Technical Writer Instructional Designer

Robert H. Prestridge

**** *. ******** ******, ****-241, Mesa, AZ 85206

***********@*******.***

(425) 502 - 1251

SUMMARY

Dedicated and detail-oriented senior technical writer, instructional designer, and documentation manager with several years of experience in technical communications and training. Over the past year, I have immersed myself in Python programming, linear algebra, and linguistics—building a strong foundation in skills highly relevant to cybersecurity and data analysis. I am a fast, thorough worker committed to delivering high-quality results efficiently. I am actively seeking remote opportunities—preferably in cybersecurity roles that leverage Python—or in dynamic environments within education or cloud computing, preferably based in the Greater Phoenix area if remote isn’t an option. Proven expertise in creating engaging videos, animations, training manuals, presentations, and detailed reports. Eager to apply my technical acumen and proactive work style to contribute to innovative teams. TECHNOLOGIES, ETC., DOCUMENTED OR USED

Access, Acrobat Pro, ActionScript, AdCenter, AdManager, AdMarket, Adobe CS4 and CS5, Adobe eLearning Suite, AI, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Ansible, APIs, Articulate (Presenter, Storyline), Atlas Media Console, Atlas Rich Media and Video, Author-It, Azure, Big Data, Biteable, C++, C#, Caching Devices and Servers, Camtasia, Captivate, Chatbots, Commercial Order Optimization (COO), Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD), Composica, Confluence, Content Management Systems, Content Studio, Cryptology, Customer Experiences (CXs), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Developer Experiences (DXs), DHTML, Digital (Boolean Algebra, Formal Logic, K-mapping, Syllogisms), DITA, Django, Docker, Doodly, Dreamweaver, Dynamics AX, Dynatrace, Eclipse, Edge, Elastic, Embarcadero, Enterprise Cloud Platform (American Express), Expression Blend, Flash, FrameMaker, Gadgets, GoAnimate (Vyond), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Hadoop, Hashicorp Technologies, Homesite, HTML, Identity & Access Management (IAM), Internal Architecture, Internet Protocols, IPIX, Java, JavaScript, Jenkins, Jira, JMeter, Joomla, JSON, Kafka, Kanban, Kubernetes, Learning Management Systems (Lectora, Saba, etc., at Intel, Microsoft, and elsewhere), Microsoft Advertising Suite, Microsoft Office Tools, Microsoft Rich Media & Video, Modern Order Management (MOM), Multi-source Facility (MSF), .NET, Online Help, Oxygen XML Editor, Oxygen XML Web Editor, Natural Language Processing (NLP), PageMaker, Paint, Perl, Perforce, (Adobe) PhotoShop, PHP, PowerPoint, Product Studio, Python, QuarkXPress, QuickTime, Rich Media, RoboHELP, SAP, SCADA, SDKs, Selenium, SEO, SGML, SharePoint, Sidecar, Silverlight, SnagIt, Software Architecture, Software Design, SonarQube, Splunk, SQL, Team Foundation Server (TFS), Telephony, Third-party Advertising, Transim, Ubuntu, UIs, User Experiences (UXs), Video Wall Technology, Visio, Visual SourceSafe, Web-based Training (WBT), Widgets, Windows Server, Wireless Products (X10, etc.), WordPress, XAML, XLR, XMetal, XML EXPERIENCE

Arizona Department of Transportation – Phoenix, AZ (Phoenix Staff) 04/2024 – 05/2025 Instructional Designer and Senior Technical Writer (Cloud Environment)

• Developed comprehensive job aids and troubleshooting guides for complex, enterprise-wide processes, including billing remediation, software issue resolution, and the migration of in- house applications to cloud platforms—primarily Amazon Web Services (AWS). These resources simplified intricate workflows, enabling teams to navigate AWS environments and cloud migrations more efficiently.

• Authored and refined legal documentation supporting statewide initiatives, ensuring clarity and compliance across diverse stakeholders.

• Deconstructed a multifaceted, enterprise-level hiring process into clear, actionable milestones, resulting in an intuitive, easy-to-follow guide that improved onboarding efficiency.

• Designed advanced job aids for help-desk personnel, focusing on troubleshooting and supporting sophisticated software features within enterprise applications being migrated into AWS. These resources are tailored to empower support teams to effectively manage and resolve complex cloud-based issues, ensuring seamless transition and ongoing operational excellence.

