Real talk, real growth at the 2026 ECA Member Meeting

By Dani Sheehan. 

The ECA Member Meeting and Cocktail Reception provided an opportunity for ideas to come to life, as members, partners and sponsors connected ahead of a busy week at IRE. 

Members of Exterior Contractor Alliance (ECA) kicked off the International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2026 at the Stirling Club in Las Vegas for a full day of education, open dialogue and a chance to network. Now in its seventh year as an organization, ECA continues to bring together contractors who come to the table with an eagerness to learn, a willingness to share and a growth mindset.  

Practical, peer-led conversations 

The member meeting featured three panel discussions focused on the real-world challenges contractors are navigating today. Each panel encouraged thoughtful conversation, with active Q&A’s that highlighted the depth of experience in the room. 

The first panel explored purchasing strategies in an ever-changing pricing environment. Panelists discussed how they are managing both price increases and decreases, weighing invoice pricing against incentive-based models and leaning on trusted supplier relationships. Technology was a recurring theme, with contractors sharing how digital tools are helping streamline their administrative processes, improve pricing accuracy and support more efficient sales operations. 

The production-focused panel addressed challenges that happen in the field. Panelists shared insights into what can go wrong on job sites and how teams can navigate those moments effectively. Topics included: 

• Managing bilingual crews 
• Communicating clearly when issues arise  
• Maintaining customer trust when projects don’t go according to plan 

The discussion also touched on the current immigration climate and its impact on labor availability, reinforcing the need for adaptable systems, strong leadership and proactive planning. 

The final session opened the floor to cooperative partners, sparking conversation around the broader forces shaping exterior contracting businesses today. Diversification emerged as a key theme, with members sharing how they are expanding services to reduce risk and better serve changing customer needs. Others discussed implementing new systems and processes, as well as adapting to economic shifts and evolving customer demographics. The peer-to-peer exchange highlighted ECA’s culture of trust, transparency and a shared goal of elevating the industry. 

Honoring leadership and legacy 

During the meeting, Earl Ward, founder of ECA, was presented the ECA Founders Award as he prepares for retirement in April 2026. The recognition honored Earl’s vision, leadership and dedication to building an organization grounded in collaboration and service. As ECA continues to grow nationally – representing more than 150 members, over 500 branch locations and nearly $4 billion in combined top-line revenue – the moment served as a reminder of the foundation on which that growth was built. 

Following the meeting, members and industry partners gathered for a cocktail reception to continue conversations with old friends and start new ones with like-minded industry professionals. From practical insights to meaningful recognition, the ECA Member Meeting and Cocktail reception was an incredible reminder that when contractors collaborate with purpose, the entire industry moves forward together.