The American Society for Training & Development (ASTD) recently recognized Wilmington-based PPD for its employee learning and development.

Pharmaceutical Product Development LLC (PPD) was named a 2013 ASTD BEST Award winner for “implementing innovative employee training programs, which drive efficiencies in the conduct of biopharmaceutical clients’ drug development programs,” according to a news release.

“Engaging and empowering employees help PPD consistently deliver value for clients,” Mike Wilkinson, PPD’s executive vice president and chief information officer, said in a statement. “PPD takes a multifaceted, collaborative approach to employee learning. We blend novel concepts with an array of global resources to create learning and development programs that are flexible, customizable, technology-driven and responsive to an ever-changing business environment.”

The contract research organization uses training modes – classroom, virtual collaboration, mobile learning, self-study, e-learning, role playing, simulations and social learning – that are adapted based on objectives and target employee audience, the release stated.

In the area of employee training, PPD also recently received the Skillsoft Perspectives Innovation Award for Empowering Learning Cultures in the Enterprise and Training Top 125 honors.