Zen Van Loan
@zenvanloan
Experienced workforce development leader specializing in AI and training.
What I'm looking for
As a seasoned professional in workforce development, I have dedicated my career to enhancing AI literacy and promoting inclusive workforce advancement. Currently serving as the Vice President of Workforce Development at Austin AI Alliance, I design and deliver impactful training programs for nonprofits and small business leaders, ensuring equitable access to AI education and digital skills.
My experience spans various roles, including adjunct professor and senior program specialist, where I have successfully led large-scale training initiatives and collaborated with diverse stakeholders. I am passionate about integrating generative AI tools into educational frameworks, fostering innovation, and mentoring the next generation of leaders in public service and business.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Adjunct Professor of Workforce Development
Texas State University
Jan 2022 - Present (3 years 7 months)
Designed and delivered undergraduate courses on workforce management, leadership, and AI using Canvas LMS and blended learning models. Led course innovation efforts, integrating generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini) into assignments to build real-world digital fluency.
Vice President of Workforce Development
Austin AI Alliance
Jan 2024 - Present (1 year 7 months)
Designed and delivered public-facing training for nonprofits, small business leaders, and emerging adult professionals, promoting AI literacy and inclusive workforce advancement. Spearheaded scalable training and workforce initiatives for leaders, educators, and public sector professionals across Austin and surrounding counties.
Senior Program Specialist, Special Projects, AI Liaison
TWC
Jan 2020 - Present (5 years 7 months)
Developed and disseminated AI training materials for executive-level early adopters, emphasizing ethical, discreet, and efficient technology use. Spearheaded the AI-driven redesign of the TWC website, enhancing accessibility, user engagement, and consistency across all division and department interfaces.
Senior Program Specialist | AI & Data Analytics Implementation
TWC
Led high-impact grant development, writing, and evaluation efforts to secure funding for innovative workforce initiatives statewide. Managed multi-million-dollar grant portfolios, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations, and provided detailed analysis to executive leadership.
Senior Regional Career Counselor
Citizen Soldier for Life
Jan 2014 - Jan 2018 (4 years)
Launched and managed workforce programs across seven Texas locations, leading strategic expansion and operational delivery. Trained and coached over 10,000 service members and spouses in employment transitions, resulting in significant taxpayer savings.
National Health Care Recruiter
Eskridge & Associates, JIT Staffing
Jan 2018 - Jan 2019 (1 year)
Recruited highly educated doctors and medical professionals for positions at hospitals and government led medical organizations. Managed the full recruitment lifecycle from sourcing to placement.
Senior Professional Development & Training Specialist
Travis County
Jan 2008 - Jan 2012 (4 years)
Designed and delivered compliance-focused training across departments, including HR, HIPAA, and legal requirements. Collaborated with executive leadership to assess needs and implement certification programs that supported regulatory standards and operational goals.
Organizational Development & Training Director
D. R. Horton
Jan 2006 - Jan 2006 (0 months)
Orchestrated strategic training programs nationwide, aligning key personnel across Texas and the US with current policies, reinforcing organizational compliance and operational excellence. Directed comprehensive data analysis and optimization, alongside HR and administrative policies across the US, significantly enhancing corporate efficiency and productivity.
Professional Development & Training Specialist
Austin Energy
Jan 2004 - Jan 2006 (2 years)
Launched a cross-department “train-to-transfer” program to expand the internal talent pool and improve organizational flexibility. Designed month-long blended learning courses with performance-based metrics to drive productivity and skill growth.
Senior Organizational Training Specialist
Household International | HSBC
Jan 1999 - Jan 2003 (4 years)
Led a nationally recognized training team, awarded one of Training Magazine’s Top 100 U.S. teams for excellence in learning design and delivery. Developed and implemented full-cycle performance management and succession planning programs, improving retention by 60% and reducing attrition by 37%.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Wilmington University
Master of Science, Human Resource Management
Completed a Master of Science in Human Resource Management, focusing on advanced HR strategies and organizational development. Also obtained a Master of Science in Public Administration, gaining expertise in public sector management and policy.
University of Maryland / NYU
Certification, Data Literacy & Evidence Building
Obtained certification in Data Literacy & Evidence Building from the Social Data Science Center, a joint program by the University of Maryland and NYU. This certification focused on understanding and utilizing data for informed decision-making.
Texas Comptroller
Certification, Contract Development and Management
Achieved certification as a Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) and Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM). These certifications provided specialized knowledge in state contract development and management.
Coleridge Initiative
Certification, Applied Data Analytics
Completed certification in Applied Data Analytics (ADA) through the Coleridge Initiative. Also received training in Generative AI in the Public Sector, enhancing skills in advanced data analysis and AI applications.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Job categories
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