Nominations are now open. The Women Automotive Network is proud to sponsor two award categories at the 2026 AutoTech Awards and we're inviting our community to put forward the individuals and organisations shaping the future of automotive from the inside out.
As a global community built around leadership, connection, and progress, these awards closely reflect what our network stands for: amplifying professionals who deliver impact and celebrating organisations that put people first.
Above: Women Automotive Network Award Categories
The Categories We Are Proud to Sponsor
These categories recognise the leadership and people-first progress our community values most and creates a powerful moment to spotlight impact on a global stage.
🏆Women Automotive Leader of the Year🏆
This award recognises an outstanding woman whose leadership is making a visible difference across the automotive industry. It celebrates leaders who deliver impact, think strategically, inspire others, and role-model inclusive leadership.
Nominees should demonstrate:
- Strong, visible leadership and influence
- Delivery of meaningful outcomes or transformation
- Ability to motivate, develop, and inspire others
- Strategic and forward-thinking mindset
- Role-model behaviours that reflect inclusive leadership
This category reflects the Women Automotive Network's mission to amplify women who lead with purpose, credibility, and impact across the global mobility ecosystem.
Above: Kelly Brown, Vice President, Stellantis accepting the 2025 Automotive Woman of the Year Award.
🏆People & Culture Excellence🏆
This award celebrates organisations that put people at the centre of their strategy and prove that strong culture drives strong performance.
Nominees should demonstrate:
- Clear commitment to people and culture as a strategic priority
- Inclusive and equitable workplace practices
- Strong employee engagement, wellbeing, or retention outcomes
- Investment in learning, development, and career progression
- Leadership behaviours that actively reinforce positive culture
This category aligns with what our community consistently tells us matters most: environments where talent is developed, voices are valued, and opportunity is shared.
Above: LKQ, 2025 Leadership in Workplace Transformation Award winner.
Join us in Detroit
Detroit Summit attendees are invited to the AutoTech Awards
As part of the Detroit Summit programme, all in-person attendees and sponsors are invited to attend the AutoTech Awards, extending the Summit experience with high-value networking and celebration.
Why These Awards Matter
Across our global network, these are the stories we hear most often. Leaders who lift others as they progress. Organisations that understand culture is not a side initiative, but a strategic advantage.
Key details
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Entries close: April 17
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Shortlist Announced: May 1
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Awards ceremony: June 2
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Location: Vibe Credit Union Showplace, Novi, Michigan
A Call to Our Community
If you know a woman whose leadership deserves recognition, or an organisation setting the standard for people and culture, we encourage you to nominate them.
These awards are about visibility, validation, and celebrating the impact being made across our industry every day.
