Introduction

The National Hydropower Association’s (NHA) Future Leaders of Waterpower (FLOW) presents the “Rising Star” Award, which recognizes an early-career professional with 3 to 10 years of total professional experience, who demonstrates not only ongoing leadership, but a commitment to grow their career and leadership roles within the water power industry. This award is administered on a yearly basis. 

The Rising Star Award marks the beginning of a new chapter of recognition and advancement within the water power industry, as it looks to its growing pool of young professional leaders who will shape the future of the industry. The aging water power industry workforce faces a wave of retirement over the next decade, which will create a shift in workforce demographics. Those  currently involved in the water power industry are passionate about clean energy and finding creative solutions to energy, electricity, and the climate crisis. The Rising Star Award provides industry recognition and a reason to celebrate an individual who demonstrates a strong commitment to water power through their work to advance the industry. The award recipient will exhibit an eye for future growth opportunities. They will demonstrate dedication to growing interest in the water power industry and finding creative solutions to attract and retain young professionals. 

This award celebrates exemplary leadership and notable achievements demonstrated by early-career water power professionals. The Rising Star Award recipient will receive industry recognition alongside a physical award curated by NHA staff at NHA’s annual Clean Currents conference. Additionally, the awardee will be featured in the NHA’s POWERHOUSE newsletter, showcased across the organization’s social media platforms, and commemorated through a press release following the conference. 

Self-Nominations

Eligibility for this award requires a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 10 years of total professional experience. The application is a self-nomination process, with nominations to be submitted electronically via NHA’s application portal. To apply, you must submit two recommendation letters, answer a series of short response questions, and upload a current resume (maximum of two pages). 

This award is intended to spotlight emerging leaders in the water power industry — professionals with 3–10 years of experience who are building momentum and shaping what’s next. If you’re more established, we invite you to support the next generation by recommending a candidate and providing a strong letter of support for someone who fits the early‑career window.

Applications for the 2026 Rising Star Award are now closed. The 2027 application cycle is expected to open in Spring 2027. 

Eligible applications will be reviewed by a steering committee consisting of senior water power industry professionals and led by the FLOW leadership team. Up to five finalists will be selected and presented to the NHA’s Board of Directors for a final award recipient decision. Recipients and finalists will be notified in advance of NHA’s Clean Currents conference to allow the recipient to organize travel arrangements.