ATD - Hawkeye Chapter upcoming events

Train the Trainer Workshop 2026 (09 Jun 2026)

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Location:

GreenState Credit Union
2355 Landon Rd, North Liberty, IA 52317

Dates:

June 9th: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Check-in: 8:15 a.m.)
June 10th: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program Overview

You already know your content. Now it’s time to elevate how you deliver it.

This two-day program is designed to help you become a more confident and effective trainer by focusing on how people actually learn. You will explore the science behind adult learning, build practical skills you can use right away, and gain insight into what truly makes training engaging, memorable, and impactful.

This is not a sit and listen experience. You will actively participate, practice new approaches, and learn alongside others. You will leave with more than just notes. You will leave with practical tools, fresh perspective, and a renewed confidence in your ability to create learning experiences that stick.

What You'll Walk Away With

This program blends practical skill building with a deeper understanding of how learning works so you can create training that truly sticks.

Every participant leaves this program with three things:

New Knowledge- Understand How Learning Works

A science backed understanding of how the adult brain learns, stores, and retrieves information
Clarity on the purpose of training and when facilitation is the better approach
The theory behind openers, transitions, and closers, and why each one matters
Learn what makes training memorable versus forgettable

New Tools- Design Training That Delivers Results

A practical training design framework they can apply to any program they build
Ready to use techniques for opening, transitioning, and closing sessions with impact
A toolkit of activities and structures grounded in adult learning principles that you can start using in your organization right away!

A Better Understanding of How Learning Actually Happens- Build Confidence as a Trainer

A clear picture of what is happening in the brain during a training session and how to use that to their advantage
An honest look at what makes training stick versus what makes it forgettable
Confidence to make intentional choices as a trainer, not just do what has always been done.
Leave with a fresh perspective and a new approach to your work

Who This Program Is For

This program is designed for two groups of people: those who are already training and want to do it better, and those who are moving into a training role and want to start strong.

Trainers who want to understand the "why" behind what they do — not just the "how"
Subject matter experts who have been asked to train others and want to do it well
Professionals stepping into a training or facilitation role for the first time
Experienced trainers ready to push past habit and reconnect with best practice.

Wherever you are starting from, this program meets you there. Come ready to engage, reflect, and practice. You will leave with more than notes — you will leave with a new lens for your work.

Pricing

$199 for members

$249 for non-members

Meet Our Facilitators!

Marcie Van Note, MS.Ed

Specialization in Training and Performance Improvement Consultant and Vice President of Events of the ATD Hawkeye Chapter

Marcie is a seasoned educator turned consultant with a passion for creating training that truly sticks. She currently serves as the VP of Events for the ATD Hawkeye Chapter and is a past president.

As the former Director of multiple graduate programs at Mount Mercy University, Marcie spent years designing and delivering engaging learning experiences both online and in the classroom.

Today, she partners with organizations to develop impactful training, leadership development, and Train the Trainer programs. Known for her interactive and practical approach, Marcie helps leaders and teams build skills, confidence, and lasting growth through learning experiences that are engaging, relevant, and results driven.

Melanie Hoffner

Founder and Chief People Development Specialist, Brain Bonanza, LLC.

Melanie has a passion for helping individuals and teams unlock their potential through brain based learning and development. She is also a Past President of the ATD Hawkeye Chapter and currently leads the chapter’s monthly SIG.

With a dynamic and engaging style, Melanie has impacted learners locally and internationally through training, speaking, and coaching. Her work focuses on enhancing brain performance, building emotional intelligence, and helping people move from stuck to forward through practical, science backed strategies.

As a lifelong learner, Melanie brings deep expertise in neuroscience, leadership, and coaching. Through her interactive and motivating approach, she helps individuals and organizations build confidence, take meaningful action, and achieve lasting growth.

For additional questions, please contact nikkinorton@hawkeyeatd.org.

ATD Roadshow- Learning Through Change: A Story Exchange Experience (12 Jun 2026)

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

June 12th, 2026 - In Person Event

Step away from the office and into a space designed for reflection, connection, and fresh perspective.

Join us at the beautiful Indian Creek Nature Center for a morning centered on stories, the real, messy, meaningful stories of change. We will kick things off by hearing from Executive Director John Myers about the mission behind ICNC, then shifting the spotlight to YOU!

