Gain investing confidence through Washington, D.C. programs that teach analysis, strategy, and portfolio management. You’ll learn to plan for long-term financial success.
Gain a comprehensive understanding of stock investing, valuation, and stock movements in this course. Learn about essential valuation techniques, financial statements, and the fundamentals of stock investing, as well as the factors that influence stock prices and how to analyze them.
Master Excel, review corporate finance, and build a valuation model on a public company. Gain basic and intermediate Excel skills and learn how to read financial statements, build valuations, and predict market trends.
Join our financial modeling class to learn essential finance and accounting concepts, build a discounted cash flow (DCF) model in Excel, acquire advanced Excel skills, explore corporate finance and valuation, and create a financial model on a real company. This hands-on course will teach you practical financial skills.
Investing is, in simple terms, the act of buying and selling stocks for portfolio diversification and financial gain. Those who invest, either personally or professionally, use stocks to gain income and increase overall profit. There are many different types of investments a person can make. For example, many people invest in real estate. Others focus their efforts on purchasing cryptocurrency. However, many investing professionals deal with publicly traded companies that offer shares in the company. This is often seen as partial ownership, and depending on how much money is invested in this particular share, that may result in a large payout or profit. Investing knowledge greatly enhances one’s financial literacy, which is a highly sought-after life skill.
The concept of investing has been around for thousands of years. In particular, the modern-day understanding of a stock market emerged in 1792 in New York City and has since expanded into numerous other stock exchanges all around the world. The most common types of stocks are common and preferred stock, but there are many other types as well. For instance, small-cap, mid-cap, and large-cap stocks are size classifications based on market capitalization. There is so much to learn when you enter the world of investing, which is why it is essential to have a training program that covers the essentials and works up to the more advanced concepts.
Investing training provides you with the necessary skills to understand investment opportunities, strategies, and pitfalls. This can lead to more informed decision-making when handling personal or company finances. Overall, investing skills allow for a more well-rounded understanding of finances and portfolio management that can prove useful in a variety of contexts and situations. For example, investing skills can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities. Many investing professionals become analysts, whether financial or investment-specific, as well as Portfolio Managers. These positions and more are available in the greater Washington, D.C., area, which has a thriving financial industry.
In addition, investing professionals can work for many different kinds of businesses, firms, and organizations. They can find employment in banks, insurance agencies, and even within governmental departments. Some may manage portfolios and track trends in the stock market, whereas other investing experts may focus on financial analysis and decision-making. There are many tasks associated with an investing position, and with the ever-changing market, there will always be new challenges to overcome and financial decisions to be made. This leads to an exciting and fulfilling career that is also rather profitable.
Of course, there are many personal benefits associated with learning to invest. Financial literacy is a beneficial life skill that makes money management much easier and more feasible. Obtaining knowledge in investing ensures that you have the tools and skills required to set yourself up for success in the future. This type of training also allows you to gain insight into the way stock markets, banks, and investing agencies function, therefore earning a greater appreciation for the true value of money. Whether your goal is to learn investing for your own portfolio or to someday find gainful employment, there is ample reason to learn more about investing.
Among the numerous skills you will learn in an investing class, a few stand out among the others. Of course, it is useful to be “good with numbers” in the investing world, so mathematics and financial literacy are skills that will be developed and strengthened through investing classes. Students will likely learn analytical skills as well to make more informed, timely decisions regarding stocks and trading. In addition, there is a high likelihood that classes discuss and practice using certain software and applications that are designed for asset management. It is also worth mentioning that students will pick up many soft skills throughout their time in investing classes. For example, time management is an important skill that, when honed over time, can become vital to success as an investing expert.
Financial literacy is a skill that makes investing possible. In general, financial literacy is the ability to adequately and fully manage financial information, including budgeting, investing, and managing. Gaining skills that lead to heightened financial literacy can make life easier, from making informed business decisions to learning the best way to invest in stocks. There are courses that help build these skills through a series of exercises and lessons. Having financial literacy can lead to more stability, less confusion when dealing with finances, and an overall better quality of life, thanks to the lack of stress.
