Each year, culture solicits nominations from across the cheese community for our annual Hot List—a celebration of the cheesemakers, mongers, educators, retailers, importers, scientists, and innovators setting the industry ablaze with passion and commitment to their craft.
This year, we received hundreds of nominations highlighting an extraordinary group of professionals whose work is shaping the future of cheese. From those submissions, we selected 20 standout honorees whose contributions are advancing the industry, strengthening their communities, and inspiring the next generation of cheese professionals.
The goal of the Hot List is twofold: to recognize the accomplished individuals doing exceptional work today and to spotlight the many paths available within the cheese world. Whether they’re making cheese, selling it, studying it, importing it, or telling its stories, these leaders prove that a career in cheese can be as dynamic, rewarding, and impactful as the people behind it.
Read on to meet Culture’s Hot List Class of 2026.
Dairy Programs Manager at University of Guelph, Department of Food Science
Ontario
Research & Development Director of Cheese & Product Excellence at Tillamook County Creamery Association
Oregon
culture: the word on cheese
Culture is America's first and best magazine devoted to the love of cheese. Explore our website for stunning photos, cheesemaker profiles, recipes, wine, beer, and a community of readers always willing to help and chat.
