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Hi, I'm Michael. I help people solve complex problems through engaging instructional design and dedicated project management.
While working as an instructional designer at St. Thomas University, I helped develop a course called Complex Problems. One line from that course stuck with me: “Complex problems require systems solutions.”
I've designed 70+ learning solutions, delivering accessibility & quality.
That changed the way I looked at my job. I realized I wasn't just a professional instructional designer, but also a professional problem-solver. I thrive at analyzing performance problems, identifying gaps in knowledge, behaviors and affect. I use this information to create focused training experiences to fill those gaps.
I lead with authenticity and remain a lifelong learner. Outside of my craft, I love live music of all genres and exploring the outdoors with Rocky, the handsome man in my banner image.
Design learning experiences that change behavior and inspire.
Ally with other departments and work together to meet institutional goals.
Lead with creativity, inclusion, innovation, and authentic collaboration.
I joined St. Thomas University in 2023 as an instructional designer, collaborating with faculty to create accessible academic and professional courses. My work focused on curriculum development, outcome mapping, and accessibility that improved usability and learner experience. Above all, I carry forward an enduring “attitude of gratitude.”
I joined RU Institute as a freelance instructional designer in 2024. Most recently, I designed a series of onboarding trainings for nursing home workers.
I joined a team of two professionals aspiring to share their knowledge of luxury hospitality to the world. I led several aspects, including course design, web development, LMS integration, branding, and contract management.
Prior to becoming an instructional designer, I was a musician and music teacher. In fact, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Music from Rutgers University in 2020. Studying music instilled in me the discipline, work ethic, and creative mindset, and systems thinking that I needed to become a great instructional designer and project manager. Between 2016 and 2022, I gained experience teaching music to virtually all age levels and walks of life.
Hover over each card to learn about the services I offer:
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I use research-backed design principles like Merrill’s First Principles and the Kirkpatrick Evaluation Model to close knowledge and skill gaps.
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I oversee end-to-end development of learning solutions, leading teams to ensure quality and effectiveness.
I leverage AI to allow learners to practice real-world skills in a fun and low-stakes environment.
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Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Performance improvement & AI bridge the gap for exceptional gastroenterology physician onboarding.Cite: Rudnick, J. D., Jr, Back, M. J., Turner, J. A., Jr, & Vezina, M. L. (2024). Performance Improvement and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Emerge to Bridge the Gap for Exceptional Gastroenterology Physician Onboarding. Clinical gastroenterology and hepatology : the official clinical practice journal of the American Gastroenterological Association, 22(8), 1561–1564. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2024.05.019
Academic Leader
How performance improvement tools & generative AI can improve faculty-instructional designer collaboration.Cite: Rudnick, J. D., Jr., Back, M. J., & Bandy, K. (2024, August 5). How performance improvement tools and generative AI can improve faculty–instructional designer collaboration. Academic Leader. https://www.academic-leader.com/topics/curriculum-planning/how-performance-improvement-tools-and-generative-ai-can-improve-faculty-instructional-designer-collaboration/
Academic Leader
Combining Universal Design for Learning and AI to enhance instructional design.Cite: Back, M. J., & Rudnick, J. D., (2025, June 16). Combining Universal Design for Learning and AI to enhance instructional design. Academic Leader. https://www.academicleader.com/topics/curriculum-planning/combining-universal-design-for-learningand-ai-to-enhance-instructional-design/