Many investing professionals use certain applications, software, and other forms of technology that help manage and track assets throughout their life cycles. Learning how to navigate these useful resources allows new and experienced investors alike to optimize their trading practices. With the help of these digital tools, investors can access their information from anywhere and are able to make more informed decisions surrounding their finances. It is essential to learn these technological resources to streamline the investing process and reduce stress.
Mathematics is at the core of all investing tasks. Investing professionals calculate their earnings, manage their shares, and determine ratios with a solid understanding of arithmetic. Generally, an investing student will learn various algorithms, concepts regarding quantitative investing, machine learning techniques, and other mathematical models to grasp the complex investing and trading basics that are at play. Students may discuss taxes, trading options, various types of funds, the true value of money, and other financial concepts that can be displayed and understood through arithmetic.
Analytical skills can greatly enhance one’s chances of having a diversified, strong, and profitable portfolio. In essence, financial analysis allows investors to understand the market and make informed decisions based on the current trends and statuses. With combined experience in finances and analysis, students can not only manage their personal finances and ensure they align with their goals, but they can also expect varied and expanded career roles available to them within large companies and small businesses alike. The stock market is a complex world, but with the right analytical skills, it can turn volatile and uncertain situations into more educated decisions.
Although time management is considered a soft skill in the world of investing, it will serve you well in the long run. Time management skills in a competitive market are essential for any experienced investing expert who wants to increase the quality of their portfolio, their return rates, and overall productivity. The market is ever-changing, and sometimes, anxiety leads to hasty decision-making. With the right time management skills and a healthy dose of patience, investing is made easier. This is a skill that will likely be discussed at length within any general investing class. When students learn to become proactive, patient, and precise investors, they are ultimately investing in themselves and ensuring success in their investing future.
Learning to invest requires effort, as there are many factors at play. Investing is a fast-paced field that requires patience, quick thinking, and logical decision-making to find success within the ever-changing market. However, the level of difficulty associated with learning investing is subjective and relies on a few key factors. For example, one may have relevant experience that makes learning investing easier. In addition, some people may have a propensity for numbers and math, which can make the process easier. Regardless, it is more important to have determination and drive than raw talent and skill. By putting forth effort and dedicating time to learning investing, you are sure to pick up essential skills that help strengthen your financial literacy and allow you to pursue trading opportunities and potentially new career prospects.
Much like the level of difficulty, some may find certain aspects easier to learn than others. For example, if someone has previous experience in the finance industry, they may pick up on stock market terms, ratios, and wealth management strategies more easily than someone who has very little knowledge of the finance world. In general, learning to be timely with selling and acquiring stocks is considered a very tricky part of investing. Patience is incredibly important within this field, but requires practice and can be rather challenging at times. In addition, it is important to learn where you can find credible resources to keep up with the dynamic market. This all greatly depends on the individual, however, and even the most challenging concepts can be learned with the right tools.
Learning to invest is a process that often takes a considerable amount of time, but it can depend on the individual and their ultimate goals. Although one may become comfortable with investing concepts and terms fairly quickly, it may take several years to fully understand how the stock market functions. It may also take time to become comfortable with the ever-changing atmosphere. For those with little to no experience, it may take six months to a full year to learn the basics and gain familiarity. However, this all depends on various factors such as prior and relevant experience and learning preferences. Those who spend a large amount of time learning these skills may pick up on these concepts easily and quickly, as well as those who take a bootcamp or course as opposed to relying on self-help books and other similar resources.
There are benefits to learning investing, but the method of learning may differ depending on individual needs and desires. For example, in-person classes offer hands-on instruction from experts in the field. This class style promotes interactivity as there are other classmates with whom to bounce around ideas and gain insight. Additionally, the instructors are present to directly address any questions or concerns each student may have. This course structure is ideal for those who prefer traditional methods of learning. Residents of the Washington, D.C. area have many in-person classes to choose from, so there is something for nearly everyone, regardless of their level of experience or ultimate goals.
