Government Affairs Conference
Join us this September in Washington, DC, as the steel wire industry comes together for the 2026 AWPA Government Affairs Conference.
At a time when economic uncertainty, trade policy developments, and political change continue to shape the manufacturing landscape, it is more important than ever for our industry to stay informed, engaged, and represented.
Over two days of programming, attendees will hear directly from economists, policymakers, political strategists, and industry experts on the issues affecting steel wire manufacturers and downstream producers. Sessions will explore the economic outlook for 2027 and beyond, the Trump Administration’s trade agenda, congressional priorities impacting manufacturers, the implications of the 2026 midterm elections, and the freight and supply chain trends shaping business decisions across the industry.
This year’s conference will feature a unique Washington experience, with programming taking place at several premier locations that put attendees at the center of the policymaking process. Accommodations will be hosted at the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf. Conference sessions will take place at the nearby offices of Kelley Drye & Warren LLP, located adjacent to the hotel, as well as at the historic Capitol Hill Club, just steps from the U.S. Capitol. This format provides attendees with convenient access to conference activities while offering an immersive experience in the heart of Washington’s policy and political community.
The conference will also provide a unique opportunity to take our industry’s message directly to Capitol Hill. Through scheduled meetings with Members of Congress and their staff, attendees will help educate policymakers on the challenges and opportunities facing domestic steel wire manufacturing. AWPA will provide the tools, resources, and support needed to ensure productive and impactful advocacy meetings.
Whether you are a first-time attendee or a longtime industry advocate, the Government Affairs Conference offers valuable insights, meaningful networking opportunities, and a chance to help shape the policies that impact your business and our industry. Join your colleagues in Washington this September—and make your voice heard.
Register NowSchedule of Events
Schedule subject to change
A New Experience This Year
This year’s conference has a different look and feel than years past — and we think you’re going to love it. We’re based at the Canopy by Hilton on the Wharf, one of DC’s most vibrant waterfront neighborhoods, with great restaurants, bars, and views right outside your door. Sessions move between the Kelley Drye offices steps from the hotel and the iconic Capitol Hill Club, putting you in the heart of the action on Congressional Visits Day. Everything is close, walkable, and in the middle of it all. Come ready to explore.
Pre-Conference Virtual Sessions Virtual
These sessions take place before the in-person conference via video conference
Thursday, September 10 · 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Congressional Visits Issues and Logistics Briefing
(For Congressional Visit participants only)
Wednesday, September 16 · 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Executive Committee Meeting
(Committee members only)
Wednesday, September 23
11:00 am - 2:30 pm
Board of Directors Meeting / Lunch
(Committee members only)
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Registration Open
2:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Stainless Committee Meeting
(Open to all attendees)
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Membership Committee Meeting
(Open to all attendees)
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Opening Reception
Penthouse
Evening
Dinner on your own
Thursday, September 24
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Breakfast
8:00 am - 8:30 am
Hill Visit Logistics Briefing
General Session · 8:30 am - 11:30 am
3rd Floor, Capitol Hill Club
11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Lunch
(Hill visit participants only)
12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Congressional Visits on Capitol Hill
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Reception - Sponsored by Kelley Drye
3rd Floor, Capitol Hill Club
Evening
Dinner on your own
Friday, September 25
8:00 am - 10:30 am
Congressional Visits Debriefing Breakfast and Closing Speaker
Hotel Accommodations
We have reserved a special room block at the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf for conference attendees. The majority of the conference will take place the offices of Kelley Drye, less than one block away from the hotel.
Book Online
Use the link below to book directly at the AWPA group rate. The group code is pre-applied.
Phone Reservations
(202) 488-2500
When calling, mention the American Wire Producers Association room block to receive the group rate.
Where Industry Connections Come Together