board offered more than personal goals; it painted an inspiring perspective for ATD Orange County’s future.  Rooted in the principles of connection, investment, and growth, her vision centers on fostering a vibrant community, advancing professional learning, and collaborating to solve real-world challenges. Here’s how she envisions the road ahead:

    The digital Vision Board President-Elect Kim Khue-Chieffo shared at the December Event. While career growth is depicted in the center, community and friends border career.

    Community

    “I envision our rooms to be filled with professionals from all areas of the talent development field. We are learning from one another, building each other up,” says Kim.

    This vision emphasizes inclusivity—a space where members from diverse professional backgrounds form meaningful connections that propel both personal and career growth. ATDOC seeks to support professionals navigating transitions or pursuing new aspirations by providing the tools, relationships, and networks necessary to thrive in today’s dynamic environment.


    Professional Learning

    Kim takes pride in her contribution to ATDOC’s legacy of leadership development. “We’re committed to creating opportunities for professionals at all levels and stages of their careers, and fostering a sense of community for all professionals who wish to further develop professionally and personally.”

    This commitment extends beyond our monthly learning events and workshops. ATDOC itself functions as a dynamic learning organization, offering members opportunities to develop skills by taking on leadership roles, participating in events, or collaborating on initiatives. The Chapter remains aligned with members’ needs, ensuring timely and relevant learning experiences that support personal and professional success.


    Solve Problems Together

    “We have so much talent in our community to solve any business problems,” Kim states. “Our goal is to expand work experiences and keep our reputation in the business community as trusted solution providers.”

    As organizations grapple with the evolving workplace, ATDOC is stepping up to bridge the gap. By connecting with experts to integrate technologies like AI into L&D practices, the Chapter positions itself as a hub for innovative problem-solving. By leveraging the collective expertise of its members, ATDOC strengthens its community while delivering tangible value to businesses across industries.

    Kim Khue-Chieffo’s vision for ATD Orange County—rooted in connection, investment, and growth—is both a roadmap and an invitation. As she reflects, “The best gift of serving on the Board is the connection to experienced leaders from National and other chapters. It’s humbling and rewarding to contribute to our Chapter’s goal of continuous leadership development.”

    - - - - - 

    Now, it’s your turn. How do you see ATDOC evolving in the years to come? What challenges, opportunities, or innovations should we prioritize to best serve you?

    Join the conversation! Share your vision for ATDOC’s future in the comments below, or on the LinkedIn post that you probably selected to get to this article. Together, let’s connect, invest, and grow.


  • 12/26/2024 6:21 PM | Paul Venderley (Administrator)

    Patience, adaptability, and the power of connection in volunteer leadership.

    Leading in a volunteer organization comes with its own unique challenges and rewards. For Gillian Wilson, her time as a leader at ATD-Orange County taught her the importance of patience, teamwork, and building meaningful professional relationships. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the growth and connection that come from stepping up to lead.


    The Balance of Patience and Progress

    Gillian’s experience as a board member highlighted a fundamental truth: leading volunteers requires flexibility and understanding. Unlike traditional workplace teams, volunteer board members are balancing their ATD-OC commitments with busy professional lives and personal priorities.

    “You have to understand that the board is important but not their first priority,” Gillian shares. “Working around that to get things done takes patience, collaboration, and time.”

    For Gillian, this meant adjusting expectations and allowing extra time to achieve goals. Her leadership experience tested her ability to keep projects on track while fostering a supportive and understanding team environment—an essential skill for any leader.


    Achieving Results Together

    One of Gillian’s proudest accomplishments was leading the revision of ATD-OC’s chapter bylaws. Though the process took longer than expected due to the dynamics of volunteer leadership, the accomplishment reflects her perseverance and ability to navigate challenges.

    By adapting to her team’s needs, Gillian demonstrated that leadership isn’t about pushing people—it’s about working with them to move forward. Her experience shows that with patience, persistence, and teamwork, even the most complex projects can come to fruition.


    Connections That Matter

    Beyond project accomplishments, Gillian found immense value in the relationships she built during her time at ATD-OC.

    “I know more about the companies and organizations operating in the OC area—some I hadn’t heard of previously,” she explains. But it’s not just about networking; it’s about connecting with passionate individuals who share your goals and values.

    Gillian describes these relationships as ones she can rely on for years to come: “People who have your back and who I know I can reconnect with down the line.” ATD-OC offers a unique space to foster connections that extend far beyond board meetings, workshops, or events.


    Gillian’s Leadership Lessons

    Gillian’s experience at ATD-Orange County offers key insights for anyone looking to develop their leadership skills:

    1. Patience Is Essential: Volunteer leadership requires flexibility, understanding, and the ability to adapt to others’ priorities.

    2. Collaboration Builds Success: Great leaders work with their teams, not against them, to achieve collective goals.

    3. Connections Are Powerful: Relationships built through leadership roles can provide lasting personal and professional value.


    ATD-Orange County: Your Platform for Leadership Growth

    Gillian Wilson’s story reflects the opportunities for growth, connection, and accomplishment that ATD-Orange County provides. By stepping into leadership roles, volunteers like Gillian not only make a difference for the organization—they also gain skills that transform their own professional journeys.

    At ATD-OC, leaders learn to navigate challenges, inspire teams, and foster connections that last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking to refine your leadership style, take on new projects, or build relationships with professionals in the L&D community, ATD-OC is the place to grow.

    Are you ready to take the next step in your leadership journey?



  • 12/19/2024 6:11 PM | Paul Venderley (Administrator)

    How leading volunteers and celebrating success builds lasting leadership skills.

    What does it take to lead in a volunteer organization? For Lynn Nissen, leadership at ATD-Orange County was about understanding people, celebrating team accomplishments, and finding joy in the process. Her experience serves as a powerful example of how ATD-OC empowers leaders to grow, connect, and make a meaningful impact.


