Nominations Open for 2026 ‘Rising Stars’ Awards to Spotlight North America’s Next-Gen Rail Leaders

The search for the next generation of leadership in the North American railroad industry is officially underway as the nomination process for the 2026 “Rising Stars” Awards has opened. This prestigious program aims to identify and celebrate 25 outstanding professionals under the age of 40 who are making significant contributions and shaping the future of the rail sector.

The “Rising Stars” program is designed to recognize emerging leaders who are driving innovation, efficiency, and positive change within their respective companies, departments, or teams. According to the official announcement, the award seeks individuals who are not only high-performers but are also widely acknowledged by their peers and superiors as future trailblazers in the railroad industry. The selection of 25 honorees underscores the depth of young talent making an impact across the continent’s vast rail network.

Key eligibility requirements for nominees are clear and specific. Candidates must be currently employed within the North American rail industry and must not have reached their 40th birthday by the cutoff date of September 1, 2026. Nominees must also agree to participate in the awards process, which includes supplying a photograph for publication upon selection. While a specific deadline for submissions has not yet been announced, similar high-profile awards programs in other sectors, such as the Forbes 30 Under 30 which sets firm deadlines like January 15, suggest that early nomination is advisable to ensure consideration.

The establishment of such “under 40” awards is a hallmark of mature industries focused on talent development and succession planning. This initiative aligns the rail sector with similar recognition programs seen across business, technology, and construction, like the “Builder on the Rise” award and the Nashville Business Journal’s “40 Under 40.” These programs serve a dual purpose: they celebrate individual achievement while also signaling to the broader market that the industry is dynamic, forward-thinking, and committed to cultivating its next generation of innovators and executives.

Key Takeaways

• The nomination period for the 2026 “Rising Stars” Awards, honoring top rail professionals under 40 in North America, is now active.
• Twenty-five winners will be selected based on their positive impact and recognition as emerging industry leaders.
• The program highlights the rail industry’s commitment to identifying and nurturing future talent, a critical strategy for long-term growth and innovation.

Editor’s Analysis

The “Rising Stars” program is more than just an awards ceremony; it is a strategic imperative for the North American rail industry. At a time when the sector faces profound challenges—from decarbonization and digitalization to workforce development and infrastructure modernization—identifying and elevating young, dynamic leaders is crucial. This initiative helps combat the outdated perception of rail as a staid industry, instead showcasing it as a field ripe with opportunity for ambitious professionals. By publicly celebrating these 25 individuals, the industry not only motivates its internal talent pool but also creates powerful ambassadors who can help attract the next wave of engineers, data scientists, and logisticians needed to secure a competitive and sustainable future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to be nominated for the 2026 Rising Stars Awards?
Candidates must be under 40 years old as of September 1, 2026, and be currently employed in the railroad industry in North America. They must also be willing to participate in the process if selected.

How many individuals will be honored with the award?
A total of twenty-five individuals will be selected as 2026 Rising Stars and will be recognized during a virtual celebration on July 22.

What is the main goal of the Rising Stars program?
The program aims to identify and celebrate emerging leaders who are making a significant positive impact on their company and the broader rail industry, showcasing the sector’s commitment to nurturing future talent.