University of Nevada, Reno names Elemental LED 2026 Nevada Grad Employer of the Year

Elemental LED won the 2026 Nevada Grad Employer of the Year award from the University of Nevada, Reno’s College of Business, marking its second win in four years. The honor recognizes local employers that create jobs and internships for students and graduates, underscoring the company’s role in building Northern Nevada’s talent pipeline.

Why it matters: - The award recognizes employers that create jobs and internships for University of Nevada, Reno students and recent graduates. - Elemental LED’s win highlights how local companies can help retain talent and support early-career hiring in Northern Nevada. - The company’s second win in four years signals a sustained relationship with the university and its business school.

What happened: - Elemental LED Inc. won the 2026 Nevada Grad Employer of the Year award from the College of Business at the University of Nevada, Reno. - The award was presented during the College of Business annual Honors and Awards Ceremony. - The company was recognized in Reno, where it has operated since 2017. - The company’s LinkedIn page is here.

The details: - The College of Business gives the award to local companies that create and offer jobs or internships to students and recent graduates. - Elemental LED is a U.S. manufacturer of linear LED lighting and related products. - Sarah Sommers, Vice President of Human Resources & Training at Elemental LED, said the recognition reflects the company’s commitment to supporting students, investing in talent, and strengthening the local workforce. - University graduates work across Engineering, Sales, Marketing, Production, and Human Resources at Elemental LED. - The company and the College of Business work together during the academic year on executive shadowing, career fairs, classroom engagement, and tours of Elemental LED’s South Reno headquarters and manufacturing facility. - In March, Elemental LED hosted a Wolf Pack Shadow networking event for students.

Between the lines: - The recognition points to a broader talent strategy built around local recruiting and career development rather than one-time hiring. - The partnership gives the university more direct access to an employer with roles across technical, commercial, and operational functions. - Jim McClenahan, Executive Director of Outreach and Engagement and Director of MBA/EMBA Programs for the College of Business, said Elemental LED’s investment helps build career pathways and supports graduate success in Northern Nevada.

What’s next: - Elemental LED is expected to continue its year-round involvement with the College of Business through recruiting, student engagement, and workplace exposure. - The company’s ongoing presence in Reno suggests the university partnership may remain a pipeline for future hires and internships.

The bottom line: - Elemental LED is being rewarded for turning a local university partnership into a steady source of talent development and workforce growth.