North American Rail: Nominations Open for Rising Stars 2026

Nominations are now open for the prestigious 2026 “Rising Stars” Awards, a key program dedicated to identifying and celebrating the next generation of leaders within the North American railroad industry. This initiative reflects a growing cross-industry trend, seen in programs like the Forbes 30 Under 30 and the BAFTA Rising Star Award, to formally recognize and cultivate emerging talent under the age of 40.

The call for nominations has officially begun for the 2026 “Rising Stars” Awards, an annual program designed to spotlight exceptional individuals who are shaping the future of rail in North America. The program seeks to honor 25 up-and-coming professionals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and made a significant positive impact within their company, department, or team. Recognition is based on nominations from peers, colleagues, supervisors, clients, or other industry associates who can attest to the candidate’s promising trajectory and contributions.

The core criterion for a “Rising Star” is an individual under the age of 40 who is not only excelling in their role but also inspiring others and driving innovation. To be eligible, nominees must be younger than 40 as of September 1, 2026, and be currently employed within the North American rail sector. Unlike other industry awards that might focus on years of experience, such as the “Builder on the Rise” award which targets professionals with 15 years or less in housing, the Rising Stars program specifically uses an age benchmark to identify a new generation of leadership. All candidates must be willing to participate in the selection process and provide a professional photograph upon nomination.

The establishment of such awards places the railroad industry alongside other major sectors that strategically invest in recognizing young talent. Esteemed programs like the Forbes 30 Under 30, which recently expanded to include a local Arizona list, and the BAFTA Rising Star Award in the film industry, underscore a global understanding that highlighting early-career achievements is vital for talent retention and industry dynamism. By creating a visible platform for its emerging leaders, the North American rail industry reinforces its commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and ensuring a robust leadership pipeline for the decades to come.

Key Takeaways

• The nomination period is now open for the 2026 Rising Stars Awards, which will honor 25 emerging leaders under 40 in the North American railroad industry.
• Eligibility is defined by age (under 40 by Sept. 1, 2026) and a demonstrated positive impact, as validated by nominations from industry peers and leaders.
• This award aligns with a broader corporate trend seen in other major industries to formally recognize and promote young talent, helping to secure a future leadership pipeline.

Editor’s Analysis

In an industry often characterized by its legacy infrastructure and experienced workforce, the “Rising Stars” program is more than just an awards ceremony; it is a critical strategic initiative. As the rail sector confronts a looming generational skills gap and competes with tech and other fast-paced industries for top talent, celebrating its own young innovators is paramount. This program serves as a powerful tool for both retention and recruitment, signaling to promising professionals that the railroad industry is a place where their contributions are valued and their career growth is actively fostered. It is a direct investment in the human capital that will navigate the technological and logistical challenges of tomorrow’s global supply chain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the 2026 Rising Stars Award?

Nominees must be under 40 years old as of September 1, 2026, and currently work in the North American railroad industry. They should be recognized by peers or supervisors for making a positive impact.

How many individuals will be selected as Rising Stars?

A total of 25 individuals will be selected by the program’s judges and honored as the 2026 Rising Stars.

When will the 2026 Rising Stars be honored?

The 25 selected Rising Stars will be celebrated during a virtual awards ceremony scheduled for July 22, 2026.