2027 STEP Ahead Awards Gala

Why STEP Ahead Exists 

Manufacturers are facing a growing skills gap. STEP Ahead helps address this by shining a spotlight on the leaders 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 1,800 STEP Ahead alumni—leaders who are committed to paying it forward and inspiring the next generation.

Hotel Information

The 2027 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 13, 2027  |  Room rate $439 + tax
• Wednesday, April 14, 2027  |  Room rate $439 + tax
• Thursday, April 15, 2027  |  Room rate $439 + tax

The cut-off date for reservations at the negotiated 2027 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 “2027 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].