By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Building on more than 70 years of Congress tradition, IFD’s Connection Forum creates new opportunities for roofing and façade professionals to exchange ideas, strengthen relationships and collaborate across borders. 

Since its founding in the early 1950s, the International Federation of the Roofing Trade (IFD) has supported the exchange of knowledge and experience in roofing and façades while helping professionals build the trust needed for meaningful collaboration. One of the ways they have done this is by bringng the global roofing and façade community together through its Congress.

IFD's Congress create a space for technical knowledge, craftsmanship and relationship building across international borders and have helped establish IFD as a unifying voice for professionals, manufacturers and associations around the world while building a strong tradition of international exchange. In a recent Roofing Road Trips® conversation, IFD President Dirk Bollwerk reinforced that mission, noting that relationships are just as important as technical exchange because they create the environment where ideas can be openly shared and applied. That perspective helps explain why IFD is updating their event format to focus on connection while continuing to honour the strength of its Congress foundation.

Today, IFD is introducing the Connection Forum as an additional format that builds on the Congress tradition while creating a more interactive environment for attendees. This development builds on the collaboration and connection of the Congress while incorporating member feedback requesting more opportunities for exchange, interaction and practical discussion.

The Connection Forum is a setting where participants can move from listening into deeper engagement. Attendees will be able to discuss project experiences, explore regional challenges and share insights that contribute to technical understanding across borders. Instead of only receiving information, participants become part of the conversation, helping shape ideas in real time while strengthening the connections that have always been central to IFD. 

This approach also reflects the realities the roofing and façade sectors are facing today. Challenges such as sustainability, safety and workforce development are appearing across many regions, often with different solutions shaped by local conditions. One of IFD’s greatest strengths is its ability to connect these perspectives so professionals can learn from one another and adapt ideas in ways that work for their own businesses. The forum is intentionally designed to support that exchange by creating space for open dialogue while helping to bridge the gap between global insight and local application, turning shared knowledge into practical value for all attendees. 

What is happening now is continuity with a clear purpose. The Connection Forum builds on more than 70 years of successful Congress tradition and reflects the way IFD members and partners increasingly want to connect and collaborate today. As a new format for this year, it also creates an opportunity to identify and share best practices that can help shape the evolution of future congresses while keeping the organization’s mission rooted in practical international exchange. 

At the heart of that mission is IFD’s role as a neutral international platform where industry leaders, associations and professionals can meet on equal footing. By creating space for open dialogue, IFD helps participants exchange experience and knowledge in a way that moves beyond polite listening and into meaningful collaboration. Specialists gain access to current industry insight that can be applied both in the development of national standards and in everyday practical execution, making the forum a place where shared ideas can become useful tools back home. 

That collaborative spirit is also reflected in the organizations helping bring the new format to life. The IFD Connection Forum 2026 is hosted by Wienerberger and supported by IFD’s Supporting Partners VELUX, Murexin, Fakro and PREFA. Their commitment is an important part of making this new format possible and deserves recognition as the international roofing and façade community comes together to strengthen relationships and share knowledge. 

It is not a departure from the past, but an added opportunity to carry IFD’s mission forward in a format that feels more direct, practical and open to a wider community. The Connection Forum honours the foundation of the Congress while expanding how people connect, learn from one another and build relationships that support the roofing and façade industries across borders. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Articles of interest from June 2026. 

As the second fiscal quarter of the year comes to a close, it’s hard to believe we’re coming up on the halfway point of 2026. And the number of articles The Coffee Shops™ crew has published in that time (over 2,300 across all sites) can attest to how busy of a year it’s been. Of those thousands of articles, over 350 of them were posted in June alone. So, to help you keep up with all the news and information, we’ve rounded up the top ten articles from June.  

Our list starts off with an article highlighting Adams and Reese’s Trent Cotney’s May 2026 construction law updates and an article diving into a new Workforce Pell Grants that “could help roofing contractors recruit, train and grow the next generation of skilled workers.” 

From there, we have a wide variety of articles highlighting everything from the National Women in Roofing (NWIR) Oregon Council’s work coordinating a roof replacement for a Portland homeowner in need to how metal roofing protects against wildfires and the role of the Metal Construction Association (MCA) in the industry. 

