The world is a canvas of endless possibilities, and in 2026, TIME and Autodesk are shining a spotlight on the visionaries who are painting its future. The inaugural TIME Trailblazers: Designing and Making the Future list honors 14 exceptional architects, engineers, founders, technologists, and builders who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Presented in partnership with Autodesk, this prestigious list recognizes leaders who are tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time—from housing and infrastructure to manufacturing and climate resilience. These trailblazers are not just dreaming of a better world; they are actively building it.
The Visionaries Shaping Our Future
The 2026 TIME Trailblazers list features a diverse group of innovators who are making significant strides in their respective fields. Among them are Aicha Evans CEO of Zoox, who is pioneering the future of autonomous transportation with safe and efficient robotaxis. Bjarke Ingels founder and creative director of Bjarke Ingels Group, is renowned for his visionary architectural designs, including The Dryline, the largest urban climate adaptation project in the U.S.
Jason Ballard CEO of ICON, is revolutionizing the housing industry with 3D-printed homes that could help alleviate the growing housing crisis. Mike Schultz a gold-medalist and founder of BioDapt, is creating advanced prosthetics that empower athletes in the Paralympics. These are just a few examples of the remarkable individuals who are featured on this year’s list.
An Invitation-Only Gathering in Las Vegas
To celebrate the 2026 TIME Trailblazers, an invite-only gathering will be held in Las Vegas on September 14. The event, presented by Autodesk, will feature remarks from some of the listmakers, including Jason Ballard, Alex Honnold, Erika Woolsey, Steve Blum, Saket Soni, and Aicha Evans. This exclusive event will provide a platform for these visionaries to share their insights and inspire others to join them in building a better future.
Dara Treseder Chief Marketing Officer of Autodesk, expressed her admiration for the Trailblazers, stating, “The people designing and making our future are tackling some of the biggest challenges of our time. These Trailblazers are showing us what’s possible, and we’re proud to partner with TIME to recognize the people designing and making a better world for all.”
The Ethos of Building the Future
The ethos of building the future is beautifully captured in the story of Saket Soni founder and executive director of Resilience Force. After Hurricane Katrina, Soni moved to Louisiana to help with the recovery efforts. A conversation with his mentor, historian Vincent Harding, left a lasting impression: “This is a place that’s still being built, and you’re part of building it.” This sentiment resonates with every innovator featured on the TIME Trailblazers list, who are committed to designing and making the future.
From imagining a future with safe robotaxis to creating advanced prosthetics and 3D-printed homes, these trailblazers are at the forefront of innovation. Their work is a testament to the potential, promise, and problems that our world holds. As we look to the future, these 14 Trailblazers stand out as examples of the many committed to building a better world.
