March Topic: Unlearning Labs: The Behavioral Science of Letting Go

Location: Zoom Online Virtual Platform (link provided after registration)

Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and other local Chapter Members &

$10.00 for Guest

Description: Most L&D efforts focus on adding new skills, knowledge, and tools. The real challenge? Getting people to let go of what no longer serves them. Unlearning outdated processes, habits, and mental models is often the hardest part of change, and it is loaded with identity, emotion, and risk. In this session, we will treat unlearning as a behavioral science problem rather than a willpower problem.

We will explore habit extinction, cognitive flexibility, and the role of identity threat in resistance to change. You will learn how to design “unlearning labs” that help people safely question old scripts, experiment with new patterns, and update their sense of “how we do things here” without triggering defensiveness or shame. This is the session for anyone tasked with culture shifts, system changes, or “we can’t keep doing it this way” transformations.

Participant Outcomes

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Describe why unlearning is often more behaviorally difficult than learning something new.

• Recognize how habit loops, rewards, and identity attachment keep outdated behaviors in place.

• Design learning experiences that create safe experiments for letting go of old processes, scripts, or norms.

• Use behavioral strategies (such as gradual exposure, replacement habits, and narrative reframing) to support unlearning without blame or shame.

Jay's Bio

Jay Johnson works with people and organizations to empower teams, grow profits, and elevate leadership. He is a Co-Founder of Behavioral Elements®, a two-time TEDx speaker, and a designated Master Trainer by the Association for Talent Development. With a focus on behavioral intelligence, Jay has delivered transformational workshops to accelerate high-performance teams and cultures in more than 30 countries across four continents.

For more information about the ID SIG or the upcoming Meet-up, contact SIG Organizer Jay Johnson at jay@behavioralelements.com 

Note: SIGs are an exclusive member benefit for ATD Detroit and other local ATD chapter members. 

----

What's a SIG?

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small groups of members who share an affinity for a particular aspect of Talent Development. Whether it's a specific approach, a certain skill, or a common role in the industry, a SIG helps bring chapter members together to share in an interest.  

Anyone can start a SIG - all it takes is a shared interest and a meeting place! To learn more, contact the Chapter President, president@detroitatd.org.

Creating your Own Podcast Series to Train Employees is Easy to Do, and Hard to Get Right

with Robert Bilotti

Session Schedule:

5:30 - 6:15 Networking & Appetizers 

6:15 - 8:00 Session Presentation and Q&A

We hope to see you there!

Career Boost Coffee Chat

Looking to refine your resume, build a standout portfolio, or boost your career prospects? Join us for our Career Boost Coffee Chat, a monthly virtual meetup designed for unemployed and underemployed members seeking expert feedback and guidance.

Topic:

When: Third Tuesday of each month at 8:00 AM
Where: Zoom (link provided upon registration)
Cost: Free for ATD members (Detroit, Ann Arbor & West Michigan), $10 for future members

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and network with fellow professionals! Register now to secure your spot.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Hello ATD Detroit Members,

We’re excited to invite you to the Instructional Design Special Interest Group (SIG) session!

Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM ET
Location: Virtual (Zoom – link provided after registration)
Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and local ATD chapter members

This month's Topic: 

What’s a SIG?
Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small, member-driven communities focused on particular aspects of Talent Development. SIGs provide a space for members to dive deeper into shared interests, skills, and roles while building valuable connections.

For more information about the Instructional Design SIG, please contact:

• Laurie Zeller – lauriezeller365@gmail.com

• Misty Minna – Misty.minna@gmail.com

• Julie Pochik - julieapochik@gmail.com 

We hope to see you there!

January Topic: AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences

Location: Zoom Online Virtual Platform (link provided after registration)

Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and other local Chapter Members &

$10.00 for Guest

Description: Join us for AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences. AI is no longer just a content engine, it is a powerful shaper of behavior. In this session, we will explore how AI can act as a “behavioral co-trainer” for your learners and a “co-pilot” for you. From prompting reflection and spacing practice, to nudging follow-through and adapting difficulty, AI can quietly influence what people do before, during, and after your programs. At the same time, it can radically streamline how you design, develop, and deliver learning.