Rounding out our list is our top three articles of June. In third place is an article our friends at Roof Hub wrote all about optimizing operational efficiency by using AI Smart Templates. Second goes to an article I wrote about how contractors can build trust and generate leads in a digital world. And first goes to Cotney Consulting Group’s article sharing a 5-year readiness playbook for roofing contractors. 

Top 10 articles from June 2026 

10 - Construction law insights and updates from May 2026 by Emma Peterson. 

9 - Workforce Pell Program could strengthen roofing’s workforce pipeline by Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

8 - Why government affairs matter to every roofing professional by Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

7 - Roofing community rallies for Oregon homeowner by The Coffee Shops™. 

6 - Maximizing fire resistance with metal by Anna Lockhart. 

5 - MCA advances technical leadership, expands market opportunities and builds momentum for 2026 by Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

4 - Navigating a new normal by Emma Peterson. 

3 - AI smart templates by RoofHub. 

2 - Word of mouth still works – It just looks different by Emma Peterson. 

1 - A 5-year readiness playbook for roofing contractors by Cotney Consulting Group. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Bringing contractors, manufacturers and industry leaders together for a day of connection, innovation and opportunity. 

There are certain events on the calendar that the roofing community simply does not miss, and in Arizona, the Arizona Roofing Contractors Association (ARCA) Expo is one of them. Each year, it draws together the people, products and perspectives that are actively shaping the industry, creating a day where business growth and meaningful relationships take center stage. 

The 57th Annual ARCA Expo is set for Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Prescott Resort & Conference Center in Prescott, Arizona. With decades of history behind it, this event has built a strong reputation as a must-attend gathering for roofing professionals throughout the region. 

What continues to make the ARCA Expo so impactful is the way it effortlessly connects individuals from across every corner of the industry. Contractors have the opportunity to engage directly with manufacturers and suppliers, gaining firsthand insight into the products, services and technologies that are driving change. These conversations tend to move beyond introductions, often developing into lasting partnerships and new ways of doing business. 

That sense of connection carries throughout the day, as the environment encourages interaction in a natural and productive way. Attendees find themselves reconnecting with familiar faces while also expanding their network, and those conversations often lead to new ideas and opportunities. It is this blend of relationship building and forward-thinking discussion that strengthens not only individual businesses, but the industry as a whole. 

The educational component adds another layer of value, with industry experts leading seminars focused on current trends, best practices and the challenges contractors are facing today. The ability to move between these sessions and conversations on the show floor creates a more dynamic experience, allowing attendees to immediately connect insight with real-world application. 

At the same time, the ARCA Expo maintains an energy that keeps people engaged from start to finish. Product demonstrations and interactive exhibitor experiences add a sense of momentum throughout the day, creating an atmosphere that is both informative and enjoyable. This balance helps ensure that attendees leave not only with new knowledge, but with a renewed sense of where the industry is headed. 

For companies looking to increase visibility, the expo offers a highly focused opportunity to connect with roofing professionals who are actively seeking solutions. Being present on the show floor allows businesses to showcase their offerings in a setting that encourages conversation, discovery and relationship building. 

As contractors continue to explore new technologies and expand into adjacent markets, events like the ARCA Expo play an essential role in keeping the industry connected and moving forward. They provide a place where ideas come together, partnerships are strengthened and the future of roofing continues to take shape. 

To be part of Arizona’s premier roofing industry event, visit the ARCA website to learn more and register today. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Residential softness, nonresidential strength and cost pressure are creating a complicated outlook for roofing contractors. 

The May construction numbers tell a story that roofing contractors should be watching closely. On one side of the market, residential construction continues to feel the weight of affordability challenges, elevated mortgage rates and cautious buyers. On the other side, non-residential work is showing strength, especially in areas like data centers, healthcare, manufacturing, utilities and infrastructure. For roofing, that means opportunity is still out there, but it may not look the same across every market, every contractor or every segment of the industry.

