By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Understanding key updates and insights on the initiatives shaping the future of roofing as I prepare to join the NRCA board in June 2026. 

One of the most important resources we have in the roofing industry are our associations. They bring contractors, manufacturers, distributors and service providers together to solve challenges, advocate for our businesses and help move the industry forward. I am proud to be joining the board of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) in June of 2026 and as I continue to learn about new initiatives, ongoing challenges and meaningful advocacy efforts, I want to share this information with the industry. 

One of the things I appreciate most about NRCA is the communication and transparency coming from leadership. McKay Daniels, CEO of NRCA, consistently keeps members informed about what is happening behind the scenes, not just the wins, but also the challenges and priorities shaping the future of roofing. 

In a recent update to industry executive members, McKay shared, “Here is a rundown of some of the things the association has been up to recently. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, ideas or suggestions. NRCA is a volunteer-led organization… your input really matters.” 

That is exactly how McKay leads, with open arms and an open mind. It is a leadership style rooted in collaboration and listening, recognizing that some of the best ideas come directly from contractors and roofing professionals working in the field every day. Here are just a few updates from his recent communication and why they matter to the roofing industry. 

If there is one issue touching every contractor today, it is workforce. Whether companies are looking for labor, training future leaders or helping crews advance professionally, NRCA continues to invest heavily in workforce development and education. McKay shared that the association recently “delivered multiple CERTA Train-the-Trainer and private classes for members” while also completing PROCertification exams to help contractors meet project specification requirements. These programs continue to strengthen professionalism in roofing while creating career pathways for workers entering the trade. 

At the same time, NRCA is expanding its reach with the next generation. NRCA staff attended SkillsUSA competitions in California, Texas and Washington, with Texas and Washington representingnew state participation. That momentum is continuing nationally as NRCA prepares to support a record number of roofing competitors at the 2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta, Georgia this June. The growing participation reflects increasing awareness of roofing as a viable and rewarding career path and highlights the association’s commitment to introducing young people to opportunities in the roofing trades. 

By showing students what roofing careers can offer, NRCA is helping build awareness of an industry filled with opportunity, innovation and long-term career growth. 

NRCA also continues its commitment to education beyond the rooftop. The association recently hosted its annual LegalCon Virtual seminar, addressing issues contractors are navigating every day. McKay noted topics ranging from immigration issues and managing risk in roofing contracts to using telemetry fleet data as a legal advantage. LegalCon has become a trusted annual event, helping members stay informed on legal, operational and business risks impacting roofing companies. 

Of course, workforce conversations naturally lead to advocacy and this continues to be one of NRCA’s strongest areas of focus. Roofing Day in D.C. recently brought together 200 roofing professionals to meet with lawmakers across 158 House and Senate offices, advocating for workforce solutions and affordable housing policies. 

McKay also reported that “NRCA staff met with senior White House officials on immigration reform tied to security and workforce needs,” while the association endorsed the Workforce Apprenticeship Growth and Education Support (WAGES) Act, legislation proposing payroll tax credits to offset apprentice wages and training expenses. These efforts matter because advocacy happening in Washington D.C. directly impacts the future workforce available to roofing contractors across the country. 

Safety and worker wellbeing also remain front and center. NRCA served as a lead partner for the National Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction while continuing to educate contractors on fall prevention resources, including NRCA’s Roof Deck Integrity Assessment Tool. During Mental Health Awareness Month, the association also highlighted mental health resources and worker wellbeing initiatives, reinforcing that jobsite safety extends beyond physical hazards. 

The Roofing Alliance, the foundation for the industry, is also celebrating its 30th anniversary this year while continuing to make a tremendous impact through scholarships, research and education. From supporting students pursuing roofing-related careers to investing in long-term industry research, the Alliance continues to help strengthen roofing for future generations. McKay shared that the Alliance approved $114,000 in scholarships for the 2026-2027 academic year supporting 23 students, while more than 600 professionals have completed roofing training through Clemson University. 

Research through the Roofing Alliance is also uncovering important insights into jobsite culture and safety. McKay noted that ongoing research is showing that “inconsistent safety behavior is driven more by risk perception and workplace culture than by rule awareness,” reinforcing that strong safety cultures are built through leadership, trust and engagement, not simply enforcement. 

Technical leadership continues to be another core focus. McKay reported that the Manual Update Committee recently completed the next update to The NRCA Roofing Manual, with the 2027 Membrane Roof Systems volume now in design and printing. These resources continue to provide contractors with trusted technical guidance and best practices. 

