Summary
Overview
Skills
Work Availability
Work History
Education
Certification
Timeline
GWENDOLYN DAWSON

GWENDOLYN DAWSON

Training Professional
Blacksburg,VA
Judge a man by his questions rather than his answers.
Voltaire

Summary

Organized Training Specialist with 9 years of training experience. Goal-driven, dedicated, and growth-focused professional with well-rounded experience in all aspects of training coordination, monitoring, audit, and delivery. Expert background in technical training with extensive knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Office365, Adobe Acrobat Reader, and Zoom use and industry procedures with typing speed of over 100 words per minute. Expert at developing and implementing comprehensive training programs to achieve company safety goals and ensure continuous learning and improvement in safety performance. Articulate communicator; adept at coordinating technical concepts effectively to a varied audience and cultivating positive relationships with key clients, colleagues, and management. Proven leader ready to make hard decisions and counsel companies to long-term success. Recognized for integrity, unparalleled work ethic, and organizational skills in handling multiple priorities within fast-paced environments with defined deadlines.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience
3
3

Certifications

Skills

  • Learning Objectives
  • Instructional Assistance
  • Interactive Learning
  • Student Rapport-Building
  • Diversity and Inclusion
  • Detailed Instruction
  • Documentation
  • Critical Thinking
  • Human Resources Understanding
  • Persuasive Communication Style

Work Availability

monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Work History

Safety Conductor Trainer/Auditor

Torc Robotics
Blacksburg, VA
05.2022 - 04.2023
  • Conducted monitoring and audit of specialized program training and qualifications programs for Safety Conductor program in Torc Robotics autonomously driven tractor trailer testing program.
  • Maintained comprehensive training records and monthly continued professional education tracking for over 30 personnel certified in Safety Conductor program.
  • Trained employees on new processes and systems used to monitor testing autonomous vehicles in agile workflow for Torc's autonomous driving system.
  • Prepared monthly reports regarding completed in-person training and tracked monthly statistics of all qualified personnel to ensure skills used are kept continuously up to for leadership staff to ensure all program-wide training requirements were met
  • Performed in-person quarterly assessments of employees on their capability to properly follow daily job requirements of safety conductor programs, as required to keep skills current for personnel certified.
  • Mentored new program hires, resulting in stronger staff development and increased productivity.
  • Developed individualized training plans to achieve staff readiness.
  • Performed continuous evaluations of content and plans to enhance delivery and improve effectiveness.
  • Monitored and reported trainee progress, introducing new learning tools to address individual needs.
  • Tracked attendance and evaluated progress for assigned trainees.

Technical Instructor/Course Developer

Gateway Ventures, Inc
Norfolk, VA
09.2021 - 04.2022
  • Conducted monitoring and audit of organization-wide training and qualifications programs for 1,700 personnel within 50 offices
  • Maintained comprehensive training records of over 1,700, as well as records of over 60 unique types of qualifications across 5 distinct categories for all personnel to ensure their maximum capabilities
  • Lead and provide hands-on assistance to 50 training leaders on program oversight, scheduled and unscheduled audits, and customer service
  • Trained employees on new processes and systems used across organization through development of new course materials for local requirements and refresher trainings
  • Prepared weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports regarding completed in-person training from various offices or departments for leadership staff to ensure all navy- and organization-wide training requirements were met
  • Performed in-person quarterly assessments of individual offices on their capability to properly follow listed requirements of MARMC's training and qualification programs, as well as program qualification owners on their ability to maintain proper records as required by MARMC's qualification programs and are meeting demands of personnel assigned
  • Completed unscheduled assessments of safety training on machinery and equipment used in daily production work
  • Took charge of handling individual training requests and schedules of training events as requested, as well as customer service inquiries pertaining to training and qualifications.
  • Identified program successes and failures based on student assessments and course reviews.
  • Met training needs with well-organized, factual programs based on contemporary requirements.

