Debbie Richards

Debbie Richards has a diverse work experience in the field of learning and development. Debbie currently works as a Learning Strategist at Immerse, starting in 2018. Prior to this, Debbie served as the Chief Technology Officer at Creative Interactive Ideas from 2008 until 2018. In this role, they helped clients establish corporate universities with online offerings in multiple languages, implemented and promoted corporate learning management systems, and directed the utilization of rapid development tools to create custom online courses.

Debbie has also been involved with ATD Houston, starting as the President in 2013 and later holding positions such as President Elect, VP Marketing and Communications, and Website Manager. Debbie currently serves as the President Emeritus on the Board of Directors of ATD Houston. Additionally, Debbie has served in leadership roles at the Association for Talent Development (ATD), including as the Chair of the ATD Techknowledge Program Advisory Committee.

Before their work at ATD and Creative Interactive Ideas, Debbie was the President of Animatrix Computer Arts from 1992 to 2008. In this role, they designed and implemented multimedia graphic systems, reviewed and tested graphics hardware and software products, and assisted clients in transitioning from text-based and instructor-led learning to computer and web-based training.

Throughout their career, Debbie has demonstrated a strong knowledge and expertise in learning technologies, e-learning, and chapter management. Debbie has actively contributed to the field and provided creative solutions to enhance learning participation while reducing training costs.

Debbie Richards earned a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Maryland Global Campus from 1975 to 1980. Debbie also obtained additional certifications including the Adobe Captivate Specialist from Adobe in May 2019, and the Certified online training professional (COTP) from ICCOTP: International Council for Certified Online Training Professionals in June 2017.