Award Nominations

The Pinnacle of Recognition: Our Award Nominations Process

At the Upstate Technology Symposium, we hold the annual award nominations in the highest regard, diligently conferring the symposium’s supreme honor upon a single deserving individual each year. Our commitment is not merely to celebrate but to embrace a transparent, equitable, and comprehensive evaluation and voting process for the awards.

Judging Panel: A Blend of Experience and Fresh Perspectives

The judging panel, introduced well before the symposium, melds the wisdom of technical veterans with the fresh perspectives of newer entrants in the field. It comprises four seasoned professionals from various technical domains and one newcomer to the technological scene, ensuring a balanced and thorough assessment. The panel undergoes a rotation every year, and the names and expertise of the judges are disclosed to maintain transparency and credibility in the process.

Scoring: Transparent and Comprehensive

Ratings are meticulously accorded on a scale of 0 to 100 for each nominee by every judge, culminating in a comprehensive score out of a potential 500 points. Though individual scores from judges remain confidential, the overall point tally and scores per category are openly shared to ensure transparency and integrity in the process.

Evaluation Categories: A Holistic View of Contributions

Nominees are evaluated against a robust set of categories designed to holistically assess their contributions and impact:

  • Innovation: Are the ideas or technologies introduced genuinely innovative and pioneering?
  • Contribution to Upstate: How has the individual furthered the technological prosperity or wellbeing of the Upstate region?
  • Impact: What tangible social or societal impacts have resulted from their work or innovations?
  • References: How is their work perceived and accepted among professional peers?

Consider the following information before nomination:

  • Who to Nominate: Consider professionals who have sparked noteworthy advancements, ignited innovative thoughts, or significantly contributed to the technological realm in our region.
  • How to Nominate: Ensure your nomination encapsulates the nominee’s technological breakthroughs, the impact of their work on the community, and the embodiment of their innovation and leadership in technology.
  • The Accolade: The recipient will be celebrated at the Upstate Technology Symposium, receiving due recognition amidst a congregation of peers, professionals, and thought leaders, amplifying their contributions to a wide, appreciative audience.

We invite you to participate in this celebration of technological excellence, innovation, and profound impact by submitting your nominations for an individual whose work resonates with these pillars of assessment.

If you would like to see the benefits of winning the prestitgious Symposium award navigate to the Award Benefits page. Otherwise nominate below!