Celebrating the Year’s Best Work in Talent Development!

ATD Dallas has always recognized the amazing work being accomplished by the learning and talent development teams in organizations across the DFW metroplex. Previously known as "The Best Places to Learn," the AXIS Awards has been a signature event for the chapter since 2015.

In 2026, we are excited to elevate the impact of this recognition by celebrating the AXIS Awards as part of the Southwest Learning Summit (SWLS) — bringing together an even larger community of learning professionals to honor the teams and organizations making a meaningful difference through talent development.

WHAT IT IS ALL ABOUT

• We all work hard inside our organizations in order to develop the most important resource - its people!  
• While it is nice to be recognized internally for our efforts, impacts, and success, it is an even greater honor to be recognized by our peer community!

HOW TO RECEIVE AN AXIS AWARD

• You have to apply!  
• Fill out an application to showcase your work and share your successes.  There are numerous different award categories to cover all areas of talent development.
• Detail your approach, the impact, and available metrics in your application.  We want to know what you did and the results that came from your efforts.
• The application process will open by April 1, 2026 and will close on July 1, 2026.

Application Details

• The application process will open by April 1, 2026

• Applications will close on June 15, 2026

Eligibility & Application Fees

• ATD Dallas Members: Eligible to apply at no cost

• Non-Members: $75 application fee per submission

• Vendors / Partners applying with their client: $200 application fee per submission

Vendors and partners may now apply in collaboration with their client organizations. When selected, both the client organization and the vendor partner will be recognized and receive the AXIS Award.

WHEN IS THE NEXT AXIS AWARDS?

The 2026 AXIS Awards Ceremony will take place on September 29, 2026, during a special lunch celebration at the Southwest Learning Summit (SWLS). Award winners will be recognized in front of the broader Southwest Learning Summit community, bringing together hundreds of learning and talent development professionals from across the Dallas–Fort Worth region.

Attend the Full Summit

Register to attend the full-day Southwest Learning Summit and join us for a full day of learning, connection, and celebration. Register for the full event here.

Join Us ONLY for the AXIS Awards Lunch Celebration

If you would like to attend the AXIS Awards lunch celebration only, registration is also available:

• ATD Dallas Members: $80

• Non-Members: $125

This celebration lunch is an opportunity to recognize the teams and organizations making an impact through talent development while connecting with peers from across the L&D community. Register for the luncheon here!

INTERESTED IN BEING PART OF THE AXIS AWARDS PLANNING TEAM?

• There are several ways to get involved with this team!  
• Each year we have roles for: Co-chairs, Selection Committee Lead, Selection Committee (that read the applications, rank them, and select the winners), Event Emcees, Marketing Lead, and Venue Lead.  
• Share your interest be completing the Volunteer Form and selecting AXIS Awards.