Affinity Learning

Meet the people at Affinity Learning

Who we are at Affinity Learning

Affinity Learning is a veteran-owned, small business providing custom technology solutions. We provide services at the national level in the development of eLearning, Learning Management System integration and solutions, and instructor-led content for businesses. 

We are a completely virtual company, with geographically dispersed team members. Time zones, working hours, and geography are not limitations for us! This allows us to increase our productivity and responsiveness, delivering your product in on time and to your specifications.

The virtual nature of our team allows our company to best service your training needs while also reducing our its carbon footprint!

David Dodge

CEO & Founder of Affinity Learning

Meet David Dodge, an Air Force veteran and the visionary Owner and CEO of Affinity Learning, whose leadership drives innovation and excellence in the learning and development field. With over 20 years of experience, David began his career as a maintenance instructor in the Air Force after serving with the United States Air Demonstration Squadron, the “Thunderbirds.” He delivered over 3,500 hours of instruction, became a Master Instructor, and helped launch F-22 Training Programs at Tyndall AFB and Langley AFB in collaboration with Boeing and various program offices. After retiring, David ventured into the Architecture field, focusing on construction and life safety before returning to training as a government contractor. At SolarCity, and later Tesla, he leveraged his passion for learning technology by implementing five learning management systems in just six years and leading the development of over nine hundred safety and security courses for Tesla’s Global Environment, Health, Safety, and Security organization. During his time at Tesla, he also chaired various committees related to learning management system upgrades, onboarding new instructional designers, quarterly development planning and global learning and development management updates. 

David, known for his expertise in project management and learning and development, draws inspiration from tackling challenges and solving problems. He is also a 4-time Ironman 70.3 finisher and completed Ironman Arizona. This blend of endurance sports and learning and development has been instrumental in being able to employ various project management tactics.

David received his Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Nevada Las Vegas, Associates in Applied Science/Occupational Instructor through the Community College of the Air Force, and his Project Management Professional Certification through Project Management Institute.  

Safety Specialty

Working at Heights

With over 20 years of experience in the learning and development field, David has focused extensively on safety training, particularly in working at heights. His credentials include previous certification as a Tower Climbing Instructor and completion of Gravitec’s Fall Protection Competent Person course.

David played a critical role in developing and implementing SolarCity and Tesla Energy’s Global Fall Protection training program, ensuring safety compliance and best practices for employees working at height both on residential homes, commercial facilities and mobile equipment. While at Arcata Associates, he led the delivery of the Lockout Tagout Affected course, equipping employees with essential safety skills related to control of hazardous energy. Additionally, he was trained and certified to instruct personnel on the operation of a 56-foot bucket truck.

Sahika Vatan, Ph.D.

“David’s dedication to safety and his hands-on expertise makes him a leader in the field of Working at Heights safety training and development.”

Irwin Kwan

“…I partnered closely with David on global Environmental, Health, Safety, & Security training, ensuring Tesla met and maintained the highest standards of workplace compliance and creating a safe and secure environment for all employees and contractors.

Community Involvement

David is a dedicated member of his community, finding great satisfaction in giving back. As a passionate triathlete, he volunteers his time to support local triathlons, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the events that have supported him throughout his racing career. He is equally committed to making a difference for veterans, supporting the Help R Heroes organization in their mission to create a brighter future for those who have served their country.

In addition to his volunteer work, David is a dedicated member of the Project Management Institute (PMI) and the PMI Southern Nevada Chapter. There, he mentors other project managers, sharing his knowledge and experience to help them advance in their careers. He also serves on the board of CyRoot Academy, contributing to its mission of empowering others through education. David’s commitment to continuous learning and community service shapes his leadership approach and drives him to make a positive impact on those around him.

Help R Heroes, PMI Mentorship, and CyRoot Academy

Our Partners

  • Chief Learning Product Officer (CLPO)

    Senior Learning Architect & Instructional Design Specialist

    John Corrigan is an expert Learning Experience Professional with over 20 years of experience in face-to-face delivery, eLearning, content development, and various authoring tools.  He is a certified Behavioral Analyst in DISC, which delivers heightened communication techniques to management and employees, creating a stronger and more collaborative workforce.  He embraces challenges and is stellar at identifying creative solutions to solve client needs.  John is a father, husband, and avid motorhead who enjoys making memories whenever possible.

  • Chief Learning & Innovation Officer (CLIO)

    Senior Learning Architect & Instructional Design Specialist

    Nick is a seasoned Learning Experience Designer with over 20 years of expertise in making training enjoyable and impactful. By integrating adult learning theories with innovative tech and software, Nick excels at crafting engaging and effective learning experiences.

    Since 2004, Nick has collaborated with top companies like Ashford University, SolarCity, and Tesla, offering a range of L&D services from live facilitation and workshops to eLearning, voiceover work, and media creation. His approach focuses on using diverse modalities to transform training, avoiding one-size-fits-all solutions.

    Outside of work, Nick is a master of dad jokes, much to the amusement (and occasional eyeroll) of his wife and two daughters. When hockey or football is on TV, you can bet there is something delicious on the grill or in the smoker.

  • Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

    Senior Learning Architect & Program Manager

    Ben Shiramizu is a seasoned Learning and Talent Development professional with a decade of experience in cultivating talent and driving organizational growth, including two terms on the board of the Greater Las Vegas chapter of the Association for Talent Development (ATD). He has a proven history in designing and implementing innovative learning strategies that enhance employee skills and foster career development. Ben's expertise extends to creating engaging and impactful training videos, leveraging multimedia to support learning objectives and improve engagement, and gamification. With a strong background in both learning theory and practical application, Ben is dedicated to developing effective talent programs that align with strategic business goals and support organizational excellence.

  • Chief Operating Officer (COO) 

    Senior Learning Management System Specialist & Program Manager

    Sara Webe brings a wealth of experience to Affinity Learning in terms of learning management system administration and educational technology, combining technology integration and system management with over 15 years in education and professional development training. Aside from learning management systems, Sara excels in blended learning, virtual/in-person training, microlearning, and curriculum and program development.

    Sara believes in the power of technology to transform learning and development, making it more accessible, engaging, and effective. She is passionate about continued learning and staying current with the latest trends and tools in educational technology. Sara’s mission is to bridge the gap between technology and training, ensuring that every learner and organization can benefit from a well-managed and supportive LMS environment.

    Outside of work, Sara is a wife, mother, avid reader, and professional coffee drinker, who has enjoyed going rogue in the Learning & Development space.