As I prepare to join the NRCA board, I continue to be impressed by the depth of work happening every day on behalf of roofing professionals. Associations matter because they amplify our voices, create opportunities and help guide the future of our industry. I look forward to sharing more updates from NRCA as together we continue building a stronger future for roofing.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

In healthcare, roofing is not just about the physical buildings; it is about patient safety and uninterrupted care. 

Healthcare facilities are among the most demanding environments in construction. Hospitals, surgical centers and specialized care facilities operate around the clock with no tolerance for failure. While attention is often focused on advanced medical technology and clinical expertise, one of the most critical components protecting both is the roof. From new construction to restoration and especially reroofing, roofing systems play a vital role in ensuring patient safety, operational continuity and long-term performance. 

The need for high-performing healthcare buildings continues to grow. According to analysis from Sage Economics, healthcare hiring has been a major driver of job growth, fueled by an aging population and increased demand for services. As more patients enter the system and facilities expand to meet that demand, the buildings themselves must perform at a higher level than ever before. Roofing is a foundational part of that performance, protecting everything beneath it from the elements while supporting a safe and controlled indoor environment. 

Unlike other commercial buildings, healthcare facilities cannot afford disruption. A roof leak in a retail building may be inconvenient, but in a hospital it can be devastating. Water intrusion has the potential to shut down operating rooms, damage highly sensitive equipment and introduce contaminants that put vulnerable patients at risk. For individuals undergoing surgery or those with compromised immune systems, even minor environmental issues can have serious consequences. This is why roofing in healthcare is not simply about durability, it is about reliability and precision under any and all environmental conditions. 

Reroofing presents one of the most complex challenges in this environment. Healthcare buildings rarely have the option to pause operations, meaning roofing work must take place while patient care continues uninterrupted. Contractors must carefully plan around surgeries, emergency services and daily operations while controlling noise, vibration and odors. Infection control becomes a central focus, with strict protocols in place to ensure that construction activities do not introduce dust, debris or airborne contaminants into sensitive areas. This level of coordination requires not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of how healthcare facilities function on a day-to-day basis. 

The selection of roofing materials plays a critical role in minimizing disruption and maximizing performance. Low-odor and low-VOC products help maintain indoor air quality during installation, while fast-curing systems reduce the time a roof deck is exposed and vulnerable. Moisture-resistant assemblies are essential for preventing leaks and long-term deterioration, and energy-efficient systems contribute to the overall performance of the facility. Manufacturers such as Tremco Roofing & Building Maintenance have developed solutions specifically for healthcare environments, focusing on restoration and fluid-applied systems that can be installed with minimal tear-off, reducing noise, waste and disruption. 

Installation is equally crucial. Even the most advanced materials will not perform as intended without proper application. Healthcare roofing demands experienced contractors who understand infection control protocols, phased construction and the importance of communication with facility managers and medical staff. Every detail matters, from staging materials to scheduling work in a way that avoids interference. There is no margin for error when patient safety is involved. 

For many healthcare facilities, restoration offers a strategic advantage over full roof replacement. By extending the life of existing systems, restoration can reduce costs while significantly limiting disruption to operations. It also supports sustainability goals by minimizing waste and preserving resources. When combined with a proactive maintenance program, roof restoration can help facilities manage long-term capital planning while maintaining a high level of performance. 

Ongoing service and maintenance are essential for healthcare roofing. Regular inspections and preventative care allow contractors to identify and address small issues before they become major problems. This proactive approach helps protect the integrity of the building envelope, maintain indoor air quality and avoid costly emergency repairs that could disrupt patient care. For roofing contractors, it also represents an opportunity to build lasting relationships with medical providers by becoming a trusted partner in maintaining their facilities. 

As the healthcare industry continues to expand and evolve, the importance of reliable roofing will only increase. Every decision, from product selection to installation to long-term maintenance, directly impacts patient satisfaction, safety, operational continuity and the overall success of the facility. Roofing contractors and manufacturers who understand these unique demands are positioned to deliver solutions that go far beyond traditional construction.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

At RoofersCoffeeShop®, we love highlighting roofing professionals who are helping strengthen their communities. Thomas Roofing and Supply is a great example of that.

Across the roofing industry, family businesses continue to define what it means to serve communities with integrity and commitment. This month, RoofersCoffeeShop® is celebrating a company that was recommended for our Caught Doing Good series by Harvey Sorem, a longtime and respected leader in the Virginia roofing community. Harvey recognized Thomas Roofing and Supply of York County, Virginia, for their longstanding dedication to quality roofing, strong family values and commitment to the community.

