Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM AUGUST 2025 30 A S S O C I AT I O N [ N E W S ] N KBA | KBIS is on the hunt for the brightest young minds in the kitchen and bath industry to join the prestigious Thirty Under 30 community: passionate leaders, innovative creators, and forward- thinking professionals. Generously sponsored by cabinet manufacturer Fabuwood, the Thirty Under 30 program aims to recognize and celebrate 30 outstanding young professionals who are poised to become the future leaders of the industry. These are the individuals with the drive, creativity, and brilliance to shape the next generation of kitchen and bath experts. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A THIRTY UNDER 30 HONOREE? If selected, honorees will attend KBIS 2026 in Orlando, where they will help identify key trends, innovations, technologies, sustainable practices, and emerging business models. This is a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders, connect with peers, and make a significant impact within the kitchen and bath trades. Honorees will also be recognized and celebrated during the event. HEAR FROM PAST WINNERS "Being named a Thirty under 30 was a career highlight, and the experience of networking with other driven professionals at KBIS in Vegas left me feeling inspired and motivated for the future, and eager to deepen my involvement with the NKBA," Class of 2024 honoree Ashley de Boer said. "Getting selected for NKBA's Thirty Under 30 connected me with inspiring peers who are both industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs," added fellow Class of 2024 honoree Jake Hohman. "The program instilled in me the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset for continuous growth and innovation in the kitchen and bath industry." Class of 2024 honoree Sophia Amiano said, "Becoming a 2024 NKBA Thirty Under 30 inductee marks a pinnacle in my career symbolizing recognition among top industry achievers. The chance to connect and collaborate with fellow professionals nationwide through NKBA's esteemed platform is truly invaluable." WHO IS ELIGIBLE? To be considered, nominees must: • Be born on or after March 1, 1995 • Be outgoing, passionate, and enthusiastic about networking • Work in the kitchen and bath industry • Be committed to furthering their career in the industry • Have the support of their current employer to participate in the program WHAT DO THIRTY UNDER 30 RECIPIENTS RECEIVE? • A free trip to KBIS 2026, including airfare and lodging • Access to the KBIS show floor, conferences, and NKBA events • Media exposure and recognition among top design and trade professionals • Pre-event and post-event networking opportunities HOW TO IMPROVE A CANDIDATE'S CHANCES: Submissions should include information highlighting: • Sales and marketing accomplishments and figures • Community service and charity involvement • NKBA Chapter officer positions or other industry association memberships • Innovative solutions, improvements, or project involvement beyond daily requirements Submission Deadline: Nominations are open through August 31st. DON'T JUST TAKE IT FROM US Interviewed at KBIS 2025 in Las Vegas as part of her winning trip, Class of 2025 honoree Bethany Broussard enthusiastically stated, "I never thought that this would be an achievement that I would get, especially so soon in my career. I only graduated about a year and a half ago, so this just feels amazing." Also on hand at KBIS was fellow Class of 2025 honoree Nick Weaver, who added, "It was quite an honor. I'm just trying to use the connections I make here at KBIS to continue promoting my brand and try to help as many people as I can." FINAL TAKE The NKBA Thirty Under 30 program isn't just an accolade – it's a launchpad. It offers national recognition, multi-faceted career support, professional networking, and leadership experiences that amplify your impact within the kitchen and bath world. If you're an emerging professional with big ambitions, this is your moment to be seen and heard. Go to www.nkba.org to submit your nomination today! NKBA | KBIS SEEKS NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS Submit your nomination for Thirty Under 30 today! RO

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