Instead of asking, “Will AI replace trainers?” we will focus on better questions:

• What should AI handle incredibly well, and what must stay deeply human?

• Where can AI automate micro-tasks so you can focus on high-value facilitation, relationships, and strategy?

Come ready to rethink AI not as a threat to your role, but as a behavioral amplifier and creative partner that can make your work faster, sharper, and more impactful, while keeping the human element exactly where it matters most.  

Jay's Bio

Jay Johnson works with people and organizations to empower teams, grow profits, and elevate leadership. He is a Co-Founder of Behavioral Elements®, a two-time TEDx speaker, and a designated Master Trainer by the Association for Talent Development. With a focus on behavioral intelligence, Jay has delivered transformational workshops to accelerate high-performance teams and cultures in more than 30 countries across four continents.

For more information about the ID SIG or the upcoming Meet-up, contact SIG Organizer Jay Johnson at jay@behavioralelements.com 

Note: SIGs are an exclusive member benefit for ATD Detroit and other local ATD chapter members. 

----

What's a SIG?

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small groups of members who share an affinity for a particular aspect of Talent Development. Whether it's a specific approach, a certain skill, or a common role in the industry, a SIG helps bring chapter members together to share in an interest.  

Anyone can start a SIG - all it takes is a shared interest and a meeting place! To learn more, contact the Chapter President, president@detroitatd.org.

Career Boost Coffee Chat

Looking to refine your resume, build a standout portfolio, or boost your career prospects? Join us for our Career Boost Coffee Chat, a monthly virtual meetup designed for unemployed and underemployed members seeking expert feedback and guidance.

Topic: 

When: Third Tuesday of each month at 8:00 AM
Where: Zoom (link provided upon registration)
Cost: Free for ATD members (Detroit, Ann Arbor & West Michigan), $10 for future members

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and network with fellow professionals! Register now to secure your spot.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Register with this link: 

Ann Arbor ATD - 2026 Pre-ATD Michigan Speakers Conference

Event Information:

2026 Pre-ATD Michigan Speakers Conference 

One Ticket - All Day Access

Fri Apr 24th, 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM Virtual via Zoom

We’re thrilled to present this joint ATD Ann Arbor and ATD Detroit event with support from Innovative Learning Group, a leader in creating performance-first learning that drives results. 

It's that time of year again! Join us for a 1-day virtual conference featuring four talented Michigan-based speakers who will be presenting at the ATD International Conference & EXPO 2026. Whether you stay for the full day or hop online as your schedule allows, this event is designed to give you valuable insights and inspiration.

** By registering, you'll receive access to the recordings of these sessions for you to watch at your convenience. **

MI ATD chapter member bonus: a limited number of seats are available to chapter members to participate in person, as a watch party at the ILG Office, in Troy MI. Enjoy free refreshments and lunch while networking with fellow Michigan ATD members.

Agenda: See below for session descriptions

09:00 - 09:15 AM   Doors open and light refreshments

09:15 - 09:30 AM   Welcome and opening remarks

09:30 - 10:30 AM   Matthew Pierce Building Loyalty, Retention, and Reach Through Customer Education

10:30 - 10:45 AM   Break

10:45 - 11:45 AM   Esther Jackson Build, Buy, or Bot: Rethinking Talent Development for AI Disruption

11:45 - 12:45 AM   Lunch break / networking

12:45 - 01:00 PM   Welcome back remarks

01:00 - 02:00 PM   Betty Dannewitz Tech-Induced Imposter Syndrome: Overcoming Self-Doubt in an AI Obsessed World

02:00 - 02:15 PM   Break

02:15 - 03:15 PM   Megan Torrance Cutting Through the Chaos: AI Implementation Guide for L&D

03:15 - 03:30 PM   Closing remarks / survey

03:30 PM*  Optional In-Person After Hours' VR Experience (Sponsored by Innovative Learning Group)

Registration Options:

• Virtual Advanced Registration | MI ATD Chapter Members: $25. Register by Apr 2.
• In-Person Advanced Registration Watch Party & After Hours | MI ATD Chapter Members: $30. Register by Apr 2. Price includes lunch and refreshments. 
• Virtual | MI ATD Chapter Members: $35. Register between Apr 3 - Apr 24.
• Virtual | Student Members: $15.
• Virtual | Non-Members: $45.

