Her Story
About Kendra
Kendra Thompson, CTDP®, SWP®, is an accomplished organizational development and workforce strategy professional with more than 15 years of experience helping organizations strengthen leadership capability, enhance employee engagement, and improve organizational performance. Currently serving as HR Training Administrator for Workforce Development and Organizational Learning at the Housing Authority of Baltimore City, she designs and leads enterprise-wide learning initiatives that align workforce development with operational goals, compliance requirements, and long-term organizational strategy. Her expertise spans leadership development, succession planning, employee experience, workforce planning, and organizational effectiveness.
Prior to her current role, Kendra built a diverse career across healthcare, nonprofit, and public-sector organizations, serving as a Clinical Supervisor and Training Consultant, Training and Marketing Coordinator, and organizational learning professional. Throughout her career, she has successfully developed scalable learning systems, leadership programs, and employee development initiatives that support employees from frontline staff to executive leadership. Committed to lifelong learning, she has complemented her educational foundation at the Community College of Baltimore County with numerous professional certifications, including Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP®), Strategic Workforce Planning Professional (SWP®), Corporate Leadership Certified, and Project Management Essentials Certified. She is also recognized as an MSI Fellow through the Management and Strategy Institute.
Kendra is an active member of Greater Baltimore SHRM, serves on its Employment Law Conference Committee, and is passionate about advancing the future of workforce development through strategic leadership and employee-centered practices. Guided by the values of integrity, authenticity, service, and continuous growth, she believes meaningful leadership is built on curiosity, lifelong learning, and empowering others to succeed. Her mission is to create workplace cultures where individuals are equipped to grow, organizations are prepared for the future, and people are inspired to reach their fullest potential.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kendra
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my commitment to serving the greater good, my curiosity, and my willingness to continuously learn and grow. Whenever I encounter something I do not know, I ask questions, conduct research, and dedicate myself to mastering it. My goal has always been to leave every organization stronger than I found it by creating meaningful improvements for both employees and the workplace.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received came from a physician I worked with early in my career, who told me to know my worth and demand more. That advice has stayed with me throughout my professional journey and continues to remind me to advocate for myself, recognize my value, and pursue opportunities that align with my capabilities and potential.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You do not need a leadership title to make a meaningful impact. There is tremendous power in simply showing up, serving others, and consistently contributing value. Focus on making a difference through your actions, remain committed to learning, and let your work speak for itself. Leadership is demonstrated through influence, not just position.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges in organizational development is overcoming fixed mindsets and helping people move beyond their comfort zones. Lasting organizational progress requires a culture that embraces learning, adaptability, and continuous improvement. By encouraging openness to change and investing in workforce development, organizations can unlock greater innovation, stronger leadership, and long-term success.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, growth, service, and authenticity are the values that guide both my professional and personal life. I believe in doing the right thing even when no one is watching, showing up as my authentic self, and continually striving to improve my knowledge and skills. Most importantly, I am committed to creating opportunities that help others grow, succeed, and realize their full potential.
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