Nic Wood recognized as one of Modern Healthcare's 40 Under 40

Augusta, Ga. (February 9, 2026) – Piedmont Augusta is proud to announce that Nic Wood, executive director and hospital administrator for Piedmont McDuffie and Piedmont Augusta Summerville was recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of the 40 Under 40 for 2026. Nic’s leadership has been instrumental in driving operational excellence, expanding access to care and strengthening the health care workforce across the region.

This program recognizes the health care industry's rising stars age 40 and under who contribute to a culture of innovation and help their organizations achieve and exceed financial, operational and clinical goals. The profiles of all the honorees are featured in the February issue of MH magazine and online at ModernHealthcare.com/40Under40.

 “Our 2026 class of 40 Under 40 epitomizes the many talents that health care organizations will tap to propel the industry forward,” said Mary Ellen Podmolik, editor-in-chief of Modern Healthcare. “These individuals, who include entrepreneurs forming new companies, technical experts testing new ways to harness artificial intelligence and clinicians advancing care, collectively are working toward a greater good for all of us.”

Nic’s commitment to patient access and quality is reflected in achievements such as a 28% reduction in emergency department throughput times for discharged patients at McDuffie and earning the hospital’s first-ever Leapfrog “A” Safety Grade in Fall 2025. His steady leadership during Hurricane Helene, when he remained on-site for a week to guide emergency operations and ensure continuity of care, further demonstrated his dedication to his team and community.

“Nic represents the very best of what leadership in health care should be—steady in crisis, bold in vision, and unwavering in his commitment to the patients and communities we serve. His impact at Piedmont McDuffie, Piedmont Summerville and across our region has been transformative. Being named one of Modern Healthcare’s 40 Under 40 is a well‑deserved recognition of his dedication, innovation and the culture of excellence he fosters every day,” said Lily Henson, MD, Piedmont Augusta CEO.