2026 40 Under 40

The average age of honorees in Springfield Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 class this year is just under 35. These individuals sure have packed a lot of accomplishments into those years.

In my eight years being a part of congratulating and covering award recipients for SBJ, I’ve noticed some people are uncomfortable accepting awards. A mention of “imposter syndrome” at this year’s photoshoot had a number of honorees nodding their head in agreement. Sometimes it’s hard to recognize the impact we make ourselves, even when it’s so evident to people around us.

I shared with the honorees that they could think of this award as a symbol of the years of hard work, dedication, failures and successes that led to this moment of recognition. It also is a testament to the family, friends and co-workers and their care and support. The people around us make our successes possible, and they certainly give it meaning.

So, I say to the honorees, celebrate the award and soak it in. This is a moment representing years of passion.

Thanks to the judges for carefully selecting this year’s class – what a group!

I know all of us in the community are eager to see what these honorees do next.

—Christine Temple, SBJ Executive Editor