Her Story
About Heidi
Heidi H. Nyland is a seasoned change management consultant, executive advisor, keynote speaker, and learning technology expert with more than three decades of experience helping organizations successfully navigate digital transformation. A Prosci® Certified Change Management Practitioner, she specializes in bridging the gap between technology and people, ensuring that organizations achieve meaningful adoption and lasting results. Throughout her career, she has focused on workforce readiness, leadership communication, change strategy, and technology enablement, working with organizations across the corporate, nonprofit, and public sectors.
After earning a Master of Arts in Instructional Technology from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film from New York University, Heidi began her career teaching computer skills to underserved populations at the Harlem Community Computing Center before moving into corporate leadership roles. She held positions in technology training, communications, and change leadership with organizations including Time Magazine, Merck, and T. Rowe Price. Since launching her independent consulting practice in 2012, she has advised clients on large-scale technology implementations and organizational transformations, partnering with executives and project teams to strengthen change readiness and improve business outcomes. In 2026, she joined Stratum Collective Partners as an Executive Advisor, helping leadership teams translate strategy into disciplined execution and sustainable impact.
In addition to her consulting work, Heidi is an accomplished public speaker and workshop facilitator who educates leaders on the human side of digital transformation, including change fatigue, AI adoption, and leadership communication. She currently serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors for Maryland New Directions, where she supports workforce development and employment opportunities for underserved communities. Guided by the principles of honesty, transparency, and collaboration, Heidi is passionate about helping organizations and individuals embrace change, foster innovation, and build cultures that enable long-term success.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Heidi
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to honesty, transparency, and being clear about what I can and cannot deliver. If I do not know an answer, I am comfortable acknowledging it and taking the time to research and respond thoughtfully rather than providing inaccurate information.
I also believe my outgoing nature and willingness to engage with people have been tremendous assets throughout my career. I enjoy connecting with others, building relationships, and communicating openly. My willingness to speak up, follow through, and remain approachable has helped me create opportunities and establish trust with colleagues and clients alike.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is never to accept a job solely because of the person to whom I will report. Leaders and managers may move on, so I believe it is far more important to choose a role based on the position itself and the organization.
This advice has proven true more than once during my career. By focusing on the work and the mission rather than an individual leader, I have been able to make decisions that support long-term professional growth and stability.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to make their voices heard and advocate for themselves while maintaining strong professional relationships. It is important to communicate confidently, present facts, and focus on constructive conversations rather than arguments.
I believe women should not allow stereotypes, bias, or life circumstances to diminish their confidence or opportunities. Everyone deserves to be evaluated based on their qualifications, experience, and contributions. Standing up for yourself with professionalism and facts can be incredibly powerful.
I also encourage women to transform disagreements into collaborative discussions, remain focused on shared goals, and continue building positive relationships. Confidence, respect, and persistence are essential qualities for success.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges in my field is identifying and connecting with the right decision-makers. Whether pursuing speaking engagements, consulting opportunities, or photography clients, success often depends on reaching the appropriate audience and consistently following up.
Another challenge is navigating an increasingly crowded marketplace shaped by technology, AI, and social media. Effective marketing and ensuring that the right people understand the value I bring are essential.
Additionally, I have encountered age-related assumptions throughout my career. While I believe the quality of my work consistently speaks for itself, overcoming preconceived notions and gaining access to the right people remains an ongoing challenge. At the same time, these challenges create opportunities to demonstrate expertise, build relationships, and deliver meaningful results.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty and transparency are the values that matter most to me. I believe expectations, responsibilities, and commitments should be communicated openly and documented clearly. Transparency creates trust and provides the foundation for success.
I also place tremendous importance on maintaining positive and collaborative working relationships. While people may not always agree, I believe it is essential to manage disagreements respectfully and work together toward effective solutions. Strong relationships and open communication enable individuals and organizations to achieve their best outcomes.
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