Serving talent development professionals in Greater Akron-Canton and surrounding areas.

MEMBER NEWS: SUMMER 2023

VIEW FROM THE TOP

Keep Ahead of Industry Trends with CVATD

I've always been interested in staying current with the latest trends in the Learning and Development (L&D) field.

I've been in this field for so long that I can still recall when web-based training expanded beyond its military origins and entered the corporate world. This groundbreaking development forced us to rethink our approach to training, shifting away from traditional classroom-based methods and embracing blended learning strategies.

While Virtual Instructor-led Training (VILT) has been around for quite some time, the global pandemic finally compelled L&D departments to truly optimize VILT design and incorporate it into their overall learning strategies.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is currently the talk of the town and has become the latest trend on everyone's mind. In May, we organized an event dedicated to exploring AI and discussing its potential impact on our field. If you missed it, watch the recorded session and download the accompanying slides from the Members-Only section of our website, cvatd.org. Additionally, feel free to join the ongoing discussion in our LinkedIn group.

Being a part of CVATD offers numerous benefits, including gaining insights into the latest industry trends. As a member, you can engage in discussions with peers, benchmark your own practices against others who are either embracing or abandoning these trends, and ensure you remain current in your field.

If you haven't attended one of our events recently, I highly encourage you to join us and immerse yourself in the excitement of exploring these cutting-edge topics together. It's an opportunity to truly "geek out" with fellow professionals who share your passion!

Amy Salapski, President

UPCOMMING EVENTS

Wednesday, June 14
2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Friday, June 23
Noon – 1 p.m.

Summer Chapter Meet and Greet

Tuesday, August 15
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Nightmare Training: An October Coffee Connection!

Friday, October 6
7:45 – 9 a.m.

Friday, November 3
7:45 – 9 a.m.

CVATD Improv Class a BIG Hit!

CVATD members practiced thinking on their feet while fine-tuning facilitation skills during the "Fake It Till You Make It" improv class held at the Weathervane Playhouse in April — and had a blast doing it!

July 24-26, 2023 in Washington DC

Core 4 is the premier foundational training and development conference where you’ll learn the fundamentals of instructional design, training delivery and facilitation, evaluating impact, and learning technologies.

The key elements to successful facilitation are:

Design better training programs that improve performances.

Develop and deliver events that engage learners.

Evaluate the impact of your solutions.

Create engaging e-learning experiences.

APRIL MEMBER APPRECIATION EVENT

A Memorable Evening of Networking and Fun!

On April 20, CVATD held a member and volunteer appreciation event at Ray’s Place in Fairlawn. There was a robust showing, with a number of first-time in-person-event attendees, including two who were brand new to the organization.

The event began with a lengthy meet and greet, complete with hors d'oeuvres of veggies, hummus, cheese, and crackers. Many members artfully balanced a plate one-handed, too engaged in conversation to remove themselves to a table. President Amy Salapski brought the room to order, thanking members and volunteers alike and sharing her introduction to CVATD as a green newcomer transitioning out of a career in Forestry.

"When I initially became a member of CVATD over 20 years ago, I was attempting to transition from a career in forestry to the field of L&D. After sharing my story with the members, they generously extended their mentorship, reviewed my resume, and provided referrals. Thanks to their unwavering support, I secured my first L&D role in no time. This is just one of many stories I could share about the immeasurable benefits of being part of this nurturing community,” Salapski said.

A round robin of CVATD alum stories followed about how giving, welcoming, and helpful they have found the CVATD chapter to be for their careers.

“Every time I attend a meeting, gathering, or workshop with CVATD members, I gather a nugget, an idea, a tool, or something that causes me to be a better consultant and trainer. I also get to hang out with servant leaders that are upbeat, welcoming, and fun. I have fond memories of driving to a CVATD breakfast in a blizzard, questioning my sanity, and driving away glad I made the effort, because I got energized and what I needed to get unstuck with a client,” said Janet Kendall White, CVATD’s Co-Director of Programming.

"I have fond memories of driving to a CVATD breakfast in a blizzard, questioning my sanity, and driving away glad I made the effort, because I got energized and what I needed to get unstuck with a client.”

— Janet Kendall White, Co-Director of Programming

Whether it is through mentorship, referrals, or just a helping hand when it is needed, the bonds formed in this chapter are strong and deep.

“I’ve been a member of the chapter for over 20 years and have served on the board in a number of different roles. My experience has been that this is the most generous group of professionals I’ve known. I remember sitting next to Ned Parks at my first meeting. The company I worked for hired Ned to do negotiation training, and when I had my own business, Ned was my first client. Bob Dianetti also took me under his wing, and I later worked for Radcom as a contractor. I will always cherish the friendships I’ve made through CVATD,” said CVATD’s Treasurer Amy Edmonds.

"I've been a member of the chapter for over 20 years and have served on the board in a number of different roles. My experience has been that this is the most generous group of professionals I’ve known.”

— Amy Edmonds, Treasurer

New members also weighed in on the value they see in their new memberships already by becoming engaged in events. Eight new members have joined since the previous quarter, attracted by the active community this chapter offers.

