Executive Mosaic, the government contracting sector’s leading events and media organization, is thrilled to open nominations for the 2026 Wash100 Award season on Nov. 12. Since 2014, the Wash100 Award has recognized hundreds of GovCon executives and leading federal officials for their innovation, leadership, success and commitment to serving the nation.
But how does one know if they, or a GovCon colleague, are what Executive Mosaic is looking for in a Wash100 Award nominee? Let’s dive into the requirements.
What Are the Requirements for a Wash100 Nominee?
- Proven leadership in GovCon or the federal sector
- A clear vision for the future of the industry and the ability to influence that future in meaningful ways
- Demonstrated achievement and impact—not just in past performance, but in how the possible nominee is positioned to continue making a difference
- Innovation and reliability: nominees are expected to drive progress through inventive thinking and consistent delivery
- Influence across both public and private sector roles
- The future—the Wash100 is about forthcoming potential and trajectory, not just past accomplishments
What Should I Highlight in a Wash100 Nomination?
If you’re considering submitting someone for the 2026 season, you’ll want to clearly address:
- The nominee’s achievements: major programs, mission impacts and leadership roles
- How the nominee is shaping the future: innovation in technology, processes or acquisition reform, among others
- Why their leadership matters: influence across the federal government and industry, their impact on the broader GovCon ecosystem
- Evidence of ongoing or future impact, not just past recognition
- Background or credentials showing ability to deliver reliably and drive transformation
“At Executive Mosaic, we are laying the groundwork for another exciting year of exceptional Wash100 recognition, excellence and prestige,” said Jim Garrettson, company CEO and the founder of the Wash100 Award. “The forthcoming year is set to be a time of considerable change, with groundbreaking technologies, new trends and emerging markets shaping the GovCon arena. As new candidates start to emerge, the Wash100 will function as a trustworthy guide for identifying and honoring the true innovators and leaders of 2026.”
“I am delighted to invite our GovCon community to nominate those leaders shaping the federal landscape through their vision and impact,” Garrettson added. “Now is your opportunity to make your voice heard!”
Examples of Past Wash100 Winners
Here are a few past Wash100 winners and what made them exceptional nominees:
Josh Gruenbaum
U.S. General Services Administration
Gruenbaum landed his first Wash100 Award in 2025 for his contributions to GSA and the federal government. He is shepherding efforts to streamline the Federal Acquisition Regulation and turn it into a “sensible, common sense guideline.” With extensive experience as a director at KKR & Co. and at Moelis & Co., Gruenbaum demonstrated valuable skills and experience in mergers and acquisitions, corporate restructurings, governance and turnaround.
Learn the latest in acquisition reform efforts at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Defense R&D Summit on Jan. 29! Hear directly from top ranking defense officials and industry executives. Get your pressing questions answered during Q&A sessions. Have the fruitful face-to-face conversations that only take place at live events. Sign up today for this elite GovCon conference designed specifically for technology professionals!
Ramzi Musallam
Veritas Capital
Musallam earned his incredible 10th consecutive Wash100 award in 2025 for transforming Veritas Capital into one of the leading forces in GovCon. Musallam has shaped the industry through strategic growth and smart acquisitions, one of them being Veritas’ partnership with KKR to invest in Cotiviti, a healthcare data analytics firm. Musallam continues strategic acquisitions that bolster Veritas’ influence, including the acquisition of G3’s CyberRadio by Eqip Solutions to improve its software-defined radio portfolio.
Matt Desch
Iridium
Desch won a whopping 11th consecutive Wash100 award for guiding Iridium in worldwide expansion with technological innovation. The company is exploring small satellites to improve its position, navigation and timing capabilities. Desch also launched the company’s Satellite Time and Location service as a PNT alternative. He additionally led Iridium to several high-value contracts, including a $94 million Space Systems Command award to provide satellite services to the Department of Defense.
How Do I Submit a Wash100 Award Nomination?
Nominations officially open Nov. 12. Please stay tuned to Wash100.com for further details.
About the Wash100 Award
The Wash100 Award was established in 2014 by Jim Garrettson, CEO of Executive Mosaic. Now in its 13th year, the Wash100 has earned recognition within the GovCon industry and is regarded as the most esteemed and prestigious award in the GovCon field. The Wash100 Award annually honors 100 influential executives operating in the realms of government and government contracting.
