When equipment manufacturers come together to advocate, the industry moves forward.
From workforce development to infrastructure investment, AEM’s advocacy efforts help ensure policymakers understand the real-world impact of their decisions on equipment manufacturers and the communities they support. But those efforts are not limited to the state capitals, Washington, or Ottawa. They are driven by member companies that engage, speak up, and take action throughout the year.
That work is what the AEM Advocacy Awards are designed to recognize. The awards celebrate member companies that go above and beyond to support AEM’s policy priorities and strengthen the industry’s voice. Through grassroots engagement, direct outreach to policymakers, and participation in AEM-led initiatives, these companies help shape the policies that impact equipment manufacturing across North America. Last year, more than 80 companies were recognized at the AEM Annual Conference in Miami, Florida.
For 2026, participation in the AEM Advocacy Awards is fully integrated into the work member companies are already doing. There is no separate application process; instead, companies will be considered for recognition based on the advocacy activities they complete in partnership with AEM throughout the year.
Each action will earn “points” in accordance with AEM’s transparent rubric. Whether it is hosting a facility tour for an elected official, participating in a fly-in, supporting grassroots campaigns like I Make America, or elevating key policy priorities through public affairs efforts, every action will bring member companies one step closer to being recognized with a Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Pillar of the Industry Award at the AEM Annual Conference, held Nov. 10-12 in Tucson, Arizona.
In early October, AEM Advocacy Award finalists will be informed of their counted activities and unofficial point total. The deadline for contest point totals is Monday, Nov. 2.
For questions about the AEM Advocacy Awards, contact AEM’s Director of Public Affairs Jamie Rudin at jrudin@aem.org.