Bring a story, an example, or even a work in progress experience of change in your organization, whether it is a win, a challenge, or somewhere in between. Together, we will learn from each other, spark new ideas, and if the weather cooperates, enjoy some time outdoors as part of the experience.

Coffee and light snacks will be provided.

When:

Friday, June 12th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Where:

Indian Creek Nature Center - 5300 Otis Rd SE, Cedar Rapids, IA

Cost:

Members can log into the website and register to attend the program for free. Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00.

Capability Model:

Impacting Organizational Capability

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Working with the Brain in Mind© (aka Your Best Brain at Work©) (22 Jun 2026)

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:00:00 GMT

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Working with the Brain in Mind© (aka Your Best Brain at Work©)

From Zoom fatigue to mental multitasking—optimize how you show up, think, and lead during the workday

Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

Monday, June 22 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

Introducing Talent Development with the Brain in Mind, a monthly virtual series facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner, certified Brain-Based Trainer, Dr. Amen Licensed Brain Health Coach, and self-proclaimed “brain junkie.” With warmth, energy, and practical insight, Melanie translates the latest neuroscience into tools you can use to support your brain—and the brains of those you teach, coach, or lead.

Each session includes:

- Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

- Interactive experiences that help learning stick

- Resources and strategies to apply immediately

- A welcoming space for discussion and community

Schedule & Format:

- When: Fourth Monday of each month

- Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

- Where: Zoom

Cost:

Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free. Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

What We Miss at Work: The Psychology of Seeing, Speaking Up, and Staying Safe (10 Jul 2026)

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

What We Miss at Work:

The Psychology of Seeing, Speaking Up, and Staying Safe

July 10th, 2026 | Virtual via Zoom

Every day, capable, well-trained people miss things that matter, not because they don’t care, but because the brain is wired for efficiency, shortcuts, and routine. In fast-paced environments, people see what they expect to see, explain away weak signals, and hesitate to speak up when something feels off.

In this interactive session, Dr. Celina Peerman brings 30 years of applied behavioral insight in designing training and learning to unpack the human side of risk:

Why hazards are overlooked,

Why assumptions go unchallenged, and

Why speaking up is as much a cultural issue as it is a skill.

By the end of the session, participants will be able to:

Explain why experienced, capable people miss hazards using accessible brain science and behavioral patterns.
Identify common assumptions and mental shortcuts that quietly increase risk in routine work.
Describe how culture and psychological safety influences attention, communication, and speaking up.
Apply these ideas to L & D design to help reduce risk and increase awareness.

Speaker Bio:

Dr. Celina Peerman, Ph.D., CSP, SHRM‑SCP, is a people champion known for solving challenges in leader development, change readiness, uncertainty, and the future of work.

As an Organizational Psychologist, Global Speaker, Trainer, 2x TEDx Speaker, 4x Author, Advisor, and Angel Investor, Dr. Peerman brings a unique blend of research-based insight and real‑world experience. Her work is grounded in the day‑to‑day challenges leaders face across industries and levels.

When:

Friday, July 10th, 2026

Where:

Online via Zoom

ATD Capability:

Personal Capability

Cost:

Members can log into the website and register to attend the program for free. Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00.

This event is worth 1 PDC via SHRM.

Hawkeye ATD Turns 50! (15 Jul 2026)

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Date: July 15th, 2026

Location: Person, Hilton Garden Inn, 4640 N River Blvd NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52411

Five decades ago, a group of passionate learning and development professionals came together with a shared belief that investing in people is the highest calling of an organization. That built Hawkeye ATD and it still drives everything we do today. Now it is time to celebrate!

OUR LEGACY
For 50 years, Hawkeye ATD has been the heartbeat of the talent development community in our region. We have championed instructional designers, facilitators, coaches, HR practitioners and learning leaders at every stage of their careers. We have weathered change, embraced innovation, and most importantly shown up for each other. This milestone belongs to every member, past and present, who has been a part of our journey.

