About Me

Hi, I’m Steve Mickelson. I’m an instructional designer who’s passionate about turning complex information into clear, engaging learning experiences that actually make a difference.

For 19 years, I’ve worked at Space Dynamics Laboratory, where I’ve designed everything from interactive onboarding programs to scenario-based eLearning and technical training.

My background blends instructional design, technical writing, graphic design, and multimedia development, which means I can approach projects from multiple angles.

Throughout my career, I have learned the value of listening to differing ideas and perspectives. Gathering and collecting various opinions, ideas, and needs has helped me determine the best course of action to assess and develop optimal training for my learners, distinctive for each situation and purpose.

I enjoy working with others and thrive in team settings. I have worked on many programs and projects critical to national security, which means others depend on the success of our actions. I learned the importance of hard work, loyalty, reliance, and dependability to our customer. We instilled confidence and satisfaction to the customer as we not only delivered on what we promised, but exceeded expectations. Through many team meetings, I listened carefully to our customer’s needs and carefully crafted a training course that helped enlisted personnel, with little to no prior knowledge, learn how to operate a software tool designed to process digital intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) data in near real time. It is through such experiences I learned the value of learner-centered design by conducting thorough learner analysis.

I am focused on using creative solutions and solid learning science to make training more intuitive, engaging, and impactful. This, in turn, helps learners grow and organizations succeed through smarter learner-centered designs.