• In-Person Watch Party & After Hours | MI ATD Chapter Members: $40. Register between Apr 3 - Apr 22. Price includes lunch and refreshments. 

Location: ILG 1130 Coolidge Hwy., Troy, MI 48084 

*MI ATD chapter member extra bonus: Optional In-Person After Hours' VR Experience (Sponsored by Innovative Learning Group)
In-person attendees are invited to stay after the final session for an optional networking hour, generously sponsored by Innovative Learning Group (ILG). Join fellow attendees for light snacks and beverages, informal conversation, and the opportunity to experience ILG’s Virtual Reality training solutions firsthand. This relaxed, hands-on experience is designed to spark conversation, encourage connection, and offer a fun, immersive way to explore emerging learning technologies before kicking off the weekend. 
Participation is optional and open to registered in-person attendees only. Space is limited.

Cancellations & Refunds:

Cancellation refund requests will be accepted in writing when emailed to finance@a2atd.org up to 24 hours before the event start time.

Speakers:

Matthew Pierce 

is a video creator and instructional designer focused on practical, effective visual communication. As Growth and Content Marketing Manager at TechSmith, he hosts The Visual Lounge podcast, formerly led customer education, and helps create content across video, social media, web, and PR. He has helped develop professional development coursework for the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications and speaks at learning, customer education, and marketing events.

Building Loyalty, Retention, and Reach Through Customer Education

Customer education is more than support. It’s a powerful way to drive loyalty, retention, and growth. But too often, it gets stuck in a loop of generic help docs or uninspired courses. In this session, we’ll explore practical ways to use video, blogs, podcasts, and academies to teach, engage, and truly support your customers. We’ll examine what makes customer education different, what kinds of content work, and how to align learning with business outcomes, without overcomplicating the process. Whether you're building from scratch or looking to improve what you already have, you'll leave with clear examples, tested strategies, and a fresh way to think about customer learning.

Esther Jackson 

serves as the head of Lynnjac Consulting and as an educator at the collegiate level. With published work including Adaptability in Talent Development and the July 2025 TD at Work issue on C-Suite Personas.

Build, Buy, or Bot: Rethinking Talent Development for AI Disruption

AI isn’t coming. . . It’s already here, quietly reshaping how we lead, decide, and communicate. The question is no longer whether AI belongs in learning—it’s how to use it wisely. This session challenges participants to rethink traditional build-or-buy decisions in light of rapidly advancing AI capabilities. Participants will leave with a sharper lens for evaluating learning solutions and a practical approach they can apply within their own organizational context.

Betty Dannewitz 

is a Learning Solutions Architect with 20+ years in corporate L&D and Founder, CEO, of the Actual Betty and ifyouaskbetty LLC.

Tech-Induced Imposter Syndrome: Overcoming Self-Doubt in an AI Obsessed World

Technology, especially AI, is advancing faster than ever, and with it comes an overwhelming sense of comparison, constant upskilling pressure, and the feeling of never being "good enough." Imposter syndrome in the tech-driven workplace is real-making you question your skills, worth, and achievements, even when you have the credentials to back them up. In this session, you'll uncover how rapid technological change fuels imposter syndrome and gain practical tools to combat it.

Megan Torrance

CEO of TorranceLearning, leads a team of learning experience designers & engineers in reimagining workplace learning. Her firm has served Fortune 1000, major research universities, global associations, and federal agencies for over two decades.

