Kelly Turner

communications

Helping others find their voice.

Writing Highlight

Skills Demonstrated:

Technical Writer / Communications Consultant

iLAB | January 2023 - Currently Consulting

• Blogs
• RFPs
  

Donor Communications & Stewardship Specialist

Ascension | August 2021 - May 2022

• Brand Awareness Emails
• Fundraising Campaigns
• Donor Communications
• Newsletters

Director of Communications

Town of Speedway | March 2019 - June 2021

• Town Announcements
• Newsletters
• Press Releases

Business Analyst & Marketing Specialist

TechPG | September 2016 to March 2019

• Marketing Emails
• Client Information Emails

Social Media Project Manager

ITT Technical Institute | September 2015 to March 2016

• Marketing Emails
• Newsletters
• Lead Engagement Emails

Director of Education and Public Affairs

Mental Health America | May 2014 - April 2015

• Fundraising Emails
• Event Emails & Reminders
• Advocacy Emails
• Recruitment Emails

Kelly Turner’s

writing samples

TechPG Award Application Narrative

For the last 23 years, Technology Partnership Group (TechPG) has provided successful IT services and mission critical financial management systems for state governmental agencies. Seven years ago, when tasked with developing custom software for a small government agency with a unique combination of needs in financial management, project management, and reporting features, we rose to the challenge. Our team spent weeks learning about our client’s day-to-day operations, finding gaps in their current support systems, and envisioning a software that could help them manage the details, so they could focus on communities they served. As we looked into the technology on the market, we realized there was not an industry standard that met the needs of agencies with these responsibilities, specifically revolving funds for community projects. Additionally, we saw various agencies across the nation with similar, yet unique needs that no custom-off-the-shelf (COTS) products were meeting.

Enter EnABLE. TechPG developed the EnABLE solution as a COTS product, designed to provide an unprecedented amount of user configuration to support the unique needs of each client, while still maintaining the ability to be updated through periodic software releases. Each client comes to us with a rich and unique history of providing to their community and an even more unique system for managing the processes that go along with it. Our implementation team works closely with the client to ensure their EnABLE solution will be configured prior to implementation in a way that immediately meets the needs of the client. Nearly everything in the system is customizable to the client during implementation, creating vast opportunity for us to create the perfect solution for their needs. The EnABLE system has also successfully interfaced with multiple GL, CRM, and other client specific systems, allowing for a seamless in-house process for our client.

TechPG’s team of proven, senior IT consultants have significant experience developing and implementing successful, web-based, enterprise-class financial systems with robust loan and bond servicing functionality. The EnABLE team understands the complexities of government finance programs and the responsibility that our clients have to their local government entities and the citizens. We work hand-in-hand with our clients’ staff to ensure a successful EnABLE implementation.

Getting to Know First-Generation Students

Making the decision to further your education can be difficult. Choosing the right school, finding a career that interests you, and knowing how to get started are just some of the pieces that can be overwhelming. Some students find comfort in the support of their family members who have experienced the process in the past. This isn’t always an option though. First-generation college students may have a more difficult time with the college process because they lack a support system that has experienced it.

Below we have put together a list of items that might be helpful for first-generation college students and their families. Check it out and visit the ITT Tech FAQ page for more information about our degrees and programs.

What does “first-generation college student” mean?

A first-generation college student is a student whose parent(s)/legal guardian(s) have not completed a post-secondary education degree.

What challenges might a first-generation student face?

No matter when you decide to earn your degree, it is a big decision. Finding the right program for you and deciding when and where to apply may seem overwhelming to some. Since a first-generation student might not have family members who understand the process, it can be hard to make decisions. Finding someone who has experienced the application process may be helpful during this time.

What’s so hard to understand about going to college?

It’s not necessarily hard to understand, but there can be a big cultural shift for students when they enter college. The rules, deadlines, study habits, classroom etiquette, etc. may seem foreign to a new college student. Students whose family has attended college may have an easier time with this transition. However, first-generation students must face many new experiences without that guidance from family.

Where can first-generation students find assistance?

Most postsecondary schools have some sort of academic or student services department. At ITT Tech, students can work with Student Services to learn more about our campuses and programs. Likewise, students who are considering attending a campus can schedule a campus visit or attend an open house. Speaking with someone on campus may help ease concerns around attending school and help answer any questions that may arise.

How can family help a first-generation student?

First-generation students may need support during their education. Even if you haven’t attended college yourself, you can provide emotional support for your relative. Since this is a new experience, students may feel out of place when talking about their education around family. You can help by making sure your relative feels comfortable talking about school and asking for help when they need it. Showing your support, however you provide it, is valuable!

What value does being a first-generation student bring to the classroom?

Often times first-generation students bring a different outlook, skillset, and attitude to the classroom, which helps provide richer and more diverse discussions. Not only does the student’s perspective influence their own learning, but each student who brings their unique background to the classroom can add value for everyone.

