From Curiosity to Intentionality

From the time she was 13, UnDesto AI CEO Myra Roldan wanted to work with computers. She earned a four-year scholarship to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, but life took a turn at 18 years old when she had her daughter. The two moved to the US from Puerto Rico, and Roldan became a registered nurse to support and provide for them both. Two more degrees and multiple credentials later, Roldan founded her own company and became a pioneer who has shaped technology in talent development. To recognize her work, ATD has named Roldan a 2025 Talent Development Outstanding Professional Award winner.

"It wasn't a straight line; not even close. But my stick-to-itiveness drove me; every twist and turn gave me perspective, grit, and an ability to connect with people in a real way," Roldan says. "And that's the heart of my work today. Helping others achieve what feels impossible, one determined step at a time."

AI savvy

While working for Amazon and helping educators around the world understand artificial intelligence for a decade, Roldan noticed leaders were overwhelmed by AI and didn't know where to start with implementation. In 2023, she founded UnDesto AI, which helps organizations develop clear and responsible AI strategies.

"I knew trust would be everything. That's why I earned my Certified Chief AI Officer (CCAIO) and Certified AI Ethics and Governance Professional (CAEGP) credentials—not just for the letters, but to show our clients that we're serious about doing this the right way," Roldan explains.

She says AI hasn't transformed TD yet because organizations aren't asking the correct questions. Roldan notes that companies need to move past tool curiosity and start asking bigger questions such as whether they have an AI policy in place, whether people are aware there's an AI policy, how the policy applies to their work, and whether there's been any change management.

Future potential

The steps companies can take to implement AI start with establishing an AI policy or guardrails to govern its use. Then, businesses should develop their teams' AI literacy.

"Begin by using AI tools for tasks like summarizing research, generating course outlines, or brainstorming new ideas," Roldan recommends. "Play with approved chat-based tools to speed up writing or planning. And most importantly, experiment with prompt writing. The more comfortable you get communicating with AI, the better you'll understand how to integrate it into your work."

The potential for AI in TD isn't in new tools or demos. Instead, it's about creating smarter and more responsive learning ecosystems that align with business strategy. But that can only happen when companies move from curiosity to intentional design.

"Imagine having AI that doesn't just generate content but helps identify skills gaps across the organization in real time," Roldan states. "AI that powers adaptive learning journeys, tailored to individual needs and business goals. Intelligent coaching simulations that prepare people for real-world scenarios. Automated insights that help talent teams prioritize development efforts with data, not guesswork."

The potential is massive, but it takes professionals like Roldan to treat AI as more than an L&D side project.