The 2026 SMPS Colorado Marketing Excellence Awards (MEAs) celebrated the marketers and business developers shaping the future of the A/E/C industry—from large, collaborative teams to remarkable teams of one. More than a recognition of outstanding work, this year’s MEAs served as a powerful reminder of the influence, creativity, and leadership that marketing and business development professionals bring to their firms and to the industry as a whole.

On May 14, marketers, business developers, firm leaders, and industry partners from across Colorado gathered at Balistreri Vineyards for an evening dedicated to honoring excellence. Set against the warmth and character of the venue, the gala brought together professionals from every stage of their careers to recognize the creativity, strategy, passion, and people pushing the A/E/C industry forward.

What unfolded was more than an awards ceremony. It became an evening centered on stories, relationships, bold ideas, and innovators. A celebration not just of finished deliverables, but of the thoughtfulness, collaboration, and purpose behind the work.

Showcasing the Power of Strategic Marketing
From thoughtful campaigns and compelling brand storytelling to internal communications and community impact initiatives, this year’s submissions reflected the extraordinary depth of talent within Colorado’s A/E/C community. The projects recognized throughout the evening showcased more than creativity alone; they demonstrated measurable results, cross disciplinary collaboration, and a deep understanding of how intentional marketing drives business growth.

Across categories, entries illustrated how strong marketing elevates firms; helping organizations clarify who they are, strengthen internal culture, connect authentically with clients, and position themselves for long term success. Whether produced by large teams or by professionals wearing multiple hats, the work honored at the MEAs highlighted the evolving role of marketers and business developers as strategic leaders and trusted advisors within their firms.

The Moments That Matter Most
While the awards themselves recognized exceptional achievements, some of the most meaningful moments of the evening happened in the quiet spaces between announcements.

They happened in conversations between longtime colleagues reconnecting over a glass of wine. In new graduates and first time attendees finding themselves in conversation with industry legends—and realizing they belonged. In firm leaders publicly recognizing the talent of teams who rarely have the opportunity to showcase the work happening behind the scenes. And in the proud smiles, cheers, and shared excitement exchanged across tables as winners were announced and peers celebrated one another.

It is this spirit of encouragement, generosity, and genuine connection that continues to define the SMPS community. The MEAs gala served as a reminder that while our industry is built on projects, it is sustained by people and relationships.

Special Guests and a Shared Vision for the Future
SMPS Colorado was especially grateful to welcome Marci D. Thompson, CEO of the SMPS Foundation, and Benjamin (Ben) Sawa, CEO of SMPS, as special guests and speakers for the evening. Their presence underscored the growing influence of marketing and business development professionals within the A/E/C industry.

Both leaders emphasized the importance of continued investment in people, professional development, and community. Their remarks reinforced a shared vision: one in which marketers and business developers are empowered as strategic partners, shaping not only firm success but the future of the industry itself.

Behind the Scenes
While the gala shone a spotlight on award winners, another group worked diligently behind the scenes to bring the event to life, the SMPS MEAs Planning Committee.

A little known detail about this committee is that years of tradition are woven into their planning efforts. One such tradition is a special gift basket raffle, designed as a heartfelt gift to the community. Each committee member donates a personal “favorite thing” to the baskets and writes a short note explaining the why behind their choice. One team member then assembles the baskets, transforming individual contributions into a collective expression of appreciation and shared joy.

Another tradition is more visible and just as meaningful. Each year, the committee director selects a theme and coordinated color palette for committee member outfits during the gala. This year’s theme, white wine, was chosen to complement the venue and setting at Balistreri Vineyards. The theme is intertwined in the graphics, the communications, and the coordinated look is equal parts marketing and camaraderie, reflecting both the creativity and unity of the marketing team behind the event.

Wondering how you can be part of the magic? SMPS committee members are always welcome. And if you, or someone you know, is deserving of recognition, submissions for the 2027 Marketing Excellence Awards will open in late 2026 and continue into early 2027. The committee loves seeing the incredible work, talent, and contributions coming from across our industry.

Gratitude for a Community Effort
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the support of sponsors, volunteers, judges, committee members, and attendees. Your investment of time, talent, and resources continues to fuel the growth of SMPS Colorado and create opportunities for professionals across the chapter to connect, learn, and thrive.

A special thank you also goes to the evening’s in kind photography sponsor, The Unfound Door, for capturing the energy, celebration, and connection that defined the gala.

Looking Ahead
To all nominees and winners: thank you for inspiring us. Your work continues to push the A/E/C industry forward, and your dedication elevates our profession every day. We are already looking ahead with excitement to what 2027 will bring.

To the broader SMPS Colorado community: thank you for showing up for one another. The 2026 MEAs gala was a powerful reminder that while our industry is built on projects, it is sustained by people, relationships, and stories that last a lifetime.

Congratulations again to all of our 2026 winners and nominees. We are proud to celebrate you—and grateful to be part of a community that leads with creativity, courage, and connection.

For more info about award winners please visit our MEA page.