By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Why successful AI adoption depends on connecting technology to the way roofing companies work every day, long after implementation. 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is part of the roofing industry conversation and is not going away. It is important for contractors to engage in practical ways to use AI to strengthen the way they run their business. Wanting to understand how it can help is leading companies to compare platforms and research both licensing and implementation costs. While those numbers are important, they are only one part of what it takes to create lasting value.  

We once again reached out to Brian Behe, chief technology officer at RIIG Technology, who is a veteran AI strategist and data scientist with a career that spans government, cybersecurity and commercial innovation.  He is widely respected for making enterprise AI practical, secure and results driven. According to Brian, one of the biggest misconceptions organizations make is assuming the vendor proposal reflects the actual investment required for success. He notes that technology itself is often just the starting point. The larger challenge is building the right company structure around data so AI can use it effectively for useful, trusted and aligned operations. 

For roofing businesses, AI is not simply another software purchase. It is an operational capability that needs care and attention long after implementation. Contractors who achieve meaningful results understand that artificial intelligence must be supported by information people can trust. It requires clear ownership inside the company with processes that keep the technology aligned to daily operations. That means companies need to look at how information is gathered, how systems talk to one another and how teams use AI-powered insights in the real flow of their work. Brian frequently emphasizes that AI should be treated as a system that must be operated then monitored and improved rather than a tool that can simply be purchased and deployed. 

This reality is especially important in roofing because information often lives in different places across the business. A contractor may have customer history in one system, measurement information in another, production schedules somewhere else and financial details in yet another platform. When those systems are not connected, even the most sophisticated AI solution can only go so far. The true opportunity emerges when organizations build workflows that allow AI to support better decision-making across the company rather than leaving it as an isolated technology initiative. 

Brian has also observed that many AI discussions begin in the wrong place. Leaders often start by asking which platform to buy or which model has the most advanced capabilities. While those are understandable questions, they rarely lead to the strongest outcomes. The organizations seeing the greatest success begin with the business challenge first. They look at what is affecting performance and then determine whether AI can help create a better way forward. That shift moves the conversation away from technology features and toward results that can be seen in the business. 

For roofing contractors, the lesson is clear. AI should not be viewed as a separate initiative competing for attention alongside the work that keeps the company moving every day. Instead, it needs to become part of the broader business strategy and the operating model that supports the team. The software itself may be the most visible investment, but the greatest value comes when AI is connected to the people, processes and decisions that drive the business forward. Organizations that understand this distinction will be far better positioned to realize the full potential of AI in the years ahead. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.  

CertainTeed's Business Building Workshop demonstrates that relationships remain the foundation of roofing success.  

There are many industry events throughout the year, but every once in a while, you attend one that reminds you why you love this industry. That was exactly how I felt participating in CertainTeed's Business Building Workshops (BBW). Through several BBW events, everywhere I looked, contractors were sharing ideas, comparing business strategies and talking openly about the challenges they face every day. CertainTeed team members weren't simply presenting products, they were listening, asking questions and connecting contractors with resources and one another.  

That atmosphere says a great deal about what Business Building Workshops are all about. They are an investment in people. Contractors leave with new ideas, stronger relationships and practical business strategies they can immediately put to work. In today's roofing market, where the economy is challenging and we continue to deal with labor shortages along with one of the fastest growing technology booms we have seen, BBWs offer the type of investment that is more valuable than ever.  

Looking out over historic Fenway Park during the Boston BBW, I had the opportunity to sit down with Mark Rayfield, senior vice president and chief executive officer of Saint-Gobain North America. Having spent more than 27 years with Saint-Gobain and CertainTeed, Mark has helped lead one of the world's largest building products organizations while maintaining a deep connection to the roofing industry. When I asked why the company continues investing in Business Building Workshops, his answer immediately focused on the people who make roofing successful.  

"Our contractor partners are what make this business happen," Mark said. "This is a great way to give them the tools to expand their business, whether it be marketing tools, sales tools or product knowledge. We couldn't do it without them."   