Cutting Through the Chaos: AI Implementation Guide for L&D

Let's explore how learning and development professionals can lead meaningful, human-centered AI adoption across their organizations. Participants will be introduced to three practical tools: the AI Impact Zones, the W.I.S.E. A.T. A.I. framework for responsible implementation, and the AI Implementation Canvas - a strategic planning tool with fourteen dimensions to help teams navigate complexity with clarity. Through hands-on work with a realistic scenario, participants will practice using the Canvas to explore key implementation questions and build confidence in your role as an AI change agent. Attendees will leave with a copy of the Canvas and a clearer sense of how L&D can lead, not just support, this transformation.

Hello ATD Detroit Members,

We’re excited to invite you to the Instructional Design Special Interest Group (SIG) session!

Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM ET
Location: Virtual (Zoom – link provided after registration)
Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and local ATD chapter members

This month's Topic: 

What’s a SIG?
Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small, member-driven communities focused on particular aspects of Talent Development. SIGs provide a space for members to dive deeper into shared interests, skills, and roles while building valuable connections.

For more information about the Instructional Design SIG, please contact:

• Laurie Zeller – lauriezeller365@gmail.com

• Misty Minna – Misty.minna@gmail.com

• Julie Pochik - julieapochik@gmail.com 

We hope to see you there!

January Topic: AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences

Location: Zoom Online Virtual Platform (link provided after registration)

Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and other local Chapter Members &

$10.00 for Guest

Description: Join us for AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences. AI is no longer just a content engine, it is a powerful shaper of behavior. In this session, we will explore how AI can act as a “behavioral co-trainer” for your learners and a “co-pilot” for you. From prompting reflection and spacing practice, to nudging follow-through and adapting difficulty, AI can quietly influence what people do before, during, and after your programs. At the same time, it can radically streamline how you design, develop, and deliver learning.

Instead of asking, “Will AI replace trainers?” we will focus on better questions:

• What should AI handle incredibly well, and what must stay deeply human?

• Where can AI automate micro-tasks so you can focus on high-value facilitation, relationships, and strategy?

Come ready to rethink AI not as a threat to your role, but as a behavioral amplifier and creative partner that can make your work faster, sharper, and more impactful, while keeping the human element exactly where it matters most.  

Jay's Bio

Jay Johnson works with people and organizations to empower teams, grow profits, and elevate leadership. He is a Co-Founder of Behavioral Elements®, a two-time TEDx speaker, and a designated Master Trainer by the Association for Talent Development. With a focus on behavioral intelligence, Jay has delivered transformational workshops to accelerate high-performance teams and cultures in more than 30 countries across four continents.

For more information about the ID SIG or the upcoming Meet-up, contact SIG Organizer Jay Johnson at jay@behavioralelements.com 

Note: SIGs are an exclusive member benefit for ATD Detroit and other local ATD chapter members. 

----

What's a SIG?

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small groups of members who share an affinity for a particular aspect of Talent Development. Whether it's a specific approach, a certain skill, or a common role in the industry, a SIG helps bring chapter members together to share in an interest.  

Anyone can start a SIG - all it takes is a shared interest and a meeting place! To learn more, contact the Chapter President, president@detroitatd.org.

Moving From Panic to Purpose: Surviving and Thriving During Unrelenting Change

with Amy Waninger

Moving from Panic to Purpose: Responding to Changes in Your Career -

Your industry is changing more rapidly than ever before, bringing a barrage of discussions about disruption, agility, and

resilience. Professionals who adapt quickly can seize new opportunities and manage their careers. This session will introduce

various models for understanding personal and organizational change, as well as techniques for identifying and overcoming

fear, resistance, and uncertainty. Participants will work through a guided exercise to prepare for a current or imminent change.

