Back to Events
Spring Convention & Barge-In
Washington, DC
May 12-13, 2026
Each year, AWO members come together in Washington, D.C. to promote the maritime industry and discuss key issues with congressional leaders, engage in dynamic meetings, and enjoy valuable networking opportunities. Join us at the end of each day for networking at the evening reception.
This event also features AWO’s signature event – the Barge-In! Spend a day on Capitol Hill meeting your local representatives and advocating for the issues important to the tugboat, towboat, and barge industry. AWO will assign you to a team based on your location and provide support for meeting with your local lawmakers.
This event is open to AWO members and invited guests.
Hotel Information
The Willard InterContinental
1401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20004 Get Directions
Room Reservations
For member convenience, AWO has reserved a block of rooms at a discounted rate of $409.00, excluding taxes and fees. The room block will be available until Wednesday, April 22 at 5 pm EST, or until filled.
Please note: the reservations page will show a $35 amenity fee. This fee will be waived on the final hotel invoice to reflect the group rate.
Download the AWO mobile app in the Apple Store or on Google Play.
AWO Mobile App
Share on Social Media
Share with your network that you'll be attending this meeting with AWO's social media toolkit! Download for LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. Access directly from the AWO mobile app to share via your mobile device!
Sponsorships
Sponsoring an AWO Event offers a unique opportunity to promote your products and services while demonstrating your commitment to the tugboat, towboat and barge industry. Sponsors gain visibility and receive special benefits and acknowledgement in the AWO app and website, room upgrades, and more! Contact csmith@americanwaterways.com to claim your sponsorship.
Thank you to our sponsors!
Taken: Diamond, Platinum, Swag
Available: Gold, WiFi, & Social Dinner
Thank you to our sponsors!
Schedule At-A-Glance
Monday, May 11, 2026
| 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. |
Welcome Reception
| Crystal Ballroom |
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
| 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. |
Board of Directors' Meeting
AWO Members Only
| Grand Ballroom |
| 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. |
AWO Spring Convention
| Grand Ballroom |
| 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. |
Spring Convention Reception
| Courtyard |
| 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. |
Social Dinner
Additional RSVP required during registration. Additional cost invoiced after event.
| TBD |
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
| 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. |
Grab & Go Breakfast
| Peacock Lounge |
| All Day |
AWO Barge-In
| Capitol Hill |
| 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. |
Closing Reception
| 101 Constitution |