That answer resonated with me because it reflects something I have witnessed throughout my career. Manufacturers that consistently invest in contractor education are investing in the future of the entire industry. When contractors become stronger business owners, everyone benefits: projects run more smoothly, customers receive better service and manufacturers earn long-term loyalty that cannot be created through products alone.  

For years, RoofersCoffeeShop has focused on sharing ideas that help contractors build stronger businesses. We know technical expertise is essential, but we also know successful contractors must be exceptional leaders, communicators, marketers and employers. The workshop embraces that same philosophy by providing education that extends well beyond products and installation.  

As I walked through BBW interviewing contractors, one message surfaced again and again. They appreciated the education, but what they valued most were relationships. They talked about CertainTeed territory managers who understand their businesses, technical representatives who help solve difficult challenges and leadership teams that genuinely want contractor feedback. Those relationships cannot be created with a brochure or a sales presentation. They are built over years of working together, listening and earning trust.  

Mark believes those relationships have always been part of the company's culture. "It's a people company," he explained. "The teams we have in the field connect with contractors, understand their challenges and build these great partnerships. First and foremost, it's always been a strong relationship company."   

I couldn't agree more. One of the reasons roofing remains such a strong industry is because relationships still matter. Contractors choose manufacturers they trust. Manufacturers invest in contractors who share their commitment to quality. Homeowners choose contractors based on confidence and reputation. Even as technology transforms how we communicate and operate our businesses, trust continues to be the foundation that connects every part of the roofing supply chain.  

Those relationships are strengthened every time contractors gather to learn from one another. Some of the best conversations I heard during BBW didn't happen during presentations. They happened in hallways, over coffee and between sessions, where contractors openly shared ideas that had worked in their businesses and discussed challenges they were still trying to solve. Those conversations are often just as valuable as formal education because they remind us that no one succeeds alone.  

Relationships naturally led many of the conversations at BBW to another important topic — workforce development. Every contractor interview talked about recruiting, training and retaining quality employees. It is one of the greatest challenges facing roofing today and Mark spoke passionately about the investments Saint-Gobain and CertainTeed are making to help prepare the next generation of industry professionals.  

CertainTeed continues expanding training opportunities for employees while partnering with vocational schools and technical education programs to introduce young people to careers in manufacturing and construction. Those investments recognize that building tomorrow's workforce requires long-term commitment rather than short-term solutions. It is another example of how education strengthens not only individual companies but the entire roofing industry.   

As someone who has spent decades promoting careers in roofing, I found that especially encouraging. Our industry offers incredible opportunities, but we must continue telling that story. We need to show young people that roofing is about innovation, technology, leadership and entrepreneurship just as much as it is about installing roofs.  

That commitment to learning extends throughout Business Building Workshop. Sessions on leadership, sales, marketing, technology, podcasting and installation are designed to help contractors become stronger business owners. Technical knowledge remains critical, but today's contractors also need the skills to lead teams by building strong company culture and communication while adapting to changing markets.  

Mark also discussed the importance of complete roofing and exterior systems. Homeowners no longer look at roofing products individually. They are investing in complete building envelope solutions that protect their homes while improving long-term performance. Contractors who understand how roofing, ventilation, underlayments, weather barriers and siding work together create greater value for customers while strengthening their own businesses. Education gives them the confidence to have those conversations and differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive marketplace.   

One of the themes that continued surfacing throughout the workshop was listening. CertainTeed doesn't simply develop educational programming and hope contractors find it useful. The company continually asks contractors what challenges they are facing and then builds future workshops around those needs. New classes are added, existing sessions evolve and every year the educational program becomes stronger because it reflects what contractors are experiencing in the real world.  

That approach may have been my biggest takeaway. The best manufacturers listen to contractors. The best contractors listen to customers. The best leaders listen to their teams. Those conversations create better products, stronger businesses and partnerships that continue moving the roofing industry forward.  

