Emerging Leader Awards


This award category celebrates Emerging Leaders under 40* in stormwater and erosion and/or sediment control projects, programs, or IECA support, showcasing excellence in natural resource conservation and environmental protection. Recipients must be active members of IECA and participate in the 2025 IECA Annual Conference and Expo. (*Nominee must be 39 or younger as of February 28, 2025). Nominations now open through 18 October 2024.

Judging Criteria

  • Activity in the Industry (Maximum 30 points)::
    • Attended Emerging Leaders Alliance (ELA) Conference (10 points)
    • Published industry article (5 points)
    • Speaker at IECA or industry event (10 points)
    • IECA Annual Conference or Regional Conference Participant (Student Moderator, Poster Session Participant)  (5 points)
  • Contributions to IECA and Local Chapter (10 points): Is the nominee known for their contributions to IECA and their local chapter?
  • Recognition by Other Awards (10 points): Has the individual been recognized for their contributions to erosion and sediment control and stormwater by other awards?
A total of 50 points are available. Nominations must achieve at least 50% of the available points in each judging criterion and at least 75% of the overall points to qualify for an award. Additional points are awarded for the number of years as an IECA member.

Mandatory Content

  • Service and Contributions (Maximum 400 words): Describe the nominee’s service to IECA and their contributions to the erosion and sediment control industry.Provide background information on the individual similar in content to a professional resume or curriculum vitae, including education, involvement in the erosion and sediment control/stormwater industry and accomplishments, both professional and personal. (Maximum 800 words)
  • Background Information (Maximum 800 words): Provide background information on the individual similar to a professional resume or curriculum vitae, including education, involvement in the erosion and sediment control/stormwater industry, and accomplishments, both professional and personal.
  • Professional References: Include two references from individuals knowledgeable about the nominee. References cannot be from family members of the nominee. Awards committee representatives may contact references during the review process.

Optional Content

Nominators may include optional content to highlight the attributes of the individual to supplement the mandatory content. Optional content allows the nominator to strengthen the case for the nomination.

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