Join us at WCCCD - Northwest Campus in Detroit for an evening of networking, learning, and friendly competition!

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

This year's competitors are:

Brandon Wilkins
Take the L (to an Extraordinary Life!)
Learn four practical keys to living an extraordinary life and discover techniques you can immediately apply both personally and professionally.

Sarah Zigila
The H.E.A.R.T. Reset
Experience a science-backed, people-first leadership approach that helps leaders build connection, engagement, and trust.

Mary Wilson
A High-Level Roadmap to Short Film Success
Take a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process and learn what it takes to bring a short film from concept to completion.

In addition to three dynamic presentations, attendees will enjoy appetizers, networking opportunities, and the chance to help select the winner!

WCCCD - Northwest Campus
8200 Outer Dr W
Detroit, MI 48219

Registration Rates

• ATD Detroit Members: $35
  ATD Ann Arbor & West Michigan Members: $40
  Future Members: $45
  Students: $15

️ Register today and be part of the action!

Session Schedule

5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Networking & Appetizers

6:30 – 7:45 p.m.
Top Trainer Throwdown Competition

7:45 – 8:00 p.m.
Audience Voting Results & Wrap-Up

We look forward to seeing you there!

Hello ATD Detroit Members,

We’re excited to invite you to the Quarterly Leadership & Organizational Development Special Interest Group (SIG) session!

Date: June 11, 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM ET
Location: This is a hybrid event. Carhartt Workshop, 5800 Cass Ave, Detroit, MI 48221 (Zoom – link provided after registration)

Cost: Free for ATD Detroit and local ATD chapter members

Topic: Building High-Performing Teams- Examine trust, accountability, and performance frameworks 

Faciliators: Olacoy Lawyer and Shakiya Perez 

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 explore their shared interests, skills, and roles, while fostering valuable connections.

For more information about the Leadership and Organizational Development SIG, please contact:

• Olacoy Lawyer - olacoylawyer@gmail.com

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, 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!

July Topic: Social Contagion: How Behaviors Spread (or Die) Inside Organizations

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 Social Contagion: How Behaviors Spread (or Die) Inside Organizations. Culture change doesn’t fail because people do not understand the message. It fails because behavior spreads through imitation, social proof, and what gets rewarded long before any strategy deck ever lands. In this session, we will explore the behavioral science of social contagion and why certain habits go viral inside teams while others die quietly, even when everyone claims to support them.

You will learn how norms form through micro-behaviors, how informal influencers shape what becomes acceptable, and why the “real training” is often happening in meetings, side conversations, and moments of pressure, not in the classroom. Most importantly, you will walk away with practical ways to intentionally seed the behaviors you want, interrupt the ones you do not, and build environments where good habits spread faster than bad ones.

Come ready to identify what is currently contagious in your organization, and how to become more deliberate about what you are spreading.

Participants will be able to:

• Identify the behavioral pathways through which norms spread (modeling, reinforcement, social proof, and identity signaling).
• Spot early indicators that a behavior is becoming normalized, for better or worse.
• Map the informal influencers and environments that drive contagion in their organization.
• Design simple interventions to seed positive norms and reduce transmission of negative ones. 

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, July 30th, 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!

Hello ATD Detroit Members,

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

Date: Thursday August 27th, 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. 

----

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.

From Smile Sheets to Statistical Confidence: Practical Strategies for Defensible Training Evaluation

with Adrian Gianni

Most learning teams collect large amounts of training data but struggle to translate it into credible evidence of impact. This interactive session shows how to move beyond basic satisfaction metrics toward practical, defensible evaluation approaches that align with organizational decision-making.

Participants will work through real-world examples demonstrating how to strengthen Level 3 behavior measurement, connect learning data to business outcomes, and communicate results with greater confidence. The session emphasizes pragmatic methods that can be implemented using data organizations already collect—no advanced statistical background required.

Engagement strategies include guided reflection prompts, structured discussion, and live walkthrough examples that allow participants to evaluate their current measurement approach and identify immediate improvement opportunities.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

✅ Identify common gaps that weaken training evaluation credibility

✅ Apply practical methods to strengthen Level 3 behavior measurement

✅ Describe ways to connect learning data to organizational outcomes

Schedule:

5:30 - 6:00 P.M.  Networking Time

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

6:15-7:30 Session 

About Adrian Gianni

Adrian Gianni is a training evaluation consultant and adjunct psychology professor specializing in practical, defensible measurement strategies for learning and development teams. He is the creator of Evaluation Trakker, an applied evaluation ecosystem designed to help organizations strengthen Level 3 behavior measurement, connect learning to business outcomes, and communicate results with greater confidence. Adrian has taught research methods and statistics at the university level and focuses on translating complex analytics into clear, real-world workflows that practitioners can implement using data they already collect.

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, September 24th, 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. 

----

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.

2026 MI ATD Regional Conference

Join Michigan’s talent development community for a full day focused on Change in L&D.

MIATD26 brings together workplace learning professionals from across Michigan and neighboring regions to explore how we lead through change, uncertainty, and transformation in practical and human-centered ways.

Hosted collaboratively by Ann Arbor ATD and ATD Detroit, with additional support from West Michigan ATD, partners and volunteers, MIATD26 continues to build connection, shared learning, and professional community across the region.

Why Attend MIATD26?

Whether you lead learning programs, design training, support organizational change, coach leaders, or help teams adapt to what’s next, MIATD26 is designed to give you practical ideas, fresh perspective, and meaningful professional connection.

At MIATD26, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Explore timely conversations around change, AI, leadership, and workforce transformation

• Connect with L&D, HR, OD, and talent professionals from across the region

• Learn practical strategies you can bring back to your organization

• Hear from speakers and practitioners navigating real workplace challenges

• Build relationships across Michigan’s ATD community and beyond

This Year’s Programming Will Center Around:

• Organizational transformation

• Human-centered leadership

• AI and workforce evolution

• Resilience and adaptability

• Strategic influence and communication

A Full-Day Experience Built for Learning, Connection, and Momentum MIATD26 will include a keynote experience, breakout sessions, networking opportunities, sponsor and exhibitor connections, and space to exchange ideas with peers who are facing many of the same questions and pressures.

The day is designed to be practical, energizing, and community-centered, helping attendees leave with new ideas, useful connections, and renewed confidence for the future of work and learning.

Who Should Attend?
This event is designed for:

• Learning & Development professionals

• Talent Development leaders

• Instructional Designers

• HR and Organizational Development professionals

• Training managers and facilitators

• Consultants and coaches

• Workplace learning strategists

• Emerging and established leaders

Register at https://a2atd.org/event-6646301

• MI ATD Chapter Members: Advanced Registration $150 by Sun. Aug 16th, Regular Registration $185

• Student Members of MI ATD Chapters: $100

• Non-Members: $225

• MI ATD Conference Volunteer / Workers: $100

Please register by Oct. 5, 2026. 

All attendees (including guests) must register in advance so we can make facility and food arrangements.

Expected attendance: approximately 80–100 workplace learning professionals from across Michigan and neighboring regions.

Register early to save your spot. Space is limited, and advanced registration is available through Sunday, August 16, 2026.

Location Details:

Washtenaw Community College - Morris Lawrence Building

4800 E Huron River Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Presenter Information and Agenda Coming Soon:

Programming is currently being finalized. Keynote, speaker, sponsor, and agenda details will be announced as they are confirmed. Early registration is now open for those who want to reserve their spot.

Interested in sponsoring MIATD26? Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations interested in supporting the talent development community across Michigan. Details are coming soon.

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, October 29th, 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!

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!