Career Development

I found a job add and took it to Microsoft Co-Pilot and asked it to help me update my resume to fit the job description. I did not use all of the suggestions as I felt mine kept more information. I then worked with the AI tool to create an interview preparation and a cover letter to go with the resume.

Original Resume

Jana Zeman
QUALIFICATIONS SUMMARY

Self-directed Instructional Designer accomplished in designing and developing courses to foster positive educational environments and engage participants in achieving learning objectives. Student-focused and technology savvy with expertise in digital research, online learning design, and multiple Learning Management Systems (LMS) to deliver training across diverse platforms. Comprehensive knowledge of adult learning and motivational theories, experienced in conducting assessments, and proactive in evaluating outcomes to facilitate improvements. Proven leader with strong communication skills to collaborate with SMEs and training providers, articulate high-tech solutions to stakeholders, and assist students in adapting to virtual training.
Four years’ experience within learning and training projects in a government, military, DOD and corporate environment with two years’ experience designing courses in higher education. During this time, I gained experience in designing multiple learning services, digital learning strategies and solutions, and sales and technical training.
Core competencies include:
Instructional Design Process / Online Learning Design / Audience and Job Task Analysis / Curriculum Development
Leadership and Management / Mentoring and Coaching / Training Materials / Performance Objectives / Testing Strategies
Assessments and Evaluations / Learning Activities / Personnel Training

RELATED EXPERIENCE

Mountain Ltd, Remote 4/2022 – Present

Compliance Coordinator Supervisor
In my capacity within the role, I held the responsibility of overseeing comprehensive reporting to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) pertaining to the scheduling and coordination of fielding, engineering, and design activities for Connecticut Utility pole attachments. This imperative task ensured the timely completion of engineering objectives and, in certain instances, facilitated the attainment of funding for specific projects. As part of my duties, I actively participated in conference calls to ensure that both the Incumbent Local Exchange Carrier (ILEC) and the Competitive Local Exchange Carrier (CLEC) adhered to their respective commitments.
Key Contributions:
• Ensured the ILEC and the CLEC adhered to their respective commitments.
• Maintained and organized the workflow for the engineers.
• Create training for our engineers and field technicians.

Huntington Ingalls Industries, Ballston Spa, NY 8/2018 – 04/2022
(Leased through American Cybersystems, Contract employment, 8/2018 – 9/2019)
Technical Solutions Division 9/2019-4/2022

Instructional Developer/Training Representative
Qualified in Open-Source Course Quality Review (OSCQR) and utilize knowledge of adult learning theories, PADDIE+M, and ADDIE methods to develop training curriculum. Produce and maintain computer-based training program for environmental, health, and safety, radiological control, and nuclear quality control, including tests, visual aids, and learning activities. Administer processes to secure tests, store master files, and ensure lesson plan integrity.
Key Contributions:
• Saved 2K instructor labor, trainee labor, and transportation hours by completing four computer-based training programs.
• Executed all projects on time working as solitary developer over seven months.
• Successfully met requirements to obtain DOD Secret Clearance classification.
SUNY EMPIRE STATE COLLEGE, Saratoga Springs, NY 4/2013 – 8/2017
Instructional Design Intern (4/2017 – 8/2017)
Met academic requirements to contribute to design for online graduate-level Moodle course in Facilitating Learning with Emerging Technologies in Blended and Online Environments. Utilized Open SUNY Course Quality Review (OSCQR) Rubric and Process. Evaluated courses for ADA compliance and reviewed and updated HTML.
Key Contributions:
• Improved learning outcomes by reorganizing the online Understanding Diverse Learners Moodle course.
• Ensured compliance with ADA for all courses to guarantee opportunity for 100% student participation and completion.
Instructional Design and Educational Technology Intern (1/2017 – 4/2017)
Key Contributions:
• Implemented ADDIE Model to redesign online Introduction to Moodle course to assist new students in navigating courses successfully.
• Created exhibit and presented benefits, use, and features of ePortfolios to faculty members.
Online Course Assistant, Peer Tutor, and Academic Coach (4/2013 – 7/2017)
Assisted in delivering online undergraduate course in Mythology and Modern Life, mentored students, and responded to posted questions.
Key Contributions:
• Achieved 99% success rate helping at-risk students remain in school and enhance grades.
• Mentored students to improve discussion posts and provided timely responses to all questions.
• Adapted scheduling and teaching approaches to meet specific student needs.
Digital Identity and Virtual Communities Intern (4/2016 – 4/2017)
Collaborated on design for graduate-level course and served as course assistant.
Key Contribution:
• Reached 100% student satisfaction and successful completion for all students enrolled in course.

LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

Store Manager, CVS/CAREMARK, Multiple NY Locations
Oversaw retail store operations with annual sales ranging from $13M to $26M. Hired, trained, and supervised associates and conducted purchasing and merchandising.
Key Contribution:
• Appointed as conversion trainer to educate staff to meet CVS standards for newly acquired stores.
• Reduced expenses and shrink and increased overall profitability to successfully exceed budgeted sales and gross profit margin annually.

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

SUNY EMPIRE STATE COLLEGE — New York, NY
Master of Arts in Learning and Emerging Technologies, 2018
Coursework: Designing Online Learning Environments, Assessing Learning in Digital Environments, Social and Ethical Issues in the Digital Era, and Digital Tools for Education and Training.
Bachelor of Arts in Historical Studies, 2015
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
OPEN SUNY ONLINE LEARNING CONSORTIUM – New York, NY
Instructional Designer Certificate Program, 2018
Coursework: Helping Faculty with New Course Development, Curating and Evaluating Resources for Faculty, Professional Foundations: Collaborating, Researching and Networking, and Course Quality Review (OSCQR) qualification to train OSCQR.

TECHNICAL PROFICIENCIES

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Institute of New Paradigms, Founding Member | Shaping EDU Member | Online Learning Consortium Member

The job description:

Description

The Online and Distance Education Instructional Designer is responsible for collaborating with subject matter experts to design, develop, implement, and manage asynchronous online courses offered through Husson University. This position works with a broad and growing array of technology and has a deep understanding of learning design in order to serve as online pedagogy subject matter expert, project manager, and coach for Husson Online and Distance Education. This position makes data-informed decisions to create meaningful, measurable, and observable student-learning experiences and improve course quality. The Instructional Designer collaborates with university partners to ensure universally-designed, human-centered learning experiences that meet university standards. This position may qualify for remote work.

Applications received two weeks from job posting will receive full consideration; applications after this date may receive consideration depending on the status of the search.

Example of Duties

Serve as instructional design expert to consult and assist with course developments and course maintenance.
Oversee all phases of design processes, aligning instructional content to learning outcomes, while creating human-centered and engaging learning experiences.
Apply principles of instructional design and adult learning theories to the design and development of online learning experiences.
Coach subject matter experts to design and develop high quality, innovative online courses.
Apply flexibility, understanding, and support to complicated course designs with multiple parties.
Facilitate and coordinate administrative aspects of project development, delivery, and support.
Evaluate course quality in terms of design, writing, and editing.
Communicate knowledge and application of effective pedagogy and use of academic technologies.
Design content in Canvas and integrate current educational technologies to promote effective teaching strategies and to improve student-learning experiences.
Develop online instructor and student support materials, tutorials, orientations, and workshops, as needed.
Lead conversations with faculty and leadership on the process of instructional design in teaching, research, and creative works.
Remain current and have a thorough understanding of the latest industry technology tools and trends in online education.
Work with Instructional Technology staff to evaluate, test, and propose new academic and learning technologies.

Qualifications

Education:

Master’s degree required; Master’s degree in Instructional Design or Education preferred.
Expertise in universal design and ADA compliance preferred.
Expertise in media or graphic design preferred.

