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Celebrating Excellence in Construction: ENR's Top Young Professionals of 2026
The engineering and construction industry is undergoing a dramatic transformation, driven by technological innovations and a demand for more sustainable practices. Each year, Engineering News-Record (ENR) honors the brightest talents in this evolving field. The 2026 ENR National Top 20 Under 40 Award Winners highlights young professionals making significant contributions that will shape the future of construction.
Unveiling the Winners: Meet Industry Trailblazers
This year's cohort of winners represents the future of the construction industry, selected from over 400 entries during the regional Top Young Professionals competition. These individuals have not only excelled in their respective roles but have also demonstrated leadership, innovation, and a commitment to their communities.
The 2026 award recipients include:
- Sharod Alford, an area field engineer at Bechtel, recognized for overcoming on-site challenges.
- Jamal Atkins, vice president at Volkert Inc., who leads groundbreaking initiatives in construction engineering.
- Stephanie Tovar, a superintendent at Flintco, noted for her efforts in promoting gender diversity in engineering.
These are just a few of the remarkable young professionals who will be celebrated during an event in New York City on March 25, 2026.
Judging Criteria: Recognizing Multifaceted Talents
The winners were selected through a meticulous process by panels of independent industry judges who considered criteria such as innovation, leadership, community engagement, and impact on the industry. This holistic approach ensures that the awards celebrate not only professional accomplishments but also personal contributions to the field.
A national team of judges then evaluated the highest-scoring candidates from regional competitions, ensuring that the selected professionals exemplify excellence across diverse disciplines and geographies.
The Importance of Young Leaders in Construction
Why focus on the top young professionals? The construction industry is facing an urgent need for fresh perspectives and approaches as it adapts to modern challenges ranging from labor shortages to the push for sustainability. Young leaders like those recognized by ENR are not just key contributors to projects; they are the catalysts for innovation.
By bringing new technologies and methodologies to the table, awardees like Michelle Hoysick of AECOM and Freddys L. Hernandez from the NYC Department of Design and Construction are paving the way for a more efficient, eco-friendly construction landscape. Their work helps to illustrate how younger generations are redefining what success looks like in a traditionally conservative industry.
Future Trends: What Lies Ahead for Young Professionals?
As the landscape of construction continues to evolve, several trends stand out that these young professionals are likely to influence significantly:
- Increased Focus on Sustainability: New award winners are at the forefront of incorporating environmentally friendly practices in their projects.
- Technological Integration: Digital tools and AI are being used more frequently, and these emerging professionals are experts at leveraging these technologies to improve efficiency.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Young professionals often embrace collaborative project management techniques, making for greater synergy amongst teams.
Understanding these trends is essential for both emerging leaders in construction and industry veterans looking to stay relevant.
How Can You Get Involved?
Becoming a part of this vibrant community of young professionals is within reach. The selection process for next year's ENR Top Young Professionals will open up in summer 2026, offering a chance for more potential leaders to shine. Whether you're an aspiring young engineer or a seasoned professional looking to mentor, consider participating in industry workshops, networking events, or submitting nominations for deserving candidates.
Check out more information about the contest and the incredible work being done by past and present winners at ENR's website.
This recognition serves as a reminder that creativity, resilience, and commitment to excellence are the hallmarks of tomorrow's leaders. By celebrating these talents today, we can inspire a new generation of engineers and builders who will continue to innovate and drive the industry forward.
Don't miss the chance to follow their journeys, as their stories will be featured in a cover story and photo spread of ENR's May 11, 2026 print issue. This coverage is crucial for anyone interested in the future of construction.
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