On the other hand, live online classes have their benefits as well. These classes also offer an interactive landscape, but take place from the comfort of one’s own home. Not only does this ensure a comfortable learning environment, but it cuts out any sort of commute to and from class. This is an ideal setup for those who have tight schedules. The remote format still allows for hands-on experience with investing concepts and allows you to interact with classmates and the instructor through video, the chat box, and other features. Plus, students will still have access to an instructor who can answer questions and provide clarification. This method of learning is ideal for those who have busier schedules and need more flexibility but still want a thorough learning experience.
While investing is a beneficial skill on its own, other skills are useful to study and practice alongside investing to ensure you gain the most up-to-date, useful information. Various tools, techniques, applications, websites, and other resources are worth exploring, especially for those who are just starting their investing journey. These may make investing easier or less stressful in the long run. For example, it is useful to learn basic financial concepts alongside investing. In addition, financial analysis may prove advantageous as well, since much of investing requires decision-making, and analyzing data can lead to more well-informed trading practices.
In addition, there are many tools, applications, and software that make investing easier, accessible, and enjoyable. For instance, there are trading applications such as Gainy, Acorns, Alinea, and Iris. These applications serve partially as a social outlet, so users can keep up-to-date with what their friends are investing in, as well as an investing resource. It may also be useful to learn Microsoft Excel as a method of carefully tracking and organizing your financial information. There are also reputable websites that help investors make well-informed decisions and assist in troubleshooting, such as Investopedia, Investor.gov, Morningstar, and Khan Academy. Some websites may require subscriptions, but others are free to use. These resources may be beneficial to learn as you dive into the world of investing.
Investing professionals are needed across a wide variety of industries. Those with keen investment skills can easily find themselves working in the finance industry, such as at an investment bank. Healthcare companies also require those with investment and financial skills to manage business operations and stock market trends. In addition, the technology industry and the greater consumer goods sector require investment experts to manage businesses as well, through financial analysis, stock market upkeep, or other finance-related tasks. Those with investing skills can feel confident knowing there are a vast number of career opportunities available.
Those with investing skills can find gainful and plentiful employment opportunities within the finance industry. Within the finance industry, there are a plethora of services offered, with investing being one of the most sought-after. For example, many investment banks cater to well-to-do clients and customers. These banks hire skilled employees, such as Investment Bankers, who specialize in wealth management. These finance professionals maintain portfolios, research trends in the market, and offer tax advice to companies and individuals alike.
In addition, the finance industry is a wide umbrella term that describes various institutions and services. Those with investing skills can find employment at banks, credit unions, investment firms, government agencies, and insurance companies. Those with exceptional entrepreneurial skills can also enter the private equity sector and provide companies with capital through venture capital funds. This allows private equity investors to earn a share of the company’s profits. Overall, investing is a highly useful skill to have if you have hopes of entering the financial industry, particularly in Washington, D.C., where there are many opportunities for employment at places such as Capital One, The World Bank, Trilogy Federal, Stori Card, Capstone, ShareBuilder 401,000, and Impact Assets.
Companies within the healthcare industry also rely on investment specialists. This industry provides investment potential and a variety of stock types. Investors know that there are many growing healthcare companies worth investing in, as they can provide large returns, are a vast industry, and have plentiful options to choose from. Plus, healthcare is something that everyone will need to seek out at one point or another, so it is an industry that provides some level of security regardless of the tediousness that comes with it.
The Washington D.C. healthcare industry is ever-growing, as shown by the successful companies and institutions within the area. There are nationally ranked hospitals in the greater D.C. area, such as Inova Fairfax Hospital, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center, and George Washington University Hospital. There are also many notable healthcare companies, including Kaiser Permanente, Inova, UnitedHealth Group, Advisory Board, Optum, Labcorp, MedStar Health, Sunrise Senior Living, and Evolent.
