Training Industry Magazine - Spring 2024 - 9

SPOTLIGHT
LAURA NAGY,
CPTM
THE LEARNING LEADER SPOTLIGHT
WITH LAURA NAGY
In this issue, we are excited to
spotlight Laura Nagy, CPTM. Laura
has been working in the learning
and development (L&D) space for 15
years and has gained experience in
a wide range of roles like instruction/
facilitation, instructional design, training
administration, instructor development
and leadership. Today, Laura serves as
the information technology (IT) training
manager for Michigan State University.
Laura is a certified professional in training
management (CPTM) and also performed
certifications of instructors to teach for
NASA at the Kennedy Space Center.
Read on to learn more about Laura's
career journey.
Q: HOW DID YOU GET
STARTED IN L&D?
A: The first portion of my career was
in the federal government with their
behavioral analysis unit. After gaining
valuable experience, I moved into L&D,
where I onboarded new hires and taught
behavioral analysis - and eventually
three tiers of leadership training. I have
since moved to the civilian arena.
Q: WHAT'S YOUR MOST
MEMORABLE TRAINING
EXPERIENCE, GOOD OR BAD?
A: While at the federal government, I
trained an officer in behavioral analysis.
She lost her confidence, and I provided
guidance to help her regain her self-belief.
After she graduated, she asked me to put
her two-stripe epaulet on her uniform as
a sign of gratitude for my support.
Q: WHO WOULD YOU CONSIDER
YOUR MOST VALUABLE ROLE MODEL?
WHAT WERE SOME QUALITIES THAT
MADE THEM GREAT?
A: I consider myself lucky to have come
across an outstanding role model and
mentor in my professional journey. His
name is Scott, and even though I am no
longer working in the government, he
still provides mentorship. He's always
available, listens attentively, gives valuable
advice and is an exceptional leader.
Q: WHAT ARE THE MOST PRESSING
ISSUES ON YOUR PROFESSIONAL
PLATE RIGHT NOW?
A: Currently, I'm focused on creating
strategic alignment with the goals of
my team and those of the university.
Additionally, I'm exploring various metrics
to identify areas where we can improve
efficiency and effectiveness, with the
ultimate aim of providing the highest
quality services to our campus community.
Q: WHAT'S THE MOST CHALLENGING
ASPECT OF YOUR JOB?
A: One of the most challenging aspects
of my job is to provide data that includes
both quantifiable and qualifiable metrics
on the value we offer. Although it's
technically feasible, the subjectivity of
the value we provide makes it difficult
to quantify.
Q: WHAT'S THE MOST REWARDING
ASPECT OF YOUR JOB?
A: As an L&D professional, it brings me
immense joy when I'm able to positively
influence a team member and witness
their growth. Seeing their progress
reinforces my sense of purpose and
motivates me to continue striving for
excellence in my field.
Q: WHAT'S YOUR PREFERRED
TRAINING METHODOLOGY?
A: While virtual and blended learning
have their advantages, I believe that
instructor-led training is the most effective
approach.
Nevertheless,
incorporating
interactive elements such as games,
energizers and activities is essential
in creating engaging, enjoyable and
TRAINING INDUSTRY MAGAZINE - SPRING 2024 I WWW.TRAININGINDUSTRY.COM/MAGAZINE
highly effective learning experiences,
regardless of the delivery mode.
Q: HOW DO YOU FIND THE TIME
FOR YOUR OWN PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT?
A:
Investing
in
yourself
is
the
first
step toward achieving success and
reaching your full potential. You must
be purposeful in designating time - it's
essential. Neglecting to invest in yourself
can have negative consequences for you
and your team, leading to a fixed mindset
and a lack of motivation for excellence.
Q: ANY RECOMMENDATIONS
FOR FOLKS OUT THERE: BOOKS,
PARTNERS, RESOURCES, ETC.?
A: As a leader, I'm constantly seeking
out new ideas and perspectives to help
me grow and improve. Over time, I've
come across several excellent books
on leadership:
* " Start With Why: How Great Leaders
Inspire Everyone to Take Action " by
Simon Sinek.
* " She Thinks Like a Boss: Leadership:
9 Essential Skills for New Female
Leaders in Business and the
Workplace " by Jemma Roedel.
* " How to Work Fewer Hours, Make
More Money, and Spend Time Doing
What You Want " by Joe Sanok.
Q: IF SOMEONE WANTS TO FOLLOW
IN MY PROFESSIONAL FOOTSTEPS,
I'D TELL THEM TO BE SURE TO:
A: Get your seat at the table, observe
and have a voice. Network to build
connections and expand your
knowledge. Finally, seek mentorship to
learn from experienced professionals
and gain valuable insights. Be sure to
actively listen to the advice given and
use it to enhance your personal and
professional development.
9
https://trainingindustry.com/wiki/strategy-alignment-and-planning/strategic-alignment/ https://trainingindustry.com/wiki/strategy-alignment-and-planning/strategic-alignment/ https://trainingindustry.com/glossary/learning-metrics/ https://trainingindustry.com/glossary/instructor-led-training/ https://www.trainingindustry.com/magazine
Training Industry Magazine - Spring 2024

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