Thomas McLaughlin

Results-driven Senior Training Specialist and Instructional Designer with over 30 years of experience spearheading high-impact learning solutions across corporate, military, and educational sectors. Expert in applying Andragogy (Adult Learning Theory) and the ADDIE framework to translate complex technical concepts into scalable, learner-centered programs. Proven track record in leveraging emerging AI technologies, managing LMS platforms, and conducting deep-dive gap analyses to drive technology adoption, operational efficiency, and organizational readiness.

Instructional Material Specialist at TSO Armor and Training Inc. (2025-01 – Present)

• Direct the design and validation of instructional strategies using the ADDIE framework for military-specific content.
• Apply Adult Learning Theory frameworks to ensure complex technical training is both accessible and actionable for military personnel.
• Collaborate with SMEs to develop AI-assisted instructional materials, ensuring compliance with technical standards, LMS requirements, and adult learning principles.
• Research emerging learning technologies and AI-enabled tools to improve training effectiveness, content development efficiency, and learner engagement.
• Conduct rigorous needs and task analysis to identify performance gaps and inform technical content development.

Instructional Facilitator / Curriculum Developer at A Plus Academy Charter Schools (2022-08 – 2024-12)

• Managed an organizational development program that increased classroom participation by 23% in one year.
• Led training initiatives supporting adoption of new instructional technologies and digital workflows.
• Integrated adult learning principles into educator workshops, moving beyond theory to reignite professional passion and improve classroom management.
• Utilized LMS software to track staff training progress and demonstrate measurable proficiency improvements.
• Applied ADDIE methodology to the design and delivery of large-scale educational programs, ensuring that annual workshops were data-driven and responsive to shifting student needs.
• Leveraged diagnostic data from stakeholder surveys to spearhead annual instructional initiatives, impacting the learning experiences of 2,000+ pupils through targeted, standards-based workshops.
• Developed quick-reference guides, job aids, and training resources that accelerated user proficiency and reduced support requests.

Teacher / Instructional Coach / Campus Instructional Leadership at Forney ISD, Lone Oak ISD, Dallas ISD & Westwood ISD (2008-02 – 2022-08)

• Facilitated both virtual and instructor-led training sessions for diverse learner populations.
• Optimized training effectiveness by 21% through a dual approach of one-on-one coaching and systematic curriculum refinement.
• Bridged the gap between theoretical curriculum design and classroom execution, ensuring all social studies instruction was rigorous, engaging, and TEKS-aligned.
• Delivered standards-based Social Studies instruction that cultivated deep historical thinking, civic understanding, and geographic literacy among students.
• Synthesized complex educational goals into actionable classroom strategies, focusing on improving student achievement in history, economics, and civics.

Training Specialist / Learning Facilitator / Curriculum Developer at US Navy

• Served as a Military Trainer, establishing a foundation in DoD training and service guidance.
• Managed diverse roles including Curriculum Developer, Instructional Facilitator, Mentor, and Supervisor within a high-stakes environment.

Master of Education in Curriculum and Teaching – Northcentral University

Bachelor of Science in Business Management – University of Phoenix