How does a first-generation student get started at ITT Tech?

It’s easy. Submit your contact information to find out more about what programs are offered at your local campus. We’ll contact you and provide the information you need to take the next step toward your education.

Whether you’re a first-generation college student or not continuing your education could change your career path. Research which programs are available. See if there is one that interests you.

Online Career Building Tools: 12 Tools to Prepare for a Career

Searching for a job can be a daunting experience, especially when you're not fully prepared for the interview process. The good news is that there are many tools available to help you plan ahead and increase your chances of securing the job you want. In this blog, we'll explore a few of these tools and how they can benefit you.

Resume Building Tools:

Creating a great resume is the first step in landing a job interview. However, not everyone knows how to create a professional and effective resume. Luckily, there are many online tools available that can help. VisualCV and ResumUp, for example, offer online resources that allow you to create professional resumes, online portfolios, and even personal landing pages. These tools are perfect for those who want to showcase their skills and experience in an organized and visually appealing way.

If you want to create a resume that stands out from the rest, How to Write a Resume provides you with the tools to draft more effective resumes and cover letters. Cover letters are particularly important as they provide a small snippet where you can talk about yourself even before the interview process. Meanwhile, Résunate software builds your resume and then automatically evaluates and improves it for each job application. If you're short on time, Resumecompanion allows you to choose an attractive resume template before downloading it in either Microsoft Word or PDF.

Job Board Tools:

Once you have your resume ready, you need to start searching for job opportunities. There are many online job boards available, but not all of them are created equal. US.jobs is a free service of the National Labor Exchange and lets you look into jobs located in different industry fields. It's also a useful site for Veterans! Riley Guide, on the other hand, has been around since 1994 and helps you search for jobs while providing pointers and career options for those who may be unsure about what they want to do in their career.

Resume Bucket is another great tool that allows you to upload your resume in just minutes and also provides the opportunity to search for jobs currently featured on the job market.

Tools for Tracking Jobs:

Once you've applied for jobs, it's important to keep track of the jobs you've applied for and the information you collect while working on your job search. Jibber Jobber helps you follow jobs you applied to, including contacts, and even keeps tabs on companies.

Networking Tools:

Networking is crucial for any job search. According to a helpful article by Next Avenue, networking can be the No. 1 thing you do when job hunting. Networking is so important because it can help you find job opportunities that may not be listed on job boards or company websites. To strengthen your networking skills, CIO provides some great ideas, whether you're shy or not.

If you need additional networking tools, Business Insider's article on how to network like a pro is a great resource.

In conclusion, job hunting can be a challenging experience, but with the right tools and resources, you can increase your chances of success. From creating a professional and effective resume to networking with professionals in your industry, these tools can help you take the next step in your career. By utilizing these resources and putting in the time and effort, you can be better prepared for your next job opportunity and land the job you've always wanted.

Get to know ITT Tech Employee: Marsha Radcliff

At over 130+ campuses, ITT Tech teams across the nation are here to offer an education that could open doors to endless possibilities. For our Employees in Focus project, we’ve asked campuses to identify a staff member from their team for our readers to get to know as a feature on our blog, portal, and social media. Each week we’ll introduce readers to a new staff member, telling a little bit about what they do and hear from their peers. We hope this project provides a window into the teams working behind the scenes to help our students. Click here to see more employees.

Marsha Radcliff | Facilities Procurement Specialist | Carmel, IN

Marsha Radcliff graduated from ITT Tech in December 2004, with an Associate Degree in Applied Science & Computer Aided Drafting & Design. This year is Marsha’s eleventh anniversary working at the ITT Educational Services headquarters. As a former student, Marsha brings a unique perspective to the team. Her boss, Rob Fitzgerald, describes her as “well balanced and able to see both the business side of an issue and the impact decisions have on students as well. She understands better than many how a business decision will impact the students and ensures that decisions that are made keep the student in mind.”

Get to know Marsha! And if you’re at headquarters, say hello.

Here’s what Marsha shared with us about herself:

• Do you have any hobbies? Hiking and Kayaking
  
• What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not at work? Vacation! Goal: Visit every National Park. 11 down
  
• What is your favorite food or restaurant? Thai Food
  
• What is your favorite sports team? Steelers
  
• Do you have a favorite quote or saying? No regrets.
  
• Do you have any pets? If so, what type of animal, and what is their name? Too many to name. I also foster. So, we have several dogs at a time. But I love them like they were my own.
  
• What is your greatest achievement? Saving the lives of my pets and possibly your pets.
  
• What is the greatest lesson you’ve learned? From my granny “dessert before dinner, it’s the best part of the meal.” And…To live life NOW! Don’t wait.
  
