Consulting Magazine is proud to announce the 58 individual and 6 firm honorees for the 2026 Rising Stars of the Profession awards.

Launched in 2007, Rising Stars of the Profession was created to identify and recognize outstanding professionals under the age of 36. For 2026, the program underwent a significant transformation to better align with the evolving consulting landscape.

Moving away from broad career-path recognitions, this year's honorees were selected across 13 newly restructured, project-focused categories. These awards emphasize specific case studies, measurable outcomes, and demonstrable client impact in critical modern domains, including strategy, technology and digital consulting, analytics and AI, ESG and sustainability, and social impact.

In addition to the 58 individual professionals, 6 firms are recognized for their outstanding programmatic efforts in mentoring, enrichment, recruiting and retention.

"The revamped Rising Stars program recognizes that the next generation of leaders is already changing how this profession operates," said Michael A. Webb, Director of Consulting Magazine. "This year's honorees aren't just checking boxes on a career path; they are driving AI transformation, leading sustainability initiatives, and pioneering new approaches to social impact. These honorees represent the tangible, project-based excellence that defines the future of our industry."

The 2026 honorees will be recognized at an awards dinner and celebration in Chicago on April 16, 2026, at The Midland Hotel. Details and information about the awards and thought leadership programming can be found here.

Consulting Magazine is proud to present the 58 individual and 6 Firm honorees for the 2026 Rising Stars of the Profession awards:

INDIVIDUAL HONOREES

Analytics & AI Innovation

Cybersecurity & Risk Technology

Data Ethics & Responsible AI

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Global & Cross-Border Consulting

Industry-Specialization

Leadership & Culture

Operational & Process Consulting

Pro Bono & Social Impact

Strategy & Transformation

Technology & Digital Consulting

Thought Leadership & Intellectual Capital

FIRM HONOREES

Mentoring and Enrichment Programs

Recruiting and Retention Programs

Congratulations to our 2026 honorees!

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