As I walked out of Fenway Park that afternoon after visiting with Mark, I found myself thinking about all the conversations that had taken place over the previous two days in classrooms, during lunch or in the hallway. Those are often the moments that have the greatest impact because they remind us that roofing has always been an industry built on people willing to help one another succeed.  

I have had the privilege of attending hundreds of roofing events over the years and the ones that leave a lasting impression all have one thing in common. They invest in people first. Products matter. Innovation matters. Technology certainly matters. But none of those things reach their full potential without contractors who know how to build successful businesses and lasting relationships.  

Business Building Workshop reflects that belief in every session, every conversation and every opportunity to learn. It is more than an educational event. It is a commitment to helping contractors become stronger business leaders, better employers and trusted partners in their communities. When manufacturers invest in helping contractors succeed, they aren't simply building market share. They are helping build a stronger roofing industry and that is an investment that benefits all of us.  

Learn more about how CertainTeed’s Business Building Workshops invest in contractor education, relationships and leadership to strengthen the future of the roofing industry! 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Business leaders create more value from AI when they focus on solving measurable operational challenges before selecting tools or platforms. 

Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to dominate conversations across the roofing industry and for good reason. As new capabilities emerge at a rapid pace, many are looking at AI to help teams work faster while strengthening decisions they make every day. It is about improving how they work for customers. As vendors introduce innovative solutions, technology demonstrations are becoming increasingly impressive.   

We took this topic to Brian Behe, chief technology officer at RIIG Technology. He is a veteran AI strategist and data scientist whose career spans government, cybersecurity and commercial innovation. He is widely respected for making enterprise AI practical through a deep understanding of security and data while focusing on innovating results-driven technology. We asked him how often businesses are losing sight of what truly drives successful AI adoption. 

Brian has observed that many AI initiatives start with questions about platforms, models and capabilities. Leaders want to know which solution is best while understanding how far technology can go and whether competitors are already gaining ground. While those conversations generate excitement, they rarely produce the strongest business outcomes. Instead, the most successful organizations begin by identifying a specific challenge that impacts performance. They look closely at the operational pressure points and customer frustrations that can be measured then work to understand and improve. Only then do they evaluate whether AI is the right tool to help address those issues. 

The roofing industry offers countless examples of where this mindset can create value. Contractors often feel the pressure of operational slowdowns that affect everything from the first customer inquiry to the final project handoff. Estimating can take longer than it should, leads can fall through the cracks and communication can become difficult to track as teams move quickly between jobs. These are not technology problems; they are business problems. When organizations begin with these operational realities, they gain a much clearer understanding of where artificial intelligence can contribute. AI becomes a strategic enabler rather than the center of the conversation. 

Another challenge Brian frequently highlights is the tendency for AI initiatives to develop their own budgets, roadmaps and objectives separate from the rest of the organization. While this may appear to accelerate innovation, it often has the opposite effect. Projects drift away from actual business priorities, and technology decisions become driven by demonstrations rather than results. Organizations end up implementing solutions that work technically but fail to deliver meaningful improvements where they matter most. 

A consulting-led approach addresses this issue by bringing conversations back to business outcomes. Instead of focusing on what AI can do, leaders concentrate on what the business needs to accomplish. Once those objectives are established, technology can be evaluated by how well it supports day-to-day operations, creating value for customers with long-term sustainability. This methodology results in stronger adoption because teams understand why technology matters and who owns the work; then it can be measured for success. 

For roofing contractors, the greatest opportunity is not simply adopting artificial intelligence. The opportunity lies in creating better workflows and smarter business practices that help teams deliver stronger customer experiences with AI embedded throughout those processes. Organizations that focus on solving real business challenges before selecting technology will ultimately create more value and build a stronger competitive advantage for the future. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Explore the articles that generated the most interest this month. 

In the last month, over 250 articles have been published on RoofersCoffeeShop.com. That’s a lot of reading to keep up with, especially for busy contractors who are going between the office and the field. To make it easier to keep up, we’ve looked at those hundreds of articles and picked out the most popular ones to showcase.  

