NEWH, Inc., The Global Hospitality Network, is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the 2027 Structures of Hospitality Excellence (SOHE) Award & Scholarship Program. Now in its third year, the SOHE program is dedicated to recognizing exceptional construction excellence and investing in the next generation of skilled trades professionals.
Nominations for both the SOHE Award and the SOHE Scholarships are now open and will be accepted through October 1, 2026. The award and scholarships will be presented on the main stage at ALIS DESIGN+ by Northstar on January 28, 2027.
Image Courtesy of: NEWH
About the SOHE Award
This award honors companies that deliver complex hospitality projects with integrity, technical excellence, and a clear commitment to the people and processes behind the build. From major renovations to new-build developments, the SOHE Award celebrates firms shaping the physical foundation of hospitality worldwide. The 2026 recipient was HITT Contracting. Nominations are open to construction companies of all sizes working in the hospitality sector.
About the SOHE Scholarships
In conjunction with the SOHE Award, NEWH presents scholarships totaling up to $20,000 to support students pursuing careers in hospitality construction and the skilled trades. Eligible programs include construction, electrical, plumbing, pipe trades, HVAC, and related building and technical disciplines. Eligible candidates must be actively enrolled in a certificate or technical diploma program — with a focus on construction, electrical, pipe trades, HVAC, or other fields related to maintaining or building hospitality properties — and demonstrate financial need as well as a minimum 2.0 GPA or equivalent.
“NEWH has always believed in the full spectrum of people who make hospitality possible, and the SOHE program is how we put that belief into action. Trade professionals are essential to this industry and deserve to be recognized and supported at the highest level,” said Chris Tucker, CEO, NEWH.
“The SOHE Award represents exactly the kind of industry recognition that elevates the entire hospitality construction community. We are proud to support a program that honors the teams and tradespeople who bring these remarkable properties to life,” said Michelle Finn, Vice President, Design & Construction Products and Services, ALIS DESIGN+ by Northstar.
Award Judges
The 2027 SOHE Award will be evaluated by a distinguished panel of hospitality construction industry leaders:
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Fred Brandstrader, Vice President, Construction and Capital Expenditures, Hyatt
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Peter Lanfranchi, Senior Vice President, HITT Contracting
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Suzanne Saunders, SVP Design & Construction & Chief Elevation Officer, Elevation Renovations + Design by HVMG
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Bryan Thrush, 1st Vice President Development, Design & Construction, Host Hotels & Resorts
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David Tracz, Partner, //3877
Program Sponsors
The 2027 SOHE Scholarship Program is generously sponsored by Continental Contractors, Delta Faucet Company, and MMG Tile + Stone. Travel and lodging sponsored by ALIS DESIGN+ by Northstar. To learn more, submit a nomination, or apply for a scholarship, visit: newh.org/awards/sohe-award/
Image Courtesy of: NEWH
About NEWH:*
NEWH, The Global Hospitality Network, is the premier networking resource for the hospitality industry, providing scholarships, education, leadership development, and career opportunities to students and professionals across the globe.
