2026 WAVE Gala

Description

Together with our Presenting Sponsor, Conductor Power, the WAVE Young Professionals Network—a program of the Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce, is excited to announce the recipients of the 2026 Four Under 40 Awards! Focused on elevating and advancing the Lakes Area young professionals, the WAVE Gala is an evening is a celebration of our Four Under 40, the WAVE Member Network, and the community that supports their growth, connection, and impact.

Reserve Your Table & Tickets

Top Tables, $1,000 (Blue)

Middle Tables, $800 (Orange)

Standard Tables, $600 (Teal)

Individual Tickets, $65 (Light Blue)

WAVE Member Tickets, $45

The 2026 Award Recipients

Ask those who know Drey what sets him apart, and the answer isn't a list of accomplishments. It's his character. Those closest to him describe someone who serves his family with the same dedication he brings to his work. They see a leader who understands that professional success means little if you aren't investing in the people closest to you.

Whether she's leading a 4 a.m. snowmaking shift, helping in the kitchen, setting skis, coaching a lesson, deep cleaning a lodge, or greeting guests, Mata has never asked someone else to do work she isn't willing to do herself. One colleague described her as the ideal role model for young women—not simply because of what she has accomplished, but because of how she accomplishes it. She works hard. She leads by example. She sets high expectations while creating an environment where others are encouraged to rise to meet them.

For Shawna Knutson, every chapter of her journey has been guided by the same purpose: serving something greater than herself. Whether wearing the uniform of the United States Army, growing her own business, supporting fellow veterans, or strengthening local nonprofits, Shawna has consistently chosen opportunities where her leadership can make a meaningful difference.

Where others see an empty space, Trevor sees possibility. Where others see obstacles, Trevor sees opportunity. Where others see a challenge too big to tackle alone, Trevor sees the people who can come together to make it happen. Whether transforming underutilized land into thriving recreation spaces, expanding access to the outdoors for individuals of all abilities, or bringing together organizations around a shared vision, Trevor has built a reputation for seeing what could be and inspiring others to help make it a reality.