Caterpillar – Phoenix, AZ (Meridian Technologies) 05/2023 – 02/2024 Senior Technical Writer (Modern Order Management Team)

• Developed targeted in-house communications, including technical email notifications focused on AWS and cloud infrastructure updates, to educate developers, big data analysts, and cross-functional teams about the new Modern Order Management (MOM) system at Caterpillar. These communications enhanced understanding of cloud-based workflows and security protocols essential for maintaining a robust, secure environment.

• Designed and refined comprehensive training materials—PowerPoint decks and multimedia content—for end users, primarily sales personnel and Caterpillar dealers, to facilitate seamless adoption of the MOM user interfaces (Commercial Order Optimization, Multi- source Facility, etc.) in a cloud-centric environment.

• Collaborated with trainers to prepare and deliver sessions in Brazil and Thailand, ensuring global teams are aligned on cloud deployment best practices and cybersecurity considerations.

• Produced monthly and quarterly team newsletters to keep staff informed on cloud-related updates, security measures, and system enhancements.

• Served as a technical editor for documentation and communication materials, maintaining accuracy and clarity in a highly technical, security-sensitive environment.

• Built and maintained an internal wiki on SharePoint, serving as a central knowledge repository for developers, data analysts, and subject matter experts—supporting secure access and collaboration within a cloud-enabled ecosystem.

• Worked closely with subject matter experts in a one-on-one capacity, translating complex cloud and security concepts into accessible resources for a diverse technical audience. American Express – Phoenix, AZ (Atos-Syntel) 10/2019 – 01/2023 Instructional Designer (Cloud Computing, Cloud University, Cloud Engineering)

• Developed and curated detailed pages for a Confluence wiki focused on cloud computing technologies, emphasizing secure cloud architectures, identity and access management

(IAM), and cybersecurity best practices to support a resilient, compliant cloud environment.

• Produced engaging animated videos and comprehensive learning materials covering a broad spectrum of cloud security topics—including AWS, GCP, IAM, and CI/CD pipelines— integrating tools like Splunk and Dynatrace to enhance security monitoring and incident response.

• Provided specialized instruction to network engineers and technical professionals on creating precise, security-conscious technical documentation, emphasizing secure configuration and best practices in cloud environments.

• Served as a technical editor, ensuring all documentation and training content adhered to security standards and accurately conveyed complex cloud and cybersecurity concepts.

• Led project management efforts using SharePoint and other collaborative tools, coordinating security-focused initiatives and ensuring timely delivery of cloud-related documentation and training materials.

• Developed and delivered Captivate e-learning courses aimed at new cloud engineers and software developers, focusing on secure cloud deployment, cloud security protocols, and threat mitigation strategies.

• Collaborated closely with subject matter experts in a one-on-one capacity, translating complex cloud security concepts into accessible training and reference materials for diverse technical audiences.

Experian – Phoenix, AZ (UST-Global) 03/2019 – 08/2019 Senior Technical Writer (Fraud Department)

• Developed and meticulously curated comprehensive pages for a Confluence wiki dedicated to operations procedures, big data technologies, security protocols, and cryptologic functions within an AWS environment. These resources provided clear, secure, and scalable documentation crucial for maintaining operational integrity and compliance in a complex cloud ecosystem.

• Focused on translating intricate security measures, cryptographic functions, and big data workflows into accessible, actionable documentation for technical teams, ensuring adherence to cybersecurity best practices and safeguarding sensitive information in a cloud environment.

• Served as a trusted technical editor, reviewing and refining documentation to ensure accuracy, clarity, and security compliance, thereby supporting robust cybersecurity posture across the organization.

• Worked primarily in a one-on-one capacity with subject matter experts, collaborating closely to capture nuanced technical details and translate them into user-friendly documentation and training materials that reinforce security protocols and operational excellence.

• Led efforts to align documentation with evolving security standards and cloud best practices, ensuring the organization’s operations remain resilient against cyber threats while optimizing big data and cryptologic functions in the cloud.

American Express – Phoenix, AZ (Atos-Syntel) 06/2018 – 01/2019 Senior Technical Writer (Big Data Team)

• Developed and refined detailed pages and Visio wireframes for a Confluence wiki focused on big data, artificial intelligence (AI), and chatbot technologies within cloud-based environments, primarily leveraging AWS. These resources provided a structured foundation for cross-functional teams to understand and implement AI-driven solutions securely and efficiently in the cloud.