In some ways, technology and investing go hand-in-hand. Largely due to the internet, more people than ever have access to investing opportunities and can educate themselves in investing through classes, bootcamps, and other resources. In addition, technology can assist investors and analysts in the finance industry, which then promotes growth within the sector. Those who work in the technology industry can create the applications, software, and other digital tools that make investing easy and are thus required to have some level of knowledge surrounding investment strategies to produce the most beneficial products. For instance, developers must understand how to implement certain safety concerns and include user-friendly stock management tools.
The technology industry in Washington, D.C. has experienced continued growth and a flourishing market. It is home to many notable tech companies such as Cloudflare, Shield AI, Applecart, Qualtrics, Bonterra, Gryphon Technologies, Immuta, Intelsat, GRAIL, Dedrone, and Computer World Services Corp. In addition, it is one of the best cities for startups and is ranked third in the nation for the best city for tech.
Retail products and the manufacturing of consumer goods will always be needed. In particular, the retail industry in Washington, D.C. has seen improvement within the last few years, as many start-ups and companies call the area home. Stakeholders in the retail industry want to see success in a specific business, so the retail industry often hires employees with investing skills who can identify weaknesses, offer advice, and manage finances.
Washington, D.C., has many high-profile retailers with storefronts, manufacturing sites, and headquarters in the general area. These retail companies often have ties in other industries as well, such as technology, ecommerce, food and beverage, fashion, and real estate. Some notable retailers in the area include Target, Upside, Gopuff, Brilliant Earth, Best Buy, Nordstrom, Whole Foods, AIR Communities, Ferguson Enterprises, Bark Social, TuckerNuck, and Sephora.
Learning to invest can result in a wide variety of job opportunities. In Washington, D.C., this is particularly true, as the city is home to many top-rated banks, highly accomplished financial institutions, and government agencies that all require experts in finance and investments. This is a skill that can lead to a steady, profitable career. Whether you want to specialize in trading and investment or management and analysis, you will have plenty of options.
An Investment Analyst is tasked with analyzing financial data and investment information to make more informed decisions when managing stocks and funds. Investment Analysts often evaluate this financial information and work as correspondents to banks, investors, and individuals who have a variety of needs. For instance, many Investment Analysts can work on mergers and acquisitions and asset management, or employ their problem-solving skills after conducting equity research. They often work alongside other types of researchers and analysts as well. According to data from Indeed, an Investment Analyst in Washington, D.C. earns a profitable salary, averaging $94,000 each year. This estimated salary is nearly $10,000 more than the national average, which is roughly $85,000.
Those who work as Investment Bankers help clients with investments in capital markets. They offer advice and aid with mergers and acquisitions. Depending on the specific role, Investment Bankers may be asked to locate and acquire capital. Those in this position often find themselves working for corporations and government agencies, as well as financial advisory firms and investment banks. In addition, Investment Bankers often work with other types of managers, administrators, researchers, and analysts to forge a functional, cohesive work environment. Not to mention, Investment Bankers earn a sustainable wage on average. For instance, Comparably estimates that Investment Bankers in Washington, D.C. can take home a salary of nearly $109,000. This is a 26% leap from the average for the United States, which is closer to $86,000. This highly sought-after career offers opportunities for professional gain and advancement.
Similar to an Investment Analyst, Financial Analysts gain insights from analyzing financial data. This allows for more informed decision-making and more accurate recommendations on investments. In particular, Financial Analysts will inspect trends within a business and study the various patterns that are present. Unlike an Investment Analyst, a Financial Analyst often has accreditation in another skill or has obtained supplemental credentials, such as project management or as a Certified Public Accountant. They often have a firm grasp on not only financial concepts but also business concepts. Indeed also reports that Washington, D.C.-based Financial Analysts also earn a yearly salary of nearly $92,000. This is well above the national average, which sits at nearly $77,000. With the right skills, becoming a successful Financial Analyst is within reach.