Assistant Training & Qualification Program Manager

Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center, US Navy
Norfolk, VA
10.2019 - 11.2021
  • Supported continued development efforts for over 1,000 personnel, while overseeing administrative functions
  • Rendered direct supervision to 35 instructors for completion of a total of 144 hours of command indoctrination to deliver military instruction to 210 new staff members, adding skills to MARMC's training program
  • Accomplished promotion, monitoring, and audit of MARMC's PQS/JQR program and administration of several courses involved
  • Presented complex data and information to diverse audiences, while building and maintaining effective work relationships with a broad range of people that often express divergent viewpoints and conflicting priorities
  • Proactively executed multiple individual spot checks, training events, and qualification tracking duties.

Departmental Training & Qualifications Program Manager

USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
Norfolk, VA
02.2015 - 03.2018
  • Spearheaded deployment of departmental training program while strictly adhering to departmental inspection criteria
  • Provided mentorship to five instructors in the administration of a comprehensive training program for over 150 individuals
  • Carried out organizational training in compliance with regulations for more than 300 individuals.
  • Introduced standardized training for cohesive learning environments.
  • Contributed to reductions in employee turnover by revamping training programs.
  • Tracked attendance and evaluated progress for assigned trainees.

Military Training Instructor

USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
Norfolk, VA
07.2014 - 03.2018
  • Trained 15 individuals on required topics in various fields while ensuring program requirements were met
  • Took charge of establishing and managing organizational training requirements at an office level, as well as annual electrical safety and isolation instruction at an organizational level
  • Solely created instructor and training materials for military knowledge, job-skills, safety, and qualifications trainings
  • Received distinction for attaining outstanding ratings on all individual program spot checks with higher authorities.
  • Developed lesson plans, instructional materials and written practice tests for maintenance and watchstanding training courses.
  • Analyzed and evaluated training effectiveness and program outcomes.

Career Counselor

Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center, US Navy
Norfolk, VA
09.2018 - 09.2020
  • Facilitated group-based and individual-based training regarding available resources and required processes, along with scheduling of events for a team of more than 150 personnel
  • Provided effectual advice to military service members on their career options through one-on-one counseling services, while helping with proper filing of career-related paperwork and coordinating important career decision milestones
  • Achieved 98% in employee retention rate by conducting over 38 reenlistments, 21 extensions, 95 career opportunity applications, and 15 employee developments
  • Contributed to the attainment of FY-19 Navy Sea Systems Command Retention Excellence Award, as a member of the Counseling Team.
  • Helped sailors evaluate career choices and conduct proper paperwork to achieve personal goals.
  • Developed career plans based on individual needs.
  • Counseled clients one-on-one regarding current situation, desires, aptitudes, education, and employment goals.
  • Developed and deepened connections with mentees, influencing career and life choices of each potential program participant.

Administrative Assistant

Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center. US Navy
Norfolk, VA
09.2018 - 09.2019
  • Assisted in utilizing organizationally required paperwork duties for a team in excess of 150 personnel in a proper manner, while handling and maintaining access to stored personally identifiable information
  • Managed the processing of over 200 awards and evaluations by implementing and modifying an organizational program and developing a system
  • Updated the records of over 150 individuals by rebuilding organizational personnel recordkeeping program.
  • Created and maintained detailed administrative processes and procedures to drive efficiency and accuracy.
  • Developed and updated spreadsheets and databases to track, analyze, and report on performance and project data.
  • Assisted coworkers and staff members with special tasks on daily basis.
  • Executed record filing system to improve document organization and management.

Electrical Safety Inspector

Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center, US Navy
Norfolk, VA
04.2018 - 09.2018
  • Conducted safety training and education to sailors to increase awareness of electrical safety hazards and empower sailors to work safely.
  • Inspected ships, practices, and gear for compliance with established electrical safety standards.
  • Recognized, documented, and advised on removal of hazards.