According to National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) reporting on Associated Builders and Contractors data, construction industry leaders were less optimistic in May even though confidence remained above the threshold that indicates expectations for growth. ABC’s Construction Confidence Index fell in all three categories during May, with staff expectations dropping from 65.5 to 61.3, profit margin expectations falling from 54.9 to 52.5 and sales expectations declining from 66.2 to 61.1. At the same time, ABC’s Construction Backlog Indicator increased from 8.8 months in April to 9.1 months in May and was up 0.7 months compared with May 2025.

That combination — lower confidence but higher backlog — is important. It suggests contractors are still busy, but they are also feeling pressured. ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu said the increase in backlog largely reflects major data center investments across the country, noting that the 14% of ABC members under contract to work on data centers had much higher backlog at 11.6 months compared with 8.6 months for those not working on data centers. For roofing contractors, this reinforces a key reality of today’s market: growth is not evenly distributed. Contractors tied into large-scale commercial, industrial or specialty work may be seeing strong demand, while others may be facing tighter margins, slower decisions and more competitive bidding.

The residential side of the market continues to be more challenging. The U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development reported that privately owned housing starts in May were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1,177,000, down 15.4% from the revised April estimate and down 8.7% from May 2025. Single-family starts were at a rate of 882,000, down 1.9% from April, while May housing completions were down 8.1% from April and 14.2% from May 2025. Thesenumbers matter to roofing because new residential construction directly affects demand for new roof installations, while slower completions can ripple through builders, suppliers, distributors and trade partners.

Builder confidence is also sending warning signals. The National Association of Home Builders reported that builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes fell two points to 35 in June, marking the 14th consecutive month that sentiment remained below 40. NAHB also reported that 35% of builders cut prices in June, up from 32% in May, and 62% were using sales incentives other than price cuts, up from 61% in May. NRCA highlighted the same numbers, noting that anything below 50 is considered negative in the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index and that builder sentiment dropped amid rising construction material costs and elevated mortgage rates. 

For roofing contractors serving the residential market, this does not necessarily mean demand disappears. Roof replacement, repair, insurance restoration and service work continue to move based on roof age, weather, homeowner need and property maintenance. But it does mean contractors may need to pay closer attention to homeowners' sensitivity around pricing, financing and project timing. When builders are offering incentives and cutting prices, consumers become more aware of deals and negotiations. Roofing contractors may need to communicate value more clearly, especially around durability, ventilation, energy performance, warranties and long-term protection of the home. 

The broader building industry is also showing signs of strength, but much of that strength is concentrated in large nonresidential and infrastructure projects. Dodge Construction Network reported that total construction starts improved 34.1% in May to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $1.78 trillion. Nonresidential building starts grew 17.8%, nonbuilding starts increased 91.9% and residential starts fell 2.1% over the month. On a year-to-date basis through May, total construction starts were up 12.7%, with non-residential starts up 12.3%, nonbuilding starts up 32.9% and residential starts down 4.9%. 

That is a clear reminder that the building industry is not moving as one market. Dodge reported that megaproject starts in healthcare, manufacturing, utilities and data centers drove sizable gains in May, while pockets of weakness remained in institutional construction, warehouses and residential construction. This unevenness affects roofing in very practical ways. Commercial roofing contractors may see opportunities tied to healthcare campuses, manufacturing facilities, energy projects, public work and data centers, while residential-focused companies may see a slower new construction pipeline. Distributors and manufacturers are navigating this split, balancing inventory and demand across steep-slope, low-slope, metal, coatingsand specialty systems. 

Labor adds another layer to the picture. The NRCA reported that construction employment added 17,000 jobs in May, according to Associated Builders and Contractors, while nonresidential construction added 15,700 jobs with gains in all three subsectors. Non-residential specialty trade contractors added 11,400 jobs, heavy and civil engineering added 2,600 jobs and nonresidential building added 1,700 jobs. More construction jobs are good for the overall economy, but they also increase competition for skilled labor. Roofing contractors already dealing with workforce challenges may find themselves competing not just with other roofers, but with the broader construction market for crew members, foremen, estimators, project managers and service technicians. 

