Exploring L&D Roles
This series has been created for educators looking to transition into the dynamic field of Talent Development (aka...Learning & Development).
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Featuring L&D Panelist
Career Transition SIG Part 2 of 5
April 24, 2025 | 6:00 - 7:00 PM CT | Virtual attendance only
Free for Chapter Members, $10 for Guests
Session Description
Join us for an engaging panel discussion exploring the diverse world of Learning & Development (L&D). L&D professionals from various industries and specialties will share insights into different roles, how teaching skills translate, and career pathways in the field.
Whether you're looking to refine your direction, gain real-world advice, or connect with industry experts, this session will provide valuable perspectives to help you navigate your transition. Bring your questions, expand your network, and explore new opportunities in Learning & Development!
About Our Panel
Kevin Kepple-Instructional Designer
Kevin Kepple is an accomplished Instructional Designer with a passion for leveraging innovative technologies to enhance learning experiences, with specific interest in AI/VR /AR use for ESL and cultural immersion.
Kevin's career spans experience in many areas such as an ESL Instructor at universities in China, quality assurance and project management roles within the tech industry, and today is an Instructional Designer at the Mays Business School of Texas A&M.
With a Master’s in Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning from Boise State University and a Master’s in Film and Media Studies from Arizona State University, he combines instructional design expertise with a deep understanding of digital storytelling. He is currently attending Northern Illinois University as a PhD student in Instructional Technology.
Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn.
Alessandra LaTour, Ed.D.-Leadership Consultant
Alessandra LaTour, Ed.D., is a seasoned Learning & Development professional with over 15 years of experience designing, implementing, and optimizing learning programs. With a background spanning various L&D roles and academia, she brings expertise in learning analytics, content development, learning strategy, and program facilitation. From creating onboarding resources to facilitating enterprise-wide training programs and developing custom leadership development experiences, Alessandra specializes in aligning L&D strategies with business objectives and leveraging data-driven insights, technology, and innovative learning solutions to drive scalable and impactful learning. Through LaTour Leadership Academy, Alessandra partners with individuals and global organizations to develop authentic leadership styles, foster team synergy, and cultivate positive productivity.
Connect with Alessandra on LinkedIn or at latourleadershipacademy.com.
Tana Taylor-Facilitator
As an Instructional Designer and now Facilitator at Higginbotham (since November 2024), Tana leverages 16 years of experience to develop and deliver engaging learning experiences. Her current responsibilities include leading New Partner Technical Trainings and hosting bi-weekly Hiring Orientations, connecting their newest team members with essential HR resources.
Tana incorporates gamification within the Docebo LMS to boost user engagement and has a background in curriculum development from her time as a CTE Teacher. Beyond her professional life, she is married to her best friend, and they are proud parents of six children and four grandchildren. Tana's personal interests include gardening, frequent visits to the beauty of Colorado, and indulging in mystery and romance novels.
Connect with Tana on LinkedIn.
Lara Azcona-Change Management
In 2019, Lara Azcona stepped away from 17 successful years in the public school classroom teaching math, computer science, and business at the University of Kansas, then in 8th through 12th grade here in Texas. It had been a rewarding career helping all kinds of learners, from PreAP to resource students, experience success, but she was ready for a new challenge.
Since leaving the classroom, Lara has enjoyed a strong career in Change Management. She helped companies such as Vistra Energy (owners of TXU) and TD Industries successfully introduce new software systems to employees, developed training for BNSF Railroad, and provided OCM expertise for a logistics change at 7-Eleven. She is excited by her newest project where she is providing OCM support in the healthcare industry at Alcon.
In addition, to the professional success she has enjoyed, she has been a guest on multiple online webinars. Lara has been honored to share her change management expertise as a speaker with DFW OD Network at American Airlines and with the Agile Leadership Network (ALN). She has also been privileged to Co-Chair two conferences at local ATD chapters. She has served on the Board of Directors for the Texas Association for Change Management Professionals (ACMP). Lara served as the 2023 President of ATD Fort Worth/Mid-Cities.
With strategies learned from many who paved the way before her, she has grown a strong network and built a strong career outside the classroom.
Connect with Lara on LinkedIn or at bettertransformations.com.
Kim Koirtyohann-Corporate Trainer
Transitioning from educator to corporate trainer, Kim has over 15 years in the Medical Device Industry. Her background spans Digital Transformation, Customer Service, Change Management, Communications, Project Management and Training. Kim brings to the table a deep understanding of integration, key business operations & processes spanning digital, IT, finance, supply chain, customer service and manufacturing.
Her greatest accomplishment is being an exceptional people leader with a proven ability to create a high morale work environment. Under her direction, her reports consistently exceed objectives and advance their careers. She has a proven track record of developing high performing teams that have been recognized by both team members and executive leadership.
Matt Phillips-Digital Learning Specialist
Matt Phillips Digital Learning Specialist at Fort Worth ISD, and is passionate about making learning fun and effective for our teachers and staff. He holds a Master of Science in Learning Technology from the University of North Texas, where he honed my skills in instructional design, curriculum development, and teacher training. He has also earned certifications in social and behavioral research, UX foundations, and training and facilitation.
Connect with Matt on LinkedIn.
Meeting Agenda
5:55 pm - Log In
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm CT - Speaker Presentation + Q&A
All online reservations are OPEN the day of the meeting.
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How can this session help enhance your professional development?
This session will provide actionable insights from the Capability Model, showing you how to develop key skills and strategies, such as:
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Personal: Lifelong Learning, Communication, Emotional Intelligence & Decision Making
Professional: Instructional Design, Career & Leadership Development, Technology Application
Organizational: Business Impact, Talent Strategy & Management, Future Readiness
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