In this list, there are a couple of articles authored by Heidi J. Ellsworth, the president of The Coffee Shops™. In one article she highlights how the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) is expanding mental health support through suicide prevention training, made possible through a collaboration with LivingWorks. The other article dove into the importance of awards and recognition during the current artificial intelligence boom.  

Our friends over at Cotney Consulting Group also contributed a few articles on our top 10 list, including one about crystalline silica exposure and another about creating an operational preparedness plan to navigate the current global political environment.  

Our number one article of the month showcased FMI Corporation’s 2026 Q2 North America Construction and Engineering Outlook Report and was written by Emma Peterson, senior content developer for The Coffee Shops™. This was not the only article of Emma’s that made the list, as her articles about turning data into business strategies, taking on leadership roles and the development of the metal roof retrofit industry were also featured. 

July 2026’s top articles 

10 - Eagleview warns emergency managers: A below average hurricane season is not a safe season by Eagleview. 

9 - NRCA expands mental health support with free suicide prevention training by Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

8 - NRCA Gold Circle Awards: Why recognition matters more than ever in the age of AI by Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

7 - When global events reach the rooftop by John Kenney, Cotney Consulting Group. 

6 - Building the metal roof retrofit industry by Emma Peterson. 

5 - Finding opportunity in every position by Emma Peterson. 

4 - ARCA’s Lotería Night brings fun and connection to the roofing community by Alex Tolle. 

3 - Connecting the dots between data and strategy by Emma Peterson. 

2 - The silica citation nobody sees coming by Cotney Consulting Group. 

1 - Construction growth expected in the next year by Emma Peterson. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Industry recognition creates credibility, strengthens marketing efforts and helps contractors stand out in a world where customers and AI tools are constantly searching for proof of expertise. 

Every day, roofing contractors complete exceptional projects, solve complex building challenges and develop innovative solutions for their customers. They invest in skilled craftsmanship, advanced technologies and highly trained teams to deliver results that protect buildings and communities. Unfortunately, many of those accomplishments remain known only to the people directly involved, limiting opportunities to build awareness and showcase expertise. 

That is why applying for industry awards is one of the smartest marketing investments a contractor can make. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) is currently accepting nominations for its Gold Circle Awards, which recognize outstanding roofing-related projects and services completed between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2025. Contractors can be recognized in four categories:

1. Outstanding workmanship
2. Innovative solutions
3. Artisan workmanship
4. Wall panels and facades

Entering any of these categories is a huge opportunity for roofing professionals — and not just for the chance to win an exciting award. The application process for this contest is an often overlooked part of the award process, but it is very valuable for contractors.

Preparing a nomination requires contractors to document what made a project successful, gather photography, organize project details and tell the story behind the work. In many cases, that information becomes some of the most valuable marketing content a company will create all year. What starts as an award submission can quickly become:

• Case studies that demonstrate expertise.
• Photo catalogs that support sales efforts and marketing campaigns.
• Newsletter stories that help customers understand how a contractor solves problems and delivers value.
• Material for customer presentations and social media posts. 

Ultimately, every nomination creates an opportunity to tell a story that reinforces a company's reputation and differentiates it from competitors in an increasingly crowded marketplace. 

That visibility has become even more important as artificial intelligence changes how customers search for information. Today’s customers frequently use search engines and AI-powered tools to research contractors before making buying decisions. These systems look for evidence of expertise, credibility and trust.

Award nominations and recognition contribute directly to that visibility. Every published project profile, news announcement or industry article creates another piece of content that customers and AI tools can discover. Contractors who consistently share accomplishments, publish project profiles and promote industry recognition create a stronger digital footprint that helps them stand out online and increases the likelihood that prospective customers will encounter their expertise during the research process.

In many ways, recognition has become one of the most powerful forms of third-party validation available. And by leveraging it properly, contractors can create future opportunities for themselves, whether that's drawing in a new client through marketing efforts or improving company culture through recognition of hard work and talent. The NRCA Gold Circle Awards provides an outstanding opportunity to do this, to celebrate excellence and create content that supports business growth long after the awards presentation is over.

