2026 STEP Ahead Awards Gala

STEP Ahead strengthens the modern manufacturing workforce by supporting the workers leading the industry at every level – from the shop floor to the C-suite.

The STEP Ahead Awards recognize outstanding women and allies in manufacturing who are driving impact from the shop floor to the C-suite. These awardees serve as living proof of what’s possible in a manufacturing career. By celebrating their stories, we help reshape perceptions of the industry and showcase the wide array of talent that powers it. 

Why STEP Ahead Exists

Manufacturers are facing a growing skills gap. STEP Ahead helps address this by shining a spotlight on the women and allies who are building strong teams and setting high standards of excellence across the industry. By celebrating role models and inspiring participants to pay it forward, STEP Ahead helps manufacturers:

Strengthen retention of key talent
Show future workers what success in manufacturing looks like
Build a network of women and allies who shape strong, collaborative work environments
Reinforce the value of peer support, mentorship and leadership at every level

About the STEP Ahead Awards

The STEP Ahead Awards honor exceptional individuals in manufacturing who lead by example and strengthen their workplaces. Each year, nearly a thousand nominations are submitted from across the country. From this highly competitive pool, just 100 Honorees, 30 Emerging Leaders and up to 15 Champions are recognized as standout leaders making a lasting impact.

Award recipients are invited to participate in a two-day leadership program before being celebrated at an evening gala alongside peers, family and colleagues. They also join a powerful network of more than 1,700 STEP Ahead alumni—leaders who are committed to paying it forward and inspiring the next generation.

April 22 – 23, 2026: STEP Ahead Awards Leadership Program (for Honorees, Emerging Leaders, and Champions only)
April 23, 2026: STEP Ahead Awards Gala
- 6:00 PM 2026 STEP Ahead Awards Reception
- 7:00 PM Gala Dinner Programming – Presentation of Honorees, Emerging Leaders, and Champions
- 9:30 PM After Party hosted at the Salamander Hotel DC

STEP Ahead Awards Gala

The Anthem | 901 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024

About The Anthem

Combining beautiful architecture with sweeping spaces, The Anthem is a music venue and auditorium in the Southwest Waterfront neighborhood of Washington, D.C. that provides an innovative, multi-functional venue unrivaled in all of DC. Since opening its doors on October 12, 2017, The Anthem has hosted countless concerts, conferences, and other gatherings, including headlining performances by Foo Fighters, Brandi Carlile, Greta Van Fleet, Kenny Chesney, Katy Perry, Bob Dylan, Lizzo, Tim McGraw, Blondie, Janelle Monáe, Billie Eilish, and The Killers.

The Anthem is located on the Wharf, a redeveloped, mile-long stretch along the Potomac River bustling with restaurants, retailers, residences, and businesses—all complemented by monumental views and a vibrant cul

About Washington, D.C.

Monuments and memorials, eclectic neighborhoods, true local flavor – Washington, DC is a place unlike any other. With a multitude of free options for all ages, visitors have opportunity to explore our nation’s history will experiencing the unique culture of our nation’s capital.

Explore DC: https://washington.org/

Hotel Information

The 2026 STEP Ahead Awards Awardees, as well as gala guests are welcome to stay at the Salamander Washington, D.C. We are pleased to share that hotel rooms for the special event are available at a discounted rate.

The discounted room rates are as follows:

Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | Room rate $439 + tax
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Room rate $439 + tax
Thursday, April 23, 2026 | Room rate $439 + tax

The cut-off date for reservations at the negotiated 2026 STEP Ahead Awards rate is Monday, March 30, 2026; however once the room block is filled (which may be before cut-off) room availability and group rate are not guaranteed.

To make your hotel arrangements at the Salamander in Washington, D.C. CLICK HERE, or call (877) 401-9818 and ask for the “2026 MI STEP Ahead Awards” group room rate. Registrants are responsible for making and cancelling their own hotel room reservations. All reservations must be guaranteed with a major credit card.

Make a Hotel Reservation

Hotel Cancellation Policy:

Reservations can be cancelled up to 24 hours prior to arrival without penalty. If you cancel within 24 hours of your scheduled arrival, a cancellation fee equal to one night’s room revenue will be charged.

Hotel Information:

Hotel Check-In: 4:00 PM
Hotel Check-Out: 11:00 AM

Parking

The Salamander, Washington D.C. is the nearest hotel parking garage to the National Mall in Southwest D.C. Guests and non-guests of the hotel can enjoy all day parking in D.C. near the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and National Mall.

Hotel valet parking is available for all guests 24-hours daily
Guests may call for their vehicle at least 10 minutes prior to departure
For more information on parking please call +1 (202) 787 6666.

Parking Rates:

0-2 hours ~ USD $44.00
2-8 hours ~ USD $56.00
8+ hours / daily and overnight parking ~ USD $79.00

Local Transportation Hubs:

Guests have convenient access to major transportation hubs including Ronald Reagan International Airport within a 12-minute drive, and Union Station within a 15-minute drive. Additionally, the local Washington, D.C. metro train stations are only blocks away, at the Smithsonian Station (2 blocks) and L’Enfant Plaza Station (3 blocks).

Contact Information:

For hotel questions or assistance, please contact us at [email protected].

Secure Your 2026 Sponsorship Now!

Sponsorships for the leadership program and gala available: If you are interested in increasing your company presence at the STEP Ahead Awards, please contact Rachael Scheffler for opportunities at [email protected].

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES