She also serves as an Adjunct Professor at Touro University, preparing future instructional designers to thrive in today’s digital learning landscape. Holly hosts the EdUp L&D podcast, where she spotlights the voices and innovations shaping the future of learning—with a strong focus on accessibility, inclusion, and impact.

Amy Donato is a former middle school science teacher turned instructional coach and professional learning facilitator, passionate about helping educators thrive. After years in the brick-and-mortar classroom, she now supports teachers through practical coaching and engaging PD that builds confidence in teachers and improves instruction for students.  

Chelsea Maude Avirett, a former educator, created Skip's Job Board in 2021 when she realized how much time it took to search for jobs looking for her experience. Since then, she has curated over 20,000 education-adjacent jobs, connecting job seekers with positions at major companies and small non-profits. She has nearly a decade of experience interviewing candidates for roles ranging from entry-level to executive and speaks regularly about trends in edtech and L&D on podcasts and to professional groups.

Nate Ditterline is a former Training Instructor and now serves as a new Supervisor for Expanse Trainers, supporting technical training for a new software update and helping teams prepare for successful adoption. With nearly a year of focused training experience and more than 15 years of instructional experience, Nate has supported professional development, curriculum implementation, onboarding, and leadership training across a variety of settings. He has trained over 400 leaders, co-built and facilitated leadership development sessions, led customer-specific initiatives and large-scale rollouts, coached trainers, and helped strengthen training consistency. Nate brings a practical, collaborative, and people-centered perspective to training development, coordination, delivery, and program management.

After 20 years as a special education teacher, Gina Arnello made the decision to step into a new chapter—one that combined her passion for student access, communication, and problem solving. With support from the Teacher Career Transition Academy, she successfully transitioned into her current role as an Assistive Technology Specialist, where she helps individuals with disabilities, families, and teams expand communication access and find practical solutions through AAC, access tools, and individualized supports. Gina is excited to share her journey and encourage other educators who may be considering what comes next.

Denise Treadway lives in San Antonio, Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and two cats. She spent 29 years as an elementary classroom teacher before retiring in 2025. She currently works as an Estimator for Texas Site Services, a locally owned pavement striping and sweeping company. Denise also serves on the Board of Education for Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran School and Childcare. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, cooking, sewing, and exploring new places around San Antonio.

Renee Jackson went back to school later in life to become a teacher and is now 62 years old with 10 years of experience teaching English as an Additional Language. To advance her career, she pursued an alternate route to certification and became certified in 2019. Prior to teaching, Renee worked as a computer programmer for a large firm before becoming a stay-at-home mom, homeschooling her sons, and participating in mission work in Costa Rica.

After relocating to Hong Kong, she began teaching English and launched her own tutoring business. While teaching at a startup school, she decided to pursue formal certification. She later moved back to Arkansas and has spent the past five years teaching within the U.S. school system.

Rachel Dunbar is a special educator with over eight years of experience supporting diverse learners and leading professional development in K–12 schools. She is currently transitioning into the EdTech field, exploring roles in implementation, onboarding, and professional learning. Through her journey, Rachel has found tremendous value in the Teacher Career Transition Academy, where mindset work, one-on-one support, and community meetups have helped her build confidence, strengthen her interview skills, and stay grounded during the transition process. Outside of her career pivot, she is also a stand-up comedian and show producer who brings creativity and humor into her work.

Raised in Southern California and shaped by a rich blend of cultures, stories, and traditions, Samara developed a lasting interest in teaching culture and history using technology. She serves as an office administrator and teaches a high school civics class, bringing both organization and creativity to her work. Outside of her professional roles, she enjoys reading, painting, exploring through travel, and discovering new apps and tools that support learning and connection. She is known for her strong work ethic, adaptability, proactive problem-solving, and empathetic approach. Deeply committed to her relationships, she provides steady, faithful support to family and friends, creating a lasting and positive impact through care and presence.