A Portfolio Manager, often known otherwise as a Financial Manager, is someone who manages the finances and investments of a company or individual. Specifically, they create investment plans and suggest specific strategies to reach the goals that the client has. They not only offer advice and expertise but also maintain portfolios and conduct research to ensure the client has the most accurate and specific financial advice possible. Washington, D.C., has one of the highest employment levels for Financial Managers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In particular, Portfolio Managers in this area can earn an average salary of nearly $183,000. This surpasses the median expected salary for this role across the entire United States, which typically hovers around $140,000.
Stock Market Investing – Noble Desktop
For those who want to understand the ins and outs of the stock market, Noble Desktop’s Stock Market Investing course is the place to start. Students in this class will learn how the stock market operates, from understanding the fluctuation of stock prices to managing financial statements. In addition, students will learn from hands-on activities and exercises that help them learn how to analyze earnings, conduct market research, and practice valuation techniques. Overall, students will gain a thorough understanding of the stock market basics.
Students who enroll in the Stock Market Investing course at Noble Desktop also get many other benefits. For example, students can request setup assistance at no additional cost. The small class sizes help promote interactivity and more personalized instruction. Students can also retake the class within a year of the original enrollment date, free of charge. Plus, once the student completes the course with satisfactory grades and attendance, they will receive a verified certificate of completion that can be used to display their skills and willingness to learn when applying for new career roles.
Financial Modeling Bootcamp – Noble Desktop
This Financial Modeling Bootcamp from Noble Desktop provides in-depth instruction for students who want to learn basic accounting concepts. In particular, students will practice using technologies such as Microsoft Excel to create a Three-Statement Financial Model and a Discounted Cash Flow Model. While prior financial experience is useful, it is not required, so beginners and intermediates alike can gain something important from this course.
This course includes 18 total hours of effective instruction. In addition, Noble Desktop offers several additional resources and perks. Thanks to the small class sizes and hands-on instruction, students can expect a thorough learning experience. To ensure the course runs as smoothly as possible for each student, they will have access to free setup assistance and workbooks that serve as additional resources. Not only that, but students gain a digital certificate of completion at the end of class.
Algorithmic Trading with Python – Noble Desktop
This course combines Python and investing skills. Noble Desktop offers an Algorithmic Trading with Python course where students will gain automated trading strategies that negate the tedious need to continually track their portfolios. Students will not only learn how to connect Python scripts with their online trading brokerage, but they will also learn to manage, analyze, and query specific stock data. After gaining familiarity with this skill, students will then learn how to apply exponential moving averages and backtesting strategies. Once the student has completed the course, they will feel confident in their ability to trade using Python and will be able to diversify and expand their portfolios.
Throughout 12 hours of hands-on instruction, students will practice algorithmic trading through various projects based on real-world scenarios. Plus, students will be able to request free setup assistance and experience the class again, at no additional cost, within one year of their original enrollment date. Most notably, students gain their verified digital certificate of completion once the course has ended and they have completed the course with satisfactory attendance and grades.
Noble Desktop has various corporate training offerings. In particular, it provides not only individual training but also corporate training. These courses are available in an in-person and online format, depending on your specific learning needs and desires. Plus, Noble Desktop offers corporate training in a plethora of subjects, technologies, and tools, so those in your organization can gain the skills needed to succeed.
In addition, those who enroll in corporate training with Noble Desktop have the option to buy discounted bulk vouchers for attendance in regular classes. Embark on a learning journey with Noble Desktop and see what each course has to offer. For those who want more information or have questions, contact corporate@nobledesktop.com.
As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is a hub for government, public service, and major organizations, which means there’s ample opportunity for professional development. If you’re looking to expand your knowledge in the field of tech, data, business, or design, you can explore training options available to both individuals and federal professionals. Classes are right in the heart of the city, offering knowledgeable instructors with decades of combined training and a wide range of specializations. From their real-world experience in the field, these instructors provide valuable insights that help students get comfortable while learning the material. Not to mention, the skills they develop in the classroom are practical and transferable, meaning students can put their newfound knowledge right to work.