• Edited and enhanced Hadoop tutorials, ensuring clear, accurate guidance on big data processing and analytics, with a focus on security best practices and scalable cloud deployment strategies.

• Created comprehensive technical how-to documentation outlining processes for designing, deploying, and managing AI chatbots—empowering teams to leverage AI technologies while maintaining security and compliance in cloud environments.

• Led project management efforts related to organizational change management (OCM), utilizing SharePoint and other collaboration tools to coordinate initiatives, facilitate communication, and ensure smooth adoption of new cloud-based AI and big data solutions.

• Worked primarily in a one-on-one capacity with subject matter experts, translating complex technical concepts into accessible documentation and workflows that support secure, scalable AI and big data operations in the cloud.

Intel Corporation – Chandler, AZ (Mindlance/PTIGlobal) 04/2017 - 05/2018 Senior Technical Writer (Chip Design)

• Revamped and optimized technical specifications in various formats (.doc, .docx, and .pdf) related to rack hardware, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and adherence to industry standards. Demonstrated extensive use of JSON to structure and document complex hardware configurations and data interchange protocols, enhancing interoperability and data integrity in hardware design workflows.

• Served as a technical editor when needed, meticulously reviewing documentation to uphold high standards of technical accuracy, clarity, and consistency, critical for secure hardware operations and compliance.

• Worked as a senior technical writer for Intel’s Custom Foundry division, producing detailed documentation on nano-level design kits and manufacturing processes. Crafted content using Darwin Information Typing Architecture (DITA) via OxygenXML Editor, along with PowerPoint presentations and Word documents, to support high-precision semiconductor design and fabrication efforts.

• Provided targeted instruction to electrical engineers and design professionals on creating effective, secure technical documentation—primarily through one-on-one collaboration with subject matter experts—to ensure technical accuracy, security, and clarity in highly sensitive and complex engineering projects.

Arizona Department of Transportation – Phoenix, AZ (Maxis Group) 01/2016 – 04/2017 Documentation Manager, Senior Technical Writer, and Documentation Architect (Government)

• Contributed to the Motor Vehicle Modernization (MvM) Project, leveraging Azure cloud infrastructure to support the seamless upgrade and modernization of vehicle systems and services. Ensured documentation and communication aligned with cloud security and operational best practices.

• Developed numerous PowerPoint presentations—including architecture diagrams, networking schematics, and systems flowcharts—used collaboratively among MvM teams, Microsoft Corporation, and other IT departments to facilitate clear understanding of complex cloud-based systems and integrations.

• Authored comprehensive Word documents, including end-user training guides and developer resources for C# programmers, designed to ensure secure and effective use of cloud-enabled features and systems.

• Led project management efforts utilizing SharePoint and other collaboration tools to coordinate activities, track progress, and communicate updates across diverse teams within a cloud environment.

• Worked primarily in a one-on-one capacity with subject matter experts, translating technical insights into clear, actionable documentation and training materials that support secure, efficient modernization initiatives in a cloud-based setting. Microsoft Corporation – Redmond, WA (Wimmer Solutions) 11/2015 – 01/2016 Senior Technical Writer (Windows Server Team)

• Documented and detailed public APIs utilized by Windows Server, Internet Explorer, and Edge, ensuring clear, accurate, and comprehensive technical references to support development and security efforts.

• Conducted extensive research into API architectures and protocols, developing a deep understanding of complex software systems created by third-party vendors. This involved analyzing API integrations, security considerations, and compatibility within Windows environments and cloud ecosystems.

• Collaborated closely in a one-on-one setting with subject matter experts, translating intricate technical concepts into precise, accessible documentation that facilitates secure, efficient implementation and troubleshooting of API integrations.

• Ensured all API documentation adhered to best practices for security and interoperability, supporting the organization’s commitment to robust system architecture. Lost Horizon Productions, LLC – Mesa, AZ 08/2015 – 11/2015 Book Editor for J. K. Toole Jr. (Book Packaging)

• Edited a comprehensive 120,000-word manuscript, ensuring clarity, consistency, and literary quality throughout the book. Collaborated closely with the imprint Baidarka Boy and its book packager on various aspects of publication, including designing interior proofs, coordinating cover artwork, and managing other tasks essential to bringing the book to publication.

• Contributed to the overall production process by providing detailed feedback on layout and design, ensuring a polished presentation that aligns with the author’s vision and publishing standards.