Marine Electrician

United States Navy
Norfolk, VA
07.2012 - 11.2021
  • Connected wires to circuit breakers, transformers or other components.
  • Installed 120/240 volt systems and 440 volt systems.
  • Interpreted drawings, wiring diagrams, flow charts and written descriptions of project requirements.
  • Replaced and repaired lighting fixtures and electrical control and distribution equipment.
  • Studied ship schematics to determine location of wiring and equipment.
  • Prevented breakdown of systems by routinely inspecting and replacing old equipment and cleaning circuits.
  • Repaired or replaced wiring, equipment and fixtures using hand tools and power tools.
  • Tested electrical systems functionality and continuity of circuits using devices such as ohmmeters, voltmeters and oscilloscopes.
  • Troubleshot and repaired malfunctioning systems and components.
  • Examined electrical units for loose connections and broken insulation.
  • Inspected electrical systems, equipment and components to identify hazards, defects and need for adjustment or repair.

Executive/Team Manager

USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
Norfolk, VA
09.2017 - 03.2018
  • Assumed full accountability for daily tasking, workload designation, job completion, scheduling, and administrative, and counseling for Electrical Maintenance Team with 10 employees
  • Offered resolution to issues and problems of individual team members to overcome personal and work difficulties
  • Oversaw completion of more than 170 hours of maintenance works and over 57 individual maintenance checks.
  • Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
  • Observed each employee's individual strengths and initiated mentoring program to improve areas of weakness.
  • Developed and fostered strong relationships with client stakeholders.

Maintenance Manager

USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
Norfolk, VA
03.2016 - 03.2018
  • Maintained positive customer relations by addressing problems head-on and implementing successful corrective actions.
  • Planned, created, tested and deployed system life cycle methodology to produce high quality systems to meet and exceed customer expectations.
  • Supervised employee performance, preventive maintenance, and safety on over 2500 pieces of equipment.
  • Evaluated employee performance and conveyed constructive feedback to improve skills.
  • Launched quality assurance practices for each phase of development
  • Established team priorities, maintained schedules and monitored performance for team of 7 maintenance workers conducting over 150 maintenance checks per week.
  • Trained maintenance technicians to apply proper techniques and best practices and comply with safety protocols.
  • Assisted in organizing and overseeing assignments to drive operational excellence.

Quality Assurance Specialist

USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
Norfolk, VA
12.2013 - 03.2018
  • Recorded findings of inspection process, collaborating with quality team to implement corrective actions.
  • Educated employees on specific QA standards and confirmed maintenance of standards.

Equipment Maintenance Technician

USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
Norfolk, VA
12.2013 - 03.2018
  • Continuously adhered to strict regulations as well as detailed instructions, guidelines and specifications.
  • Supervised maintenance functions, working collaboratively with other crew members on equipment upkeep and repairs.
  • Detected and repaired machinery faults using electrical and manual testing methods.
  • Performed preventive or predictive maintenance of conveyance equipment, using appropriate job plans, procedures and manuals.
  • Followed instructions from supervisor regarding daily job tasks and duties.
  • Removed trash and recyclables at end of each shift and disposed of items in proper receptacles.
  • Assisted in mentoring junior technicians by providing guidance and directions.
  • Assisted with basic electronics and Programmable Logic Controls troubleshooting.
  • Troubleshot and repaired electromechanical systems, using electrical drawings.

Pizza Delivery Driver

Domino's Pizza
Norfolk, VA
09.2016 - 01.2019
  • Served customers promptly by smoothly collecting and delivering high volume of orders for 4th highest grossing Domino's Pizza nationwide.
  • Collected payment for orders and provided customers with receipt copies to establish proof of transaction.
  • Processed payments by accepting cash, checks and credit and debit card payments.
  • Maintained organized, safe and clean work areas and complied with company safety and security standards.
  • Planned optimal routes to deliver multiple orders per trip and achieve strong performance ratings.
  • Supported sales efforts by suggestively selling additional food items to increase check average when taking orders with an average 10% or greater up-sell.
  • Provided excellent customer service by being friendly and courteous during interactions to increase satisfaction and loyalty.