Material costs are another concern. The Associated General Contractors of America reported that input prices for new nonresidential construction rose 1.8% in May and 8.4% year over year, far outpacing the 3.5% year-over-year increase in what contractors said they would charge for new nonresidential building construction. The same report noted significant increases in diesel, aluminum, copper, brass and structural steel, and said construction respondents reported higher prices for items including construction materials, HVAC equipment, roofing materials and steel products. For roofing, this points directly to margin pressure. Even when backlog is strong, contractors can struggle if material, fuel, freight and labor costs move faster than pricing. 

The path forward is not all negative. The same May numbers show that demand still exists, especially in non-residential, infrastructure and specialized building sectors. Dodge Construction Network reported that nonresidential starts were up 12.3% year to date through May, commercial and industrial construction gained 32.9% and manufacturing starts rebounded 116.1% month over month in May. For roofing companies that can diversify across service, maintenance, reroofing, restoration, metal, coatings, commercial replacement or public work, the current market may create opportunities to stabilize revenue even when one segment slows. 

The takeaway for roofing professionals is that May’s construction numbers are less about a single up-or-down market and more about a market that is shifting. Residential construction is under pressure. Nonresidential work is being lifted by large projects, but not every contractor has access to those opportunities. Backlog remains encouraging, but confidence is slipping. Jobs are being added, but labor remains competitive. Material costs are increasing, but customers are still watching pricescarefully. 

For roofing contractors, now is the time to stay close to the numbers, understand the sectors driving work in their region and protect margins through disciplined estimating, strong purchasing relationships and proactive communication with customers. The building industry is still moving, but it is moving unevenly. Roofing companies that understand where the momentum is — and where the pressure points are — will be better positioned to adapt. 

Source note: This article draws from NRCA coverage of contractor confidence, employment market and homebuilder sentiment, U.S. Census Bureau May residential construction data, Dodge Construction Network May construction starts data, National Association of Home Builders builder sentiment reporting and Associated General Contractors of America reporting on May construction input prices.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Turning technology promises into confident business decisions. 

There’s no shortage of technology promising to help contractors work faster while reducing costs and improving accuracy. But when a new solution comes to your attention, it raises an important question: how do you really know if it will deliver on those promises? 

That is where a demo becomes more than a simple sales step. It gives contractors a practical way to move from interest to understanding, helping them determine whether a platform truly fits the way their business operates. 

Eagleview One™ is a strong example of why that firsthand look matters. The platform brings accurate 2D and 3D property measurements together so contractors can quote with greater speed while limiting site visits and avoiding costly surprises throughout the project lifecycle. Those benefits may sound compelling on paper, but contractors rarely make decisions based on features alone. They need to see how those capabilities translate into real-world performance. 

A demo helps bridge that gap. Instead of imagining how faster quoting might work, contractors can watch measurement data move into an estimate and see how quickly that information can become a proposal. Rather than hoping the platform will reduce re-measurements or change orders, they can observe how it handles project details and adjustments in real time. That kind of visibility turns broad claims into tangible outcomes. 

That same visibility also brings clarity to the adoption process. Solutions like Eagleview One are designed to support multiple scopes of work, including roofing and siding measurements within a single platform. While that consolidation is appealing, contractors still need to understand how the technology will fit into their current workflow. A demo shows how the platform is used, how intuitive it feels and how well it connects with existing processes, which often determines whether adoption will feel smooth or disruptive. 

From there, the conversation naturally moves to cost and return on investment. Subscription-based pricing and volume discounts can help lower measurement costs, but pricing alone does not always tell the full story. During a demo, contractors can better understand where savings may come from as fewer site visits lead to less material waste and fewer change orders. Seeing those efficiencies in context helps decision-makers evaluate value with more confidence. 

That value becomes even more important in a competitive market. Contractors who use technology to streamline workflows and improve estimating accuracy are often better positioned to win work and serve customers well. A reliable measurement platform can support faster quoting and more efficient operations, but a demo gives contractors the opportunity to validate that advantage before making a commitment. 