WHY THIS MILESTONE MATTERS
Fifty years is no small feet for any professional association. I t speaks to the enduring relevance of our mission and the deep commitment of our community. In a field defined by growth and transformation, HawkeyeATD has been a constant, a place to learn, to lead, and to belong. We gather on July 15th not just to look back but to commit to the next 50 years of growing together.

WHAT TO EXPECT
Doors open at 4:00, come early, grab a snack, and start reconnecting.

Activities kick off at 5:00pm with an evening full of fun and community spirit:

Retro Game Challenge: Put your ATD knowledge to the test with a fun throwback game inspired by 50 years of talent development history. Friendly competition is encouraged!
Panel Discussion: What has changed? What has remained consistent? What did ATD look like years ago?
Networking & Connection: whether you are a founding era member or joined this year, this is your chance to swap stories, share wisdom, and build relationships that extend beyond the evening.
Snacks and Refreshments: Enjoy appetizers and refreshments as we toast to 50 incredible years. Good food, great people.

A MESSAGE TO OUR COMMUNITY
Hawkeye ATD has always been more than a professional organization, it is a community of people who believe in the power of human potential. Thank you for 50 extraordinary years. The best chapters are still ahead.

REGISTRATION
The celebration is our thank you to the people who made us who we are. Admission is free for all past and present Hawkeye ATD members.

We kindly ask that you register in advance so we can plan accordingly. Your RSVP makes a real difference in helping us put on a great event.

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Quick Brain Boosters© (aka Brain Hacks) for Focus, Memory, Attention, and More (27 Jul 2026)

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 17:00:00 GMT

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Quick Brain Boosters© (aka Brain Hacks) for Focus, Memory, Attention, and More

Fast, simple neuroscience-based strategies to energize your brain and your workday

Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

Monday, July 27 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

Each session includes:

- Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

- Interactive experiences that help learning stick

- Resources and strategies to apply immediately

- A welcoming space for discussion and community

Schedule & Format:

- When: Fourth Monday of each month

- Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

- Where: Zoom

Cost:

Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free. Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

T.E.A.M. Talk: Unlocking the Secrets of Effective Communication (14 Aug 2026)

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 14:00:00 GMT

T.E.A.M. Talk:

Unlocking the Secrets of Effective Communication

August 14th, 2026 | Virtual via Zoom

This presentation introduces a simple and powerful model for understanding communication styles based on four core types. It provides trainers with practical strategies to connect more effectively with challenging trainees and enhance the impact of their programs. Participants will explore how differences in communication styles influence workplace relationships, productivity, and engagement.

The session moves beyond awareness by focusing on actionable strategies trainers can use to adjust their approach and help learners do the same. Interactive discussions, examples, and real-world scenarios will reinforce learning and provide immediate takeaways.

Speaker Bio:

Alan Krieger, a leadership trainer and executive coach with over 30 years’ experience, helps organizations enhance communication, collaboration, and performance.

Creator of the T.E.A.M. Communication Styles® assessment, he has trained more than 5,000 leaders and teams, providing practical strategies that improve success, retention, and organizational effectiveness.

When:

Friday, August 14th, 2026

Where:

Online via Zoom

ATD Capability:

Organizational Capability

Cost:

Members can log into the website and register to attend the program for free. Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00.

This event is worth 1 PDC via SHRM.

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Performance Reviews with the Brain in Mind© (24 Aug 2026)

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Performance Reviews with the Brain in Mind©

Shift feedback from fear to growth—practical neuroscience tools for feedback, motivation, and reflection

Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

Monday, August 24 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

Each session includes:

- Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

- Interactive experiences that help learning stick

- Resources and strategies to apply immediately

- A welcoming space for discussion and community

Schedule & Format:

- When: Fourth Monday of each month

- Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

- Where: Zoom

Cost:

Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free. Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

The Six Drivers of Retention: Designing Learning That Lasts (11 Sep 2026)

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 14:00:00 GMT

The Six Drivers of Retention:

Designing Learning that Lasts

September 11th, 2026 | Virtual via Zoom

Too often, learning is measured by completion rather than retention. Based on the Six Trumps of Learning, this session introduces a practical, evidence-informed framework that identifies six key drivers influencing whether learning sticks over time.

Participants will explore how these drivers show up in real workplace learning environments—and how small design decisions can significantly improve retention and transfer.