Experience:

Minimumof one year working as an instructional designer.
One to three years of relevant experience.

Supplemental Information

Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities:

Experience in leading and managing multiple, complex projects, and the ability to schedule, prioritize and meet varied deadlines across these projects.
Experience successfully working collaboratively on a project with multiple collaborators.
Strong research, writing, copyediting, and content finishing skills.
Ability to work both independently and within a team.
Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills with strong interpersonal and presentation skills, while working with diverse content and populations.
Proven ability to stay current with rapidly changing technologies.
Ability and willingness to work with partners from diverse political/socioeconomic backgrounds and a wide range of physical and academic abilities.
Proven knowledge of promising practices of instructional design, and procedures used in the design, development, and evaluation of online courses.
Proven knowledge of technology to enhance the online learning experience.
Experience with graphic design and media elements appropriate for online instruction.
Experience in asynchronous online classroom teaching or workshop facilitation.
Knowledge of Quality Matters, Online Learning Consortium and similar online learning rubrics.
Familiarity with Universal Design and other accessibility principles to ensure course content is accessible to all learners.
Proven ability to work effectively and communicate with subject matter experts, partners, users, and media developers.
Demonstrated competence in working with learning management systems, such as Canvas.

Microsoft Co-Pilot Version:

Jana Zeman

Professional Summary

Instructional Designer with extensive experience designing, developing, and evaluating asynchronous online learning experiences across higher education, government, military, DOD, and corporate environments. Skilled in collaborating with subject matter experts to create human-centered, universally designed courses aligned to measurable learning outcomes. Proficient in Canvas, Moodle, Blackboard, and multiple LMS platforms, with strong knowledge of adult learning theories, OSCQR, ADA compliance, and digital learning strategies. Adept at managing complex projects, coaching faculty and technical teams, and applying data-informed decisions to improve course quality and student engagement.

Core Competencies

Instructional Design & Online Learning Development
Universal Design & Accessibility (ADA/UDL)
Course Quality Review (OSCQR)
Curriculum & Assessment Development
Project Management & SME Collaboration
Learning Analytics & Data-Informed Decisions
Multimedia & Graphic Design Tools
Canvas & LMS Administration

Professional Experience

Mountain Ltd — Remote

Compliance Coordinator Supervisor | 2022–Present

Designed and delivered training for engineers and field technicians, improving consistency and onboarding efficiency.
Managed complex, multi-party projects requiring coordination, scheduling, and communication across engineering and regulatory teams.
Ensured adherence to commitments between ILEC and CLEC partners through structured communication and documentation.

Huntington Ingalls Industries — Ballston Spa, NY

Instructional Developer / Training Representative | 2018–2022

Developed computer-based training using ADDIE, PADDIE+M, adult learning theories, and OSCQR standards.
Produced and maintained online training programs with assessments, visual aids, and learning activities for environmental, safety, and radiological control topics.
Saved over 2,000 labor hours by converting instructor-led courses into asynchronous online modules.
Administered test security, master file integrity, and quality assurance for all course materials.

SUNY Empire State College — Saratoga Springs, NY

Instructional Design Intern | 2017

Collaborated with faculty to design graduate-level online courses using OSCQR and universal design principles.
Ensured ADA compliance across multiple courses, supporting equitable access for all learners.
Updated HTML content and evaluated course quality using established rubrics.

Instructional Design & EdTech Intern | 2017

Applied ADDIE to redesign an online Moodle orientation course for new students.
Presented ePortfolio benefits and usage to faculty.

Online Course Assistant, Peer Tutor, Academic Coach | 2013–2017

Supported online course delivery, mentored students, and improved academic performance.
Achieved a 99% success rate helping at-risk students remain enrolled and improve grades.

Digital Identity & Virtual Communities Intern | 2016–2017

Assisted in graduate-level course design and achieved 100% student satisfaction.

