Daron Byerly is a Senior Manager of Talent Development at Burton's Snowboards. With a passion for human relations and organizational development, Daron chose Champlain College Online to facilitate his career change. We chatted with him about his journey, experiences, and advice for future students.
Why did you choose Champlain College Online?
Daron Byerly: "I was looking for a way to change my career. I have been a customer of HR (Human Resources) for about 20 years, and I was pretty sure that working in HR was something I wanted to do, instinctively. I was familiar with what I wanted to do but needed to find the right way to get started. I needed a way to learn and prove myself. Human relations organizational development* was a safe way to tackle classes in something I felt aligned with who I am. Well, I think the actual title is positive organization development.
I was really appreciative of that first conversation with [the] David Cooperrider [Center]**. I was attracted to the course material because I knew exactly the role that I wanted to play in a company. I felt very lucky that a college down the street had what I needed.”
*Champlain’s MS in Organization Development & Human Relations is tailored for individuals aiming to impact organizational effectiveness and culture. The curriculum includes courses in leadership, change management, and human relations, equipping graduates with the tools to foster positive organizational change and development.
**The David Cooperrider Center for Appreciative Inquiry at Champlain College is the global hub for education, research, and practice of Appreciative Inquiry and other strengths-based approaches to leadership and organizational development. It offers unique opportunities for students to engage in a positive, strengths-focused approach to organizational change.
What was your overall program experience?
D.B.: "I was learning something that I wasn’t directly able to apply to my job, but it felt very academic to me, and I enjoyed it. I knew there were good things to learn, and the program had a good philosophical approach. You know, I took a class a semester, so I wasn’t rushing through the program, taking it at my own pace. Since I’m a full-time employee and have a ton of hobbies, the asynchronous format* was beneficial for me."
*Champlain College Online’s truED program offers deeply discounted tuition rates for employees of partner organizations, like Burton's Snowboards, and their families. This program makes higher education more accessible by reducing costs and providing opportunities to enhance or pivot careers through flexible learning. Champlain partners with over 85 employers nationwide, ensuring that professionals can pursue their educational goals without financial strain, while also benefiting from courses that align with their professional needs.
How did your curriculum prepare you for the future?
D.B.: "It got me a job. I knew I was a quality thinker, but I had zero credentials in HR.* The certificate showed me that I was committed to growing in this field, and it was an essential piece in getting my first job offer. It was a proof point that I was committed to growing in this field, and honestly, I wouldn’t have gotten a job without it."
*The field of Human Resources is growing, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 5% employment increase from 2022 to 2032. Careers in HR offer opportunities in various areas, including talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development, all critical in today's dynamic work environments. Champlain College Online’s programs are designed to meet this growing demand, providing students with the credentials and practical skills necessary to advance their careers in HR and related fields.
Did you have professor support throughout your experience?
D.B.: "Professors were always available when I needed them. They also had designated office hours* that I could use if I had any questions. It was all very helpful."
*Champlain College Online’s faculty members are industry experts dedicated to supporting students throughout their academic journey. They provide personalized advising and maintain regular office hours, ensuring that students can access guidance when needed.
What advice would you give to future students?
D.B.: "I think that future students should know that CCO is really tailored for current professionals. The topics and coursework chosen are really business-applicable and very geared towards professionals. After someone reflects on their career goals and what they want to do, I would approach CCO with questions about certificates or degrees that could help them achieve their goals.
You don’t need to pursue a full degree to enhance your career or make a switch; a certificate or even a single class can teach you applicable skills, and it can be done at the right time. In a nutshell, know yourself, start to explore your options, and follow what works for you."
Champlain College Online offers a wide range of programs tailored to meet the needs of working professionals. Whether you're looking to complete a degree, earn a certificate, or simply take a single course, Champlain provides flexible, career-focused education in fields such as business, cybersecurity, healthcare, and more. The programs are designed to be practical and relevant, allowing students to apply what they learn directly to their careers. With a focus on affordability, flexibility, and academic excellence, Champlain College Online is dedicated to helping students achieve their personal and professional goals.
For more information about our programs and certificates, please contact our admissions office.