Founded in 1973 by Fay and Pat Thomas, the company began with little more than a ladder, a pickup truck and determination. According to a recent York County feature, Pat worked alongside Fay on rooftops in those early days, helping build what would become a highly respected residential roofing contractor and roofing supply distributor serving homeowners throughout the region.

Today, sons Jason and Brian Thomas lead day-to-day operations, continuing the values their parents established from the beginning: hard work, honesty and exceptional customer service. Thomas Roofing specializes exclusively in residential roofing installation, maintenance and repair, a focused approach that Jason Thomas credits for helping the company consistently deliver quality craftsmanship.

The company also stands out for its investment in people. With nearly four dozen employees, Thomas Roofing values loyalty and long-term relationships. One team member, Shawn Sissel, has worked with the company for nearly 40 years, growing from a young crew member into a lead foreman. That kind of employee retention says a great deal about company culture.

Thomas Roofing’s dedication has earned recognition including an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and a 2025 Bronze Award for Best Roofing Company from Coastal Virginia Magazine. Even more inspiring, the next generation is already learning the trade, with Jason’s son Zac becoming part of the family business and continuing the company’s legacy.

At RoofersCoffeeShop, we love highlighting roofing professionals who are making a difference every day and helping strengthen their communities. Thomas Roofing and Supply is truly Caught Doing Good. Special thanks to Harvey Sorum for bringing this outstanding company to our attention.

Read the full York County story.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Protecting people, property and performance through proper coordination, education and certified expertise. 

Lightning protection is one of the most overlooked, yet critical components of the building envelope and roofing contractors are right in the middle of it. Every roof system, whether residential or commercial, plays a direct role in how a building interacts with lightning. Yet too often, lightning protection systems are treated as an afterthought rather than an integrated part of roofing design, installation and long-term maintenance.

At its core, a lightning protection system is designed to safely intercept, conduct and dissipate lightning energy into the ground. These systems use highly conductive materials such as copper or aluminum to create a low-resistance path that directs electrical current away from the structure, preventing fire, structural damage and injury.

For roofing contractors, that means every penetration, attachment point, retrofit and reroof project has the potential to impact how that system performs. Roofing is where lightning protection lives. Air terminals, conductors and bonding components are all installed on or through the roof system. When roofing contractors are unaware of how these systems function, even routine work can compromise protection.

During reroofing projects in particular, the risks increase significantly. Removing and reinstalling lightning protection components without proper expertise can lead to system failure or non-compliance. In fact, re-roofing is rarely as simple as reinstalling existing components, and unqualified handling is a major source of substandard systems. Additionally, changes to rooftop equipment, foot traffic or weathering can degrade both the roof and the lightning protection system over time. Without coordination, roofing work can unintentionally break continuity in the system, reducing its ability to safely direct lightning energy.

For residential roofing contractors, the importance of lightning protection is growing as homes incorporate more technology, solar systems and complex roof designs. A properly installed system helps protect not only the structure but also electronics, appliances and occupants. On the commercial side, the stakes are even higher. Larger structures are more likely to be struck by lightning due to their size and height. A single strike can damage roofing systems, disrupt operations and result in major financial loss or safety risks. For facility managers, this makes coordination with roofing contractors essential throughout the life of the building.

One of the most important takeaways for roofing contractors is this: Lightning protection is a specialized trade. Working with certified lightning protection professionals is not optional, it is essential. Organizations like the Lightning Protection Institute (LPI), found at lightning.org, emphasize the importance of certified specialists who are trained in design, installation and inspection. And these professionals do more than install systems. They educate roofing contractors and facility managers on how to properly work around these systems during installation, service and reroofing. This includes understanding proper bonding, maintaining conductor continuity and ensuring that any rooftop additions are integrated into the system. 

Industry leaders like Kelley Collins of the LPI continue to advocate for education and collaboration across trades. Through conferences and industry engagement, they help bridge the gap between roofing contractors, engineers and lightning protection experts. Lightning protection is not a one-and-done installation. Like roofing systems, it requires ongoing inspection and maintenance. Industry standards recommend regular visual inspections and periodic comprehensive testing to ensure continued performance.

For roofing contractors, this creates an opportunity to add value by working alongside certified lightning professionals during maintenance and service work. Whether replacing the roof, adding rooftop equipment or performing repairs, coordination ensures the system remains intact and effective.  The message coming from industry organizations is clear. Collaboration between trades is critical. Roofing contractors, lightning protection specialists, engineers and facility managers must work together to ensure systems are properly designed, installed and maintained. 