• Is there a “fun fact” about yourself you’d like to share? I really do enjoy dessert before dinner, granny was right.
  

Tips for Writing a Good Paper

Find inspiration.

We typically wouldn’t suggest that you spend time watching videos online instead of working, but when you’re struggling to find a topic, sites like Ted.com, BigThink.com, or YouTube EDU may help you find a starting point. (Just make sure you use your own ideas and don’t plagiarize!)

Narrow in on a topic.

When you first start brainstorming, it may be helpful to think of as many topics as possible. Open your document or get out your pen and quickly jot down a list of ideas, words, or phrases that seem interesting. Use this list to narrow in on a topic that is most appealing to you.

If you’re working on an assignment, you’ll want to make sure you include all the requirements outlined by the instructor. It may help to write out the outline for your paper ahead of time, so you know which direction you’re going as you write. There are many brainstorming templates available online to get you started.

Set time aside.

It may be helpful to set aside time with no distractions to write your essay. Clean up your work space and remove anything that may prevent you from focusing on your work.

Create a draft first.

Writing an essay is a process, which means it is okay if your initial draft isn’t perfect. First, focus on getting all your ideas and thoughts on paper to work with in later drafts.

Get feedback.

As you work through the final drafts of your essay, it may be helpful to show your draft to family, friends, or instructors. A fresh pair of eyes can help you find parts of your essay that may need a little more work.

Sleep on it.

Sometimes you may need time to think about what you’ve written and return to your paper at a later time with a fresh set of eyes. It may help you understand your own writing better to stop working, get some rest, and look back over your essay in the morning. (Hint: Make sure you allow plenty of time for this review you choose when to work on your assignments!)

Proofread and make corrections.

A paper is not finished until you’ve carefully checked for typos, misspellings, and grammatical errors. Don’t forget this step before turning in an assignment.

Following these seven suggestions will get you started, but it’s up to you to use your ideas to create a great essay! Want more tips like these and more? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.

iLAB’s successful public sector it modernization project

When a public retirement agency that managed billions of dollars in assets needed to replace its outdated legacy system, it turned to iLAB for help. The challenges were numerous: bad historical data, a testing team with no standardized processes or documented test cases, and the need for a full suite of testing from data migration to regression testing. iLAB rose to the challenge, implementing the iTEST© methodology and establishing a testing framework that led to the successful statewide rollout of three large applications impacting over 1.5 million people.

How iLAB’s iTEST© Methodology Led to a Successful Statewide Rollout

iLAB’s experience with this state agency highlights the power of software quality assurance and the benefits of hiring iLAB for an IT modernization project. With the help of iLAB’s iTEST© methodology, our client achieved a successful statewide rollout of three large applications, reduced UAT timelines, improved software quality, and increased customer satisfaction.

During the first phase of the project, iLAB helped the client tackle their immediate concerns. We implemented our iTEST© methodology, which established a testing framework and defined a test strategy for the project. The full suite of testing, including data migration, system testing, system integration testing, performance testing, end-to-end testing, and full regression testing, was included. As a result, our client became a finalist for a Corporate IT Excellence & Innovation award. We achieved a successful statewide rollout of three large applications that impacted 450,000 active state employees and 1.1 million retirees. The system stabilized within the first 6 months of go-live, and we delivered enhancements to production thereafter.

Improving Software Quality: iLAB’s Strategy for Meeting Service Level Measurements

During the second phase of the project, iLAB focused on improving the client’s product. We achieved a 99.74% success rate in meeting service level measurement requirements and found 100% of defects before promoting into production.

To accomplish this, we automated 396 workflows covering critical functions in the system. Automating the workflows saved time and reduced the likelihood of errors or defects. Our customer satisfaction surveys consistently averaged over 3.53 out of 5 in the last 5 years, indicating that our strategies were effective in meeting our client’s needs. By implementing these improvements, we helped our client achieve their goals and improve the overall quality of their software product.

...

Living in a Crazy World

Last year, while searching for internships, I wanted to work for a company that had personal significance in my life. Mental health and Chipotle were my two passions, so I pursued a career to improve current mental health services, instead of ruining my love for delicious burritos. That's when I started interning at Mental Health America of Greater Indianapolis (MHA Indy) and never left. As the Director of Education at MHA Indy, I know that the mental health system in Indiana is flawed, with more cracks than strengths. We aim to bring change in the community through education and awareness, provide resources to those who require immediate intervention, and offer guardianship for those with no one to care for them.

Recently, my mother decided to seek treatment for her long-time mental health struggles. After sitting at the crisis intervention unit for five hours, we were handed a list of referrals to other clinics that could help my mother, charged over $100, and sent home. I was heartbroken that this wasn't the turning point in my mom's life, but another bad day to add to her already growing collection.

