AWARDS & NOMINATIONS
2026 invest in Women Forum Industry Awards Nominations:
In celebration of 10 years of Investing in, Innovating with, and Inspiring Women in the A/E/C and Capital Projects space, we are hosting an awards ceremony to recognize and honor amazing women and ally organizations in 9 different categories.
Please take the time to nominate those you feel best live out the values and characteristics of each category.
Nominations are open from: September 1st through November 1st.
GAME-CHANGER AWARD:
Purpose: Honors a women who is boldly redefining what is possible in their field
- Character-driven leadership and integrity
- A track record of pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo
- Innovative thinking that has led to meaningful change or disruption in their industry
- Courage navigating uncharted territory and breaking barriers
RISING STAR AWARD:
Purpose: Recognizes an emerging leader who is making a significant impact and is new in their career or role.
- Exceptional promise and early accomplishments in their field
- Leadership and commitment to growth
- Contributions to projects, teams, or initiatives that show innovation and drive
- A passion for advancing women in the industry
LEADERSHIP IN ACTION AWARD:
Purpose: Celebrates an established leader who actively mentors and cultivates the next generation.
- Proven leadership in their profession or organization
- A strong commitment to mentorship and talent development
- Influence in shaping inclusive, high-performing teams
- A legacy of empowering others through action and example
LEGACY AWARD:
Purpose: Honors a lifetime of achievement and enduring impact in the industry.
- Decades of leadership, innovation, and service
- A lasting influence on the industry community, or organization
- Mentorship and advocacy that has shaped future leaders
- A career marked by excellence, integrity, and vision
CHAMPION OF EQUITY AND INCLUSION AWARD:
Purpose: Recognizes a courageous leader who uses their platform to advance equity and inclusion.
- Bold leadership in advocating for underrepresented voices
- Implementation of inclusive policies, practices, and programs
- Courage in addressing systemic inequities and creating space for all
- Use of power and influence to elevate others and drive cultural change
TRADESWOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD:
Purpose: Celebrates a woman working in the skilled trades who exemplifies excellence and mentorship.
- Mastery and professionalism in their trade
- Leadership on jobsites, facilities, or in training programs
- Active mentorship or advocacy for women in the trades
- A commitment to safety, quality, and inclusion
MENTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD:
Purpose: Recognizes an individual who consistently supports and uplifts others through mentorship.
- A sustained commitment to mentoring women and emerging leaders
- Tangible impact on mentees' growth and success
- A nurturing, empowering, and inclusive mentoring style
- Advocacy for mentorship as a tool for equity and advancement
INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD [Organization Award]:
Purpose: Recognizes a company or organization driving innovation that promotes equity and excellence in the industry.
- Innovations in their profession(s) and advancements in their industries
- Measurable impact on equity, access, and sustainability
- Industry-wide influence or replicable models of success
- Culture of creativity, continuous improvement, and inclusion
ALLY FOR WOMEN AWARD [Organization Award]:
Purpose: Honors a company or organization that actively invests in, supports, and advances women in the industry.
- Strong internal policies and practices that promote gender equity
- Demonstrated outcomes in hiring, retention, and promotion of women
- Programs or initiatives that support women's advancement and leadership
- A culture of allyship, inclusion, accountability and recognizing women as leaders
Submit your nominations using this link: https://forms.gle/3SwgDeUjXGh3vfX6A