Leadership Experience

CVS/Caremark — Multiple NY Locations

Store Manager

Managed high-volume retail operations, supervised staff, and led training initiatives.
Served as conversion trainer for newly acquired stores.
Consistently exceeded sales and profit goals through effective leadership and process improvement.

Education & Credentials

Master of Arts, Learning and Emerging Technologies — SUNY Empire State College, 2018
Bachelor of Arts, Historical Studies — SUNY Empire State College, 2015

Instructional Designer Certificate — Open SUNY Online Learning Consortium, 2018
Qualified in OSCQR Course Quality Review; coursework in faculty support, resource curation, collaboration, and course evaluation.

Technical Proficiencies

Canvas • Moodle • Blackboard • Desire2Learn • Learning Exchange
Adobe Captivate • Articulate • Adobe Creative Cloud • Prezi
Virtual Design Tools (Second Life, Kitely) • MS Office Suite

Professional Associations

Online Learning Consortium • Shaping EDU • Institute of New Paradigms (Founding Member)

My choice:

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Self-directed Instructional Designer accomplished in designing and developing courses to foster positive educational environments and engage participants in achieving learning objectives. Student-focused and technology savvy with expertise in digital research, online learning design, and multiple Learning Management Systems (LMS) to deliver training across diverse platforms. Comprehensive knowledge of adult learning and motivational theories, experienced in conducting assessments, and proactive in evaluating outcomes to facilitate improvements. Proven leader with strong communication skills to collaborate with SMEs and training providers, articulate high-tech solutions to stakeholders, and assist students in adapting to virtual training.

Four years’ experience within learning and training projects in a government, military, DOD and corporate environment with two years’ experience designing courses in higher education. During this time, I gained experience in designing multiple learning services, digital learning strategies and solutions, and sales and technical training.

Core competencies include:

Instructional Design Process / Online Learning Design / Audience and Job Task Analysis / Curriculum Development Leadership and Management / Mentoring and Coaching / Training Materials / Performance Objectives / Testing Strategies Assessments and Evaluations / Learning Activities / Personnel Training

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Mountain Ltd, Remote 4/2022 – Present

Compliance Coordinator Supervisor

In my capacity within the role, I held the responsibility of overseeing comprehensive reporting to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) pertaining to the scheduling and coordination of fielding, engineering, and design activities for Connecticut Utility pole attachments. This imperative task ensured the timely completion of engineering objectives and, in certain instances, facilitated the attainment of funding for specific projects. As part of my duties, I actively participated in conference calls to ensure that both the Incumbent Local Exchange Carrier (ILEC) and the Competitive Local Exchange Carrier (CLEC) adhered to their respective commitments.

Key Contributions:

· Ensured the ILEC and the CLEC adhered to their respective commitments.

· Maintained and organized the workflow for the engineers.

· Create training for our engineers and field technicians.

Huntington Ingalls Industries, Ballston Spa, NY 8/2018 – 04/2022

(Leased through American Cybersystems, Contract employment, 8/2018 – 9/2019)

Technical Solutions Division 9/2019-4/2022

Instructional Developer/Training Representative

Qualified in Open-Source Course Quality Review (OSCQR) and utilize knowledge of adult learning theories, PADDIE+M, and ADDIE methods to develop training curriculum. Produce and maintain computer-based training program for environmental, health, and safety, radiological control, and nuclear quality control, including tests, visual aids, and learning activities. Administer processes to secure tests, store master files, and ensure lesson plan integrity.

Key Contributions:

· Saved 2K instructor labor, trainee labor, and transportation hours by completing four computer-based training programs.

· Executed all projects on time working as solitary developer over seven months.

· Successfully met requirements to obtain DOD Secret Clearance classification.