Ideal for L&D professionals at all levels, this session offers clear takeaways that can be applied to instructor-led, virtual, and self-paced learning.

Speaker Bio:

Christina Graham is a seasoned Learning & Development professional with over 20 years of experience helping organizations turn learning into meaningful action.

Known for her engaging, high-energy facilitation style, she creates dynamic learning experiences that connect on both a practical and human level. Grounded in emotional intelligence, Christina brings real-world insights, interactive learning experiences, and practical strategies to every session, empowering individuals to build confidence, strengthen communication, and drive lasting behavior change.

She has led large-scale training initiatives, developed impactful programs, and coached leaders and facilitators to maximize effectiveness. As part of The Peerman Group, Christina is dedicated to delivering experiences that inspire growth, elevate performance, and leave a lasting impression.

When:

Friday, September 11th, 2026

Where:

Online via Zoom

ATD Capability:

Professional Capability

Cost:

Members can log into the website and register to attend the program for free. Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00.

This event is worth 1 PDC via SHRM.

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Burnout, Boundaries & the Brain© (28 Sep 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Burnout, Boundaries & the Brain©

Recognizing, reversing, and preventing burnout using applied neuroscience and nervous system resets

Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

Monday, September 28 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

Each session includes:

- Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

- Interactive experiences that help learning stick

- Resources and strategies to apply immediately

- A welcoming space for discussion and community

Schedule & Format:

- When: Fourth Monday of each month

- Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

- Where: Zoom

Cost:

Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free. Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

ATD Hawkeye Chapter 50th Anniversary Fall Conference - Communication for Impact (30 Sep 2026)

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 13:30:00 GMT

ATD Hawkeye Chapter 50th Anniversary Fall Conference

Show Up and Show Out: Communicate with Clarity, Confidence, and Career-Defining Presence

For 50 years, the Association for Talent Development Hawkeye Chapter has championed growth, learning, and leadership. But in today’s fast-moving workplace, expertise alone isn’t enough. Visibility, voice, and delivery determine whose ideas get heard, funded, and followed. In this high-energy opening keynote, the award-winning international professional speaker and The Presentation Fixer, Bridgett McGowen, challenges talent development professionals to raise the standard of how they show up in classrooms, boardrooms, and high-stakes conversations and how they show out when it matters most.

Blending practical communication strategy with real-world delivery techniques, Bridgett equips attendees with tools they can immediately apply to trainings, stakeholder briefings, leadership sessions, and conference stages. Participants will learn how to turn everyday communication moments into influence opportunities, strengthen executive presence, and deliver messages that move people to action.

This milestone conference deserves more than attendance. It deserves bold presence. And it deserves talent development leaders who are ready not just to be in the room but to own it. Leaders who are energized to represent the next era of talent development and ready to show up and show out!

Audience Takeaways:

A practical framework for showing up with authority and authenticity in any professional setting
Delivery techniques that increase audience engagement and message retention
Strategies to translate expertise into influence through stronger communication
Tools to project confidence even under pressure
A renewed commitment to visible, vocal, high-impact leadership

Schedule:

8:30-9 - Registration
9-9:30 - Housekeeping/Announcements and Sponsors
9:30-11:00 – Keynote
11:00 to 11:15 - Break
11:15-12:15 - Session 1
12:15-1:15 - Lunch
1:15-2:15 - Session 2
2:15- 2:30 - Break
2:30-3:30 - Session 3
3:30-4:30 – Closing action plan, networking, drawings, etc

Track 1: Show Up

Confidence • Executive Presence • Authenticity

Leadership presence is more than confidence—it is how people experience you before you even begin speaking. This track focuses on helping professionals strengthen executive presence, communicate with authenticity, and project confidence in high-pressure situations. Sessions in this track explore mindset, visibility, emotional intelligence, credibility, and the small communication habits that build trust and influence. Participants will learn practical techniques to show up with clarity, professionalism, and purpose in meetings, presentations, conversations, and leadership moments.

Ideal for: leaders, emerging leaders, trainers, HR professionals, and anyone ready to increase their professional presence and confidence.

