#United States #Los Angeles #Talent Development #Herminia Ibarra #Michael Bungay Stanier

Celebrating Excellence in Talent Development

During the 2026 International Conference & Exposition held in Los Angeles, California, the Association for Talent Development (ATD) proudly recognized exemplary contributions to the field of talent development. This event recognized the remarkable achievements of both individuals and organizations committed to enhancing workplace talent development practices.

ATD President and CEO Tony Bingham emphasized the significance of this recognition, stating, "For decades, ATD has been honoring excellence in our field. Winning organizations showcase how aligning talent development with business needs enhances performance and drives success worldwide. Each recipient plays a crucial role in unlocking human potential and fostering a better functioning world."

Recognizing Outstanding Talent Development Professionals

Among those honored were individuals displaying exceptional leadership and innovation in talent development. Kassy LaBorie, of Kassy LaBorie Consulting, and Michelle Baker from FORUM Credit Union received the prestigious Talent Development Outstanding Professional Award. Dr. Kari Word from Florida State University claimed the Dissertation Award while Wes Wessinger of ReWa was recognized with the Talent Development One to Watch Award.

Special recognition was given to Herminia Ibarra, who received the Talent Development Champion Award. Ibarra’s influential role as the Charles Handy Professor of Organizational Behavior at London Business School highlights her commitment to advocating for talent development in various sectors.

The Talent Development Thought Leader Award went to Michael Bungay Stanier, founder of MBS.works and renowned author of The Coaching Habit, recognizing his significant impact and thought leadership on the profession. Additionally, the Lifetime Achievement Award celebrated Patricia McLagan, CEO of McLagan International, whose career-long dedication to leadership and change has profoundly influenced the field.

Corporate Excellence in Talent Development

Recognition extended beyond individuals, with organizations lauded for their dedication to improving lives and industries through talent development. Prudential Financial received the Talent Development for Good Award for leveraging their initiatives to enhance societal well-being. Meanwhile, Saudi Aramco was honored with the ATD Certification Institute Champion Award.

The Excellence in Practice (EIP) Award acknowledged outstanding results achieved through effective and innovative talent development practices. A total of 46 organizations received awards for 59 winning practices across various categories, including career development, change management, coaching and mentoring, diversity and inclusion, and more.

Some noteworthy recipients of the EIP Award include:

• - AIA Group
• - Allianz SE
• - American Bankers Association
• - Cognizant (five awards)
• - University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

The Role of ATD in Talent Development

Established in 1943, ATD stands as the world's largest professional membership association supporting those engaged in enhancing the knowledge and skills of employees. With a global footprint, ATD represents members from over 100 countries across diverse industries, facilitating local gatherings in volunteer-led US chapters and nurturing international networks.

For those interested in exploring further or seeking resources in talent development, additional information can be found at td.org. Through its ongoing commitment to empowerment, ATD continues to be a cornerstone in cultivating a workforce equipped for the demands of the future.