The learning and development (L&D) field has shifted significantly in recent years, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a contract English as a Second Language (ESL) educator, I found the changing market pushed me to explore new industries where I could apply my skill set and continue growing professionally.

Through research and reflection, I discovered that instructional design aligned not only with my strengths but also with my long-standing interests in education, communication and adult learning. The more I explored, the more confident I became that instructional design was the right next step.

This shift required me to embrace new tools and approaches. It also reaffirmed how well my experience working with adult professionals from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds had prepared me for this field. The communication skills, empathy and learner-focused mindset I developed in teaching translated seamlessly into designing effective learning solutions for a broader range of learners.

While the transition involved a steep learning curve, it confirmed something essential: the skills educators bring — especially those with experience teaching adults — are incredibly valuable in corporate L&D.

Here are five key insights from my journey that may help others navigate a similar path.

1.   Your background is an instructional asset.

At first, I worried that my ESL background might limit my opportunities in the broader L&D field. But I quickly realized: Teaching is design, especially when guiding multilingual adult learners through complex content in professional contexts.

As an ESL educator, I was already:

• Designing learner-centered materials tailored to individual goals and real-world scenarios
• Simplifying complex ideas into digestible, actionable content
• Adapting instruction to accommodate a wide range of learning preference

These are core instructional design competencies — already embedded in my teaching practice. Recognizing this was a mindset shift that allowed me to see my past work through a new lens.

2.   Formal training helps — but experience is what solidifies it.

To build credibility and technical expertise, I enrolled in the University of Washington’s E-Learning and Instructional Design Certificate program, which I completed in June 2024. There, I studied learning theories and gained hands-on experience with tools like Articulate Storyline and Adobe Captivate.

However, my most meaningful growth happened afterward, when I began applying what I’d learned by:

• Building a complete instructional design portfolio from scratch
• Designing and launching my professional website
• Creating more than five ESL-based eLearning courses — and one non-ESL course

Instructional design is a hands-on discipline. Theory is important, but real-world application is what transforms knowledge into skill.

Projects — whether client-based or self-initiated — are where real learning happens.

3.   Learning tools like AI are no longer optional.

While developing my projects, I began using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to enhance both productivity and creativity. For me, AI isn’t a shortcut—it’s a powerful partner in the design process.

I now use AI to:

• Brainstorm content ideas and visual layouts
• Draft scripts and course text more efficiently
• Check accessibility and adapt materials for different learner needs

AI doesn’t replace the thoughtful, human-centered process that great instructional design requires. But when used strategically, it enhances efficiency and elevates your work. For new designers, integrating AI into your workflow is fast becoming a must-have skill.

4.   Build a portfolio that reflects your range.

Instructional design is a “show-don’t-tell” field. A portfolio isn’t just a collection of artifacts—it’s proof of your problem-solving abilities, technical skills, and creative thinking.

When building mine, I focused on:

• Including both ESL and non-ESL projects to showcase versatility
• Highlighting tool proficiency and design rationale
• Explaining the “why” behind each project, not just the result

If you’re just getting started, don’t wait for client work. Create mock projects, participate in design challenges, and document your process. A thoughtful, well-rounded portfolio turns potential into proof — and opens doors.

5.   Consulting requires more than just design skills.

Stepping into instructional design consulting is both exciting and demanding. Beyond crafting learning experiences, it requires becoming your own strategist, marketer and project manager.

Drawing on my ESL and instructional design background, I’ve found that success depends on:

• Clearly defining who you serve and what problems you solve
• Communicating your value in clear, relevant terms
• Positioning yourself as a solution provider, not just a course builder

Even as a newcomer, clarity breeds confidence. When you understand your niche and build systems that support your workflow and goals, you’re building a sustainable practice.

From Teaching to Designing — With Purpose

Instructional design has allowed me to carry forward my passion for teaching in a new way — one that blends creativity, empathy and technology. The journey hasn’t been linear, but every step has helped sharpen my skills and deepen my understanding of how adults learn best.

If you’re considering a similar move:

• Don’t underestimate the value of your
• Embrace the learning
• Let curiosity guide your next

Your background might be more relevant than you think. In an industry that’s constantly evolving, adaptability, empathy and a learner-first mindset are some of the most powerful tools you can bring to the table.