    Leadership Is About People

    Lynn’s leadership journey at ATD-OC reaffirmed a critical lesson: volunteers are driven by purpose, not paychecks. Unlike traditional leadership roles, where compensation often motivates teams, leading in a volunteer environment requires a deeper understanding of individual motivations.

    “No two people are the same. No two leaders are the same,” Lynn explains. “It’s up to you to find what motivates each leader.”

    For Lynn, this meant recognizing that how you communicate—what you say, how you say it, and how you make others feel—is the key to engagement. Volunteers stay committed not because they have to, but because they feel valued, inspired, and connected to a shared purpose.


    Celebrating Team Successes

    Lynn’s pride in her role as a leader comes not from personal achievements but from what the ATD-OC team accomplished together.

    “The successes this year belong to the chapter,” she shares, pointing to highlights that reflect the team’s dedication:

    1. Gamification Workshop: A standout event that engaged members and elevated learning.

    2. Creating Training Program: Graduating seven new professionals—a testament to ATD-OC’s commitment to skill development.

    3. A Mix of In-Person and Virtual Learning: Ensuring flexibility and accessibility for all members.

    4. ATD ICE Chapter Team: Representing ATD-OC on a national stage and showcasing the chapter’s impact.

    These accomplishments reflect the collective efforts of leaders and volunteers working toward a common goal—supporting the professional growth of the L&D community.


    Connections That Last

    Lynn’s role at ATD-OC also gave her the opportunity to build meaningful connections with members passionate about their professional development. This year, co-leading the Creating Training workshop series, she engaged with individuals focused on honing their skills and growing their careers.

    “It was great to get to know each of them as individuals over the course of the workshops,” Lynn reflects. These connections are more than just professional—they are lasting relationships built on shared goals and mutual support.


    What Lynn’s Story Teaches Us About Leadership

    Lynn’s experience as a leader at ATD-Orange County offers powerful takeaways for anyone looking to develop their leadership skills:

    1. Lead with Empathy: Understand what motivates individuals and communicate in ways that inspire and engage.

    2. Celebrate Team Wins: Leadership isn’t about personal success—it’s about empowering others to shine.

    3. Build Meaningful Connections: Relationships built through leadership roles provide lasting value, both personally and professionally.


    Your Leadership Journey Starts Here

    ATD-Orange County is a place where leaders like Lynn Nissen grow, connect, and make a difference. Through hands-on experiences, collaboration, and mentorship, ATD-OC provides the platform to build the leadership skills that matter most.

    Whether you’re mentoring others, leading programs, or supporting chapter initiatives, you’ll find opportunities to develop the empathy, communication, and connection that make great leaders.

    Ready to take your leadership skills to the next level?



  • 12/17/2024 7:27 PM | Paul Venderley (Administrator)

    How mentorship, growth, and a passion for giving back shaped Michele Bivens' leadership experience.

    Leadership opportunities often emerge when we least expect them. For Michele Bivens, serving as the CFO for ATD-Orange County wasn’t just about budgets and reports—it was about building connections, fostering mentorship, and leaving a legacy for future leaders. Her story is a testament to how stepping into a leadership role with ATD-OC can spark personal growth and professional transformation.


    Mentorship: An Unexpected Gift

    When Michele joined ATD-OC, she didn’t anticipate the profound impact mentorship—both giving and receiving—would have on her leadership journey.

    “I recognized that mentors can be found anywhere,” Michele shares. Through her interactions with volunteers and members who reached out to her, Michele found herself guiding others to uncover insights they might not have realized on their own. At the same time, she learned from those around her, gaining lessons from board members and volunteers.

    This reciprocal mentorship experience reinforced a critical leadership truth: when we open ourselves to both teach and learn, we create opportunities for unexpected growth.


    A Legacy of Improvement and Impact

    As CFO, Michele brought her dedication to excellence and her commitment to leaving the role better than she found it. From streamlining processes to improving financial transparency, her contributions have created a lasting impact:

    • Transitioning ATD-OC’s bank accounts to a nonprofit-focused institution, helping ATD-OC save money while increasing returns on savings.

    • Simplifying financial documents to make monthly reports easier for non-financial board members to understand.

    • Updating process documents to provide a valuable resource for her successor.

    Michele didn’t stop there. Recognizing the value of mentorship in her own experience, she paid it forward. Over several months, Michele worked closely with the incoming CFO, sharing knowledge, processes, and insights to ensure a seamless transition.

    “It was extremely important to me to pay forward the mentorship I received,” she reflects. Her efforts exemplify ATD-OC’s culture of collaboration, support, and shared success.


    Leadership Lessons That Last

    Michele’s experience at ATD-OC highlights key leadership lessons:

    • Mentors Are Everywhere: By staying open to learning and guiding others, you’ll uncover opportunities for mutual growth.

    • Leave a Legacy: Leadership is about making a positive impact that outlasts your tenure.

    • Pay It Forward: Sharing your knowledge and experience ensures the next generation of leaders can thrive.


    Why ATD-OC Is a Leadership Launchpad

    Michele’s story is just one example of the transformative leadership opportunities available through ATD-Orange County. Whether you’re leading workshops, mentoring new professionals, or stepping into a board role, ATD-OC provides a supportive platform for developing essential leadership skills.

    “Mentoring and receiving mentoring outside of our organizations can help us grow in ways we did not expect,” Michele shares. Her experience proves that leadership doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens when we connect, share, and learn together.


    Take the Next Step in Your Leadership Journey

    Are you ready to develop your leadership skills, connect with like-minded professionals, and make a lasting impact? ATD-Orange County is here to support you every step of the way.

    Discover what leadership opportunities await you—get involved with ATD-OC today!



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