Four Under 40 - Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce

Now Accepting Award Nominations & Applications!

Apply by June 30, 2026

Before they were leaders, someone believed in them.

Together with our Presenting Sponsor, Conductor Power, we are thrilled to kick off year three of the WAVE Gala, the biggest celebration of the year for the WAVE Young Professionals Network—a program of the Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce focused on elevating and advancing the Lakes Area young professionals.

The highlight of the WAVE GALA is the presentation of the Four Under 40 Awards, honoring four outstanding young professionals who are making a meaningful difference through leadership, innovation, and community involvement. One of these individuals will also be recognized as Young Professional of the Year, celebrating exceptional leadership and impact.

Before they were leaders, someone believed in them — opened a door, offered encouragement, and helped you take the next step forward. Someone believed in you.

The Four Under 40 Awards honor young professionals who are making an impact in the Brainerd Lakes Area. And at the WAVE Gala, we celebrate not only their achievements, but the strong network of emerging leaders whose support, connection, and shared ambition continue to shape what’s next.

Submission Deadline: June 30, 2026

All applicants will be reviewed by a committee in July.

The Four Under 40 Awards recognize young professionals between the ages of 18 and 39 who live and work in the Brainerd Lakes Area. These four honorees exemplify leadership, ambition, and community impact—and inspire others to strive for excellence in all they do.

Professional Excellence

Nominees should exhibit excellence in their profession, demonstrating a high level of expertise and accomplishment.

Leadership

Nominees should demonstrate strong leadership qualities, inspiring and motivating others to achieve success.

Community Involvement

Nominees should be actively engaged in their community, volunteering their time and talents to support local causes and organizations.

Potential for Future Success

Nominees should show promise for continued success and leadership in their careers and community.

Each winner will receive a personalized award at the WAVE Gala.

Each award recipient will receive $500 for a local charity of their choice. The Young Professional of the Year will receive an additional $500 for their local charity.

Four Under 40 recipients will also receive recognition at the Chamber’s Celebration of Excellence in November.

2024: Alex Bitter
2024: Erich Heppner
2024: Cory Jay
2024: Vanessa Ruedisili
2025: Colton Maher
2025: Scott Lykins
2025: Max Walter
2025: Jesse Zahn

Nomination & Application Process

Nominations are open to the public and may be submitted by individuals, businesses, or community organizations. Self-nominations are accepted. Applicants do NOT have to be members of WAVE or be Chamber members.

Nominees will be assessed based on Award criteria and the quality of content provided. Nominations must be completed and submitted by noon on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.

Judging Process

All applications will be reviewed in July by an anonymous panel of judges comprised of Chamber representatives, WAVE members, and community leaders. Judges will evaluate each nominee based on the award criteria. The judging committee will name four finalists, which will be publicized in advance of the award ceremony.

Why Attend?

Celebrate with your community: Enjoy a night out with friends while celebrating the accomplishments of the WAVE community and the young professionals shaping the future of our region.
Strengthen your WAVE connections: Reconnect with fellow WAVE members and continue building relationships with other young professionals who share your passion for leadership and community impact.
Kick off the evening at the WAVE Social Hour: Set the tone for evening with a high-energy social experience hosted by and for the WAVE Young Professionals Network. This pre-event gathering is designed to spark connections, welcome new and familiar faces, and enjoy gathering together before the Awards program begins. WAVE Members and their young professionals guests can enjoy a complimentary drink and early access to the experience.
Be in the room where leadership is celebrated: Join business leaders, community champions, and emerging professionals from across the Brainerd Lakes region for an evening recognizing the next wave of leadership.