• Played a key role in streamlining the publication workflow, supporting the successful release of the book through meticulous editing and collaborative coordination. Intel Corporation – Chandler, AZ (Kelly IT Services) 04/2014 – 07/2015 Program Manager (Consumer Electronics)

• Led a major system conversion project within the Consumer Products Division, managing the migration of over 20,000 pages of highly technical documentation into DITA topics using XMetal and Intel Product Information XML (IPIX). This critical initiative required meticulous planning and execution under very tight deadlines.**

• Produced an extensive digital encyclopedia of detailed documentation covering systems architecture, chipset-software architecture, chip circuitry (including Boolean algebra, logic gates, and truth tables), and functional and technical specifications—serving as a vital knowledge base for engineering and development teams.

• Converted more than 10,000 pages into structured DITA topics and maps, ensuring consistency, reusability, and compliance with industry standards to facilitate easier updates and integration with other documentation systems.

• Utilized SnagIt and PhotoShop extensively to create and enhance graphics, schematics, and visual aids that clarified complex technical concepts and supported effective communication of system designs and architectures.

• Developed repositories for the documentation and crafted instructional courses to train teams on how to efficiently access, navigate, and utilize the wealth of technical information stored within these resources, enhancing overall productivity and knowledge sharing.

• Performed detailed editing of highly technical documentation related to hardware architecture, chipset behavior, circuitry, and specifications, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and security compliance.

• Collaborated primarily in a one-on-one setting with subject matter experts to accurately capture complex technical details and translate them into clear, accessible documentation supporting secure system development and integration. Business Integration Group – Tempe, AZ 12/2013 – 03/2014 Instructional Designer (Network Security)

• Developed comprehensive video scripts, PowerPoint presentations, and a variety of online learning materials tailored for internal audiences, aimed at enhancing technical understanding and operational efficiency.

• Collaborated closely in a one-on-one setting with subject matter experts to capture complex technical concepts and translate them into engaging, accessible instructional content that supports ongoing training and knowledge transfer.

• Ensured all materials adhered to best practices in instructional design and effectively communicated technical information to diverse internal teams, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Lost Horizon Production, LLC – Mesa, AZ 05/2013 – 10/2013 Instructional Designer (Human Resources)

• Developed comprehensive HR materials, including instructional and technical content, for a Baltimore-based client by collaborating closely with subject matter experts and the client manager to ensure accuracy and relevance.

• Utilized a suite of advanced e-learning and multimedia tools—including Adobe eLearning Suite, Articulate, GoAnimate, and others—to create engaging, interactive training modules, videos, and job aids that effectively communicated complex HR processes and policies.

• Ensured all materials adhered to best practices in instructional design, fostering a seamless learning experience that supported onboarding, compliance, and ongoing professional development initiatives.

• Played a key role in translating technical HR concepts into accessible formats suitable for diverse audiences, enhancing understanding and engagement across the organization. Choice Hotels – Scottsdale, AZ (Impact Technology) 02/2013 – 05/2013 Senior Technical Writer (Software Development Teams)

• Developed a comprehensive, 1,000+-page wiki tailored for software developers specializing in APIs, data cubes, Eclipse, Embarcadero tools, JavaScript, systems architecture, and software design, with a particular emphasis on Java, JavaScript, and JSON.

• Designed and organized the wiki to serve as a centralized knowledge base, facilitating efficient development workflows and fostering best practices across technical teams.

• The project was recognized at the highest level, as the wiki was presented to the CTO of Choice Hotels as the team’s “Project of the Quarter,” receiving excellent reviews for its depth, usability, and extensive technical coverage.

• Executed the work primarily independently within an Agile environment, demonstrating strong self-management and technical expertise.

• Collaborated occasionally in one-on-one sessions with software developers and subject matter experts to ensure accuracy, clarity, and relevance of the documentation, translating complex technical concepts into accessible, well-structured content. Intel Corporation – Chandler, AZ (Randstad) 07/2011 – 01/2013 Instructional Designer (Environmental/HazMat, Human Resources, Industrial Controls)

• Developed a variety of training and support materials using Adobe Captivate, Joomla, PowerPoint, and Word for change management teams across diverse projects, including supervisory controls and data acquisition (SCADA), environmental health and safety, chip manufacturing, computer security, data cubes, and data modeling.

• Created multiple help files and user guides to facilitate understanding and adoption of complex systems and processes, enhancing operational efficiency and compliance.