SUNY EMPIRE STATE COLLEGE, Saratoga Springs, NY 4/2013 – 8/2017

Instructional Design Intern (4/2017 – 8/2017)

Met academic requirements to contribute to design for online graduate-level Moodle course in Facilitating Learning with Emerging Technologies in Blended and Online Environments. Utilized Open SUNY Course Quality Review (OSCQR) Rubric and Process. Evaluated courses for ADA compliance and reviewed and updated HTML.

Key Contributions:

· Improved learning outcomes by reorganizing the online Understanding Diverse Learners Moodle course.

· Ensured compliance with ADA for all courses to guarantee opportunity for 100% student participation and completion.

Instructional Design and Educational Technology Intern (1/2017 – 4/2017)

Key Contributions:

· Implemented ADDIE Model to redesign online Introduction to Moodle course to assist new students in navigating courses successfully.

· Created exhibit and presented benefits, use, and features of ePortfolios to faculty members.

Online Course Assistant, Peer Tutor, and Academic Coach (4/2013 – 7/2017)

Assisted in delivering online undergraduate course in Mythology and Modern Life, mentored students, and responded to posted questions.

Key Contributions:

· Achieved 99% success rate helping at-risk students remain in school and enhance grades.

· Mentored students to improve discussion posts and provided timely responses to all questions.

· Adapted scheduling and teaching approaches to meet specific student needs.

Digital Identity and Virtual Communities Intern (4/2016 – 4/2017)

Collaborated on design for graduate-level course and served as course assistant.

Key Contribution:

· Reached 100% student satisfaction and successful completion for all students enrolled in course.

LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

Store Manager, CVS/CAREMARK, Multiple NY Locations

Oversaw retail store operations with annual sales ranging from $13M to $26M. Hired, trained, and supervised associates and conducted purchasing and merchandising.

Key Contribution:

· Appointed as conversion trainer to educate staff to meet CVS standards for newly acquired stores.

· Reduced expenses and shrink and increased overall profitability to successfully exceed budgeted sales and gross profit margin annually.

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

SUNY EMPIRE STATE COLLEGE — New York, NY

Master of Arts in Learning and Emerging Technologies, 2018

Coursework: Designing Online Learning Environments, Assessing Learning in Digital Environments, Social and Ethical Issues in the Digital Era, and Digital Tools for Education and Training.

Bachelor of Arts in Historical Studies, 2015

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

OPEN SUNY ONLINE LEARNING CONSORTIUM – New York, NY Instructional Designer Certificate Program, 2018

Coursework: Helping Faculty with New Course Development, Curating and Evaluating Resources for Faculty, Professional Foundations: Collaborating, Researching and Networking, and Course Quality Review (OSCQR) qualification to train OSCQR.

TECHNICAL PROFICIENCIES

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Institute of New Paradigms, Founding Member | Shaping EDU Member | Online Learning Consortium Member

I did not keep all of the changes because some spots I felt the way I had it made it more viable.

Interview Preparations:

I worked with Co-Pilot to create an interview preparation

Interview Question & Answer Preparation

1. Tell me about yourself.

Answer: I am an experienced Instructional Designer with a strong background in developing asynchronous online learning experiences across various sectors including higher education, government, and corporate environments. I excel at collaborating with subject matter experts to create accessible, engaging, and effective courses that meet measurable learning outcomes.

2. What instructional design models are you familiar with?

Answer: I am proficient in ADDIE, PADDIE+M, and adult learning theories. I also apply OSCQR standards to ensure course quality and accessibility. These models help me systematically design, develop, and evaluate learning experiences.

3. How do you ensure accessibility in your course designs?

Answer: I follow Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles and ADA compliance guidelines. I use tools and rubrics like OSCQR to evaluate and improve accessibility, ensuring all learners have equitable access to content.

4. Can you describe a challenging project you managed?

Answer: At Mountain Ltd, I managed complex projects involving coordination between engineering and regulatory teams. I ensured clear communication and adherence to commitments, which improved project efficiency and stakeholder satisfaction.

