Who are the more than 5,000 talent development professionals who have earned the APTD or CPTD credential? Get to know the talented and diverse community:

LaTosha Patterson is a Talent Systems Specialist. She earned the Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD®) credential in 2022.

Why did you pursue the APTD/CPTD? I sought out the certification because I wanted to officially assess my knowledge based on my on-the -job experience and the years that I’ve acquired skills through various development opportunities. When I signed up, I paid for the CPTD instead of the APTD®. This will make you laugh, but I applied and paid for the wrong certificate program upon enrollment. Versus correcting the mistake, I went ahead and challenged myself to pursue the more advanced certification and continued with the
process. Doing so was one of the greatest accomplishments in my lifetime.

How have you benefited from the credential—professionally and/or personally? Personally, it boosted my confidence. Obtaining my CPTD on the first try helped put things into a
different perspective for me.

What advice would you share with others considering certification? I would say, go for it! Considering the certification means there is something in you that feels you
can accomplish it, so silence the hesitation or doubt and go for it. My motto is “mistakes mean that you are trying, but not trying is a mistake.”

How do you think certification helps the talent development field? I think certifications help the talent development field because they solidify your knowledge and skills and set you up for success. I think it shows others that you are a credible talent development professional.

How did your employer support your pursuit of the credential? My employer was great at supporting me in my development opportunity, but it didn’t stop there. I am also given opportunities to apply what I’ve learned, which is key to my growth.

What does having your credential mean to you? It means I am capable of doing anything I put my mind to. There was some doubt at first because it was unknown territory, but as I look back, I am glad that I pursued the CPTD.

Have you earned the APTD or CPTD? Share your story with the community.