• Worked extensively within an Agile framework, contributing to user stories, managing tasks on a Kanban board, and iterating content based on feedback to ensure timely delivery and continuous improvement.

• Collaborated primarily in one-on-one sessions with subject matter experts, translating intricate technical and operational concepts into clear, accessible documentation and training resources tailored to diverse audiences.

Expedia.com – Bellevue, WA (Vanderhouwen & Associates) 02/2011 – 06/2011 Senior Technical Writer (Software Development Teams)

• Developed interactive online modules using TechSmith Camtasia (WBT) and PowerPoint to facilitate training and knowledge sharing on complex technical topics.

• Authored and edited over 600 pages of detailed technical documentation, covering SQL databases, Selenium servers, internal system architecture, widget and gadget user guides, API documentation, and other critical technical materials.

• Performed most work independently, demonstrating strong self-management and technical proficiency, with occasional collaboration in one-on-one sessions with a manager to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with project goals.

• Ensured all materials met technical standards and provided clear guidance for users and developers, supporting operational efficiency and technical excellence. Amazon.com – Seattle, WA (H10 Capital) 07/2010 – 12/2010 Senior Technical Writer (Online Help Team for amazon.cn)

• Led the technical documentation effort for Amazon.com's online help system, producing over 100,000 words of precise and comprehensive how-to and quality assurance documentation. This involved a critical task of accurately matching Chinese characters, further demonstrating attention to detail and multilingual accuracy.

• Demonstrated expert mastery of DITA authoring using Oxygen XML Editor, consistently meeting aggressive deadlines and managing a heavy workload.

• Successfully collaborated with an XML developer to achieve seamless documentation integration and project completion.

Microsoft – Redmond, WA (Volt/Revel Consulting) 04/2008 – 04/2010 Senior Technical Writer and Instructional Designer (Media Acquisitions, Microsoft Store, and Microsoft Advertising)

• Led the documentation and requirements definition for a crucial internal web application, supporting the Media Acquisitions team.

• Crafted detailed business requirements documents (BRDs), use cases, workflows, and as-is documentation.

• With my expertise in SharePoint, Team Foundation Server (TFS), and other Microsoft technologies, enabled efficient collaboration and project management.

• Subsequently documented the intricacies of the Microsoft Store's internal architecture through comprehensive functional and technical specifications, user guides, and reference materials.

X10 Wireless Electronics Technologies – Renton, WA 06/2007 – 02/2008 Senior Technical Writer (Consumer Electronics)

• Authored comprehensive operating manuals for X10’s wireless products by using PageMaker and FrameMaker, engaging in in-depth collaboration with US-based developers, and coordinating teleconferences with teams in Hong Kong, to ensure clarity and accuracy.

• Contributed to the configuration and optimization of FTP servers, enhancing file transfer reliability and security.

• Executed extensive graphic design and editing in Adobe PhotoShop, creating visuals that complemented technical documentation and marketing materials.

• Partnered with software testers to develop and refine testing procedures, resulting in more accurate and efficient quality assurance processes.

• Collaborated closely with sales professionals to craft detailed technical sales presentations that effectively communicated product features and benefits to diverse audiences.

• Conducted comprehensive marketing and advertising research across American, European, and Asian television markets by leveraging online databases, industry reports, and white papers, thereby providing valuable insights for strategic planning. National Security Technologies – Las Vegas, NV (RED, Inc.) 08/2005 – 05/2007 Senior Technical Writer (Government)

• Developed comprehensive high-level engineering documents and detailed specifications through close collaboration with engineers and subject matter experts, both individually and within team settings, ensuring clarity and technical accuracy.

• Authored and refined multiple systems improvement manuals for Department of Energy

(DOE) managers at the Nevada Test Site, working in partnership with Lean Six Sigma professionals to enhance operational efficiency and process effectiveness. EDUCATION

• Bellevue Community College (Bellevue, WA)

Continuing education (A+, HTML, HTTP, XML, etc.)

• Langevin Instructional Design Methods

• Maple Woods Community College (Kansas City, MO)

AA in Electronics Engineering (Suma Cum Laude, Dean’s List, Honor Roll)

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Online)

Artificial intelligence, calculus, computational analysis

• Microsoft Corporation (Redmond, WA)

Marketing training, rich media training, Silverlight training

• Team Treehouse (Online)

Django, Java, Python, WordPress

• Tech Skills (Las Vegas, NV)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) training

• University of Kansas (Lawrence, KS)

BA (Honor Roll)

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