Cath Ellis Learning Design Logo

Resume

Here's an overview of my skills and education.

Skills

Ever wondered how complex ideas become clear, engaging, and actionable?
That’s where I thrive, translating knowledge into learning experiences that don’t just inform, but truly connect.

With over 20 years in the Learning and Development industry, I’ve worn many hats; educator, designer, strategist, and content creator. My specialty lies in crafting education content that bridges the gap between theory and real-world application. I believe learning is most powerful when it’s practical, accessible, and designed with the learner’s needs at the centre.

Throughout my career, I’ve helped organisations transform their training into experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence, and drive results. From designing interactive eLearning to developing resources for diverse audiences, my focus is on creating content that not only looks great but makes a measurable difference.

I’m passionate about blending creativity with evidence-based design principles, ensuring every learning solution is purposeful and impactful. Whether it’s simplifying complex concepts, weaving accessibility into every step, or finding innovative ways to engage learners, I aim to make learning both meaningful and memorable.

If you’re looking for someone who can translate your vision into an engaging, results-driven learning experience, and make the process collaborative and enjoyable, let’s connect.

Employment

Cath Ellis Learning Design

Freelance eLearning Designer

2016-Present

Dubbed a 'unicorn' in the eLearning industry, I am an award-winning professional known for my innovative and transformative learning solutions. As a regular international speaker at premier conferences such as DevLearn, AITD and LearnX, I bring thought leadership and a wealth of knowledge to the global stage. My work encompasses end-to-end design for clients seeking comprehensive solutions, targeted design components for specific needs, and empowering teams through training in cutting-edge learning design methodologies.

Key Services:

  • End-to-End Learning Solutions: Craft comprehensive learning experiences from initial concept to final deployment, tailored to meet specific client objectives.
  • Targeted Design Components: Specialise in creating specific elements of the learning experience, such as learning strategy, design and development.
  • Workforce Training: Conduct workshops and training sessions for client staff, imparting the skills needed to design and implement effective learning solutions in-house.

Industry Recognition & Awards:

  • 2020 LearnX Live! Awards: Platinum for 'The Fallout' (Best Audio eLearning Design)
  • 2020 LearnX Live! Awards: Gold for 'The Fallout' (Best Custom/Bespoke Learning Model)
  • 2020 Brandon Hall Excellence Award: Gold for 'The Fallout' (Best Advance in Custom Content)
  • 2019 DemoFest: Winner for 'The Fallout' (Best Business Process Solution)
  • 2019 AITD Excellence Award: Finalist for 'Welcome to CoAbility' (Best Onboarding/Induction Program)
  • 2018 DemoFest: Winner for 'CoAbility Induction' (Best Onboarding/Orientation Solution)
  • 2018 LearnX Impact Award: Platinum for 'CoAbility Induction' (Best New eLearning Adopter Project)
  • 2018 LearnX Impact Award: Gold for 'CoAbility Induction' (Best eLearning on a Budget)
  • 2018 LearnX Impact Award: Finalist for 'CoAbility Induction' (Best Induction/Onboarding Project)

Country Fire Authority

Instructional Designer

2016

Learning Seat

Instructional Designer

2013-2016

As an Instructional Designer at Learning Seat, I specialised in creating tailored learning experiences that cater to the unique needs of our clients. My approach combined an in-depth understanding of adult learning principles with innovative visual design and user experience strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Client Collaboration: Established strong relationships with clients, effectively discerning their learning objectives and crafting customised educational solutions.
  • Content Development Workshops: Led workshops with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to extract essential information for storyboard creation.
  • Conceptualisation: Developed instructional concepts showcasing a robust grasp of adult learning theories, visual design aesthetics, and user experience considerations.
  • Strategic Design: Formulated overarching learning strategies and course frameworks, ensuring alignment with educational goals.
  • Storyboarding: Authored detailed storyboards in close collaboration with digital designers, translating complex concepts into engaging learning material.
  • Scriptwriting: Composed persuasive video and voiceover scripts, enhancing the instructional impact of module content.
  • Quality Assurance: Conducted meticulous reviews of colleagues' storyboards and finalised modules, maintaining our commitment to excellence and client-centricity.

Achievements:

  • Shaping The Future Award Winner: Recognised for my forward-thinking approach to instructional design at the 2014 Annual Learning Seat Awards.
  • Innovate with Purpose Award Winner: Honoured for my innovative contributions to the field at the 2015 Annual Learning Seat Awards, underscoring my commitment to purpose-driven educational design.