If you know an NRCA member who completed an exceptional roofing project or service between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2025, consider submitting a nomination before the September 18 deadline. Past Gold Circle winners can be found on RoofersCoffeeShop, offering strong examples of how award-winning projects can build visibility, strengthen credibility and showcase expertise for years to come. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Funding quality craftsmanship and building the future workforce. 

One of the biggest challenges facing the construction industry today is finding and developing skilled workers. For metal building contractors, investing in training is essential not only for workforce development but also for maintaining quality standards and meeting accreditation requirements. A new funding opportunity from the Ketenbrink Education Foundation (KEF) is making that investment easier by helping companies offset the cost of training their teams.

The foundation is currently offering immediate mini grants for companies that enroll employees in the Metal Building Institute (MBI) Quality and Craftsmanship (Q&C) 101 training series. According to information shared by Jacqueline Meiluta, companies can receive $250 in grant funding for each employee who successfully completes and passes the testing portion of the training program, with grants available for up to five employees per company. 

The financial benefit is significant. While the Q&C 101 testing costs $110 per participant, contractors can receive $250 per employee through the grant program, creating a positive return on their training investment while strengthening workforce capabilities. 

The opportunity comes at a critical time as the industry continues to focus on workforce development, safety and installation quality. The Q&C training program is designed to help workers better understand metal building construction standards and best practices. In fact, completion of MBI Quality and Craftsmanship training is a required component of AC478 accreditation, making the program especially valuable for contractors pursuing or maintaining accreditation status. 

The grant funding is being provided through the Ketenbrink Education Foundation, whose mission is to help metal building construction workers and aspiring industry professionals acquire the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field. The foundation also works to improve the availability of technical and practical training throughout the metal building industry. 

As noted in the foundation's materials, industry leader Bob Ketenbrink emphasized the importance of proper training, stating that one of the most important needs in the metal construction industry is ensuring workers are trained to safely and correctly install materials so building owners receive the highest quality results from their investment. 

To encourage participation, KEF has allocated $50,000 to the program, enough to support approximately 200 newly trained craftsmen across the industry. The grants are available on a first-come, first-served basis and will close once funding has been exhausted. Each company is eligible for up to $1,250 in total grant funding. 

Programs like this demonstrate how industry associations and foundations continue to invest in the future of construction. By helping contractors reduce training costs while improving workforce competency, the KEF grant program creates a win-win opportunity for employers, employees and the customers who depend on quality construction. 

Contractors interested in taking advantage of the funding should act quickly while grants remain available. Applications can be submitted through the foundation's online application process. 

Learn more about the grant opportunity and apply today through the KEF application portal. Investing in training today can help strengthen your workforce, support accreditation goals and position your company for long-term success. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Traditional slate craftsmanship and master leadwork are preserving one of Britain's most iconic landmarks for generations to come. 

For most visitors to London, Admiralty Arch is recognized as the grand ceremonial gateway linking Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square. For more than a century, the landmark has stood at the heart of royal processions, historic celebrations and national events.  

Originally commissioned by King Edward VII in memory of Queen Victoria, Admiralty Arch was completed in 1912 and designed by renowned architect Sir Aston Webb. After serving as a government building for decades, the Grade I-listed structure is being transformed into a luxury Waldorf Astoria hotel while preserving a defining part of London's skyline. 

During this transformation, the restoration team has worked carefully to honor the building's architectural heritage while adapting it for a new generation of guests. And while much of the public attention has focused on the luxury hotel and residences taking shape behind the landmark façade, we wanted to take some time to learn about one of the project’s most remarkable elements: The restoration happening on the roof. 

During a special visit arranged by National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) member EWN Lead Work Specialists, who is helping lead the project, industry leaders from the National Slate Association (NSA), the Slate Roofing Contractors Association of North America (SRCA) and RoofersCoffeeShop® received an exclusive look at the conservation work taking place high above one of London's most recognizable landmarks. The roof is rarely accessible to the public, making the opportunity especially significant for roofing professionals passionate about preservation and craftsmanship. 