Unfortunately, we faced more barriers, waiting lists, restrictions, and unanswered phone calls while seeking help. I've struggled with questions on how to get someone help when they don't want it and how to erase the stigma so people are comfortable reaching out. But the one thing I wasn't asking was, what do you do when someone wants help, but can't find it?

Even though our uplifting movie moment hasn't arrived, I won't give up hope. I chose the right path in life and won't give up fighting to help my family or yours. Stand with me, tell your story, and raise your voice for change.

Remember, Mental Health America of Greater Indianapolis is always available to help you and your loved ones. You can call 317-251-7575 or text CSIS to 839863.

Hotline Program Overview

From Myspace to artificial intelligence

Growing up in a rural farming community in Central Indiana, I was a curious kid, interested in exploring the world beyond my small town. The early days of the internet, with the high-pitched song of dial-up, opened up a whole new universe for me. I remember those days with a mix of amusement and nostalgia, staying up late on AOL Instant Messenger with my friends, spilling my thoughts on LiveJournal, and curating my Top 8 on MySpace while learning basic HTML. The sense of connection and possibility was intoxicating, and it felt like we were living in the golden age of technology. We couldn’t imagine what the future held.

In fact, the permanence of the internet wasn’t even on our minds yet. One day, my sister stumbled upon my LiveJournal, where I had posted some Blink-182 lyrics with a few “bad words.” She called me up and, in her big-sister wisdom, said, “What you put on the internet lives there forever. You have to remember that the things you post will be seen by everyone, even potential employers someday.” Though I may have left the lyrics on my LiveJournal and rolled my eyes, her advice resonated with me then, and I became more mindful of my online presence.

The rise of social media in the past two decades has undeniably changed our lives. It has transformed the way we communicate, connect, and even perceive ourselves. The same way social media connected us all, AI is now poised to revolutionize not only our social lives but also every aspect of our existence.

As I sit here today, learning how to interact with ChatGPT, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It’s like I’m that excited pre-teen all over again, discovering a brave new world — only this time, it’s different. It’s bigger. It’s invasive. And it’s happening so fast!

The rise of AI has me giddy with excitement. Literally. If I think about it too much my heart starts palpitating at the endless possibilities. I mean, it’s infiltrating every aspect of our lives and doing so in such a seamless manner that we can’t even tell if we’re talking to a human anymore. We’re on the verge of something unimaginable.

As I continue to invest my time and energy into learning how to engage with artificial intelligence, I hear my sister’s voice in the back of my mind, urging me to “think first” and consider the future. In embracing AI’s potential, we must remember the lessons we’ve learned from our adventures into the digital realm. The extreme and permanent impact that a technological revolution of this magnitude will unleash a charcuterie board style dish of new challenges and advancements. The impact of social media, though transformative, is minor compared to the staggering potential of AI.

It’s too late to turnback. We find ourselves at a crucial moment, where we must balance the wisdom gleaned from our past experiences with the excitement for AI’s possibilities. Being cognizant of the potential power of AI ensures we harness it responsibly and for the greater good. As we look to the future, we should approach AI with the same curiosity and excitement as we did in the early days of the internet while remaining mindful of our actions and their long-term implications (that damn LiveJournal is still up with the cuss words, preventing me from getting ALL the good jobs. haha!)

With this unique opportunity to harness AI’s power, we can improve the human experience, creating a more connected, efficient, and compassionate world. Our MySpace selfies were preparing us for a revolution, we just didn’t know it yet.

Professional Growth: Propagating Employee Success

Two weeks ago, I began propagating three houseplant clippings, providing them with identical resources (water, light, oxygen — all in the same location). Yet, their growth has been remarkably different. The first has developed small roots, the second’s roots are long enough to be planted, and the third hasn’t grown any roots at all.

Plant 1 (small roots), Plant 2 (big roots), Plant 3 (dying)

Curious about what might be going wrong, I researched and discovered that the third plant requires a different propagation method, as it cannot grow in water. This observation resonates deeply.

In both our professional and personal lives, we often assume that the same resources or environments will work for everyone, but just as plants have individual needs, so do humans. Recognizing and nurturing these differences is vital to unlocking our potential and fostering growth. Plant number 3 is not defective. It simply has a different biological process than the other two, making its needs different.

Professionally, I’ve experienced environments that are built to allow employees to thrive individually. These are the environments where I’ve excelled and produced work that met and exceeded expectations of my employer. I’ve also worked in environments that are less understanding and more focused on a standardized approach that does not accommodate personal differences in employees. These are the environments where I did not thrive, because I didn’t have the tools and resources I needed to be the best employee.

As human beings we must be cognizant of our natural instinct to assume everyone’s needs are the same as our own. By nurturing the unique qualities that make each of us who we are, you will foster a culture in your company that allows everyone to grow. 💚

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Email Address

kellyjoturner@gmail.com

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