Driver

Uber
Norfolk, VA
08.2018 - 01.2020
  • Utilized GPS and other navigation tools to plan routes and stay on schedule.
  • Upheld high standards of professionalism and discretion when working with clients.
  • Communicated with passengers to provide information and assistance for excellent customer service and positive experiences.
  • Generated consistent 5-star reviews and repeat business by providing friendly and fast service.
  • Minimized liability by consistently following road rules when driving.
  • Cleaned vehicle regularly to maintain professional appearance.
  • Answered, scheduled, and responded to reservation calls at specific times and locations.
  • Drove safely in various weather and road conditions to avoid accidents.

Driver

Lyft
Norfolk, VA
12.2014 - 01.2020
  • Utilized GPS and other navigation tools to plan routes and stay on schedule.
  • Upheld high standards of professionalism and discretion when working with clients.
  • Communicated with passengers to provide information and assistance for excellent customer service and positive experiences.
  • Generated consistent 5-star reviews and repeat business by providing friendly and fast service.
  • Minimized liability by consistently following road rules when driving.
  • Cleaned vehicle regularly to maintain professional appearance.
  • Answered, scheduled, and responded to reservation calls at specific times and locations.
  • Drove safely in various weather and road conditions to avoid accidents.

Kitchen Staff

USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
Norfolk, VA
01.2016 - 04.2016
  • Maintained clean, trash-free workspaces to maximize productivity and safety.
  • Sanitized dining ware and kitchen equipment according to health code standards.
  • Kept supplies in sufficient stock by assessing inventory levels and reporting lower stock items.
  • Plated and presented food following chef requirements.
  • Washed, peeled and cut fruits and vegetables by hand and machine and assembled and mixed salad ingredients, gelatin molds and fruit crisps.
  • Followed proper handling and sanitation procedures to comply with food safety standards and protocols.
  • Chopped vegetables, cut up fruit, and prepared sauces when kitchen staff was busy.
  • Transported food items from storage areas to kitchen for prepping.
  • Cleaned walk-in refrigerators and freezers and operated powered floor and steam equipment for deep cleaning.

Education

BBA - Human Resources Management

American InterContinental University, Chandler, AZ
12.2021
  • Dean's List Term 1 2020

Class-A Commercial Vehicle Driver Course -

Advanced Technology Institute, Norfolk, VA
2019

Certification

  • Class A Commercial Driver's License - 2019
  • Electrician Apprenticeship Certification, US Department of Labor - 2021
  • Certified Driver Trainer, Smith Systems - 2022

Timeline

Safety Conductor Trainer/Auditor - Torc Robotics
05.2022 - 04.2023
Technical Instructor/Course Developer - Gateway Ventures, Inc
09.2021 - 04.2022
Assistant Training & Qualification Program Manager - Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center, US Navy
10.2019 - 11.2021
Career Counselor - Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center, US Navy
09.2018 - 09.2020
Administrative Assistant - Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center. US Navy
09.2018 - 09.2019
Driver - Uber
08.2018 - 01.2020
Electrical Safety Inspector - Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center, US Navy
04.2018 - 09.2018
Executive/Team Manager - USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
09.2017 - 03.2018
Pizza Delivery Driver - Domino's Pizza
09.2016 - 01.2019
Maintenance Manager - USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
03.2016 - 03.2018
Kitchen Staff - USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
01.2016 - 04.2016
Departmental Training & Qualifications Program Manager - USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
02.2015 - 03.2018
Driver - Lyft
12.2014 - 01.2020
Military Training Instructor - USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
07.2014 - 03.2018
Quality Assurance Specialist - USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
12.2013 - 03.2018
Equipment Maintenance Technician - USS Gravely (DDG 107), US Navy
12.2013 - 03.2018
Marine Electrician - United States Navy
07.2012 - 11.2021
American InterContinental University - BBA, Human Resources Management
Advanced Technology Institute - Class-A Commercial Vehicle Driver Course,
GWENDOLYN DAWSONTraining Professional