What makes the roofing restoration particularly impressive is the commitment to traditional methods and materials. According to project information shared during the roof tour, the restoration includes the installation of Westmorland green slate using a historic diminishing-course pattern. This traditional approach places larger slates at the lower sections of the roof and progressively smaller slates toward the ridge, reflecting techniques used on many of Britain's most significant heritage structures. 

The slate installation is only one part of the story. The project also involves extensive leadwork restoration across numerous architectural features, including dormers, bays, cornices and complex roof details. Thousands of individually crafted lead components are being fabricated and installed to replicate historic profiles while providing long-term weather protection. Also of note is the extensive low-slope roofing using modified bitumen granule felts. The result is a roof system that maintains the building’s original appearance while serving modern performance expectations. 

Helping lead that effort is EWN Lead Work Specialists Ltd., a company that has built its reputation on heritage leadwork and conservation projects. Founded by Elliot Newman in 2008, the company specializes exclusively in leadwork and has contributed to some of the United Kingdom's most important historic structures, including the Tower of London, Canterbury Cathedral, Somerset House and Lincoln's Inn. That level of expertise makes EWN a natural fit for a landmark as significant as Admiralty Arch. 

The project serves as a powerful reminder that roofing is often one of the most critical aspects of historic preservation. While visitors admire stonework, sculptures and grand interiors, the roof is what ultimately protects those investments. In this case, the roof will also be used for rooftop activities, creating new spaces for hotel guests. Preserving a building of this scale requires professionals who understand not only modern roofing performance but also centuries-old installation techniques and conservation principles. The tradespeople working on Admiralty Arch are carrying forward skills that have been passed down through generations. 

The restoration also highlights the growing importance of adaptive reuse projects around the world. Rather than allowing historic structures to deteriorate or lose their identity, owners and developers are investing in restorations that preserve architectural heritage while creating economically viable futures. At Admiralty Arch, that vision includes transforming a former government building into a world-class hospitality destination while retaining the character that has made it a London icon for more than 100 years. 

When guests begin arriving at the Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch, many will be captivated by its history, luxury accommodation and unrivaled location across from Buckingham Palace. Few will realize the extraordinary level of roofing craftsmanship protecting the structure from above. Yet for roofing professionals, that work may be the most inspiring aspect of the entire transformation. 

The restoration of Admiralty Arch demonstrates what is possible when heritage preservation, skilled craftsmanship and modern construction expertise come together. Through traditional slate roofing, master-level leadwork, flat roofing expertise and a deep respect for history, roofing professionals are helping ensure that one of Britain’s most cherished landmarks remains a symbol of excellence for generations to come. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Why industry associations matter more than ever in spray foam.

The spray foam industry continues to gain momentum across North America, and if there is one lesson I've learned through decades of working with roofing, coatings and building envelope professionals, it is this: the companies that stay engaged with their industry associations are often the companies best positioned to grow, adapt and lead.

Associations play a critical role in every segment of construction. They provide education, advocacy, safety resources, technical expertise and, perhaps most importantly, a way for professionals to connect with one another. As markets evolve and technologies advance, those relationships often become just as valuable as the products and services we provide.

The rise of spray foam

Today, spray foam is experiencing growing interest as building owners, architects and contractors continue to seek high-performance solutions that improve energy efficiency, building durability and overall performance. As demand increases, so does the need for consistent training, certification and professional standards. That is why organizations like the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) are so important. The association's ongoing focus on installer training, certification and professional development helps ensure the industry can continue to meet growing market expectations with confidence and credibility.

Reading the latest update from SPFA, I was impresseed by the tremendous progress being made across the spray foam sector. One of the most encouraging themes was the emphasis on member engagement. The association continues to offer opportunities through committees, networking events, leadership development and educational programs that bring professionals together to solve challenges and share best practices. Whether it is the Roofing Committee, Building Envelope Committee or the NextGen Workgroup, these groups help create a stronger and more connected industry.

