In this issue, we are excited to spotlight Harry Colangelo, CPTM, who has been working in the learning and development (L&D) sector for 26 years. Harry began his career as a teacher aide in special education and would later work as an assistant superintendent of schools before getting into corporate L&D. He currently works as the supervisory management and program analyst for the IRS School of Leadership Excellence, where he supervises the development, delivery and evaluation of 11 leadership training programs for more than 8,000 leaders. He received the Commissioner’s Award for his work with the Taxpayer First Act Report to Congress.

Read on to learn more about Harry’s career journey.

How did you get started in L&D?

While earning a bachelor of science concentrating on business administration and management, I volunteered to coach three sports for youth programs. I loved coaching and thought I should get into education. I went back to school to get a post-baccalaureate certification in special education.

What’s your most memorable training experience, good or bad?

At the Federal Air Marshal Service, where I served as a curriculum developer and instructor of instructors, I worked with some incredibly talented individuals. Being a training developer, instructor and evaluator was good for me. I saw my impact on the world around me.

Who would you consider your most valuable role model? What were some qualities that made them great?

Dr. Carol D’Zio taught me what it means and takes to be an educational leader. She showed me the value of leadership in helping others to identify their strengths and reach their individual goals.

What are the most pressing issues on your professional plate right now?

New leadership programs are constantly being added: I continuously evaluate them, tracking thousands of leaders being trained within the time requirements. I’m responsible for engaging stakeholders and supporting incredibly hard-working program managers in the demanding work they complete daily, including managing contractual support; virtual environments; classroom facilities; instructor availability and training assignments; and scheduling classes.

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?

Supporting numerous moving parts each day. A list of activities, ideas and people I will work with each day is the key to any successes I have.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Making a difference in the life of someone because of the work I do.  Whether it’s an action I take to assist them, a problem I help to solve, a decision I make or something I say, it is what motivates me each day.

What’s your preferred training methodology?

I am partial to the Successive Approximation Model (SAM) for training development. Whether virtual, face-to-face or self-paced, I promote performance-based objectives. I find training that promotes a crawl, walk, run process has a great effect on helping to guide trainees to long-term application and success that is measurable.

How do you find the time to continue your own professional development?

I listen to books online because it is easy while driving. I love virtual expos or conventions: They allow me to experience numerous trainings in one place. It also helps me to identify the trainings I would like to investigate further.

Any recommendations for folks out there: books, partners, resources, etc.?

I have been meditating more and developing a more positive and grateful attitude. I’ve read hundreds of books. Now, I spend a great deal of time reading the Bible. I was surprised to learn how much about training, learning, knowledge and being a good leader is written there.

“If someone wants to follow in my professional footsteps, I’d tell them to be sure to …”

Face your fears. Fear is the biggest barrier to success. Be honest with yourself and make a list of everything that scares you. Then do all of them.