The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), the authority on all things residential kitchen and bath, honors an outstanding group of young professionals as part of its Thirty Under 30 program. These individuals come from all corners of kitchen and bath design and remodeling, are already accomplished in their particular discipline and have demonstrated a dedication to their craft and the industry at large. The new class was introduced on the KBISNeXT Stage on Tuesday, Feb. 19.

At KBIS, each incoming class is tasked with a mission. This year, the 30s—split into 10 groups of three—scoured the KBIS show floor in search of the most innovative products, ideas and technologies in 10 categories. These finds were the inaugural 30s Choice Awards. The awards were presented on the KBISNeXT Stage on Thursday, Feb. 21. The awards ceremony was hosted by NKBA Insider and Thirty Under 30 Alumnus Richard T. Anuszkiewicz. Thirty Under 30 alums, brands, media and former sponsors were invited to attend.

The winners are:

• Sustainability (Recycled/Reused): Ann Sacks, Collection: Crackle Collection by Kohler WasteLAB
• Artisan Maker: Premiere Copper Products
• Outdoor Living: Hestan
• Smart Home Integration/Wi-Fi-Enabled Product: Signature Kitchen Suite; Collection: Wine Column with Wine Cave Technology
• Customization Capabilities: RangeCraft
• Universal Design/Living in Place: Ponte Giulio
• Wellnes/Health: TOTO Flotation Tub
• Innovative Material: Diresco, Belgian Quartz
• Creative Use of Color: Sicis North America
• Sculptural Hardware: GE Appliances A Haier Company, Cafe Collection

“The NKBA is a staunch believer in providing educational and fun opportunities to the industry’s emerging talent,” said Suzie Williford, chief strategy officer and EVP of industry relations. “The 30s have a number of events this year at KBIS, including the Thirty Under 30 alumni breakfast, a networking event where both the alums and the new class have plenty to learn from each other.”

The Thirty Under 30 program, now in its seventh year, is generously sponsored by Wilsonart and Signature Kitchen Suite. If you know — or you are — an outstanding young professional who should be considered for this honor, visit nkba.org for more details. The nominations for the Class of 2020 open in April.

To view the on-stage presentation of the 2019 30s Choice Awards, click here.