This type of engagement matters because no contractor, manufacturer or consultant succeeds in isolation. The challenges facing our industries today — workforce development, regulatory changes, economic uncertainty and evolving customer expectations — require collective expertise. Associations create a forum where professionals can learn from one another, stay ahead of changing trends and move the industry forward together.

Additionally, the recent leadership transition from Ken Wells to Corey Poepping also highlights the importance of volunteer leadership and succession planning within trade organizations. The success that SPFA has experienced over the past two years is a direct reflection of dedicated industry professionals giving back to the community that supports their businesses every day.

As someone who spends a great deal of time working with industry associations across roofing, metal, coatings and construction, I continue to see firsthand how engaged members benefit from stronger professional networks, earlier access to industry information and greater opportunities for business growth. The professionals who regularly participate in their associations are often the first to understand changes in the market, emerging technologies and new opportunities that can help them better serve customers.

Beyond one association

At CoatingsCoffeeShop®, we are committed to covering the spray foam industry across the board because we recognize the growing impact spray foam is having throughout the construction industry. While many people associate spray foam primarily with insulation, its influence extends into roofing, waterproofing, air barriers, building envelope performance, energy efficiency and protective coatings. As these systems become increasingly integrated, staying informed is more important than ever.

Through news coverage, industry interviews, educational content and partnerships with organizations such as SPFA, CoatingsCoffeeShop helps contractors, manufacturers, consultants and facility professionals stay connected to the people, products and innovations shaping the future of spray foam. Our goal is to provide a trusted resource where industry professionals can find the information they need to make smart business decisions and stay engaged with the broader industry community.

Strong associations, strong industry

The continued growth highlighted in the latest SPFA update is a reminder that strong associations create strong industries. Whether you are a contractor looking to expand your business, a manufacturer developing innovative products or a young professional entering the market, staying involved with your association can provide insights, relationships and opportunities that simply cannot be found anywhere else. And as spray foam continues its rise as a preferred building solution, those connections will become even more valuable.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Economic indicators reveal resilience in construction while highlighting the trends contractors should watch closely. 

It is important across all our Coffee Shop audiences to understand what is happening in the larger construction markets to help make strong business decisions. Having listened to Ken Simonson, chief economist for the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), speak several times, I wanted to share some of his recent insights. His latest economic analysis presents a nuanced picture of today's construction economy. Drawing on newly released data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Census Bureau, Dodge Construction Network, Institute for Supply Management (ISM) and freight industry analysts, Simonson's report shows that while construction spending faces headwinds, employment growth and future planning activity continue to signal strength for much of the industry. 

According to Simonson's analysis of BLS data, construction employment reached 8.331 million workers in June, increasing by 11,000 jobs from May and adding 64,000 positions year-over-year. The growth was driven primarily by nonresidential construction hiring, a positive indicator for contractors and companies serving commercial roofing, building envelope, restoration, metal and related construction markets. His findings suggest that many contractors continue to see enough future work to justify expanding their workforce. 

For The Coffee Shop industries, construction employment is one of the clearest indicators of confidence. Contractors do not hire ahead of uncertainty. When employment rises, it generally reflects active backlogs, growing project pipelines and owner investment in maintaining and improving facilities. That confidence reaches across the trades and reinforces the importance of watching workforce trends as a signal for what may be coming next. 

At the same time, Simonson highlighted a softer spending environment using data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Total construction spending reached $2.21 trillion in May, rising slightly from April but falling 1.5% compared with May 2025. While the decline does not signal a downturn, it does indicate that higher financing costs and ongoing economic caution continue to influence project timing and investment decisions. 

This trend is particularly relevant to roofing and building envelope professionals because it reinforces the importance of diversification and value-driven solutions. Contractors are increasingly responding through maintenance programs, restoration, protective coating systems, energy-efficient retrofits and phased project strategies that help owners maximize existing assets rather than postpone critical work altogether. It also points to the growing role of practical, long-term solutions that support smarter capital planning. 

