ABOUT TAMMY L. CORTEZ

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 Tasked with aligning Learning and Development initiatives with organizational goals, I implemented strategic training programs that reduced pay vs. tool tracking errors by 55% in one month and introduced an AR/AI tool that cut job completion time by 20%. These efforts significantly enhanced employee performance and engagement, boosting overall engagement rates by 55%.

To further streamline learning, I centralized onboarding and upskilling across regions through a global LMS, saving $184.8K annually and improving scalability. By incorporating innovative methods such as AI, videos, and adult learning theories, we increased learner engagement from 40% to 91% and raised pass rates to 91.9%, driving impactful and measurable results.

 Faced with fragmented onboarding processes across departments, I collaborated with HR, IT, and Licensing teams to create a streamlined and cohesive onboarding experience. By aligning efforts, we identified inefficiencies and implemented clear, simplified workflows that addressed compliance, technical setup, and role-specific training needs. This collaboration resulted in the development of standardized processes and tools that improved communication between teams and ensured a seamless onboarding journey. As a result, new hire productivity increased by 30%, onboarding time was reduced by 60%, and employee satisfaction scores rose to 95%, establishing a more efficient and welcoming start for new team members. 

 Confronted with outdated training systems and rising costs, I led a team of trainers and instructional designers to modernize learning delivery.  Managing a $500K budget, I spearheaded a curriculum redesign and transitioned to a new LMS, reducing costs by 35% and saving $25K annually. To streamline workflows, I introduced Scrum, ADDIE, and storyboarding techniques, enabling the team to resolve over 200 JIRA tickets in six months while aligning content with organizational goals. Additionally, I developed assessments to align with the QA team to measure KPIs, increasing scores from 40% to 92%, and optimized operational processes, driving a 40% boost in productivity. 

 Faced with the challenge of improving training initiatives/effectiveness and employee engagement through-out my career, I have leveraged data from multiple sources, including PowerBi, CRM, LMS, and the use of NPS, to identify areas needing improvement. Partnering with the Data analysis team and managers, we analyzed performance metrics and training outcomes to track employee progress and pinpoint skill gaps. Through CRM data, I assessed customer feedback and sales performance, which helped align training programs with business objectives. 

Additionally, I reviewed NPS scores to measure employee satisfaction and engagement with training content. Based on these insights, I made data-driven adjustments to the curriculum and onboarding processes, resulting in increase in training completion rates, a 25% improvement in employee satisfaction, and a 60% increase in customer satisfaction linked to better-trained staff. 

 I was invited to present leadership courses to the senior VPs, focusing on improving communication with employees. In response, I developed a course centered on the Human Business Model to enhance organizational strategies, allowing more insight on how people communicate.  I also successfully completed a two-day course on TDF patterns for all leadership, which explores how individuals view the world through three lenses: T (facts), D (choices), and F (relationships). The course focused on how these lenses shape perception and how understanding them can improve teamwork, communication, and motivation. It offered practical tools to foster collaboration and increase productivity by leveraging the diverse perspectives within teams. 

The interactive and immersive presentation effectively illustrated the model's potential, leading to leadership buy-in and a clearer understanding of how the Human Business Model  and TDF could drive business success and innovation. 

By recognizing how people prioritize and process information differently, the team provided valuable strategies to help organizations enhance collaboration and productivity.

 Fundamentals of Facilitation is the core training I’ve delivered to a range of professionals, from brand new facilitators to subject matter experts transitioning into training roles, and even experienced facilitators who need a refresher. This course is all about building confidence and capability in leading discussions, engaging participants, and driving effective learning experiences.

Key areas I focus on include:

Understanding Group Dynamics – Knowing how to navigate different personalities and create an environment where everyone feels heard.

Strong Communication Skills – Active listening, asking the right questions, and guiding discussions with clarity.

Creating an Inclusive Learning Space – Making sure all voices are valued and encouraging participation.

Structuring Sessions & Managing Time – Designing effective agendas and keeping sessions on track.

Handling Challenges – Managing difficult conversations, disengagement, or conflicting opinions with ease.

Facilitation Techniques – Using interactive methods like brainstorming, storytelling, and breakout sessions to maximize engagement.

I’ve also developed an advancement structure where this course is a critical milestone, participants must successfully teach it back to move up to Lead Facilitator status. This ensures they not only understand facilitation but can effectively model and mentor others in the process.

  Creating the social media presence for Arizona Fresh Bread was a journey focused on blending storytelling, accessibility, and an inviting visual style to showcase the artisanal quality of the bread. My goal was to build a digital space that not only highlights the brand’s unique offerings but also makes it easy for customers to engage, learn, and connect.

The process began with understanding the brand’s story and audience. I prioritized clear, approachable messaging and a consistent visual identity that reflects the warmth and authenticity of freshly baked bread. Each post was designed to feel welcoming, informative, and easy to engage with—whether customers were discovering the brand for the first time or returning for updates.

To enhance engagement, I developed content that highlights product offerings, shares where the bread can be found locally, and encourages conversation through comments and messages. Visuals, captions, and posting cadence were thoughtfully planned to ensure a seamless experience, especially for seniors and community members seeking quality, locally made products.

The Arizona Fresh Bread social media platform was built with accessibility and mobile-first viewing in mind. The result is a digital presence that brings the Arizona Bread Company’s story to life while creating meaningful connections with customers across the community.

  Social Media Client Project

I successfully built and launched a strong social media presence for a client by developing his platform and establishing a clear, cohesive brand identity. This work included optimizing his profile, refining messaging to align with his target audience, and designing a visually compelling cover image that immediately communicates credibility and value.

The cover design incorporates brand-aligned colors, fonts, and imagery to clearly convey his value proposition while creating a professional and inviting first impression. Content was intentionally designed to feel approachable, informative, and engaging, supporting both visibility and trust.

In addition to building the platform, I developed a foundational content strategy that balances educational, engaging, and interactive posts to encourage audience connection and growth. I also provided guidance on maintaining consistency, fostering meaningful engagement, and reviewing insights to refine content over time.

The result is a polished, professional social media presence that resonates with the intended audience and supports the client’s long-term business growth.

 Writing & Publishing Impact
Becoming a published author was more than putting words on a page—it was building a framework that empowers others to process their own stories. Through Generations of Grief: Embracing Change Through Loss, I combined personal experience with practical tools, including reflection prompts and journaling exercises. These techniques give readers encouragement and an actionable process for healing, sparking conversations within families and inspiring daily practices of resilience.

Course & Challenge Development
From my book grew additional resources like the 5-Day Journaling Through Grief Challenge, designed to guide participants through structured reflection. By providing curated prompts in a simple, accessible format, readers can begin building a daily habit of self-expression. When paired with the book, many participants reported deeper insights and greater emotional relief, showing how learning design principles can extend beyond the workplace into personal growth.

Advocacy & Speaking
As an Author & Growth Advocate, I’ve extended my role beyond the written page through speaking, workshops, and live sessions. These opportunities emphasize human connection—whether in professional settings focused on leadership or in personal spaces exploring grief. Each experience leaves participants with greater confidence, stronger communication skills, and practical tools to support healing, learning, and growth.