They will leave with an action plan that puts them in the driver’s seat.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

✅ Recognize different models for understanding change from an organizational and personal perspective

✅ Identify different responses to change, including fear and resistance, in yourself and others

✅ Evaluate productive behaviors and resilience strategies

✅ Create a personalized action plan for a current or imminent change in your life or career

Schedule:

5:30 - 6:00 P.M.  Networking Time

6:00-6:15 P.M. Welcome and Announcements

6:15-7:30 Session 

About Amy C. Waninger

Amy C. Waninger (she/her) is the Founder & CEO of Lead at Any Level, where she improves employee engagement and

retention for companies that promote from within. Amy offers assessments, advisory services, and training on essential

skills for inclusive leaders. She is the author of eight books including Network Beyond Bias: Making Diversity a

Competitive Advantage for Your Career.

Amy is a Certified Diversity Professional (CDP), Certified Diversity Executive (CDE), and Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach.

She is also a Member of National Speakers Association and a Prosci Certified Change Practitioner. She’s been named a

Top 100 HR Influencer globally, five years in a row, and has served clients and audiences on all seven continents,

including Antarctica! Her other credentials include two degrees from Indiana University and a “World’s Best Mom” coffee

mug.

Career Boost Coffee Chat

Looking to refine your resume, build a standout portfolio, or boost your career prospects? Join us for our Career Boost Coffee Chat, a monthly virtual meetup designed for unemployed and underemployed members seeking expert feedback and guidance.

Topic: 

When: Third Tuesday of each month at 8:00 AM
Where: Zoom (link provided upon registration)
Cost: Free for ATD members (Detroit, Ann Arbor & West Michigan), $10 for future members

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and network with fellow professionals! Register now to secure your spot.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Hello ATD Detroit Members,

We’re excited to invite you to the Instructional Design Special Interest Group (SIG) session!

Date: Thursday, May 28, 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM ET
Location: Virtual (Zoom – link provided after registration)
Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and local ATD chapter members

This month's Topic: 

What’s a SIG?
Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small, member-driven communities focused on particular aspects of Talent Development. SIGs provide a space for members to dive deeper into shared interests, skills, and roles while building valuable connections.

For more information about the Instructional Design SIG, please contact:

• Laurie Zeller – lauriezeller365@gmail.com

• Misty Minna – Misty.minna@gmail.com

• Julie Pochik - julieapochik@gmail.com 

We hope to see you there!

January Topic: AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences

Location: Zoom Online Virtual Platform (link provided after registration)

Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and other local Chapter Members &

$10.00 for Guest

Description: Join us for AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences. AI is no longer just a content engine, it is a powerful shaper of behavior. In this session, we will explore how AI can act as a “behavioral co-trainer” for your learners and a “co-pilot” for you. From prompting reflection and spacing practice, to nudging follow-through and adapting difficulty, AI can quietly influence what people do before, during, and after your programs. At the same time, it can radically streamline how you design, develop, and deliver learning.

Instead of asking, “Will AI replace trainers?” we will focus on better questions:

• What should AI handle incredibly well, and what must stay deeply human?

• Where can AI automate micro-tasks so you can focus on high-value facilitation, relationships, and strategy?

Come ready to rethink AI not as a threat to your role, but as a behavioral amplifier and creative partner that can make your work faster, sharper, and more impactful, while keeping the human element exactly where it matters most.  

Jay's Bio

Jay Johnson works with people and organizations to empower teams, grow profits, and elevate leadership. He is a Co-Founder of Behavioral Elements®, a two-time TEDx speaker, and a designated Master Trainer by the Association for Talent Development. With a focus on behavioral intelligence, Jay has delivered transformational workshops to accelerate high-performance teams and cultures in more than 30 countries across four continents.

For more information about the ID SIG or the upcoming Meet-up, contact SIG Organizer Jay Johnson at jay@behavioralelements.com 

Note: SIGs are an exclusive member benefit for ATD Detroit and other local ATD chapter members. 

----

What's a SIG?

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small groups of members who share an affinity for a particular aspect of Talent Development. Whether it's a specific approach, a certain skill, or a common role in the industry, a SIG helps bring chapter members together to share in an interest.  

Anyone can start a SIG - all it takes is a shared interest and a meeting place! To learn more, contact the Chapter President, president@detroitatd.org.

