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Hart Energy 40 Under 40

Hart Energy's 40 Under 40 honors the rising stars of the energy industry. These young professionals are leading teams, solving complex challenges, launching projects and influencing what’s next across all corners of the industry including exploration and production, oilfield services, finance, law, operations and more. 

Now in its 12th year, the program recognizes individuals under the age of 40 who are making a meaningful impact early in their careers. Through a competitive nomination and editorial review process, Oil and Gas Investor showcases the honorees in a special issue and online, with a dedicated networking event to follow.

Eligibility: Nominees must work in the energy industry and be 40 years old or younger in 2026.

Deadline: Nominations close Feb. 20, 2026.

Ready to nominate? Click here.


How to Nominate 

  • To get started: Click here to sign into your account. If you do not have an account, you will be asked to create one before you can proceed with the nomination form. From there, you will be brought to the nomination form, or click the nominate button in the right-hand corner. We recommend using Chrome or Firefox web browsers to complete your application.
    • Please note: your HartEnergy.com account is separate from the account you use to nominate for Hart Energy recognition programs.
       
  • To finish an incomplete nomination: Sign into your account and choose either the "incomplete" or "in progress" option as shown on the next page. Then, select "edit" on the following page to complete the previously started submission.
     
  • Need help? See our FAQs below or contact us at Marketing@HartEnergy.com

Honorees will be selected by Hart Energy’s editorial team with input from other Hart team members. Nominees will be contacted only if selected.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is 40 Under 40?

Hart Energy’s 40 Under 40 program honors rising professionals who are making an early and lasting impact on the energy industry. Now in its 12th year, the program celebrates individuals under the age of 40 who are leading teams, solving complex challenges and influencing what’s next across every corner of the industry. Honorees are featured in Oil and Gas Investor and recognized at a dedicated networking event.

Who is eligible?

Nominees must work in the energy industry and be 40 years old or younger in 2026.

May I nominate myself?

Yes, you may nominate yourself or someone else.

Is there a fee to nominate?

No, there is no fee to submit a nomination this year.

How do I nominate?

Click the nominate link and sign into your account. If you do not have an account, you will be asked to create one before you can proceed with the nomination form. We recommend using Chrome or Firefox web browsers to complete your application. Please note: your HartEnergy.com account is separate from the account you use to nominate for Hart Energy recognition programs.

What should I put in my nomination?

Focus on the nominee’s accomplishments, leadership qualities and impact within the energy industry. Include specific examples, such as major projects, innovations, deals, career milestones, awards or team leadership. Avoid generalities — clear, measurable achievements stand out.

Will you send me a copy of my nomination form?

We will not send you a copy, however, you can download a copy of your nomination form once it is complete. Just sign in to your account and click "Complete" under "My Applications." On the next screen, you can view or print your completed nominations. 

May I nominate multiple people?

Yes, you may submit multiple nominations. Each nominee must be submitted separately using a new form.

When is the deadline?

Nominations are due by Feb. 20, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. CT.

Can I make changes after I submit my nomination?

If you need to make changes after submitting, please contact us at Marketing@HartEnergy.com. We’re happy to update your nomination with revised job titles, company changes or new press coverage or articles. Please make sure to include the nominee's name and any new information in your email.

Who was recognized last year? Can I get the list?

You can find last year's honorees here. Please note, this article is behind a paywall.

Can someone be honored two years in a row?

No, 40 Under 40 is a one-time recognition. Previous honorees are not eligible again.

Who selects the honorees?

Hart Energy’s editorial team leads the selection process, with input from other Hart team members. All nominations are reviewed based on leadership, impact, accomplishments and industry involvement.

When will honorees be notified?

Selected honorees will be contacted in spring 2026.

Will all nominees be contacted?

No, only selected honorees will be notified.

Can I get feedback on my nomination?

Unfortunately, we cannot provide individual feedback on nominations or selection decisions.

What happens if the person I nominated is selected?

Honorees will be featured in Oil and Gas Investor and recognized at a networking event. They will be asked to complete a questionnaire and participate in a short interview to help shape their published profile. Headshots will be taken at the event.

What should I do if I have trouble with the nomination form?

We recommend using Chrome or Firefox on a desktop device. If you continue experiencing issues, please contact Marketing@HartEnergy.com for nomination form issues.

Have another question?

Please reach out to us at Marketing@HartEnergy.com and we’ll be happy to help.