Ultimately, scheduling a demo reduces uncertainty in a way that no email or brochure can. Whether contractors are evaluating Eagleview or another roofing technology solution, they need to know what they are looking at before getting in too deep. A live demonstration allows decision-makers to test assumptions, ask meaningful questions and see how a solution performs in practice. That experience leads to stronger, more informed decisions. 

If you are evaluating technologies that promise to improve efficiency and profitability, do not rely on descriptions alone. Take the time to see the platform in action. A demo is your opportunity to validate value, align the solution with your workflow and make decisions that create stronger results for your business and your customers. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Through workforce development, housing advocacy and practical jobsite resources, PEPA is helping contractors and manufacturers meet today’s challenges with confidence. 

The construction industry is moving through a time of change that is affecting contractors, manufacturers and the communities they serve. Workforce needs continue to shape business decisions, while housing demand and installation expectations are pushing the industry to think more strategically about how products are made, specified and installed. The Polymeric Exterior Products Association (PEPA) is meeting the moment with a practical, industry-minded approach that helps connect opportunity with real solutions.

A strong example of PEPA's work is their collaboration with the Building Talent Foundation. At a time when contractors continue to look for skilled labor, this effort helps connect employers with job seekers while also creating more visible pathways into the trades. It goes beyond simply filling open positions by connecting workforce access with training and certification programs that help new entrants build confidence and prepare for long-term success. 

That kind of alignment is important because bringing people into the industry is only the beginning. The greater opportunity is to create a system that helps them contribute at a higher level. By connecting recruitment with education and advancement, PEPA is helping strengthen the labor pipeline in a way that benefits contractors, manufacturers and the broader exterior products industry. 

Additionally, through articles and advocacy, PEPA is addressing housing affordability by connecting the national housing conversation to regulatory costs, zoning reform and access to code-compliant exterior products. In a PEPA article, “Addressing the Housing Crisis with Modern Zoning and Permitting,” the association points to the national shortage of affordable housing and notes that local permitting and zoning improvements can help reduce costs without compromising safety or quality. For contractors and manufacturers, that conversation matters because material choice can directly affect how efficiently homes are built and how accessible those homes are for buyers. 

They go on to highlight the work that PEPA has done to eliminate local bans on polymeric exteriors and describes zoning and permitting innovation as part of the broader housing solution. Articles and advocacy like this, aimed at protecting access to vinyl siding and other polymeric exterior products where local restrictions could limit options for builders and homeowners, position the association as both an advocate for material choice and a voice for practical construction solutions that support affordability, durability and long-term performance. 

That same practical focus shows up on the jobsite. PEPA’s updated Alternative Fastener Table is designed to support the decisions contractors make every day. Crews need installation guidance that is clear, accurate and aligned with code requirements and resources like this help simplify choices while supporting consistent application in the field. For crews, clearer guidance creates greater confidence in their work and more consistency from project to project. For building owners, it supports durability and performance over time. For the industry, it reinforces the quality standards that continue to build trust in polymeric exterior products. 

Overall, these efforts showcase PEPA’s ability to support the industry from several important angles without losing sight of the contractor experience. Workforce development, housing advocacy and jobsite resources all connect back to the same goal of helping professionals build better, work smarter and prepare for the future of exterior construction. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

The MCA Summer Meeting will drive innovation, education and industry growth.

As members of the Metal Construction Association (MCA) gather for their Summer Meeting, the conversations reflect an industry that continues to evolve with purpose. From technical education and market development to workforce recognition and major events, MCA is helping shape the future of metal construction while providing resources that support manufacturers, contractors, architects and design professionals. 

That leadership starts with a strong commitment to education and technical clarity. As demand grows for high-performing building systems, MCA continues to release updated technical bulletins and white papers that help the industry navigate changing codes, safety expectations and performance requirements. MetalCoffeeShop’s Karen Edwards participates in the MCA marketing committee and works to help amplify these important resources and events for the broader metal community. 

The latest updates address issues that are influencing projects across North America, including the use of foam plastic insulation within combustible wall assemblies, fire performance testing for metal composite materials and the changing landscape of cool roof requirements. By bringing these topics into focus, MCA is giving the industry practical guidance that supports better decisions in design, specification and installation. 

