Tell us about your experience in the Talent Development space, including places you've worked, roles you've held, and organizations you're a part of.
I currently work as a Learning Specialist at a nonprofit in Raleigh. I collaborate with cross-functional teams to create and support training. I am a former educator who transitioned into talent development through professional certifications and HR roles that strengthened my understanding of workplace learning and employee development. Being part of SHRM and ATD has supported my growth and helped me build connections beyond education.
What are some of your interests, strengths, and unique qualities that would help others get to know you better?
I love the chance to get to know other ATD members better. I’m an introvert who enjoys connecting through one-on-one conversations and coffee meetings more than large networking events. One of my favorite conversations is learning about the twists and turns in someone’s career path. I have yet to meet two people with the exact same experiences! Volunteering has been an important part of my life and a way to continue learning and growing beyond my formal roles, and it’s also been a great way to get to know people. Please feel free to reach out if you’d like ideas for getting connected with ATD or other volunteer opportunities.
Favorite quote:
“Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you.” -Dr. Seuss
Are there specific people in the Talent Development space you follow and why?
There are many people in the TD community I continue to learn from. One area I’m especially passionate about is communication skills—no matter the field, strong communication matters. The work of Matt Abrahams and the work of Dr. Andrea Wojnicki have consistently provided me with practical tools and frameworks that I’ve used across teaching, training, networking, and even everyday conversations.
Do you have a lesson you’ve learned in your career you’d like to share with others?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in teaching and talent development is that relationships shape our work more than any tool or framework. Being willing to learn from the people around you, through listening and asking questions, makes collaboration and problem-solving easier. Whether you’re designing training, facilitating a session, learning or implementing new technology, or supporting someone through change, strong working relationships make the difference.
Do you have any favorite books or resources that you think others would find helpful?
My list of favorite books and resources is much longer than this, but a few that have been helpful to me: Make It Stick by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger III, and Mark A. McDaniel, The Art and Science of Training by Elaine Biech, and Design to Engage by Beth Cougler Blom. I also appreciate authors and researchers who focus on mindset, goal setting, and motivation, such as James Clear. I find many great podcasts during my commute as well, such as Talent Development Hot Seat and WorkLife with Adam Grant.
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tmcmillan809