Victoria Police

Learning Consultant

2009-2013

At Victoria Police, I embraced the role of Instructional Designer with a focus on developing training programs that were both engaging and effective for learners at the Police Academy. My tenure was marked by a commitment to excellence in educational design, tailored to the unique demands of police work.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Curriculum Development: Crafted comprehensive training curricula for law enforcement personnel, incorporating best practices in instructional design and adult learning principles.
  • Stakeholder Collaboration: Worked closely with subject matter experts and department heads to ensure the training content was accurate, relevant, and aligned with departmental objectives.
  • Multimedia Content Creation: Designed and developed a variety of educational materials, including interactive e-learning modules, scenario-based exercises, and instructional videos.
  • Evaluation & Feedback: Implemented robust assessment and feedback mechanisms to gauge the effectiveness of training programs and identify areas for improvement.
  • Technology Integration: Leveraged the latest educational technologies and learning management systems to enhance the accessibility and impact of training initiatives.
  • Continuous Improvement: Engaged in ongoing professional development to stay abreast of emerging trends and innovations in instructional design and law enforcement training.

Achievements:

  • Elevated the training standards at Victoria Police by introducing innovative instructional strategies and leveraging multimedia resources to enhance learner engagement and retention.
  • Received commendation for the development of 'Taking Charge', a probationary constables course, which was subsequently adopted force-wide due to its effectiveness.

Carnival Cruise Lines

Lead Corporate Trainer

1999-2005

In my tenure as Lead Corporate Trainer at Carnival Cruise Lines, I spearheaded comprehensive onboard training initiatives, enriching staff competencies across diverse operational areas. My leadership was instrumental in cultivating a culture of continuous learning and professional excellence aboard the fleet.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Training Program Management: Orchestrated a wide array of training programs including orientation, hospitality, professional sales, environmental stewardship, ship safety, Carnival Colleges, and TEFL.
  • Interdepartmental Coordination: Fostered collaboration with various onboard departments to streamline the scheduling and execution of training sessions.
  • Language Proficiency Oversight: Monitored and upheld the requisite levels of spoken English onboard, ensuring clear communication and adherence to international standards.
  • Training Centre Administration: Directed the daily operations and administrative functions of the ship’s Crew Training Centre.
  • Compliance Reporting: Generated precise and punctual compliance training reports, facilitating meticulous record-keeping and regulatory adherence.
  • Curriculum Development: Contributed to the creation of courses for the Carnival College of Management and Carnival Corporate University, enhancing the professional development offerings.
  • Team Leadership: Trained, and supervised additional onboard trainers, expanding the training team's capacity and impact.

Achievements:

Successfully managed and executed comprehensive training programs for a diverse crew, leading to measurable improvements in service quality, safety standards, and overall crew performance.
Recognised for outstanding contributions to crew development and received commendations for excellence in training and leadership.

Education

University of Melbourne

Master of Education (Digital Technologies in Education)

2018

  • Learning with Interactive Devices
  • Digital Technologies in the Curriculum
  • ICT & 2lst Century Learning Communities
  • Leading Educational Ideas
  • Reading Educational Research
  • Impact Evaluations
  • Qualitative Methods for Evaluation
  • Marketing and Innovation in Education

Monash University

Bachelor of Adult Learning and Development

2014

  • Adult learning, knowledge and experience
  • Flexible learning and educational multimedia
  • Workplace learning and development
  • Program design and difference
  • Leading and managing learning
  • Investigating adult learning and development
  • Innovation, change and sustainability
  • Research training and development

Elearning Authoring Tools

Articulate Storyline 360
Evolve Authoring
Parta

LMS

Kajabi
Talent LMS
Teachable
Thinkific
Totara

Software

Adobe Creative Suite
Affinity
Notion
Vyond

Artificial Intelligence Tools

Claude
Gemini
OpenAI

Learning Design Skills

Adult Learning Theory
Assessment Design
Blended Learning
Content Development
Course Evaluation
Curriculum Design
Digital Accreditation
Gamification
Instructional Design
Learning Needs Analysis
Multimedia Production
Project Management
Social Learning
Storyboard & Script Writing
Template Design
Web Conferencing
SCORM
Trusted by global brands, government agencies, and industry leaders:

Ready to create something exceptional?

I accept a limited number of projects to ensure every client gets my full attention. Let’s chat about what you need.
Cath Ellis Learning Design Logo
I acknowledge the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the Country on which I live and work.
I honour their enduring connection to land, waters, skies, and community, and pay my deepest respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to emerging leaders.
I recognise that sovereignty was never ceded. This always was, and always will be, Aboriginal land.

About Cath Ellis

Cath Ellis is an eLearning Designer and Developer based out of Melbourne, crafting engaging and effective learning experiences.
ABN: 32 316 313 079
A Queer-Owned Business

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2026
Cath Ellis
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in Melbourne