Jami Firek
Jami Firek is a strategic Learning and Development leader with over a decade of experience designing and delivering high-impact learning solutions across healthcare, insurance, and professional associations. Currently serving as Senior Manager of Education at the Arthroscopy Association of North America, Jami is known for architecting innovative, learner-centered programs that drive engagement, operational performance, and measurable outcomes. Her expertise spans program architecture, curriculum redesign, digital transformation, and change management, with a strong ability to translate complex organizational needs into effective, scalable learning strategies. Throughout her career, Jami has led cross-functional teams and enterprise initiatives that have produced significant results, including a 52% increase in customer satisfaction scores and a 60% improvement in on-the-job readiness through expanded hands-on learning. Her background includes progressive leadership roles at HUB International, where she built and guided a high-performing learning design team, streamlined processes, and strengthened partnerships across the organization. Earlier in her career, she played a key role in developing nationally recognized education programs, simulation labs, and live workshops for leading medical associations. Jami holds a master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Elmhurst University and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Human Resource Management from North Central College. Passionate about continuous professional development, she also shares her knowledge as a guest lecturer at Elmhurst University and North Central College and part-time Faculty at Elmhurst University. Known for her people-first leadership style, data-driven mindset, and commitment to meaningful learning experiences, Jami continues to shape programs that align learning with organizational goals while empowering individuals to grow and succeed.
• Designing the Learner's Journey
• Managing with Impact
• Articulate Storyline Essential Training
• Change Management
• Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant on Option B: Building Resilience
• Elmhurst University- Master's
• North Central College- B.A.
• Association for Talent Development
• Society for Industrial Organizational Psychology
• Alliance for Continuing Education in the Health Professions
• Illinois Alliance for Continuing Medical Education
• Elgin Youth Bowlers
• Clearbrook House
• Suburban Windy City USBC
• Chicago Rush Arena Football
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to intrinsic motivation and a deep sense of ownership in my work—if my name is attached to something, I want it to be the best it can be. I’m constantly asking questions, researching, and exploring new approaches to ensure what I create evolves with the changing workforce and how people learn.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Observe.
Sit back and listen to fully understand what is happening. Take notes to reference later or ask questions after you've listened to all parties. Watch dynamics, body language, and how someone describes something. With all of that, you can really tailor your work and your experience to fit the job or task.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions—no one expects you to know everything, especially early in your career. Do your research, and if you can’t find the answer, ask; it will save you time, deepen your learning, and the people with the most knowledge are often the most willing to share it.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
With the rapid advance of AI, it is a struggle to figure out how to incorporate it into learning, and use it as a tool ethically. AI is the new shiny toy that everyone wants to play with, but the ethics around it's use have been lost or hidden. I want to ensure that when it is used, it's appropriate and just included because it's AI, but also ensure I'm using it in a way that doesn't negatively impact the learner.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value curiosity, creativity, and balance in both my work and personal life. Being an avid reader and enjoying creative outlets like crocheting help me stay grounded, continuously learning, and energized in everything I do.
Locations
Arthroscopy Association of North America
9400 West Higgins Road, Suite 200, Rosemont, IL 60018