Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | August 24, 2026 | Worcester Business Journal 15 Michael Bollus Jr., 39 Senior tax advisor and consultant, Bollus Lynch, LLP, in Worcester Residence: Holden Colleges: Bryant University; Suffolk University Michael Bollus Jr. is helping a Worcester accounting firm embrace new ways of working while building his reputation as a trusted advisor. At Bollus Lynch, Bollus oversaw the implementation of an international team, including its onboarding, training, and development, and conducts check-ins designed to eliminate bottlenecks and improve efficiency. He is overseeing the firm's implementation of artificial intelligence to better serve clients. His tax work ranges from planning, compliance, and reporting to complex matters including multistate filings and apportionment. Bollus has been a member of the Worcester Young Businessmen's Association since 2017 and joined its board in 2023. After serving as treasurer from 2024 to 2026, he is set to serve as president for 2026-2027. The organization promotes networking at local businesses and conducts charitable efforts including an annual holiday toy drive. Bollus passed the CPA exam while balancing his responsibilities as a husband and father, an accomplishment he views as an example of hard work paying off. What actor would play you if Hollywood made a movie about your life? If you could shave Vince Vaughn's head, I bet he would do the trick! Where is the best place to relax in Central Mass.? Wachusett Mountain with my family What one life lesson do you most want to pass onto the next generation? Hard work pays off. 4 0 U N D E R F O R T Y Jose Castro, 27 Community development manager, North East Region, Entrepreneurship for All (EforAll), in Worcester Residence: Worcester College: Clark University Jose Castro joined incubator Entrepreneurship for All during his final semester at Clark University in 2022. Four years later, he is helping shape the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Castro started as a bilingual program coordinator and was promoted to program manager within three months, eventually advancing into executive leadership before moving into his current regional role. Alongside his team, Castro has helped support more than 200 Central Massachusetts small businesses that have generated more than $2.8 million in revenue and created more than 200 jobs. Of those, 78% are woman-owned, 83% are BIPOC-owned, and 70% remained active after three years. Castro's community work includes serving on The Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts' Community Outreach Committee, volunteering with El Buen Samaritano, and mentoring students and aspiring entrepreneurs. He founded the Entrepreneurship Honor Society while attending Clark. His rise came despite navigating financial challenges, housing and transportation instability, and becoming a father while completing college during the COVID-19 pandemic. What life lesson do you have for the next generation? Relationships open doors. Resilience keeps you moving. What one thing should older generations understand most about young professionals? The next generation isn't asking for permission to lead. We're asking for the opportunity to prove we can. What is your proudest moment? Becoming a father. Nayara Tonin! We're proud to celebrate this well-deserved rocognition! Named one of the Worcester Business Journal's 40 Under 40 40 40 UNDER CONGRATULATIONS W W

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