Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce and Whatcom Young Professionals Announce 2026 Top 7 Under 40

Seven emerging leaders recognized for their professional accomplishments, community involvement and contributions to Whatcom County

BELLINGHAM, WA – The Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce and Whatcom Young Professionals announce the 2026 winners of the Top 7 Under 40, an annual celebration of young professionals in Whatcom County. Awardees will be honored at the Top 7 Under 40 Awards sponsored by Barron Home Services on October 15.

The 2026 Top 7 Under 40 are:

Top 7 Under 40, presented by the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce and Whatcom Young Professionals (WYPs), shines a spotlight on emerging leaders in Whatcom County. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the program.

Following a public nomination period, nominees submit responses to a questionnaire focused on character, community involvement, leadership qualities, professional accomplishments, and professional and personal vision. A committee of representatives from local businesses, WYPs, and the Chamber assesses candidates based on their responses. 

“Young professionals are an essential part of the business community here in Whatcom County and it is an honor to celebrate this year’s Top 7 Under 40,” said Guy Occhiogrosso, President & CEO of the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce. “They are not only excelling in their professions, but investing their time, ideas, and energy into our community.”

The Top 7 Under 40 will be honored on October 15 from 6:00-8:00PM at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal. At the awards, one of the seven will be announced as Young Professional of the Year. Tickets to the event are available on the Chamber website.

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The Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce has been the leading advocate for businesses in the Northwest Washington region for over 110 years. The Chamber advocates for a strong business community and aims to make the Bellingham and Whatcom County area a great place to live, work, shop and play by influencing public policy, aiding in economic development, and helping its members succeed.

Whatcom Young Professionals was created in 2006 as a division of the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce. Their mission is to connect and develop young, career-focused individuals in Whatcom County. We offer valuable networking through social events and community involvement opportunities that inspire growth in our members personally and professionally in a welcoming atmosphere.