How the CPTD Opened Doors to AI, Awards, and Mentorship

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:

Celeste Stratton is a Instructional Designer. She earned the Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD®) credential in 2016.

Credibility and Confidence, the CPTD Opens Opportunities
The Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) credential from the Association for Talent Development (ATD) is a revered certification that signifies excellence and expertise in the field of talent development. This credential has served as a gateway to numerous opportunities and benefits which significantly enhanced my career and confidence. Here I share how multifaceted advantages of holding the CPTD credential recently supported me and how this credential may guide your professional journey as well.

Enhanced Professional Credibility
One of the foremost benefits of the CPTD credential is the enhanced professional credibility it provides. As a CPTD-certified professional, I am recognized for proficiency and commitment to the field of talent development. This recognition has been acknowledged in apart in the job market and opens doors to advanced career opportunities such as AI projects. My peers recognize my expertise and knowledge, knowing that you have met the rigorous standards set forth by ATD and continue to maintain the credential through meeting requirements.

Opportunities for Volunteer Engagement
An advantage of the CPTD credential is the opportunity to serve as a volunteer in rating the BEST Awards and Excellence in Practice Awards. The BEST Awards recognize organizations that demonstrate enterprise-wide success through talent development. As a volunteer rater, participation reinforces my knowledge of the competency model and offers insights into best practices and innovative strategies employed by leading organizations. This experience broadens my perspective, and allows me to contribute to the recognition of excellence in the industry.

Confidence in the Talent Development Model
The CPTD credential instills a deep sense of confidence in the talent development model. The comprehensive knowledge and skills acquired during the certification process empower one to design, implement, and evaluate effective talent development initiatives. Whether developing training programs, facilitating workshops, or leading organizational change, the CPTD credential equips me with the tools and methodologies to drive impactful results. This confidence translates into improved performance and outcomes, benefiting both me and my organization, some of which I have received internal awards and recognition.

Supporting New Certification Candidates
As a CPTD-certified professional, I have the opportunity to support new certification candidates shared my expertise. Mentoring and guiding aspiring talent development professionals is a rewarding experience that allows one to impart knowledge, reinforce concepts and guide expertise. By supporting others in their certification journey, I feel that I contribute to the growth and development of the talent development community. This collaborative effort fosters a culture of continuous learning and professional growth, ultimately strengthening the field as a whole.

Access to Research and Information on AI
In the rapidly evolving technological landscape, access to research and information on artificial intelligence (AI) is invaluable. ATD provides members with access to ATD's extensive resources, including research, whitepapers, and reports on AI and its applications in talent development. Staying informed about the latest advancements in AI enables me to integrate innovative technologies into talent development strategies and implementations with confidence. This knowledge positions me to leverage AI to enhance learning experiences, productivity and drive organizational success.

Comprehensive Professional Development
The journey to obtaining the CPTD credential itself is a comprehensive professional development experience. The certification process covers a wide range of topics, including instructional design, training delivery, performance improvement, and talent management. This comprehensive approach ensures that you develop a well-rounded skill set that is applicable to various aspects of talent development. The knowledge gained during this process not only prepares one for the certification exam but also enriches your professional capabilities, as an effective and versatile talent development professional.

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