ATD Houston Certification Study Group A Pathway to Certification and Professional Growth
*The zoom link will be included in the confirmation email you receive after registering.
Beginning August 7 and running through November 13, ATD Houston invites talent development professionals to participate in our highly anticipated Fall Study Group series.
Held every Thursday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., this interactive virtual study group is designed to deepen your understanding of the ATD Capability Model—an essential framework for today's talent development leaders. Over the course of the program, we will explore all 23 capabilities organized across three domains: Personal, Professional, and Organizational. The sessions are structured to cover two capabilities each week, with ample time for discussion, reflection, and practical application.
ATD Houston Certification Study Group calendar
This study group is ideal for those preparing for ATD certification exams such as the Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD) or Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD). Since launching in 2023, the program has supported dozens of professionals in navigating the certification journey. Whether you're just beginning to explore the Capability Model or actively working toward your exam date, the study group offers a structured, encouraging environment with resources and support to sustain your momentum.
Participants consistently report that the study group format is invaluable—especially for those returning to structured learning after several years. You’ll engage in case studies, collaborative discussions, and quiz-based practice to sharpen your ability to apply concepts in real-world scenarios. The power of community is central: expect to exchange diverse perspectives, uncover common challenges, and celebrate shared wins. Study groups help reinforce content mastery while offering motivation, accountability, and clarity through peer dialogue.
Registration Details: You must register for your certification exam dates at least 30 days before the start of the exam window.
For APTD Exam Candidates: The Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD) exam is offered in odd months.
About CPTD: The Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) exam is offered in even months of the year.
Study Materials
- We provide access to lots of great content – white papers, recordings, infographics
- Questions about the materials and topics are pulled from real-life experiences and a variety of resources.
- You have the option of purchasing resources from ATD, such as the Talent Development Book of Knowledge (TDBok) or the CPTD Preparation Course from ATD. Many CPTD candidates rely on the TDBoK as a key resource.
- If purchasing ATD resources, please include the code CH7032, which will provide credit to the Houston chapter.
About CPTD: The Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) is a professional certification for talent development professionals with at least five years of experience with adult learners. The CPTD certification is comprehensive, assessing a professional’s knowledge and skill application across the breadth of talent development capabilities. Successful candidates often report significant personal and professional growth, an enhanced ability to contribute to the profession, and a positive career impact.
Facilitator: Melody Davis, VP of Professional Development for the ATD Houston chapter, will facilitate the group. Melody has held her CPTD designation since 2020.
Join us for an enriching journey towards your CPTD certification and elevate your career in talent development!