Conexus Indiana opens nominations for Rising 30 2027

Presented by Katz, Sapper & Miller (KSM), the Rising 30 program was designed to celebrate the next generation of leaders who are advancing the state’s AML sector. The program also encourages pathways to success in these vital industries, which employ more than 800,000 Hoosiers and represent a third of the state’s gross domestic product.

Past Rising 30 honorees have come from every corner of the industry, including quality engineering, supply chain, R&D, operations and more, representing organizations ranging from global manufacturers and multigenerational family-owned shops to local economic development corporations and educational institutions. What they share is a track record of pushing their teams and their industries forward.

“Every year, Rising 30 celebrates young people doing remarkable work across Indiana’s manufacturing and logistics industries,” said Jay Wirts, president and CEO of Conexus Indiana.  “They’re adopting new tools, rethinking old processes and helping their companies compete in ways that matter for the whole state’s economy.”

“The strength of Indiana’s manufacturing and logistics industries starts with the people driving them forward. Rising 30 gives us a chance to shine a light on that talent. Every year, the program reminds us just how much talent is out there, and we’re proud to help bring even more of it into the spotlight. We encourage employers across the state to take a moment and nominate the rising leaders on their teams,” said Jordan Mayer, partner in KSM’s Manufacturing & Distribution Services Group.

Nominees for the Rising 30 Class of 2027 must be 30 years or younger by the end of the 2026 calendar year. Ideal candidates are those who are driving transformational change within the industry, making a meaningful impact both inside their companies and in their communities, and inspiring others through their leadership. Individuals with direct employment in AML, as well as those from supporting professions such as education, marketing and the public sector, are eligible for nomination. Full nominee criteria and details about the nomination and selection process are available via the Class of 2027 nomination primer.

The Class of 2027 honorees will be celebrated at a special event in Indianapolis in early May 2027.

Nominations are open now through December 1, 2026. Honorees will be notified by mid-January 2027. To learn more about the criteria and submit a nomination, visit www.conexusindiana.com/rising-30.

About Conexus Indiana
Conexus Indiana, a branded initiative of the CEOs of Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP), is dedicated to advancing the Hoosier State’s position as a global leader in advanced manufacturing and logistics. Working closely with industry, academia, and government partners, Conexus Indiana drives workforce development, economic growth, and innovation across the state. For more information, please visit ConexusIndiana.com.