The Restoration Industry Association (RIA), in proud partnership with C&R Magazine, is thrilled to announce the winners of the first-ever Emerging Leaders in Restoration Award—a groundbreaking recognition program honoring professionals under 40 who are already shaping the future of the restoration industry.

At a time when labor shortages and the increasing frequency of disaster events are putting growing pressure on the restoration industry, this award could not be more timely or important. As seasoned professionals retire and the demand for skilled restoration services surges, the industry faces a critical need to attract, retain, and elevate the next generation of leaders. Now more than ever, shining a spotlight on emerging talent is essential to securing the future of the restoration profession.

About the Award

The Emerging Leaders in Restoration Award was created to celebrate rising stars under 40 who are transforming the industry through innovation, leadership, and service. These young professionals are not just leading projects—they’re driving culture change, mentoring future talent, improving operations, and giving back to their communities.

“This award is about more than individual recognition,” said Kristy Cohen, RIA CEO. “It’s about ensuring the restoration industry is positioned for long-term success by shining a light on the passionate, driven young leaders who are already making a mark.”

Nomination & Selection Process

The award was open exclusively to contractors under the age of 40 as of April 30, 2025. Self-nominations were encouraged, ensuring accessibility and representation across the field.

A panel of esteemed industry judges selected winners based on a comprehensive set of criteria, including their contributions to the industry—such as meaningful impact, mentorship, and community engagement—their professional accomplishments, demonstrated through career growth, operational excellence, technical expertise, and problem-solving abilities, and finally, their potential to lead the future of restoration, evidenced by a clear vision, strong influence among peers, and strategic insight into industry trends.

Why This Matters

With skilled labor in short supply and an ever-growing demand for qualified restoration professionals, the Emerging Leaders in Restoration Award serves a dual purpose: to recognize those already excelling and to inspire new talent to see restoration as a rewarding and impactful career path.

We can assure you of one thing—the future of our industry is in very good hands. The 2025 honorees have already shown remarkable dedication, resilience, and creativity. They are redefining what it means to be a leader in this field.

Meet the 2025 Winners

Click here to meet the inaugural class of Emerging Leaders in Restoration

RIA and C&R Magazine are honored to spotlight these professionals and will continue to provide platforms that elevate the next generation of restoration leaders.

About RIA: The Restoration Industry Association (RIA) is the leading international network of restoration professionals protecting the interests of the industry by tackling shared challenges and providing access to resources and opportunities to help you elevate your business. For more information, visit www.restorationindustry.org.