“The CVATD chapter was really welcoming at the member appreciation event! I found so many people to share my passion for learning and development. As a transitioning veteran, I feel much more confident about breaking into the civilian workforce with this chapter as my guide,” said Brandon Waithe, the newest CVATD member at the time of the event.

The next in-person meet and greet will occur in on August 15, 2023 at The Wine Mill in Peninsula, OH from 5:50-7:30 p.m.

Brandon Waithe sharing his insight at the event.

From left: past CVATD President, Luann Spaethe; current CVATD President-Elect, Jessica Schemrich; CVATD member Nealie D'Abate; and past CVATD President Melinda Holmes

Teresa Potter chatting with CVATD Co-Director of Programming Stephanie Markovic.

New Members:

Allana Bowman*

Russell Bowsky

Arndt Haddenbrock

Barbara Hueter

Alivia Lapcevich*

Teresa Potter

Brandon Waithe*

* Denotes ATD Power Members

NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS

Allana Bowman

Allana Bowman has been in Learning and Development since 2013. She started in the steel industry, leading and developing a skill based development program. After traveling quite frequently to train across the U.S., she chose to move into a less hectic role as the Training and Development Specialist for a small company named PDMI in Poland, OH. She had the privilege of launching PDMI’s first ever training program, implementing an LMS, founding their first DEI Council, and partnering with Human Resources and other departments in many endeavors.

How long have you been a chapter member?

I joined as a chapter member this past month when I renewed my ATD membership. I have yet to attend an event but am looking forward to participating in the near future.

What is your favorite summer past-time or tradition?

During Covid, my husband and I decided to try our hand at gardening and canning. This has now become a major part of our summers, as I love to watch things grow. This year we will grow: beans, lettuce, cantaloupe, watermelon, spaghetti squash, zucchini, radishes, banana peppers, yellow and purple tomatoes, cucumbers, and cucamelons. I like to try something new every year and have a pretty unusual crop or two at all times!

What is your favorite thing about the CVATD so far?

Though I have not had a chance to meet anyone or participate in an event, I am looking forward to the opportunity to meet and learn from other in the same L&D market as myself.

Russell Bowsky

Russell Bowsky is new to Step Forward working as the Training and Development Coordinator. Prior to this role, he operated a training and consulting business focused on providing support for disability service agencies in areas of staff training, human resource strategy, budget planning, and public relations.

Russell built a career in disability services as a Program Manager and then as Director of Programs for two non-profit disability agencies in Oregon prior to relocating to the Cleveland area with his family in 2021.

He is Treasurer for The Arc Oregon Board of Directors, volunteered with Guardian Partners, a non-profit that works with the Oregon court system to oversee legal guardians of persons with disabilities, and represents multiple individuals as a Health Care Representative.

How long have you been a chapter member?

I’m a new member both to the national and local organization.

What is your favorite summer past-time or tradition?

I have been an avid bicyclist and hiker, and I enjoy the outdoors.

What is your favorite thing about the CVATD so far?

All the personal development opportunities: ATD and CVATD have been central in helping me meet professional challenges in my new role at Step Forward.

Arndt Haddenbrock

Arndt Haddenbrock is a passionate and driven business owner, coach, investor and servant leader with experience in performance coaching, sales, category management, and franchising. He is considering the option to found a coaching business centered around life coaching, business coaching, and career coaching.

Arndt is originally from Germany, but moved to the US in 1992 to pursue a BA degree from Birmingham-Southern College and later, an MBA from Vanderbilt University.

With over 20 years at Goodyear, he held leadership positions in sales and category management, executing strategic revenue growth initiatives. He left Goodyear in 2022 and became the owner of Tyre Industry Publications, a small UK-based publishing company that covers the tire industry.

How long have you been a chapter member?

I joined in April.

What is your favorite summer past-time or tradition?

I like to hike the parks of the Cuyahoga Valley.

What is your favorite thing about the CVATD so far?

Getting connected to amazing professionals in the chapter and enjoying the high-quality events the chapter organizes.

Barbara Hueter

Barbara Hueter is a training and development professional with a keen interest in helping employees develop the knowledge, skills, and capabilities to do all that their work requires of them. She currently works as a trainer and consultant for Compass Consulting Services, a woman and minority-owned organizational development firm with a strong business in helping clients develop DEI capabilities that strengthen cultures and lead to increased success.

How long have you been a chapter member?

I joined CVATD this spring after hearing from members about the opportunities to develop my skills and meet terrific people.

What is your favorite summer past-time or tradition?

My favorite summer past-time is a good old-fashioned American road trip. I love setting off for a destination with some extra time to see what we find along the way. The best one ever was a drive to San Antonio with stops at the Mississippi River, Waco for the Chip and Joanna Gaines experience, the Texas statehouse, the old Illinois statehouse where Abraham Lincoln served, and a number of other interesting stops along the 3,000+ miles of road.

What is your favorite thing about the CVATD so far?

