Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM JUNE 2026 32 A S S O C I AT I O N [ N E W S ] N KBA | KBIS is on the hunt for the brightest young minds in the kitchen and bath industry to join the prestigious Thirty Under 30 community: passionate leaders, innovative creators, and forward-thinking professionals. Previously sponsored by Fabuwood and KOHLER, the Thirty Under 30 program aims to recognize and celebrate 30 outstanding young professionals who are poised to become the future leaders of the industry. These are the individuals with the drive, creativity, and brilliance to shape the next generation of kitchen and bath experts. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A THIRTY UNDER 30 HONOREE? If selected, honorees will receive a trip to KBIS 2027 in Las Vegas (airfare and lodging included), where they will be celebrated throughout the show. At KBIS, they will also help identify key trends, innovations, technologies, sustainable practices, and emerging business models. This is a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders, receive media exposure, and make a significant impact within the kitchen and bath trades. HEAR FROM PAST WINNERS "Being named a Thirty under 30 was a career highlight, and the experience of networking with other driven professionals at KBIS left me feeling inspired and motivated for the future, and eager to deepen my involvement with the NKBA," Class of 2024 honoree Ashley de Boer said. "Getting selected for NKBA's Thirty Under 30 connected me with inspiring peers who are both industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs," added fellow Class of 2024 honoree Jake Hohman. "The program instilled in me the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset for continuous growth and innovation in the kitchen and bath industry." Class of 2024 honoree Sophia Amiano said, "Becoming a 2024 NKBA Thirty Under 30 inductee marks a pinnacle in my career symbolizing recognition among top industry achievers. The chance to connect and collaborate with fellow professionals nationwide through NKBA's esteemed platform is truly invaluable." WHO IS ELIGIBLE? To be considered, nominees must: • Be born on or after March 1, 1996 • Be outgoing, passionate, and enthusiastic about networking • Work in the kitchen and bath industry • Be committed to furthering their career in the industry • Have the support of their current employer to participate in the program WHAT DO ELECTED THIRTY UNDER 30 RECIPIENTS RECEIVE? • A free trip to KBIS 2027, including airfare and lodging • Access to the KBIS show floor, conferences, and NKBA events • Media exposure and recognition among top design and trade professionals • Pre-event and post-event networking opportunities WHAT TO EMPHASIZE ON THE NOMINATION FORM Submissions should include information highlighting: • Sales and marketing accomplishments and figures • Community service and charity involvement • NKBA Chapter officer positions or other industry association memberships • Innovative solutions, improvements, or project involvement beyond daily requirements SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Nominations are open through August 31st. DON'T JUST TAKE IT FROM US Class of 2026 honoree Cayleigh McCusker had this to say: "Being selected as a member of the NKBA Thirty Under 30 Class was a true honor. To be recognized by your peers and colleagues in the industry as deserving such an achievement is really a testament to the hard work paying off. Becoming part of this young, talented, and driven group of individuals was a goal I set for myself, and I couldn't be happier that it came true. Getting to meet the other members of the class and spend time together at KBIS was an unforgettable experience and so incredibly rewarding; I'm still talking about it. I have 29 new friends and colleagues from all over the country who I get to share this prestigious honor with, and I feel so lucky – this is truly just the beginning!" FINAL TAKE The NKBA Thirty Under 30 program isn't just an accolade – it's a launchpad. It offers national recognition, multi-faceted career support, professional networking, and leadership experiences that amplify your impact within the kitchen & bath world. If you're an emerging professional with big ambitions, this is your moment to be seen and heard. Submit your nomination today at www.nkba.org/thirty-under-30 NKBA | KBIS SEEKS NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS Submit your nomination for Thirty Under 30 today! RO

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