Sharon Wingron is a CEO and Chief People Development Partner in the US. She earned the Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD®) credential in 2006.
Why did you pursue the CPTD?
It was important to me that we professionalize the profession. Too often people think anyone can be a trainer, that a PowerPoint deck is training, and that to be an effective consultant you simply need to form a company or hang out your shingle. None of that is true. There is an art and science to training, training is just one of the many solutions and approaches of talent development, and consulting involves processes and best practices beyond just showing up and giving advice. I pursued my credential because I wanted to distinguish myself as a talent development professional and as a legitimate consultant.
How have you benefited from the credential—professionally and/or personally?
My CPTD credential gives me confidence in my knowledge and skill set. It has opened doors with clients who might otherwise not have considered my services. The CPTD demonstrates that I have a breadth and depth of knowledge in the talent development profession. I am committed to learning, growing, and staying current in the profession. This communicates to my clients that I’m not a one-trick pony, and I can be the partner they are looking for and need.
What advice would you share with others considering certification?
If you are committed to the profession and want to rise above the masses, pursue your credential! As you consider it, get thoroughly familiar with the criteria. Get your manager and organization on board. Make sure you have the required professional job experience and commitment to the profession. Don’t think this is just taking a course! Certification is more comprehensive and relies on you being a seasoned practitioner. Once you are ready to engage with the certification process, plan out your timeline. Consider taking part in chapter-led preparation groups, taking an ATD preparation course, or taking other steps to prepare. Pace yourself to ensure you are prepared and confident going into the exam.
How do you think certification helps the talent development field?
Certification shows we are a legitimate profession with standards and best practices that can be measured and replicated. It legitimizes the work we do and helps to distinguish true professionals from people just working in the field. It also provides us with a framework to continue evolving our profession as the world of work evolves.
How did your employer support your pursuit of the credential?
I am self-employed, so my employer was 100% behind my pursuit! :)
What does having your credential mean to you?
I’m proud of my credential, and I’m proud that I was a “CPLP Pioneer” who helped shape the credential and my profession. It is part of my legacy.
How did you get into the talent development field?
I took self-assessments, did research and informational interviews, wrote a personal mission statement, and crafted a vision for what I wanted my life to look like and the contribution I wanted to make. This led me to the talent development field. From there, I joined ATD (then ASTD) at the chapter and national level, got involved, and began learning as much as I could about the profession. I also attended meetings of neighboring professional organizations—like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI)—to determine which aspect of talent development best fit my vision. I then applied for training and facilitation positions and transitioned into the profession.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
It sounds trite, but “do what you love, and the money will follow.” I have been successful in my career and life because I bring enthusiasm and passion to what I do. If you don’t love what you are doing, find out what you love, and do that instead. As Ferris Bueller said, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Look around at your life, and ensure it is meeting your wants and needs.
What is a great book you’ve read recently?
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey—each time I read it or work with the content, I learn, grow, and love it more.
What is your favorite hobby or pastime?
I have two favorite pastimes! They’re trail riding and horse camping with my Missouri Fox Trotter horse, TJ, and going on cruises!
What is the most unusual job you've had?
I was a brewing supervisor. I supervised the midnight shift, making beer.
Have you earned the APTD or CPTD? Share your story with the community.