NKBA | KBIS Seeks Next Generation of Leaders – NKBA

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NKBA | KBIS Seeks Next Generation of Leaders

Submit your nomination for Thirty Under 30 today!
Image courtesy of PWP Studio.

By Nicholas Tamarin

NKBA | 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. 

Sponsored by Fabuwood, the Thirty Under 30 program aims to recognize and celebrate thirty 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 attend KBIS 2026 in Orlando, where they will help identify key trends, innovations, technologies, sustainable practices, and emerging business models. This is a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders, connect with peers, and make a significant impact within the kitchen and bath trades. Honorees will also be recognized and celebrated during the event.

“Being named a Thirty under 30 was a career highlight, and the experience of networking with other driven professionals at KBIS in Vegas 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 says. “Being selected for NKBA’s Thirty Under 30 connected me with inspiring peers who are both industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs,” adds fellow Class of 2024 honoree Jake Hohman, Class of 2024. “The program instilled in me the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset for continuous growth and innovation in the kitchen and bath industry.” 

Who is eligible?

To be considered, nominees must:

  • Be born on or after March 1, 1995.
  • 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 Thirty Under 30 recipients receive?

Selected individuals will receive:

  • A free trip to KBIS 2026, 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.

How to improve a candidate’s chances:

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. Go here to submit your nomination today!