Christopher Truelson
Colorado Springs, CO *****
***********@*****.***
LinkedIn Profile
Professional Summary
Strategic Learning and Development Leader with over 20 years of experience designing, managing, and delivering scalable learning initiatives across corporate, public, and military environments. Expertise in adult learning theory, instructional design, leadership development, and cross-functional training implementation. Proven track record in driving inclusive, data-informed learning cultures aligned with performance goals and DEI principles.
Core Competencies
Strategic Learning & Development Planning
Adult Learning Theory & Instructional Design
Leadership & Managerial Pathway Development
Performance & Feedback Cultures
LMS Administration (Cornerstone, Skillsoft, Brainshark)
Equity-Centered Learning Facilitation
Cross-Functional Collaboration & DEI Integration
Process Improvement (Six Sigma Green Belt)
Project & Budget Management
Professional Experience
Training Manager / Factory Department Manager
Nestle Purina – Denver, CO May 2022 – Present
Designed and led enterprise learning strategy across departments to align with organizational goals and quality standards.
Directed resource allocation and vendor collaboration to deliver scalable, high-quality learning solutions across in-person and virtual platforms.
Evaluated learning impact through qualitative and quantitative metrics, improving performance through data-informed insights.
Promoted a feedback-driven culture by integrating learning systems with performance reviews and development plans.
Mentored team leads and staff to embed learning into operational routines and leadership growth.
Technical Training Manager – North America
Ball Corporation – Westminster, CO July 2020 – May 2022
Led development and implementation of technical onboarding and training programs across 26 manufacturing facilities.
Standardized learning models through cross-site collaboration, enhancing training consistency and operational readiness.
Mentored newly hired trainers and coordinated site-specific rollouts of leadership capability-building tracks.
Acted as a strategic partner to senior leaders, supporting development initiatives and team performance strategies.
Training Analyst / Instructional Designer
General Dynamics / GP Strategies – Groton, CT March 2019 – March 2020
Designed curriculum for diverse audiences using blended modalities, aligning with adult learning styles and readiness levels.
Managed $1.2M in training project services, producing over 130 courses tailored to technical and leadership capabilities.
Supported inclusive design in government-contracted learning environments within regulatory constraints.
Education Specialist III
EchoStar Corporation – Englewood, CO April 2013 – May 2014
Developed and delivered technical training in IT systems, robotics, and compliance operations.
Produced e-learning programs and maintained educational documentation aligned with corporate standards.
Implemented DEI-sensitive content development practices to support diverse learner engagement.
Operations Training and People Manager
City and County of Denver – Denver International Airport April 2013 – May 2014
Delivered operations and leadership development training for over 35,000 airport and city employees.
Integrated DEI principles and performance capabilities into learning design and facilitation.
Led Six Sigma improvement projects contributing to over $240 million in increased revenue.
Training Lead / Intelligence Analyst
Lockheed Martin / AirScan July 2011 – April 2013
Directed technical onboarding in secure, multinational environments and mentored cross-functional teams.
Facilitated courageous conversations and debriefs across leadership and field operations.
Integrated scenario-based training to reinforce leadership decision-making under pressure.
Aircrew Department Lead / Intelligence Analyst
United States Navy July 1991 – July 2011
Managed 225 personnel and developed comprehensive training systems for aircrew and intelligence teams.
Led global L&D strategy for high-stakes operational readiness, aligning training with mission and leadership goals.
Conducted equity-centered leadership development through CRM and coaching frameworks.
Education
M.A. in Adult Education & Leadership
B.S. in Human Services / People Management
Certifications & Tools
Six Sigma Green Belt
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Top Secret / SCI Clearance (Held for 20+ years)
Learning Systems: Brainshark, Skillsoft, Cornerstone
DEI and Cultural Competency Commitment
Led and facilitated inclusive learning environments across public, corporate, and military sectors. Experienced in applying equity-centered instructional design to ensure all learners are respected, engaged, and supported. Skilled in fostering psychologically safe learning spaces that prioritize growth, feedback, and cultural fluency.