I’ve known Teresa Chiapputo, our Client Relationship Executive for years now — both personally and professionally. You’d think, after working closely together for some time now, that I’d know just about everything there is to know about this passionate, kind, open-minded, and pattern-loving gal. But to my surprise, when I sat down to interview her, there was A LOT I didn’t know! I’m excited for her to share more about her journey to the top of our executive team. Whether you’ve known her for years or this is your first meet and greet — I’m sure you’ll see exactly why I enjoy working with her every day!
So, Teresa, take us back a bit — how did you come to work with ttcInnovations and how has your role transformed over the years into what it is now?
Interestingly enough, ttcInnovations (or technicallytraining.com, as it was originally known) was one of my vendors when I worked for Bank of America. When I decided, I wanted a change of pace, I called Debbie Wooldridge, CEO of ttcInnovations, and asked her if I could come be part of her team. She immediately said “yes,” which began a 14-year business relationship and personal friendship.
I’ve played quite a few roles at ttcInnovations, which has kept things challenging and interesting. At the end of the day, I love working with clients — solving problems, holding hands, and getting to know what keeps them up at night!
Work aside, please tell us more about you, your family, and what you like to do in your free time.
First, I really hate talking about myself but since there was a please added to the request, I’ll do it! I have two wonderful girls: Elena – who is 21 and is in nursing school, and Amy – who is 17 and wants to be a Gator! I’ve been married to Michael for 18 years. We have two 3-year-old Australian Shepherds sisters — Electra and Athena — and a maniac Jack Russell named Taco.
I’m almost to the empty nest stage, and I’m trying to find some new hobbies to keep myself busy. I was recently elected as the President-Elect for my local ATD chapter. Since I spend much of my work time on the phone and computer, it’s great to work with people face to face. I’m meeting all sorts of new friends.
Free time — what is that? I told my daughter the other day, “I can only wish to be bored!” I do like to nap, and I’m a serious closet self-help enthusiast. My next career is going to be a life coach. ✨
I can see that! Working virtually has its perks, right? But that usually means each day is a bit different than the previous. Do you have a daily work routine? If so, what do your daily activities and responsibilities look like?
I love working virtually, but I do miss the face-to-face interactions. I have now resorted to talking to people at the grocery store, which totally embarrasses my youngest one. She thinks I’m crazy.
The thing I love most about my job is that there is no typical routine or day. I do try to work out in the morning before I start my work day. This allows me to check off something on my daily to-do list! Got to take the small wins!
Here are some examples of things that come up in my day:
- Intaking a new project
- Brainstorming with a PM on a budgeting issue
- Running through an idea for a project
- Working with the Director of Marketing on a quarterly marketing initiative
- Creating a response to an RFP
- Talking to a prospect about ttcInnovations
- Working with the CHRO to determine hiring needs
- Working with a client on security requirements
- Discussing resourcing options for a project
Other than the variety, what would you say you enjoy most about your job? What gets you jumping out of bed in the morning?
It’s the people I work with every day and the challenge to solve some pretty cool issues with our client partners.
Serious question now: coffee or tea, and how do you take it?
Coffee (of course!) with almond or coconut milk and stevia.
No wonder we get along! Wonder Woman has been a hit this summer so I want to know — what’s your real-life superpower?
My superpowers cannot be discussed with the general population, but I can say that this superpower is VERY handy to my family, and my daughter says she’ll miss it when she goes to college. 
I’m sure she will! Tell me three surprising facts about you that I might not know.
- I’m terribly scared of heights but rode the roller coaster at the top of the Space Needle in Las Vegas on a dare!
- I read an entire book sitting in a tree stand because I was not going to shoot at a deer!
- I rode in a 150-mile bicycling event for charity just six weeks after having my youngest child. There were no ribbons won!
You’re a trooper, girl! What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received and how has this advice served you?
“Life is a journey. What are you doing today to move forward?” Life can get crazy, and you can begin to settle for mediocrity just to alleviate the pain. This only creates more pain since we were created to continually grow and improve. I find my greatest pleasure by continuing to climb the next mountain (figuring out how to solve the next challenge) and helping others to see their own gifts.
#UnlockInnovation With Us
• Collaborative and supportive network
• Work with L&D industry influencers
• Access to professional development
• Flexible hours and virtual environment
Thinking back on your career to date, what’s been your proudest accomplishment so far?
It was when Debbie (our CEO), asked me to join the Executive Leadership team to support the company through operational excellence and client relations.
Of course, I’m dying to know — what does the word “innovation” mean to you?
When I think about innovation…I want to start humming the song “What have you done for me lately?” This keeps me keenly focused on what I’m doing to improve our clients’ experiences and how we can improve as a company by continuing to ask ourselves, “What have WE done for YOU lately?”
I LOVE that answer! Okay, last one — what are you working on right now that you’re really excited about?
I am so excited about the newest member of my team — our Director of Marketing, Jessica Howell. We are doing lots of fun work around our brand, client personas, and the alignment of marketing and sales to continue to attract new prospects and clients.
What did I tell you guys?! She’s the best, isn’t she? And not just because of her last answer (although I AM flattered).
Teresa brings to our team such a joy and passion for her work. She welcomes challenges and obstacles head on — all with a smile on her face. Having worked closely with Teresa for the past seven weeks, I’ve learned that Teresa is a true mentor. She provides me with helpful team insights, constructive guidance, and most importantly, lets me learn by doing. Each week, I look forward to our department meetings to be re-energized by her calming and positive spirit. She’s one of the best collaborators I’ve ever worked with — always open to sharing ideas and trying a different approach. Teresa fully embodies what it means to be innovative!
Now that you know more about Teresa, wave ‘hello’ on LinkedIn! I know she’d love to meet you!
