The Millennials used to characterized as something on its way… a glimmer on the horizon… a promise of a new day, but as we unveil this year's Rising Stars of the Profession, one thing is certain—the Millennials, or sometimes called Generation Y, have arrived. The list is now filled exclusively with Millennials, typically defined by those born between 1982 and 1996. Gone are the last gasps of Generation X, with the youngest of that generation turning 36 last year.

So, what do we make of these Millennials? They are, without a doubt, the hardest-working, most tech-savvy and information-hungry professionals we've ever seen. When we set out to identify The Rising Stars of the Profession, we usually think in terms of consultants who are poised to change the industry. But it didn't take too long to realize that this group was already changing the profession in profound ways, some we had never envisioned.

These "kids" are alright, for sure. Of course, they aren't kids at all, they are accomplished beyond their years. It's impossible not to be impressed with their achievements, their impact… and their individualism. Yes, the consulting profession is in good hands with this collection of talent under the age of 35. And three of them are only 27. Do you remember your career at 27?

And we're not talking about talent as in talent that has potential to do great things some day. We're talking talent that has already arrived. Already delivered; big time. This is Talent, with a capital "T".

So a word to consulting firm leaders: Millennials are the future; the future of your firm; the future of the profession. Trying to fit these Rising Stars into your traditional talent and consulting models will not work. Nor should it. Recognize that you've caught lightning in a bottle, and what you do with it now will make all the difference. Yep, these kids are alright, alright. Alright?

Joseph Kornik Publisher & Editor-in-Chief jkornik@alm.com

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