Stephen Zales

About Stephen Zales

I help build practical workforce upskilling programs in cloud, AI, and certifications — without overwhelming internal teams.Over the past several years, I’ve led talent development strategy inside complex, fast-moving environments (specifically tech and government-adjacent) where the pressure to modernize skills is high, resources are limited, and the stakes are real. I’ve worked at the intersection of:• Cloud certification pathways (AWS and beyond)• Learning strategy for technical and cleared populations• LMS and vendor ecosystem optimization• Measuring the real impact of learning programs• AI workforce readiness for non-engineering teamsIf you’re working on AI enablement, cloud skills development, or certification strategy and want a practical, business-aligned approach — I’m always open to comparing notes.

Experience

1. Talent Development Manager

   SMX

   Mar 2022 — Present · MD, US

Education

• Roman Catholic High School

  High School Diploma, General Studies

  1996 — 2000

• Temple University

  Bachelor of Arts, Broadcast Telecommunications and Mass Media

  2000 — 2004

Skills

• Job Descriptions
• Team Facilitation
• Budget Management
• Interviews
• Leadership Development
• Human Resources Information Systems (Hris)
• New Hire Orientations
• Onboarding
• Nonprofits
• Training
• Time Management
• Employee Training
• Job Coaching
• Customer Service
• Interview Coaching
• Audio Engineering
• Writing
• Training Program Development
• Hris
• Leadership
• Recruiting
• First Aid
• Staff Development
• Job Description Development
• Employee Relations
• Budget Monitoring
• Studio Recording
• Project Coordination
• Fire Safety
• Interviewing
• Talent Acquisition
• Promotions
• Defensive Driving
• Freelance Writing
• Public Speaking
• Crisis Intervention
• Career Assessment
• Large Group Facilitation
• Audio Editing
• Team Building