Lorraine Thornton
Bastrop,TX
Summary
Strategic Learning & Development Specialist with over 11 years of experience at Verizon. Proficient in conducting comprehensive needs analyses to identify learning gaps and develop targeted training solutions. Holds a BS in Business Management and a background in Graphic Arts, enabling the creation of visually engaging, data-driven curricula aligned with corporate KPIs. Demonstrated success in enhancing employee performance and productivity through innovative training programs and effective learning strategies.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Learning & Development Consultant
VERIZON
03.2019 - 12.2025
- Functioned as primary consultant for upper leadership, pinpointing essential learning gaps within designated business channels and proposing tailored solutions.
- Designed and launched effective training initiatives where prior resources were lacking to accommodate changing demands of department.
- Evaluated training and learning requirements for diverse departments to ensure full alignment with overall company objectives.
- Applied Graphic Design skills to develop impactful instructional materials and visually engaging promotional layouts.
- Orchestrated extensive training rollouts alongside small-group sessions emphasizing operational excellence and sales performance, incorporating both new hire orientation and upskilling programs.
- Created engaging e-learning content using multimedia tools and platforms.
- Assessed training effectiveness through surveys and feedback mechanisms.
- Implemented process improvements to optimize training delivery and participant engagement.
- Provided guidance on career development opportunities within the organization.
- Delivered soft skills training programs in areas such as leadership development, team building and effective communication.
- Designed assessment tools to measure learners' understanding of course material.
- Assisted in the implementation of new systems by providing guidance on how they should be used effectively.
- Monitored current trends in industry standards related to Learning and Development practices.
- Prepared training materials such as quick reference, facilitator and participant guides.
- Provided technical support during virtual meetings or webinars using video conferencing software.
- Evaluated existing programs and identified opportunities for improvement.
- Collaborated with subject matter experts to develop relevant content for courses.
- Analyzed data collected from surveys or interviews to determine gaps in knowledge or skill sets.
Solutions Manager
VERIZON
03.2016 - 03.2019
- Led teams of 7-30 retail employees, cultivating a positive culture while achieving results in high-pressure, commission-based environment.
- Orchestrated internal company promotions through strategic coaching, delegation, and talent development.
- Supervised daily store activities, focusing on employee scheduling, inventory management, and financial reporting.
- Collaborated with General Managers to oversee recruitment, interviewing, and employee onboarding.
Retail Consultant
VERIZON
09.2014 - 03.2016
- Delivered results in commission-driven setting by leveraging extensive product knowledge and superior customer service.
- Consistently achieved or outperformed daily, weekly, and monthly sales objectives for self and store
- Sustained professional atmosphere and organized work environment during high volume periods.
Education
BBA - Business Management
STRAYER UNIVERSITY
01-2025
Associate of Arts - Business Management
STRAYER UNIVERSITY
01.2022
Associate of Arts - Graphic Arts
STEVENS-HENAGER COLLEGE
Skills
- Performance consulting
- Training design
- E-learning development
- Process improvement
- Learning solutions
- Employee development
- Compliance training
- Stakeholder collaboration
- Team leadership
- Effective communication
- Relationship management
- Soft skills training
- Career development
- Employee engagement
- New hire onboarding
- Training delivery
- Learning assessment
- Needs assessment
- Presentation development
- Curriculum development
- Virtual training
- Curriculum design
- Onboarding programs
- Team building
- Remote employee training
- Business operations
Early Career History
- Sprint, Key Holder/Retail Consultant
- Sonic Drive-In, Assistant Manager
- Pizza Hut, Shift Manager
Timeline
Learning & Development Consultant
VERIZON
03.2019 - 12.2025
Solutions Manager
VERIZON
03.2016 - 03.2019
Retail Consultant
VERIZON
09.2014 - 03.2016
BBA - Business Management
STRAYER UNIVERSITY
Associate of Arts - Business Management
STRAYER UNIVERSITY
Associate of Arts - Graphic Arts
STEVENS-HENAGER COLLEGE