David Bowker, partner-in-charge of WilmerHale's Washington DC office, was named a recipient of WTOP News' 2026 Top Workplaces Leadership Award in the largest employer category—an honor recognizing leaders who have earned exceptional trust and confidence from their employees.

Presented as part of WTOP's annual Top Workplaces program, the Leadership Award is based entirely on confidential employee feedback and recognizes executives whose vision and values shape a strong, engaged workplace culture. Bowker, who oversees nearly 600 employees in the Washington DC office, was profiled by WTOP in connection with the award.

In the interview, Bowker shared his perspective on what sets a winning workplace apart—pointing to the people, the mission and the culture that connects them. 

"I think it starts with great people," Bowker said. "We really focus on bringing great people into the firm, developing them professionally and giving them a terrific mission, where we focus on our clients first, delivering great legal services, but we also focus on teamwork, on collaboration."

A 25-year veteran of the firm, Bowker has championed a culture rooted in respect, collaboration and meaningful work—one that emphasizes celebrating employee contributions and creating opportunities for colleagues to come together, from panel discussions to the firm's business professionals luncheon.

The recognition follows WilmerHale's selection as a 2026 Top Workplace by WTOP News, marking the firm's 13th consecutive year on the list.

Read the full WTOP feature and watch the video interview here.