Apply to be a competitor: https://form.jotform.com/260274130232140

Join us at Walsh College in Troy!

✨ Who will walk away with the title of Top Trainer of the Year? Come watch, cheer, and vote for your favorite! 

Join us at Walsh College (3838 Livernois Rd, Troy, MI 48083) for appetizers, networking, and fantastic presentations!

ATD Detroit: $35

ATD Ann Arbor and West Michigan: $40

Future Members: $45

Students: $15

Each presenter will have 15 minutes to give their best training session, then attendees will vote the winner! Register today to be part of this action-packed event!

Session Schedule

5:30 - 6:30 Networking & Appetizers 

6:30 - 7:45 Top Trainer Throwdown Presentations

7:45 - 8:00 Wrap up

Career Boost Coffee Chat

Looking to refine your resume, build a standout portfolio, or boost your career prospects? Join us for our Career Boost Coffee Chat, a monthly virtual meetup designed for unemployed and underemployed members seeking expert feedback and guidance.

Topic: 

When: Third Tuesday of each month at 8:00 AM
Where: Zoom (link provided upon registration)
Cost: Free for ATD members (Detroit, Ann Arbor & West Michigan), $10 for future members

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and network with fellow professionals! Register now to secure your spot.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Hello ATD Detroit Members,

We’re excited to invite you to the Instructional Design Special Interest Group (SIG) session!

Date: Thursday, June 25th ⏰ Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM ET

Location: Virtual (Zoom – link provided after registration)
Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and local ATD chapter members

This month's Topic: Facilitation Skills for Non-Facilitators 

As Instructional designers we are often more comfortable working on training materials in the background than being in front of a group. In this session, Megan Kelynack will introduce the way to build facilitation skills that we may need in different moments of our career. 

What’s a SIG?
Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small, member-driven communities focused on particular aspects of Talent Development. SIGs provide a space for members to dive deeper into shared interests, skills, and roles while building valuable connections.

For more information about the Instructional Design SIG, please contact:

• Laurie Zeller – lauriezeller365@gmail.com

• Misty Minna – Misty.minna@gmail.com

• Julie Pochik - julieapochik@gmail.com 

We hope to see you there!

January Topic: AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences

Location: Zoom Online Virtual Platform (link provided after registration)

Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and other local Chapter Members &

$10.00 for Guest

Description: Join us for AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences. AI is no longer just a content engine, it is a powerful shaper of behavior. In this session, we will explore how AI can act as a “behavioral co-trainer” for your learners and a “co-pilot” for you. From prompting reflection and spacing practice, to nudging follow-through and adapting difficulty, AI can quietly influence what people do before, during, and after your programs. At the same time, it can radically streamline how you design, develop, and deliver learning.

Instead of asking, “Will AI replace trainers?” we will focus on better questions:

• What should AI handle incredibly well, and what must stay deeply human?

• Where can AI automate micro-tasks so you can focus on high-value facilitation, relationships, and strategy?

Come ready to rethink AI not as a threat to your role, but as a behavioral amplifier and creative partner that can make your work faster, sharper, and more impactful, while keeping the human element exactly where it matters most.  

Jay's Bio

Jay Johnson works with people and organizations to empower teams, grow profits, and elevate leadership. He is a Co-Founder of Behavioral Elements®, a two-time TEDx speaker, and a designated Master Trainer by the Association for Talent Development. With a focus on behavioral intelligence, Jay has delivered transformational workshops to accelerate high-performance teams and cultures in more than 30 countries across four continents.

For more information about the ID SIG or the upcoming Meet-up, contact SIG Organizer Jay Johnson at jay@behavioralelements.com 

Note: SIGs are an exclusive member benefit for ATD Detroit and other local ATD chapter members. 

----

What's a SIG?

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small groups of members who share an affinity for a particular aspect of Talent Development. Whether it's a specific approach, a certain skill, or a common role in the industry, a SIG helps bring chapter members together to share in an interest.  

