Fall seminar brings roofing research into focus

By Jesse Sanchez. 

The 2026 RICOWI Fall Seminar will bring roofing professionals to Tennessee for research, education, collaboration and a behind-the-scenes look at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. 

The Roofing Industry Committee on Weather Issues (RICOWI) is preparing to bring roofing professionals together Nov. 3-4, 2026, for its Fall Seminar near Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. During this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, RICOWI Executive Director Jordan Louden said the organization’s strength comes from bringing together people from across the roofing and building envelope industries in a collaborative environment.  

Its sponsoring and affiliate members include associations, architects, engineers, consultants and manufacturers who gather to exchange information across different areas of the industry. Describing what makes the event valuable, Jordan explained, “It’s collaborative. It’s educational. It’s a place where people come to learn and share and for the most part, agendas are left at the door.” 

That emphasis on collaboration will shape this year’s Fall Seminar, which will feature educational programming on both days. Topics from Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers will include roof recovers, fire testing, construction automation and waste-derived, halogen-free flame retardants. A representative from the National Fire Protection Association will also participate. Andre Desjarlais, residential program manager for building envelope energy efficiency at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, noted, “If we can be a little smarter about deciding what can be salvaged or not, instead of just assuming that we're going to throw it all away, I think would be a big step forward.” 

Attendees will also have the opportunity to see research facilities firsthand. The tour will include building science research, manufacturing demonstrations and a historic reactor site connected to the laboratory’s origins in the Manhattan Project. Looking at the broader value of seeing that work in person, Andre emphasized, “If you want to get a view of the future or the possible future, then I think coming to the seminar would be worthwhile.” 

The event will also include RICOWI committee meetings, sponsor reports and a RICOWI Foundation fundraiser with live music, raffles and networking opportunities, giving attendees multiple ways to learn from research while connecting with professionals from across the roofing industry. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about the research, education and industry collaboration taking shape at the 2026 Fall Seminar!