Awardee Resource
The 2026 Awardee Guide is your go to source for event information, including how to accept your award and what to anticipate at the 2026 STEP Ahead Awards.
AWARDEE GUIDE
2026 STEP Ahead Awards Leadership Conference
The 2026 STEP Ahead Leadership Conference will take place in Washington, D.C. on April 22-23, 2026.
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The Anthem
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Explore DC
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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.
The 2025 STEP Ahead Awards will take place in Washington, D.C.
Accept the Award and Register as a 2026 Awardee (Honoree/Emerging Leader/Champion).
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.
2026 Awardee Agenda
- April 22-23, 2026: STEP Ahead Awards Leadership Program (for all Honorees, Emerging Leaders and Champions)
- April 23, 2026: STEP Ahead Awards Gala
Wednesday, April 22, 2026
11:15 am Registration Open | Ballroom Foyer
11:30 am Welcome Luncheon | Gallery Ballroom BC
12:30 pm The Power of Culture in Manufacturing | Grand Ballroom
1:00 pm Emotional Intelligence: The Heart of Leadership | Grand Ballroom
2:00 pm Networking Break | Grand Foyer
2:30 pm Breakout Sessions
- Track A: Discover and Leverage Your Strengths| Gallery Ballroom A
Understanding what you naturally do best is the first step toward leading with confidence and authenticity. In this interactive session, you’ll work directly with your CliftonStrengths results to identify your top talents and learn how they influence your communication, collaboration and problem-solving. You’ll explore strategies to maximize your impact at work, leverage your strengths in team settings and confidently take on new opportunities. - Track B: EQ-i 2.0 | Grand Ballroom
Leadership starts with self-awareness. In this session, you’ll dive into your EQ-i 2.0 results to understand how your emotional intelligence shapes your interactions, decision-making and influence as a leader. You’ll explore your personal EQ profile, identify areas of strength and uncover opportunities for growth. Through interactive exercises and reflection, you’ll learn practical strategies to strengthen empathy, build stronger relationships and lead your team with clarity and confidence.
5:00 pm Mentorship | Grand Ballroom
5:00 pm Rosie Reports: Part I | Grand Ballroom
5:30 pm Welcome Reception and STEP Ahead Philanthropic Activity | Grand Foyer
6:30 pm Conclusion of Reception
Thursday, April 23, 2026
6:30 am Sunrise Yoga | Gallery Ballroom BC
6:30 am Morning Walk to the Jefferson Memorial | Meet in Salamander Lobby
8:00 am Networking Breakfast | Gallery Ballroom BC
8:30 am Paying it Forward | Grand Ballroom
9:30 am Confident Communication and Negotiation | Grand Ballroom
11:30 am Breakout Sessions
- Track A: Conquering Imposter Syndrome and Navigating Career Growth | Gallery Ballroom A
Everyone experiences self-doubt, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. Learn how to reframe uncertainty, speak to your strengths and pursue advancement. - Track B: Leading Through Change and Uncertainty | Grand Ballroom
Gain tools for leading teams through transformation, technology adoption and market shifts. Learn how to communicate with transparency, sustain morale and turn uncertainty into opportunity.
12:15 pm Networking Lunch | Gallery Ballroom BC
1:00 pm Rosie Reports: Part II | Grand Ballroom
1:30 pm Executive Panel: The Ripple Effect of Support | Grand Ballroom
2:30 pm Closing | Grand Ballroom
3:00 pm Conclusion of Leadership Program
Awards Ceremony Programming
6:00 pm 2026 STEP Ahead Awards Gala | The Anthem
9:00 pm Conclusion of Awards Program
9:30 pm STEP Ahead Awards After Party | Salamander Washington D.C.
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 is Monday, March 30, 20266; , 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.
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].
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 culture.
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/
Health & Safety Information
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].
Questions or Comments?
Email the STEP Ahead Awards team at [email protected].