Chris Janzen

Chris Janzen is the Chief Product Officer (CPO) at Collaborative Classroom, where he leads the vision, strategy, and development of the organization’s evidence-based, classroom-tested instructional programs. With a deep commitment to educator-driven learning solutions, Janzen ensures that Collaborative Classroom’s products continue to empower teachers and improve student outcomes through research-backed instructional practices and innovative technology.

With over 20 years of experience in educational technology and product leadership, Janzen has successfully transformed traditional learning models into scalable, digital-first solutions that meet the evolving needs of educators and students. Before joining Collaborative Classroom, he served as Vice President of Product Design at McGraw Hill, where he led the transition from a print-centric model to a digital-first product strategy. His leadership in AI-driven content development, accessibility improvements, and user-centered design helped accelerate product innovation and market readiness.

Prior to McGraw Hill, Janzen held executive leadership roles at ECMC Group and Capella Education Company, where he spearheaded the development of workforce training and digital learning platforms. At ECMC, he led the transformation of hands-on trades education into a hybrid digital model, integrating virtual reality, mobile learning, and real-time skills assessment to support both in-person instruction and field-based upskilling. 

Janzen is known for his ability to align product, technology, and curriculum teams to create seamless, research-driven learning experiences. His expertise in scaling instructional solutions, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and integrating emerging technologies makes him a key driver of innovation at Collaborative Classroom.

He holds a Master of Science in Instructional Design from Capella University and a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design from St. Mary’s University. He has also earned certifications in Pragmatic Marketing and Executive Leadership.

At Collaborative Classroom, Janzen is dedicated to ensuring that teachers have the tools, resources, and support they need to create engaging and effective learning environments. His work continues to reinforce Collaborative Classroom’s mission of transforming education through research-based, classroom-tested programs that put teachers and students first.