Anyone can start a SIG - all it takes is a shared interest and a meeting place! To learn more, contact the Chapter President, president@detroitatd.org.

You're Invited! ⚾

Join us for a night of networking and fun at Jimmy John's Field in Utica!
Bring your family and connect with fellow professionals in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026
Location: Jimmy John's Field, Utica

Gates Open: 6:00 PM
First Pitch: 7:05 PM

️ Your Ticket Includes:

• Hot Dog
• Bag of Chips
• Pop or Water

Don’t miss out on a great evening of baseball, networking, and community fun. We look forward to seeing you there!

Note: Registration Closes June 16.

Career Boost Coffee Chat

Looking to refine your resume, build a standout portfolio, or boost your career prospects? Join us for our Career Boost Coffee Chat, a monthly virtual meetup designed for unemployed and underemployed members seeking expert feedback and guidance.

Topic: 

When: Third Tuesday of each month at 8:00 AM
Where: Zoom (link provided upon registration)
Cost: Free for ATD members (Detroit, Ann Arbor & West Michigan), $10 for future members

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and network with fellow professionals! Register now to secure your spot.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Hello ATD Detroit Members,

We’re excited to invite you to the Instructional Design Special Interest Group (SIG) session!

Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM ET
Location: Virtual (Zoom – link provided after registration)
Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and local ATD chapter members

This month's Topic: Career Development for ID's: from entering the field to expert

In this session, Laurie Zeller will share her career journey from sales to instructional design and the intentional steps she took to make the career move, followed by ideas gleaned from other ID's in the field on how to continue to develop as an instructional designer throughout your career. There will also be a group discussion time to share your favorite tips and ask for help from the group.

What’s a SIG?
Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small, member-driven communities focused on particular aspects of Talent Development. SIGs provide a space for members to dive deeper into shared interests, skills, and roles while building valuable connections.

For more information about the Instructional Design SIG, please contact:

• Laurie Zeller – lauriezeller365@gmail.com

• Misty Minna – Misty.minna@gmail.com

• Julie Pochik - julieapochik@gmail.com 

We hope to see you there!

January Topic: AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences

Location: Zoom Online Virtual Platform (link provided after registration)

Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and other local Chapter Members &

$10.00 for Guest

Description: Join us for AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences. AI is no longer just a content engine, it is a powerful shaper of behavior. In this session, we will explore how AI can act as a “behavioral co-trainer” for your learners and a “co-pilot” for you. From prompting reflection and spacing practice, to nudging follow-through and adapting difficulty, AI can quietly influence what people do before, during, and after your programs. At the same time, it can radically streamline how you design, develop, and deliver learning.

Instead of asking, “Will AI replace trainers?” we will focus on better questions:

• What should AI handle incredibly well, and what must stay deeply human?

• Where can AI automate micro-tasks so you can focus on high-value facilitation, relationships, and strategy?

Come ready to rethink AI not as a threat to your role, but as a behavioral amplifier and creative partner that can make your work faster, sharper, and more impactful, while keeping the human element exactly where it matters most.  

Jay's Bio

Jay Johnson works with people and organizations to empower teams, grow profits, and elevate leadership. He is a Co-Founder of Behavioral Elements®, a two-time TEDx speaker, and a designated Master Trainer by the Association for Talent Development. With a focus on behavioral intelligence, Jay has delivered transformational workshops to accelerate high-performance teams and cultures in more than 30 countries across four continents.

For more information about the ID SIG or the upcoming Meet-up, contact SIG Organizer Jay Johnson at jay@behavioralelements.com 

Note: SIGs are an exclusive member benefit for ATD Detroit and other local ATD chapter members. 

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What's a SIG?

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small groups of members who share an affinity for a particular aspect of Talent Development. Whether it's a specific approach, a certain skill, or a common role in the industry, a SIG helps bring chapter members together to share in an interest.  

Anyone can start a SIG - all it takes is a shared interest and a meeting place! To learn more, contact the Chapter President, president@detroitatd.org.

