FAQ

Yes – The competition is open to individuals that live and/or work in Oakland County, Michigan and are under 40, born after December 31, 1985.

Use the “Apply Now” button on the 40 Under 40 page to access the form. Applications open at 9 a.m. on Jan. 12, 2026. The deadline to enter is 5 p.m. on Feb. 2, 2026.

Only completed forms will be accepted as they provide the vital information our judges use when considering the merits of each entry. Don’t be shy. Please include interesting details (and accurate as we do our best to verify all information you give us) about yourself where appropriate as this information may be used for publicity purposes and your 40 under 40 online profile posted to oakgov.com/40under40.

You have the opportunity to also upload your current resume/CV. A headshot photo of you is required. It will be used to promote your participation in the 40 under 40 program if you become a member of Class of 2026.

Use the “Apply Now” button on the 40 Under 40 page to access the form. Applications open at 9 a.m. on Jan. 12, 2026. The deadline to enter is 5 p.m. on Feb. 2, 2026.

Only completed forms will be accepted as they provide the vital information our judges use when considering the merits of each entry. Don’t be shy. Please include interesting details (and accurate as we do our best to verify all information you give us) about yourself where appropriate as this information may be used for publicity purposes and your 40 under 40 online profile posted to oakgov.com/40under40.

You have the opportunity to also upload your current resume/CV. A headshot photo of you is required. It will be used to promote your participation in the 40 under 40 program if you become a member of Class of 2026.

Headshot submission guidelines

If selected, we will publish your photo as part of the Class of 2026 promotions. A professional headshot is preferred, but a high-quality DIY photo is completely acceptable. Follow these guidelines to ensure your photo is the best quality for promotions and lets your authentic self shine:

• Image of just you looking at the camera, head and shoulders visible with a little space around you
• Neutral background, solid color clothing preferred
• No filters, props, or other people
• Include your name in the file name
• Portrait/vertical or square image
• High-resolution image, suitable for print production (300 dpi, minimum 2000 pixel on the long edge)
• Maximum file size: 100MB

1. There is an initial review to ensure that the applicant has met the minimum eligibility standards, i.e., do you live or work in Oakland County and does your date of birth fall within the requirements.
2. A detailed review is conducted with applicants evaluated on the following:
   • Professional Achievement
   • Community Leadership & Service
   • How do you exemplify "Oakland Together"?
3. An independent panel of judges will consider the merits of each application and select the Oakland Together 40 under 40 Class of 2026.

All entrants will receive email notification of the final decision at the close of the contest. The contest timeline is posted to oakgov.com/40under40.

No – There is no fee to apply for the Oakland County Executive's Oakland Together 40 Under 40™ program.

Yes, but you will need to complete a new entry form by the deadline of 5 p.m. EST on Feb. 2, 2026, to be included in this year’s contest. The application will be open from 9 a.m. EST on Jan. 12 to 5 p.m. EST on Feb. 2, 2026. Previous recipients of the award are not eligible to participate.

Individuals selected to the 40 under 40 Class of 2026 are invited to the invitation-only 2027 State of the County Address and the 40 under 40 Award Reception. Oakland County will also promote 40 under 40 class members on county social media platforms and on oakgov.com/40under40.

Contact us at 40under40@oakgov.com.