Press Release

TRA Wins Brandon Hall Group Bronze Award for Innovation in Learning & Development

Issued by TRA [The Retirement Advantage]

Aug. 25, 2025

The Retirement Advantage, Inc. (TRA) received a Bronze award from the Brandon Hall Group for Best Competencies and Skill Development for its SMILE program, which is innovative.

Brandon Hall Group, a renowned research and analyst company that has been servicing more than 10,000 clients for almost 30 years, has recognized TRA for its commitment to employee learning and professional development. The award puts TRA in the ranks of major companies like Empower, Accenture, Delta Airlines, Qantas Airways, and Mercer, who were all competing in the same category.

The award underscores the competency of TRA’s SMILE program, which aimed to improve workforce competency and skill development. Programs were assessed based on stringent criteria, such as:

• Fit to Needs: Relevance to organizational objectives and business priorities.
• Design: Capacity to fill skills gaps and promote individual and company development.
• Delivery: Convenient, impactful learning that can be used by employees on the job.
• Measurable Benefits: Quantifiable results and enhancements that are linked to the program.
• Overall Impact: Lasting positive effect on learners and the company.

The SMILE initiative of TRA distinguished itself through its quantifiable outcomes and its contribution to cultivating a culture of ongoing enhancement.

This award is a testament to the hard work of our team and the passion of our employees who welcomed the SMILE program,” stated Annie DeHaven, TRA’s Director of Human Resources. “It’s a privilege to be acknowledged by Brandon Hall Group and to be included among such esteemed organizations.

Internal special recognition was given to team members Chris B. and Brianna Z., whose leadership and creativity were instrumental in developing and implementing the successful program.

The Brandon Hall Group awards are one of the most highly regarded in the learning and development field, and they are frequently called the “Academy Awards of Human Capital Management.” To win shows not just the excellence of the program but also the focus of TRA on employee development as a foundation of its organizational culture.

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