Career Boost Coffee Chat

Looking to refine your resume, build a standout portfolio, or boost your career prospects? Join us for our Career Boost Coffee Chat, a monthly virtual meetup designed for unemployed and underemployed members seeking expert feedback and guidance.

Topic:

When: Third Tuesday of each month at 8:00 AM
Where: Zoom (link provided upon registration)
Cost: Free for ATD members (Detroit, Ann Arbor & West Michigan), $10 for future members

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and network with fellow professionals! Register now to secure your spot.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Hello ATD Detroit Members,

We’re excited to invite you to the Instructional Design Special Interest Group (SIG) session!

Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM ET
Location: Virtual (Zoom – link provided after registration)
Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and local ATD chapter members

This month's Topic: Career Development for ID's: from entering the field to expert

In this session, Laurie Zeller will share her career journey from sales to instructional design and the intentional steps she took to make the career move, followed by ideas gleaned from other ID's in the field on how to continue to develop as an instructional designer throughout your career. There will also be a group discussion time to share your favorite tips and ask for help from the group.

What’s a SIG?
Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small, member-driven communities focused on particular aspects of Talent Development. SIGs provide a space for members to dive deeper into shared interests, skills, and roles while building valuable connections.

For more information about the Instructional Design SIG, please contact:

• Laurie Zeller – lauriezeller365@gmail.com

• Misty Minna – Misty.minna@gmail.com

• Julie Pochik - julieapochik@gmail.com 

We hope to see you there!

January Topic: AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences

Location: Zoom Online Virtual Platform (link provided after registration)

Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and other local Chapter Members &

$10.00 for Guest

Description: Join us for AI as a Behavioral Co-Trainer: Designing Human + Machine Learning Experiences. AI is no longer just a content engine, it is a powerful shaper of behavior. In this session, we will explore how AI can act as a “behavioral co-trainer” for your learners and a “co-pilot” for you. From prompting reflection and spacing practice, to nudging follow-through and adapting difficulty, AI can quietly influence what people do before, during, and after your programs. At the same time, it can radically streamline how you design, develop, and deliver learning.

Instead of asking, “Will AI replace trainers?” we will focus on better questions:

• What should AI handle incredibly well, and what must stay deeply human?

• Where can AI automate micro-tasks so you can focus on high-value facilitation, relationships, and strategy?

Come ready to rethink AI not as a threat to your role, but as a behavioral amplifier and creative partner that can make your work faster, sharper, and more impactful, while keeping the human element exactly where it matters most.  

Jay's Bio

Jay Johnson works with people and organizations to empower teams, grow profits, and elevate leadership. He is a Co-Founder of Behavioral Elements®, a two-time TEDx speaker, and a designated Master Trainer by the Association for Talent Development. With a focus on behavioral intelligence, Jay has delivered transformational workshops to accelerate high-performance teams and cultures in more than 30 countries across four continents.

For more information about the ID SIG or the upcoming Meet-up, contact SIG Organizer Jay Johnson at jay@behavioralelements.com 

Note: SIGs are an exclusive member benefit for ATD Detroit and other local ATD chapter members. 

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What's a SIG?

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are small groups of members who share an affinity for a particular aspect of Talent Development. Whether it's a specific approach, a certain skill, or a common role in the industry, a SIG helps bring chapter members together to share in an interest.  

Anyone can start a SIG - all it takes is a shared interest and a meeting place! To learn more, contact the Chapter President, president@detroitatd.org.

Career Boost Coffee Chat

Looking to refine your resume, build a standout portfolio, or boost your career prospects? Join us for our Career Boost Coffee Chat, a monthly virtual meetup designed for unemployed and underemployed members seeking expert feedback and guidance.

Topic: 

When: Third Tuesday of each month at 8:00 AM
Where: Zoom (link provided upon registration)
Cost: Free for ATD members (Detroit, Ann Arbor & West Michigan), $10 for future members

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and network with fellow professionals! Register now to secure your spot.

We look forward to seeing you there!