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About Me

Kristi Stewart

I started my career in the classroom, teaching history, literature, economics, and technology. Great learning isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about sparking curiosity and inspiring people to see the world in new ways.

When my daughter was young, I shifted from teaching to corporate learning and development. I wanted to be there for her milestones while continuing to do work I loved. 

Today, I’m a Senior Learning Advisor and Instructional Designer in the financial industry, leading the strategy and design of a large-scale compliance program. My passion lies in taking complex content and turning it into something people actually engage with and remember. 

I’m also deeply involved in the L&D community as a current National Advisor to Chapters (NAC), and an active member of the ATD Nebraska and the ATD Rocky Mountain Chapters. These roles let me connect with other learning leaders, share ideas, and keep pushing our industry forward.

Outside of work, I’m usually with my family, curled up with a great book, or being thoroughly entertained by my pets: Rue (my loving blue-eyed dog), Ginny (our energetic new puppy), and Scarlet (the cat who is our napping queen). My daughter is a high school senior, so I’m soaking up these last moments before officially joining the empty-nest club.

SparkForward Consulting is my next adventure. A space where I get to bring together my love for innovation, my knack for connecting people, and my passion for creating learning experiences. I thrive behind the scenes, collaborating with teams to transform existing programs into experiences that truly stick. If we work together, expect a lot of creative energy, a focus on what really matters, and a few good laughs along the way.

Leading, Learning, & Sharing

For me, learning has always been more than information—it’s about sparking curiosity, building connections, and creating transformation. Over the past 28years, I’ve dedicated my time and talent to advancing the field of education and talent development, serving both locally and nationally through education and the Association for Talent Development (ATD). 

Leading, learning & Sharing

Leadership & Volunteer Service

For more than 10 years, I’ve held leadership roles that shaped the ATD Nebraska chapter and supported professionals nationwide:

  • National Advisor to Chapters (2025–2027) 
  • President & President-Elect, Past President ATD Nebraska (2023–2025)
  • VP of Finance, ATD Nebraska 
  • VP of Membership, ATD Nebraska 
  • VP of Marketing & Communications, ATD Nebraska 
  • Director of Technology, ATD Nebraska
     

I’ve also shared insights as a presenter and facilitator at ATD Chapter Leader Conferences, the ATD Nebraska Conference, the ATD Kansas City Webinar, the ATD Nebraska Trainers Institute, and the ATD Leader Onboarding & Orientation Webinars.

Recognition & Awards

My work has been honored by peers and colleagues for advancing talent development and creating meaningful learning experiences:

  • Instructional Design Trailblazer of the Year – ATD Nebraska (2024) 
  • Excellence in Learning Leadership Award – ATD Nebraska (2021)
  • President’s Award – ATD Nebraska (2017)

Thought Leadership & Media

I enjoy contributing to conversations about the future of learning, leadership, and the human side of development.

  • Podcast Guest – Learning Culture Podcast, Episode #111
    “The Human Skills Renaissance: Why AI Makes Emotional Intelligence More Valuable”


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