Training with Noble Desktop’s team is easy with the modern facilities located at 600 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, D.C., 20024. It’s mere steps away from L’Enfant Plaza and offers an array of benefits, like a professional yet welcoming environment and a modern workspace. Getting there from anywhere in D.C. is straightforward, whether by Metro, bus, or car. L’Enfant Plaza is served by multiple Metro lines, and there are several bus routes that stop nearby. Those driving can also access parking garages that are easily within walking distance.
Investing skills are invaluable in a city where finance, policy, and economic analysis intersect. With this, students taking classes at Noble Desktop will get to learn key investment concepts from instructors who break down real-world market examples and help professionals make informed financial decisions. Learning at this school also offers a wide range of professional development opportunities, with classes led by expert instructors who can help you acquire skills that get you ready for the real world.
Brian is an educator and training leader passionate about helping professionals grow in fields like project management and AI. He designs adaptive learning programs that combine instructor-led sessions, live online experiences, and self-paced study, making training practical and within reach for anyone. Brian’s work also centers heavily around AI integration, particularly in training situations to show organizations how easy it can be applied to the workplace, showing ways to tackle real-world problems, enhance leadership, streamline projects, and support better decision-making. Beyond teaching, he has also developed curricula and led training on a massive scale. Brian’s blend of talents and interests makes him well-positioned to train others and help them navigate the complexities of the subject matter.
With more than 25 years of experience, Clarissa is a seasoned corporate trainer, Project Manager, and Business Consultant and has helped professionals and organizations alike achieve tangible results around the world. Her work has taken her to amazing places around the world, from China to Africa, training over 10,000 participants in leadership, project management, business analysis, and emerging technologies. Clarissa has worked with teams at NASA, Microsoft, Citibank, and FEMA, just to name a few, and is known for designing interactive yet practical sessions where her listeners can apply their skills immediately. At Graduate School USA, she played a pivotal role and contributed to numerous programs, including the Managing for Results course. She’s a quality instructor, focusing on subjects like project management, AI, and even Adobe, and has a heavy commitment to professionalism, innovation, and student success.
Michele’s professional record in Human Resources, organizational development, and leadership training has been acquired over 25 years in the field. She is a Business Strategist and HR innovator who has helped public, private, federal, and higher education organizations on their path to success. In particular, Michele excels in organizational assessment, project and performance management, workforce development, change management, conflict resolution, and AI initiatives. She prides herself on guiding individuals to leverage their strengths while fulfilling their professional lives. Her consulting work includes leading the DC Courts HR Division’s Five-Year Strategic Plan and Workforce Development Program, “Fulfilling Our Future.” She’s also held senior executive positions at Howard University, the Air Line Pilots Association, and Executive Transitions International. She’s currently working as an adjunct faculty at Graduate School USA and Anne Arundel Community College.
Alan Zucker brings real-world expertise from both the federal government and Fortune 100 companies to the classroom. With more than 25 years of professional work in project management, he makes for an ideal instructor. He has managed the project execution organization of 175 professionals, led high-visibility strategic initiatives, and delivered thousands of successful projects. His education began at George Washington University, where he earned his Bachelor’s, before progressing to earn a Master's in Economics from the University of Maryland. Moreover, he holds a wide variety of certifications, such as the Project Management Professional Certification (PMP), PMI-ACP, Disciplined Agile Coach, SAFe Program Consultant, Certified Scrum Professional, and Agile Leadership Academy Trainer. Alan is an active member of the project management community, having served as a keynote speaker, frequent industry commentator, and author of nearly 150 articles on project management.
