Every year, the IT service and support community has the opportunity to recognize those who are truly pushing the industry forward: innovators, thinkers, and people who drive transformation. With nominations now open for the “Top 25 Thought Leaders” program, this is your moment to highlight someone whose voice matters, whose ideas matter, and whose work is making a real difference.

Why it matters

Being named one of HDI’s Top 25 is so much more than just a badge of honor. It’s a signal of excellence, influence, and commitment to the craft of service and support. Nominees are evaluated on criteria such as thought leadership, industry impact, knowledge sharing, professional achievements, and leadership impact. The list honors those are doing the most to move us all forward.”

Introducing the HDI Hall of Fame

• This year, HDI is proud to introduce the HDI Hall of Fame, a new way to celebrate the legends of our community.
• The Hall of Fame honors those who have made a lasting, measurable impact on the IT service and support industry and who continue to embody HDI’s values of knowledge, sharing, and community.
• Each year, past Top 25 honorees who’ve made the list 5+ times will be inducted into the Hall of Fame. This addition also opens space for new voices to rise and be recognized in the annual Top 25 list and ensures a vibrant balance between experience and innovation.

Who Should You Nominate?

Think about the people in your network who:

• Share compelling, practical insights that elevate others.
• Consistently act as mentors, educators, or catalysts for change.
• Demonstrate measurable impact through culture, innovation, or service improvement.
• Embody the collaborative spirit that makes this community special.

If someone comes to mind (a colleague, a mentor, a rising star, or even yourself) don’t hesitate to nominate them.

How to take action

The nomination process is simple: follow the form link and provide the required details about the nominee’s contributions and impact. Self-nominations typically are accepted, so don’t hesitate if you feel you fit the criteria or know someone who does.

The nomination window won’t stay open forever, so make sure to get your submission in by December 12.

Final thought

This is more than an awards list. It’s a chance to lift up voices that are shaping the future of service and support. By participating, whether by nominating, sharing, or encouraging someone, you help strengthen the entire community. So, take a moment, look around you: Who is driving change? Who is making an impact? Who deserves to be recognized? Submit that nomination. Let’s help them step into the spotlight they’ve earned.