CVATD’s people have been wonderful! They are curious, interested in getting to know fellow professionals, and dedicated to the field of training and development. The association provides multiple opportunities for members to meet and learn, so it is easy to get involved.

Teresa Potter

Teresa earned her Bachelor's in 7th-12th grade Language Arts Education from Kent State University and her Master's in Educational Technology from the University of Akron. She has since worked on projects with bleeding-edge educational innovations, including:

• Competency-Based Education project with the University of Akron
• Created democratized pre-employment assessments with the startup Interviewed (acquired by Indeed) 
• College Pilot for Tesla Solar Roof Installer Community 
• Generative AI in Education

Teresa makes useful things that help people teach and learn. The realities of technology and the workforce always provide new and exciting opportunities and challenges to face and overcome — and Teresa wants to work on the tough problems.

How long have you been a chapter member?

This is the beginning of my second year.

What is your favorite summer past-time or tradition?

The Stow Fourth of July parade! I was in the marching band growing up, so I love seeing all the bands perform.

What is your favorite thing about the CVATD so far?

I was a solopreneur for several years and it was very lonely not having anyone else to talk to who understands the world of learning and development. I joined ATD to help find colleagues and was immediately welcomed by other training professionals.

Brandon Waithe

Brandon Waithe is a transitioning Air Force veteran, currently looking for job opportunities. In the meantime, he has lined up some part-time work with Safety Training Group USA.

How long have you been a chapter member?

I've been a member of this chapter for almost three months

What is your favorite summer past-time or tradition?

Grilling and enjoying the parks.

What is your favorite thing about the CVATD so far?

My favorite thing about CVATD so far is the depth of knowledge of this group and how willing everyone is to share knowledge and collaborate!

ATD Power Membership

Twice the support. Twice the resources. Twice the networking. 

• Industry leading content.
• Career advancing education programs.
• Growing library of tools, checklists, and templates.
• Member-only access and discounts.

You'll also receive the support of your local talent development community through your CVATD membership with:

• Increased community engagement.
• Face-to-face networking.
• Business, career, and leadership development opportunities.

Get involved!

Build deeper relationships and gain more from your membership by getting involved with the chapter.

We’re currently seeking volunteers to assist with the following committees. The time commitment and responsibilities are flexible, based on your interests and availability. 

Programming Committee: Help organize and deliver our robust programming schedule and greet people attending in-person events. 

Marketing Committee: Do you love creative work such as writing and visual design? Join our marketing committee to help create our newsletters, social media posts, and other marketing materials.

Membership Committee: Would you like to expand your network and build new professional relationships? Join our membership committee to help welcome and onboard new members and contribute to strategies for inviting people to join our organization.

Technology Committee: If you love tinkering with technology, this behind-the-scenes team is the perfect fit for you. Learn how to use Wild Apricot to manage our website, registrations, and membership rosters. Help us administer our other tools, including Zoom, Vimeo, Kahoot, and more.

Website Refresh Committee: Do you have an eye for good website content and design? This committee will work on a short-term project to make recommendations for refreshing our website. Our technology committee will collaborate with this special project committee to handle the techy stuff for implementing changes.

Sponsorship Committee: We are launching a sponsorship program to invite companies to support our chapter so that we might offer additional benefits to our members. We’re looking for volunteers to facilitate introductions to potential sponsors and/or approach potential sponsors to request their support.

Leadership Roles: Are you interested in strengthening your leadership skills (and boosting your resume)? Consider volunteering for a leadership role on the board of directors. The nomination process and elections occur in the fall, and leadership terms begin in January. Let us know if you would like to learn more and be considered as a nominee.

Contact our President, Amy Salapski, at cvatdpresident@gmail.com for more information.

SAVE THE DATE!

ATD24 WILL BE IN NEW ORLEANS MAY 19-22!

OUR SPONSORS

Thank you to all of our sponsors. We appreciate your partnership!

ADVOCATE SPONSOR

SUPPORTER SPONSOR

IN-KIND SPONSOR

ABOUT CVATD

ABOUT

The Cuyahoga Valley Association of Talent Development (CVATD) is a professional organization that can help you meet other professionals in your area of expertise, develop skills through a full calendar of learning activities and expand leadership skills through volunteer opportunities.

MEMBER BENEFITS

CVATD offers our members upskilling webinars, in-person and online workshops, Lunch and Learn events, as well as Special Interest Group meetings.

Visit our website at cvatd.org for program information and to access Members-Only content,  like our membership directory, virtual meeting recordings and program handouts.

FOLLOW US!

Follow CVATD's LinkedIn page to keep up-to-date with chapter news and events.

Join CVATD's LinkedIn Group to post and share information with other members.

2023 Officers and Board of Directors

President:
Amy Salapski

Past President:
Luann Spaethe

President-Elect:
Jess Schemrich

Secretary:
Brad Babcock

Treasurer:
Amy Edmonds

Programming:
Stephanie Markovic Janet Kendall White

Membership:
Amy Browne
Jeanne Wiedt

Marketing and Communications:
Jennifer Grimes
Kate Graham

Technology:
Michele Miner
Cindy DiLauro