Tashea is a Human Resources Executive and Federal Consultant, holding over 23 years of experience across multiple federal agencies, including the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Treasury, State, and Health and Human Services. Known for her ability to strategize and take the lead, Tahsea has transformed HR policies to align with mission strategies and outcomes, influencing government-wide procedures such as onboarding and pay equity. Tashea is a staunch advocate for ethical leadership, inclusivity, and organizational success. In addition, she prides herself on her authenticity and purpose-driven spirit, which translates into her work as an educator as well. In addition to teaching subjects like AI. She’s an author and entrepreneur, and is always looking for ways to help organizations and individuals alike.
With a strong foundation in federal human resources management and legal counseling, Charles is a highly knowledgeable Employee and Labor Relations Consultant in Washington, D.C. He began his education at Loyola University, earning his B.A. in Business Administration and Political Science, before graduating from the University of Baltimore School of Law. Throughout his career, Charles has guided agencies through complex HR and labor-related challenges, managed HR programs, and represented organizations in legal proceedings. He has also designed and delivered specialized training in human resources, project management, and marketing. Charles’ professional background has led to numerous accolades and awards, showcasing his impact in the field.
Dr. David E. McCullin, better known as Dr. Mac, specializes in strategic communication, homeland security, data analytics, and accurate decision-making. Prior to his work at Graduate School USA, Dr. Mac obtained his Bachelor’s in Engineering, his Master’s in National Security and Strategic Studies, and a Doctorate in Management of Complex Adaptive Systems. He served 24 years in the U.S. Army, including 13 in Special Operations. He later worked at the Department of Homeland Security as an Intelligence and Infrastructure Security Analyst for nearly a decade. Through his education and solid professional career, he has been able to teach students a variety of important skills and has also developed innovative learning tools and games that help improve decision-making and analytical thinking skills.
As a part-time instructor at Graduate School USA for over 15 years, Natalya’s expertise cannot go unnoticed. She’s an educator and has developed curricula for the school, including the Change Management Workshops and several project management courses. Not to mention, she’s also served as a learning coach, facilitator, and instructor for government leadership programs and has developed the Define and Achieve Your Goals Process. Natalya earned her Master’s in Project Management and her Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification, making her a well-qualified and effective educator, project manager, coach, and consultant.
Alan is a retired combat veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Navy with over 30 years of experience in federal and commercial budgeting, auditing, programming, operations, supply chain management, and IT acquisitions. He holds an MBA from George Washington University and a Teaching Certification from Harvard’s Bok Center for Teaching and Learning. Throughout his career across federal, state, and local government agencies, Alan has worked for numerous departments, such as the Department of State and Defense, as well as the Office of the Mayor of D.C. Alan is also an accomplished consultant and business strategist, having aided in the development of organizational projects at Lockheed Martin and PwC, to name a few. His background and lengthy career make him an ideal instructor for those looking to learn more about finance, accounting, and project management.
As a skilled instructor and business leader, Derk Mattocks possesses the skills and career experience to bolster his credibility. He gained his B.S. in Organization Management from Nyack College and his Master’s in Leadership and Military Installation Management, as well as an MBA in Financial Management and Analysis from the University of Maryland. He is a licensed Certified Advanced Professional Business Coach and trained mediator, with the certification to facilitate the “Five Practices of Leadership” workshops. Derk has also served as a Senior Advisor and Instructor for the U.S. Army. Overall, he has the credentials to serve as an accomplished and well-versed instructor, often covering topics related to project management and marketing.
Melanie is a federal acquisition and contracting expert with over 30 years of professional experience in Washington, D.C., spanning both government and education sectors. She has served as the Vice President of Acquisition Policy at SAIC and as the Managing Editor of the Federal Contracts Report at Bloomberg BNA. She’s currently an instructor at Graduate School USA, often teaching classes related to the marketing realm. She’s a Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) and a Fellow of the National Contract Management Association, positioning her as a person with incredible leadership skills and knowledge of her field. She earned her MBA from Georgetown University and is known as a clear, trusted instructor who consistently challenges students to take their skills to the next level.