CNO Stories

For the 15^th year in a row, CNO has been recognized with the 2026 Training MVP Award (formerly APEX) by Training Magazine—a distinction that places CNO among the nation’s leaders in employer-sponsored learning and development.

This milestone reflects more than an award win. It’s a testament to how deeply training, development and continuous improvement are woven into the fabric of CNO’s culture.

A Credit to a Company-Wide Effort

The application process, facilitated by CNO’s Enterprise Field Development (EFD) team, reflects a collective commitment from the enterprise to invest in our people and align learning with meaningful business outcomes. From tuition reimbursement programs and modern learning platforms like Cornerstone and LinkedIn Learning to hands-on field development initiatives, CNO’s approach to growth is both broad and intentional.

Through close collaboration across the organization, this work helps ensure agents and advisors are prepared to meet the evolving needs of middle-income America.

Supporting the Field, Where It Matters Most

EFD supports training across multiple distribution channels, including Bankers Life, Bankers Life Securities (BLS), Bankers Life Advisory Services (BLAS), PMA and select Home Office and compliance-related initiatives.

Guided by a clear mission — to “develop and measurably improve the quality and productivity of the field” — the team focuses on three core drivers:

• Building a strong talent pipeline through leadership and management development.
• Evolving the field force through structured development and certification programs.
• Growing the securities business by equipping the field with advanced, client-focused skills.

These priorities come to life through programs such as product certifications, leadership and management development offerings, mentoring initiatives, and the Winner’s Edge program, tailored to support both Bankers Life and PMA field members.

Training That Drives Business Outcomes

A defining feature of EFD’s approach is its close partnership with the field. They work alongside field committees—including Agent Development, Management and Leadership Development, the Women’s Leadership Networking Community (WLNC), and advisory councils—to ensure training reflects real-world needs and shifting market demands.

“We really see this as a partnership with the field,” said Scott Gustavson, Senior Director, Field Learning Strategy. “Our role is to listen, use analytics to understand what’s working, and continuously evolve training so it helps the field serve clients better.”

Participation, performance and post-training results are closely tracked to measure impact and guide decision-making. In some cases, programs have been redesigned—or retired—based on data and feedback, ensuring learning investments remain aligned with business goals.

A Shared Commitment to Growth

The 2026 Training MVP Award underscores CNO’s broader mission: helping secure the financial future of middle-income America by equipping our people with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed.

For more information about CNO’s awards and recognitions, visit here.