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The Search for GovCon’s Top CEOs Starts Now

SWStaff Writer|1 min read|January 14, 2026

 

Image: fengdr/iStock
Image: fengdr/iStock

Who’s really shaping the future of GovCon? Now’s your chance to put their name forward.

Nominations are open for the 2026 WashingtonExec Chief Officer Awards, the premier program recognizing the executives in government and industry who are driving real mission impact.

For the second year, WashingtonExec is bringing together the Chief Officer and Pinnacle Awards into one standout celebration. The goal is simple: spotlight the leaders who move organizations forward, solve hard problems and set the pace for the entire sector.

Last year’s honorees included Agile Defense CEO Rick Wagner, Siemens Government Technologies CEO John Ustica, Mercury Systems CEO Bill Ballhaus and B&A CEO Jonathan Evans. This year, we’re looking for the next group of executives who deserve to stand in that company.

The Chief Officer Awards luncheon will take place June 2 at the Hilton Tysons Corner in Virginia. The program will recognize leaders across technology, security, people operations and business strategy making a measurable difference in government contracting.

Nominations for the CEO award are open to peers, employees, supervisors and fellow government and industry leaders. Achievements from 2025 through 2026 will be considered.

There is no cost to submit a nomination, and members and non-members are welcome to participate. Organizations may submit nominations in more than one category, and self-nominations are accepted.

In 350 words or less, tell us how your nominee leads, what challenge they solved and why their work matters.

To nominate, visit ChiefAwards.com.

SW
Staff Writer
WashingtonExec celebrates the people, programs, and milestones shaping the Washington, D.C. government contracting community.
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