That same focus on practical support is also driving MCA’s work to expand opportunities for metal in residential construction. The new Residential Wall Marketing Initiative is designed to increase awareness and adoption of metal wall systems by clearly communicating their durability, design flexibility, low maintenance and long-term value. With member participation and support, the initiative will help fund outreach, tools and marketing resources that can open new doors in a rapidly growing segment of the market. 

As MCA looks to strengthen market awareness, it is also preparing for one of the industry’s most anticipated gatherings. METALCON 2026, scheduled for October 7-9 in Orlando, will celebrate its 35th anniversary with a renewed emphasis on hands-on education. MCA will have a prominent presence at the show through Metal Mastery Clinics that highlight best practices for standing seam systems, metal shingles and retrofit applications. 

The momentum around events and education also extends to the people who will carry the industry forward. MCA’s new 40 Under 40 program is designed to recognize emerging leaders who are already making an impact in metal construction. Alongside that recognition, the association continues to invest in workforce development through its scholarship program, providing financial support to students connected to member companies and helping build the next generation of industry professionals. 

Together, these efforts show how MCA continues to position metal as a high-value solution for both commercial and residential construction. Through technical leadership, collaborative engagement, market development and investment in future talent, the association is helping keep metal at the forefront of performance, sustainability and design innovation. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

As roofs take on a larger role in energy generation and rainwater management while supporting climate adaptation, partnerships between manufacturers, associations and contractors become increasingly important.

As roofing professionals around the globe respond to higher expectations for building performance, international collaboration is becoming essential to a more resilient future for the trade. For Wienerberger, one of the industry’s leading building envelope manufacturers, that commitment comes through its work with the International Federation for the Roofing Trade (IFD). 

Wienerberger provides sustainable building solutions across the entire building envelope, supporting new construction and renovation while bringing roof, wall, facade, paving, water and energy infrastructure solutions into a broader approach to the built environment. With operations in 28 countries and more than 200 production sites, the company is recognized as the world’s largest brick producer and a market leader in clay roof tiles in Europe. 

That roofing focus makes the company’s relationship with IFD especially meaningful. IFD brings together trade organizations, manufacturers and industry partners who serve the roofing profession while creating lasting connectionsthat support the shared professional, technical and business interests of the roofing trade internationally. 

As an IFD partner member, Wienerberger participates in a broader international roofing community where education and professional exchange help shape the continued evolution of the trade. Through this network, manufacturers and roofing professionals have more opportunities to share knowledge while understanding emerging needs and supporting stronger outcomes across the industry. 

For contractors, that connection matters because roofing is no longer only about the product installed on the roof. It is about delivering systems that perform while meeting higher expectations for sustainability and supporting buildings designed to last. IFD reinforces work through industry education and technical resources that encourage professional exchange while helping strengthen the trade. 

Wienerberger’s work across the building envelope aligns with many of these priorities as the company continues to emphasize climate-resilient solutions and more functional roof systems. As roofs take on a larger role in energy generation and rainwater management while supporting climate adaptation, partnerships between manufacturers, associations and contractors become increasingly important. 

By engaging in the IFD partner network, Wienerberger is helping advance a larger conversation about the future of roofing. The partnership brings product innovation together with trade expertise while supporting better buildingsand a more resilient, sustainable roofing industry around the world. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Ellsworth shares that she is looking forward to helping guide strategy and advocacy for the roofing industry in these new roles!  

Since 1886, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has advocated and support professionals across the construction industry through education, training and advocacy. NRCA operates through a board structure, with 35-40 directors and nine executive committee officers, all of whom are chosen through a nomination process.  

This year, we are thrilled to share that our very own Heidi J. Ellsworth will be joining the board! She was announced at the 139th NRCA Convention back in January, along with Greg Arnold, Matt Atkinson, Alexandra Chacon, Eric Dosch, Bryson Galloway, Dave Hesse, Anthony Kahny, Josh Kelly, Gregory Malcolm, Jonathan Reader and Tim Stephens.  

