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Maureen McGrath is a Learning Manager for SmartForce. She has been with SmartForce for four years, assisting companies in the Illinois and Wisconsin area with the implementation and marketing of their technology delivered training solutions. Prior to that, she worked in the IT industry developing applications and leading projects for 19 years for a leading company in the food industry. I earned a BS degree from Elmhurst College in Psychology and Secondary Education. My technical training was completed on-the-job. When I began my job in the IT industry, the company had a 10 week program to teach new hires how to become a programmer. Following that, I attended many training programs to improve my skills and advance my career from programming up through management. One of the most exciting aspects of my current role is the responsibility of working with clients to implement a successful e-Learning program. Excitement is generated here by the client who has an opportunity to introduce an organization to a new way of learning. The champion or project leader whom I work with is generally very motivated to make the project successful. There is an opportunity for creative brainstorming, putting together a plan and structure for moving the project forward and then the satisfaction of seeing the plan move forward. I get the opportunity to use creative, fun ideas here as well as my inclination for process and structure. My most serious barrier to becoming a Learning Manager was my avoidance of the unknown. After being in the same company for 19 years, I knew I wanted a new challenge but was reluctant to take the plunge from the wonderfully secure environment into the cold, cruel world that lay outside. The move was actually made easier for me when someone approached me about this career opportunity. What really made the change easier that she was someone I had worked with, respected and trusted. It certainly helped when I learned I would report to her! In my current role as a Learning Manager, there are a number of barriers to overcome. Working in a home office means I am not in touch with those who can influence my career growth. I therefore, have to be sure to communicate my accomplishments and obstacles and to solicit support from others when required. I find that not being in a corporate setting where decisions are made and projects started often leaves me (and others in my role) out of key discussions and does not allow us to influence direction and strategy until it is too far along. Another barrier I encounter has to do with working as a consultant to the client. I do not have any authority over the people working on the project. This is at times frustrating and at other times a serious barrier to the success of the project.
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