Abbey Kirby
Abbey Kirby is the Regional Learning and Development Manager at Ventura Foods, where she specializes in designing and implementing strategic training programs that drive performance, optimize processes, and support organizational objectives. With a strong background in learning management, staff development, and performance evaluation, Abbey leverages her collaborative leadership style and excellent communication skills to develop clear, actionable training content and foster alignment among key stakeholders. Her work spans onboarding, coaching, conflict resolution, and continuous improvement initiatives, ensuring employees are equipped to succeed while meeting quality and safety standards.
Abbey brings extensive experience in training and development across multiple industries. Prior to her current role, she held positions as Learning and Development Manager, Regional Training Manager, and Training & Development Specialist at Ventura Foods, as well as leadership roles at the Texas Workforce Commission overseeing personnel operations and performance management. Her professional journey also includes serving as an Associate Attorney and Legal Assistant, where she honed her analytical, research, and communication skills. Across these roles, Abbey has consistently focused on enhancing team performance, implementing effective processes, and delivering measurable results.
A graduate of Texas A&M University School of Law (JD) and Boston University (BA in American History), Abbey combines a legal and analytical foundation with expertise in workforce development and training. She is passionate about creating engaging, practical, and impactful learning experiences that empower employees and strengthen organizational performance. Outside of work, Abbey is committed to volunteer efforts supporting children and military initiatives, reflecting her dedication to community engagement and mentorship.
• Creating Fun and Engaging Video Training: The How
• How to Speak So People Want to Listen
• Texas A&M University School of Law
• Boston University
• Sky Ball Military Fundraiser
• CASA of Tarrant County
• Habitat for Humanity
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of trial and error, a commitment to continuous improvement, and cultivating strong relationships with business partners. Learning from challenges has helped me grow professionally, and building collaborative, trusting connections has been key to achieving meaningful results and driving organizational success.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I face in my field is balancing rapid business expectations with the need for thorough learning and development processes. I believe that effective training requires strong collaboration, high-quality content, and realistic timelines. When these elements come together, it presents an opportunity to create impactful programs that truly enhance performance and support organizational goals.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are family, community, and balance. I greatly appreciate South Korea’s strong emphasis on family and community culture, and I strive to bring that same sense of connection and support into my professional life. At home, I manage a busy and rewarding life raising my two children, which keeps me grounded and reminds me of the importance of empathy, patience, and collaboration.