Denise Boyd
Manager, Training and Development
Asurion
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
First, I took a part-time job mapping hazardous waste sites during my grad studies.
Then, I decided to design some job aids to help with new folks in my position. Next, I graduated.
I couldn't decide what to do -I had loans! I read a book called "Do What You Are", & found "Designer."
I interviewed and got my first Instructional Design job. I worked there for three years.
Then, I took time off to raise my son. Six years later, I reentered the workforce.
I worked as a government contractor, creating simulations and writing training for USCBP.
I had two managers leave. I was promoted to Sr Consultant and a month later, started managing.
My former manager called and told me of a management position that opened and she wanted to hire me.
Education
High School
Culpeper County High School
Culpeper County High School
Career
Manager, Training and Development
I manage Instructional Designers who write training on computers and customer service.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Writing
Technology
Teaching / Mentoring
Day to Day
Each day, I can expect something different. My team manages anywhere from 10-60 projects. A great day includes a 1:1 meeting with one of my team members, assisting with screen layouts for our internal software, writing step-by step training using simulations and manuals, attending meetings to obtain information, and cooperatively communicating with our Operations staff. I ensure that our retail training is delivered on time and to specifications. We meet / exceed expectations.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for college students
Don't be afraid to start at the bottom. Many of my colleagues came in at the bottom, customer service rep, and worked up to an Instructional Designer. Show that you are a hard worker, that you have an aptitude for the business you've entered and that you also have the skills to write training to support it. Volunteer to help fill training gaps, be a trainer, or mentor in your organization. I was recognized for my long hours early. The more you stand out, the farther you will go.
Recommended Education
My career is not related to what I studied. I'd recommend this path instead:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Myself:
"I felt some internal pressure to be a teacher, most of my family are teachers, but I wanted to be in the corporate world and do something different. No one told me I couldn't. No one discouraged me. I was very lucky."
Challenges I Overcame
Bullying
