CEDIA has opened nominations for its 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award, one of the highest individual honors in the professional smart home technology industry.
Now in its 35th year, the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals whose careers span years, often decades, of leadership, service, and influence within the smart home channel. Established in 1992, the award honors those who have made an extraordinary and lasting impact on the industry’s growth, professionalism, and long-term direction.
According to CEDIA, recipients are selected based on career achievements, leadership, and their enduring contributions to the smart home technology ecosystem. Nominations are open to the global industry, though nominees are not informed if they are put forward for consideration.
“As our industry continues to grow, it’s vital that we shine a light on the people who have left a legacy in the smart home profession,” says Daryl Friedman, global president and CEO of CEDIA. “This award recognizes careers defined by innovation and leadership that has truly shaped the industry.”
Nominations for the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award are due by May 24, 2026. All submissions will be reviewed by the CEDIA Board of Directors, which will select the recipient.
The 2026 honoree will be recognized alongside other CEDIA Smart Home Award winners across the Americas, Asia Pacific, and EMEA regions. While the Lifetime Achievement Award follows a May 24 deadline, other CEDIA award category deadlines vary. The final deadline for Integrator categories is April 12, while Business, Individual, and Manufacturer Product categories also close on May 24. The early-bird deadline for Manufacturer Product categories is April 24.
Additional information on eligibility requirements and nomination submissions is available at cedia.org/lifetime-achievement.