This incredible group will serve for the next three years, focusing on supporting strategy development and ensuring that the interests of NRCA members remain at the heart of operations. They will be led by an executive committee that includes Chad Collins as chairman of the board, Sherri Miles as chairman of the board-elect, Michelle Boykin as vice-chairman, Scott Kawulok as vice-chairman and Lynn Price as vice-chairman.  

And this is not the only board position Heidi will be taking on this year; she will also be joining the Roofing Alliance’s Board of Trustees! The Roofing Alliance is NRCA’s 501(C)(3) foundation and “serves as a catalyst for long-term growth, leadership and excellence across the roofing industry.” Their work includes everything from funding research and organizing workforce development sessions to coordinating philanthropic outreach and developing education resources. 

Overseeing all of these operations is their Board of Trustees, which is composed of “210 dedicated, diverse and thoughtful roofing contractors, manufacturers, suppliers and distributors, service providers and industry professionals united in their commitment to shape, strengthen and advance the roofing industry.” Heidi will be joining this distinguished leadership group for the 2026-27 cycle, under the leadership of Sherri Miles and John Campbell. 

Looking ahead, Heidi cannot wait to start making a difference:  

I am honored to serve on both the NRCA Board of Directors and as a trustee of the Roofing Alliance. The roofing industry has given me so much throughout my career, and the opportunity to contribute to these outstanding organizations is truly humbling. I am committed to bringing strong leadership, fresh ideas and thoughtful collaboration that will help strengthen our industry, support its future growth and ensure roofing continues to thrive for generations to come. 

Learn more about Heidi’s roles at www.nrca.net/about/leadership and www.roofingalliance.net/about/leadership.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

RCMA is encouraging greater participation from contractors and industry professionals while reinforcing the value that coatings bring to building performance, sustainability and roof longevity.

The Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) recently shared a strong message in their May newsletter, "RCMA's Latest in Roof Coatings!," of continued momentum across the roof coatings industry with a clear focus on contractor engagement, education and long-term industry growth.

A key opportunity highlighted in the newsletter is RCMA’s Project of the Year Award, which invites contractors to showcase their best roof coating projects. This program is designed to recognize outstanding craftsmanship while helping contractors gain visibility for work that extends roof life and improves performance. Submissions are open through June 30, 2026, offering a timely opportunity for contractors to put their projects in the spotlight.

At the same time, RCMA continues to expand its Contractor Membership program, positioning it as an important resource for companies looking to stay competitive and involved in industry conversations. Membership provides access to advocacy efforts, technical expertise, education and networking opportunities with manufacturers and peers. The organization emphasizes that contractor involvement plays a critical role in shaping standards and advancing the industry.

The newsletter also highlights ongoing technical leadership, including the release of a new Coatings Tech Note focused on transportation requirements under U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. This guidance helps manufacturers, contractors and distributors better understand classifications, shipping considerations and compliance requirements tied to roof coating products, reinforcing the importance of safe handling and accurate product knowledge. 

Education also continues to be a priority, with RCMA supporting learning through webinars along with their technical resources and industry conversations. A recent CoatingsCast™ episode featuring RCMA members Chris Huettig and Cody Wilson explores the value of contractor membership and the opportunities it creates for growth and connection across the industry. 

Across its committees, RCMA remains active in addressing regulatory updates, advancing research and supporting initiatives such as Environmental Product Declarations. New forums within the RCMA Member Center are also helping members collaborate more effectively, share insights and stay informed on industry developments impacting roof coatings across North America.

Looking ahead, RCMA is preparing for its 2026 Fall Meeting, taking place October 7 through 8 in Atlanta, Georgia. The event will bring together industry leaders, innovators and professionals for valuable discussions, networking and insights into the future of roof coatings. 

RCMA’s continued focus on recognition, education, advocacy and collaboration is helping drive awareness and growth across the coatings sector while creating meaningful opportunities for contractors to expand their businesses and influence the future of the industry.

To learn more about RCMA programs, membership and upcoming events, visit www.roofcoatings.org.  To connect with contractors, manufacturers and suppliers in the coatings industry, explore the directory and visit the RCMA directory at www.CoatingsCoffeeShop.com.