5. How do you measure the effectiveness of your training programs?

Answer: I use learning analytics and data-informed decision-making to assess course engagement and outcomes. I collect feedback, analyze assessment results, and make iterative improvements to enhance learning effectiveness.

6. What tools and technologies do you use in your instructional design work?

Answer: I am proficient in Canvas, Moodle, Blackboard, Adobe Captivate, Articulate, and Adobe Creative Cloud. I also use virtual design tools like Second Life and Kitely to create immersive learning environments. I am currently working on my AI Innovator Certification.

7. How do you handle feedback from faculty or learners?

Answer: I actively listen to feedback, collaborate with stakeholders to understand their needs, and make data-driven adjustments to improve course quality and learner satisfaction.

8. Why do you want to work with our organization?

Answer: I am impressed by your commitment to innovative learning solutions and your focus on accessibility and learner engagement. I believe my skills and experience align well with your goals, and I am excited to contribute to your team’s success.

Cover Letter:

Dear Hiring Committee,

I am excited to apply for the Online and Distance Education Instructional Designer position at Husson University. With a Master’s degree in Learning and Emerging Technologies and several years of experience designing, developing, and evaluating asynchronous online courses across higher education, government, military, and corporate environments, I am confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to Husson’s online learning initiatives.

Throughout my instructional design career, I have collaborated closely with subject matter experts to create human‑centered, universally designed learning experiences aligned to measurable outcomes. My work with OSCQR, ADA compliance, and multiple LMS platforms—including Canvas—has strengthened my ability to evaluate course quality, improve accessibility, and integrate academic technologies that enhance student engagement. I particularly enjoy coaching faculty and guiding them through the design process, ensuring that courses are both pedagogically sound and technologically effective.

I bring strong project‑management skills, having led complex, multi‑party course and training development efforts while consistently meeting deadlines. My experience developing online tutorials, orientations, and support materials aligns well with Husson’s commitment to high‑quality online learning. I also stay current with emerging tools and trends in digital education and enjoy exploring new technologies that can improve teaching and learning.

I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to Husson University’s growing online programs and support faculty in creating meaningful, data‑informed learning experiences. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Jana Zeman

Closing:

I recently added a fully updated, job‑ready resume as my career artifact, focusing on an Instructional Designer role in online and distance education. AI helped me refine the structure, strengthen phrasing, and align my experience with the job description while keeping everything truthful. I used a resume‑editing prompt that asked the AI to revise my existing content without inventing new experience. The output worked well in organizing my skills, highlighting relevant accomplishments, and modernizing the layout. Some areas needed revision, especially where wording felt too generic or didn’t match my actual responsibilities. I personalized sections, corrected details, and removed anything that didn’t reflect my authentic background. Throughout the process, I double‑checked accuracy and ensured the final version stayed professional and honest. This artifact shows that I can use AI as a collaborative tool—leveraging its strengths while applying my own judgment to produce career‑ready materials.

Progress Reflection:

Using AI throughout this course has taught me how valuable it can be for productivity, organization, career readiness, and professional communication. I’ve learned how to use AI to draft resumes, refine cover letters, and structure complex ideas more efficiently, but I’ve also become much better at reviewing and revising its output. The more I work with AI, the more I notice patterns in accuracy, privacy, professionalism, and authenticity—especially the importance of checking facts, correcting tone, and making sure the final product truly represents my own experience. I’ve found that career‑related tasks, like resume editing or professional writing, feel the most useful because AI helps me move past the blank page and focus on polishing. The most challenging or risky tasks are ones where accuracy or personal details matter, since AI can occasionally generalize or overstate information. I’m becoming more confident and careful by double‑checking details, personalizing language, and keeping my voice at the center of the final product. One habit I want to keep practicing is treating AI as a drafting partner rather than a final author—using it to accelerate my work while ensuring everything remains truthful, professional, and authentically mine.