

HELLO, I'M
Kris Watterson
Senior Instructional Designer | Creative Expert | Artist

Kris Watterson
BS in Graphic Design
MS in Instructional Design
Ed.D. Candidate in
Educational Technology

About
MY BACKGROUND
I design learning experiences that translate complex systems into intuitive, high-impact workflows.
As a Senior Instructional Designer and eLearning Developer, I collaborate closely with cross-functional stakeholders, product teams, and SMEs to architect scalable workforce learning ecosystems. Whether supporting an enterprise digital transformation or designing focused microlearning, my goal is consistent: eliminate friction, drive measurable performance, and treat adult learners like the valuable, intelligent humans they are.
What I Do
Enterprise Strategy & Governance: Directed curriculum governance, eLearning standards, and agile workflows for a federal Oracle Health EHR digital transformation. I establish scalable frameworks that ensure quality across complex, matrixed organizations.
Instructional Architecture: Grounded in adult learning theory and systematic design (ADDIE, SAM, Agile, Kirkpatrick). I build end-to-end blended learning solutions integrating ILT/vILT, self-paced eLearning modules, performance job aids, facilitator guides, participant guides, scenario-based training, and assessments.
Learning Technology & Media: High-touch digital design using industry-standard authoring tools and multimedia platforms (my favorites are Articulate, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Vyond). I translate intricate technical concepts into polished, engaging digital content.
Team Leadership & Alignment: Experienced in leading rapid development sprints, conducting rigorous learning needs assessments, and mentoring developers.
Culture & Philosophy
Methodologies matter, but culture drives adoption. I thrive on teams that pair high standards with humility, honesty, and a healthy dose of humor. I value environments that champion creative problem-solving, empathy, balance, along with creativity and genuine curiosity—where we can build world-class learning solutions and enjoy the process together.
Core Competencies
Strategy & Design: Instructional Design (ID), Self-paced eLearning, Curriculum Development (CD), Needs Assessment, Blended Learning, Adult Learning Theory, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Competency Modeling, Evaluation (Kirkpatrick), Storytelling, Scenario-Based Learning, Microlearning, Layers of Support.
Process & Methodologies: ADDIE, SAM, Agile/Scrum, Rapid Prototyping, ILT/vILT
Technology & Tooling: Articulate 360 (Storyline, Rise), Adobe Creative Cloud, Learning Management Systems (LMS), Multimedia Production
Let’s connect: reach out here, on LinkedIn, or via email.
Education
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
Experience
WHERE I’VE WORKED
2025 - Present
Oral Roberts University
Bachelor of Science; Graphic Design - Video
S&P Consultants,
E-Learning Development Team Lead
Indian Health Services (IHS) government contract
2025 - 2025 (Semester)
Emporia State University
Masters of Science; Instructional Design & Technology
(Expected 2027)
Boise State University
Doctorate of Educational Technology (Ed.D.)
Emporia State University
Adjunct Instructor
Online Graduate IDT course on eLearning Development
2022 - 2025
GEHA,
Instructional Design Trainer - Digital,
Learning & Development Team
2016 - 2022
Cerner Corporation / Oracle
Senior Grapghic Designer, Creative Services Team
Senior Graphic Designer, Instructional Design Team
Manager, Population Health Marketing
Secondary Teacher
Certified in Secondary Art and Biology. Taught Art, Biology, Physical Science, Graphic Design and Yearbook
Creative Director, Graphic Designer & Illustrator
(various companies)
See CV for more detail
Skills
WHAT I BRING TO THE TABLE
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Visual Design Strategy
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Learning Experience Design
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Brand Stewardship & Design Systems
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Brand Guidelines & Brand Consistency
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Professional Learning & Curriculum Development
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Curriculum Layouts, Workbooks & Facilitator Guides
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Graphic Design, Visual Communication & Illustration
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Print & Digital Design
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Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat)
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Video, Audio & Animation Production
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Articulate Storyline, Rise & Vyond
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Accessibility, Inclusive Design & Section 508
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Project Management
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Cross-Functional Collaboration
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Stakeholder Engagement
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Vendor & Production Management
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Print Production & Preflight
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Asset Organization, Version Control & Workflow Optimization
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Quality Assurance
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AI-Supported Learning Technologies
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Asana, Jira & Cognota
Awards & Certificates
WHERE I SHINE
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2025 ATD BEST Award
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Josh Cavalier AI Intensive for L&D Professionals, 2025
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CITI Program Certified - Social and Behavioral Researchers
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ATD Certified - Virtual Training & Facilitation
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2023 Outstanding Graduate Student Award for Instructional Design & Technology, Emporia State University
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Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society, ESU & BSU
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Certified SalesForce Email Marketing Specialist
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Print Design Awards



Interests
OUT OF OFFICE
Creative Writing
Painting & Murals
Calligraphy
Cycling & Pilates
Reading
Digital Storytelling
Knitting & Crochet
Drawing


Memberships







