About
I design learning with performance in mind
I'm a Senior Instructional Designer with 18 years of experience developing learning solutions for complex, fast-paced environments. My work spans onboarding, scenario-based learning, performance support, and learning strategy, with an emphasis on translating complex information into practical experiences that build employee capability and improve performance.
Expertise
Instructional Design · Learning Strategy · Performance Improvement
Based in
Phoenix, AZ
Education
M.A. Ed., Adult Education & Training
How I think about learning
Four principles that guide every project
Design for performance, not memorization
I design learning experiences that develop practical skills, strengthen decision-making, and prepare employees to apply what they've learned on the job.
Respect operational reality
I consider employees' responsibilities, available resources, and operational constraints to create learning solutions that are practical and sustainable.
Influence without authority
I collaborate with stakeholders to challenge assumptions, identify underlying performance needs, and determine the most effective solutions.
Build for the team that maintains it
I prioritize clear documentation, consistent standards, and scalable design practices so learning solutions remain easy to maintain as business needs evolve.
Experience & Impact
Nov 2018 – Present
Instructional Systems Designer
McKesson
- Redesigned seasonal onboarding for 520 employees, reducing completion time by over 50% and lowering attrition from 16.7% to 10%.
- Redesigned 30+ learning modules across two pharmaceutical programs within four months to support regulatory initiatives.
- Reduced onboarding timelines for two pharmaceutical programs from three and eight weeks to two weeks while maintaining performance standards.
- Established editing standards and quality assurance processes across an eight-designer team, improving consistency and maintainability of learning materials.
Nov 2017 – Nov 2018
Instructional Designer
InEight
- Designed technical training and performance support resources across nine SaaS construction software products.
- Transformed complex software documentation into interactive eLearning, hands-on exercises, and scenario-based learning experiences.
2009 – 2017
Instructional Designer
University of Phoenix
- Designed academic coursework that contributed to SHRM Outstanding Student Chapter recognition in 2016 and 2017.
- Led the cross-college Instructional Designer Exchange program to encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing.
What I do
Capabilities I bring to a team
My experience spans instructional design, learning strategy, performance improvement, and change management, with a focus on creating practical solutions that support employee development and organizational goals.
New Hire Onboarding Programs
Structured onboarding experiences that accelerate proficiency and prepare employees for success.
How I approach it
I align learning activities, practice opportunities, and performance support with the skills employees need at each stage of onboarding.
Training Program Development
Comprehensive learning programs designed to support consistent performance and evolving business needs.
How I approach it
I design structured, scalable learning experiences with clear objectives, practical application, and resources that support long-term maintenance.
Process Documentation
Clear, accessible documentation that supports consistent workflows and knowledge transfer.
How I approach it
I collaborate with subject matter experts to translate complex processes into accurate, actionable resources employees can use on the job.
eLearning & Digital Training
Interactive learning experiences developed using Articulate Storyline, Rise, and other digital tools.
How I approach it
I use scenarios, meaningful interactions, and realistic decisions to help learners practice applying knowledge in workplace situations.
Training Optimization
Evaluation and redesign of existing learning programs to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and outcomes.
How I approach it
I analyze performance data, learner feedback, and operational needs to identify opportunities for improvement and eliminate unnecessary training.
Change Management & Learning Strategy
Integrating change management principles with instructional design to support employee readiness, adoption, and organizational performance.
How I approach it
I apply the Prosci ADKAR Model to identify barriers to change, align learning with business objectives, and develop strategies that support successful adoption.
In their words
What it's like to work with Ashley
"Ashley is a clear, dependable, and highly collaborative partner. She brings structure early, communicates expectations well, and follows through consistently. Working with her makes projects feel organized and achievable."
"She was able to break down complex tasks into easy-to-learn modules for new hires. Her PowerPoints were impactful, easy to follow, and genuinely inspiring."
"You bring strong organization, adaptability, and partnership to a learning team — bridging operational information with learner needs while staying collaborative and supportive."
"You're easy to collaborate with and consistent in how you work. You communicate clearly, keep things moving, and follow through on commitments."
"You are highly reliable with strong, effective communication."