CHICAGO — Trade Show Executive (TSE) is now accepting nominations to the TSE Trailblazers program for the Class of 2026. The deadline to submit a nomination is March 9, 2026, and winners will be announced on March 17. The TSE Trailblazers program recognizes and encourages the next generation of talent in the trade show industry, with winners being invited to attend the upcoming TSE Fastest 50 Awards & Summit, taking place April 22-24 at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor.
Criteria for Trailblazers Program
This recognition program is meant to honor rising talent in the industry, so nominees should have between 2-10 years of industry experience and be a non-executive level professional to qualify. Those who are in executive-level positions, or positions that manage or influence the budget, do not qualify for this program. The Trailblazers program is mixed gender and not restricted by age.
Winners will be selected by a panel of editors based on judging criteria that includes demonstrable excellence in trade show management, innovative contributions, problem-solving and achievements within the last year.
Exclusive Opportunities for Trailblazers
Those selected as the TSE Trailblazers of 2026, and their nominators, will receive an exclusive invitation to TSE’s Fastest 50 Awards & Summit, with complimentary registration.
This prestigious annual event includes unparalleled networking opportunities with executive-level leadership from across the events ecosystem, access to thought leadership through the Education Summit, and an awards presentation on stage in front of industry peers.
Trailblazers will also be featured in an upcoming edition of Trade Show Executive Magazine, with extended coverage online this summer.
Submit a Nomination Today!
You can find more information about the TSE Trailblazers program, and the submission form here.
If you have additional questions, please reach out to our team at fastest50@tradeshowexecutive.com.