Looking ahead, one of the most encouraging indicators in Simonson's report comes from the Dodge Momentum Index (DMI), published by Dodge Construction Network. The DMI, which tracks nonresidential projects entering the planning phase and often serves as a leading indicator of future construction spending, declined 1.9% in May but remained strong overall. That planning activity matters because today's planned projects will become tomorrow's opportunities for all construction professionals and companies. Continued planning strength can be an important signal for future demand, especially for companies tied to commercial and institutional construction. 

Simonson's report also referenced economic data from the Institute for Supply Management, which found that the service sector continued to expand for the 24th consecutive month despite ongoing cost pressures. Simultaneously, freight data reported through the Wall Street Journal's Logistics Report showed average flatbed trucking rates reached a record $3.69 per mile in June, based on information from DAT Freight & Analytics.  

These freight costs affect construction broadly because materials and equipment depend on reliable transportation networks. Rising costs can influence estimating, inventory planning, project scheduling and customer expectations, making logistics another important indicator for contractors and suppliers to watch closely. 

Perhaps the most important takeaway from Simonson's report is that construction professionals need to monitor multiple leading indicators rather than focusing on a single economic statistic. Employment growth, spending trends, future project planning, service sector expansion and transportation costs all influence business decisions throughout the industry. Collectively, they provide a more complete understanding of where the market is headed. 

As construction continues to evolve, staying informed on the broader economic picture will remain essential. While the latest numbers reveal both opportunities and challenges, the overall message is one of resilience. Hiring continues, planning remains active and professionals who understand the market indicators driving the industry will be best positioned for success. 

Source transparency: Ken Simonson, chief economist for AGC, is analyzing data from primary sources including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau, Dodge Construction Network, Institute for Supply Management and DAT Freight & Analytics as reported by AGC. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

This upcoming webinar promisese to share insightful and impactful career lessons with the next generation.

Recently, the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) Emerging Professionals Committee has been hosting a series, Blueprints of an Enclosure Career, that gives a stage to industry veterans to share their experiences and advice for other professionals. With more than 150 registrants attending recent Blueprints webinars, the series has established itself as a valuable resource for professional development and career exploration.

Why is this series so valuable? The opportunity to hear firsthand from respected industry leaders about their career paths, lessons learned from industry leadership, the importance of volunteering and practical advice for those building careers is not only helpful for existing professionals but also a great way to engage newcomers. 

And at a time when the industry is working hard to cultivate future leaders, these conversations can be game changers. For example, IIBEC reports that after a recent session in the series, an engineer who was not yet a member reached out to learn more about entering the profession, available training opportunities and ways to become more involved in the industry. This is just one example of how career-focused discussions can connect experienced professionals with those seeking new opportunities and a clearer career path.

Whether you are exploring the profession for the first time or looking to take the next step in your career, make sure to register for the next webinar in this series. The webinar, which will take place on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. E.T., will feature industry leader and legend Scott Hinesley as he shares the experiences, lessons and insights that have shaped his career. As chief growth officer for REI Engineers Inc., Scott Hinesley has spent more than 25 years helping shape the building enclosure profession. His influence extends far beyond his day-to-day responsibilities, with a long history of volunteer leadership within IIBEC. Over the years, he has served as IIBEC president, region director and Carolinas Chapter president. Today, he continues his commitment to the organization as chair of the IIBEC Nominating Committee and a member of the IIBEC Education Committee.

The upcoming webinar offers a powerful opportunity to hear directly from a leader who has successfully navigated decades of industry change. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions about the years of dedication, continuous learning and willingness to serve both the industry and its professionals that have defined Scott's professional journey as there will be time for a live conversation. 

Interested in learning from one of the building enclosure industry's most respected leaders? Register through IIBEC and discover how leadership, service and continuous learning can help shape a successful career in the industry.