Track 2: Speak Up

Presentation • Facilitation • Storytelling • Engagement

Great communicators do more than share information—they create connection, energy, and action. This track is designed for professionals who want to strengthen their speaking, training, facilitation, and audience engagement skills. Sessions focus on presentation delivery, storytelling, audience interaction, message clarity, and communication techniques that improve retention and participation. Participants will discover how to move beyond simply delivering content to creating memorable experiences that inspire learning and engagement.

Ideal for: trainers, facilitators, presenters, educators, leaders, and professionals who communicate to groups or teams.

Track 3: Move People

Influence • Persuasion • Leadership Communication • Change

Communication has the power to shape culture, influence decisions, and move people toward action. This track explores the strategic side of communication—helping leaders communicate vision, strategy, navigate change, build buy-in, and influence others with intention and credibility. Sessions will focus on persuasive communication, stakeholder conversations, difficult discussions, change messaging, and leading through communication. Participants will leave with tools to communicate in ways that inspire trust, alignment, and forward movement.

Ideal for: organizational leaders, managers, project leaders, change champions, HR professionals, and talent development professionals.

Mon, 26 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Change Your Mindset, Change Your Brain©

A practical exploration of neuroplasticity, RAS, and shifting out of survival-mode thinking

Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

Monday, October 26 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

Each session includes:

- Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

- Interactive experiences that help learning stick

- Resources and strategies to apply immediately

- A welcoming space for discussion and community

Schedule & Format:

- When: Fourth Monday of each month

- Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

- Where: Zoom

Cost:

Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free. Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

Mon, 23 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: The Neuroscience of Trust & Psychological Safety©

Explore how oxytocin, cortisol, and social threat detection impact your team’s collaboration, communication, and creativity

Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

Monday, November 23 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

Each session includes:

- Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

- Interactive experiences that help learning stick

- Resources and strategies to apply immediately

- A welcoming space for discussion and community

Schedule & Format:

- When: Fourth Monday of each month

- Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

- Where: Zoom

Cost:

Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free. Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

Mon, 28 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Reflections with the Brain in Mind©

Look back with intention, celebrate small wins, and set yourself up for a brain-friendly new year

Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

Monday, December 28 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

Each session includes:

- Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

- Interactive experiences that help learning stick

- Resources and strategies to apply immediately

- A welcoming space for discussion and community

Schedule & Format:

- When: Fourth Monday of each month

- Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

- Where: Zoom

Cost:

Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free. Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

ATD - Hawkeye Chapter upcoming events

Train the Trainer Workshop 2026 (09 Jun 2026)

Program Overview

What You'll Walk Away With

Who This Program Is For

Pricing

ATD Roadshow- Learning Through Change: A Story Exchange Experience (12 Jun 2026)

June 12th, 2026 - In Person Event

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Working with the Brain in Mind© (aka Your Best Brain at Work©) (22 Jun 2026)

Monday, June 22 | Virtual via Zoom

What We Miss at Work: The Psychology of Seeing, Speaking Up, and Staying Safe (10 Jul 2026)

What We Miss at Work:

The Psychology of Seeing, Speaking Up, and Staying Safe

July 10th, 2026 | Virtual via Zoom

Hawkeye ATD Turns 50! (15 Jul 2026)

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Quick Brain Boosters© (aka Brain Hacks) for Focus, Memory, Attention, and More (27 Jul 2026)

Monday, July 27 | Virtual via Zoom

T.E.A.M. Talk: Unlocking the Secrets of Effective Communication (14 Aug 2026)

T.E.A.M. Talk:

August 14th, 2026 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Performance Reviews with the Brain in Mind© (24 Aug 2026)

Monday, August 24 | Virtual via Zoom

The Six Drivers of Retention: Designing Learning That Lasts (11 Sep 2026)

The Six Drivers of Retention:

September 11th, 2026 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Burnout, Boundaries & the Brain© (28 Sep 2026)

Monday, September 28 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter 50th Anniversary Fall Conference - Communication for Impact (30 Sep 2026)

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Change Your Mindset, Change Your Brain© (26 Oct 2026)

Monday, October 26 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: The Neuroscience of Trust & Psychological Safety© (23 Nov 2026)

Monday, November 23 | Virtual via Zoom

ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Reflections with the Brain in Mind© (28 Dec 2026)

Monday, December 28 | Virtual via Zoom