This is not just about compliance. It is about protecting lives, preserving property and ensuring long-term building performance.  As roofing continues to evolve with new materials, technologies and system complexity, understanding lightning protection will only become more important. Contractors who take the time to learn, partner with certified professionals and integrate these systems into their workflows will be better positioned to deliver complete, high-performing roofing solutions. Because when lightning strikes, the roof is the first line of defense, and it has to be ready. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Inside a visit to Schulte Building Systems with Sherwin-Williams showcasing innovation, people and performance.

My recent visit to Schulte Building Systems alongside Sherwin-Williams offered a firsthand look at what happens when advanced manufacturing meets deep-rooted craftsmanship and an exceptional company culture. It was more than a plant tour; it was an inside view of how innovation and people work together to drive the metal building industry forward. 

Walking through the facility, the scale of automation immediately stands out. Overhead cranes move massive steel components seamlessly across the plant while robotics and advanced machinery handle precise fabrication with efficiency and consistency. With three state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities serving the Midwest and Southeast, Schulte continues to invest in advanced technologies that drive precision and quality. The integration of coil coatings from Sherwin-Williams plays a critical role in ensuring durability, performance and long-term protection for metal roofing and building systems. These coatings are engineered to deliver corrosion resistance, color consistency and long-term performance across a wide range of building applications. This level of automation is not just about speed, it is about delivering consistent, high-quality products that meet the demands of modern construction across commercial buildings, metal roofing systems and the fast-growing barndominium market. 

What truly sets Schulte apart is how technology and human expertise work side by side. While robotics handle repetition and scale, the craftsmanship of skilled welders brings precision and integrity to every component. Watching these professionals work in tandem with advanced machinery reinforces an important truth, innovation does not replace people, it elevates them. The welders’ attention to detail ensures that each structural element performs as intended, contributing to the overall strength and reliability of complete metal building systems. 

Beyond the technology and production, the culture at Schulte Building Systems is what makes the company truly special. As a generational, family-owned business, their commitment to employees is evident in everything they do. One of the most memorable highlights was learning about their Easter weekend celebration, where the company hosts a massive gathering featuring more than 750 pounds of crawfish along with catfish, hushpuppies and all the traditional favorites. This is not just an event; it is a reflection of a culture that values people, connection and appreciation. That kind of environment builds loyalty, pride and a workforce that is deeply invested in the success of the company and the quality of its products. 

Schulte Building Systems serves a wide range of industries, from large-scale commercial buildings to agricultural structures, barndominiums and metal roofing and siding systems. Their role as a manufacturer of pre-engineered metal buildings and components supports architects, builders and contractors across multiple sectors. By combining advanced manufacturing, premium coatings from Sherwin-Williams and a workforce grounded in craftsmanship and culture, Schulte is helping to build more than structures, they are helping to build stronger communities. This visit was a powerful reminder that the future of construction is not just about technology. It is about the people behind it, the partnerships that support it and the culture that sustains it. 

To learn more about high-performance metal coatings and building solutions, visit Sherwin-Williams on the MetalCoffeeShop directory. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth, The Coffee Shops. 

From culture to career growth, students share what matters most as they prepare to enter the roofing workforce. 

At the International Roofing Expo (IRE), the Roofing Alliance Student Competition showcased more than the technical skills of construction management students. It provided a powerful look into the mindset of the next generation entering the roofing industry. 

Through a series of interviews conducted by RoofersCoffeeShop with teams from Bradley University, the University of Florida, Auburn University, Colorado State University and Clemson University, a clear and consistent message emerged about what these future professionals are looking for as they begin their careers: Company culture.  

Students consistently emphasized the importance of working in an environment built on respect, collaboration and connection. They are not simply looking for a job. They are looking for a workplace where they feel valued, supported and part of a team. Many described wanting to work for companies where leadership is approachable and where success is shared, not dictated by hierarchy. 

That emphasis on culture naturally extends to relationships. Students spoke about the importance of camaraderie, open communication and trust among coworkers and leadership. In an industry known for its fast pace and demanding schedules, having a strong team environment is not just a benefit, it is essential. 

Work-life balance also emerged as a key priority. While these students understand the commitment required in construction, they are looking for flexibility and employers who respect their time. They recognize that balance leads to better performance and long-term career satisfaction. 

Opportunities for growth and advancement are equally important. Students want to join organizations that invest in their development, offer mentorship and provide clear pathways for career progression. They are eager to learn, take on responsibilityand build their careers, but they expect support and guidance along the way. 

Many also expressed a desire to stay engaged and challenged in their roles. They are drawn to dynamic environments where they can contribute across multiple aspects of a project, gaining hands-on experience and diversifying their skill sets. 

Representation and inclusion were also part of the conversation, particularly among women entering construction. Feeling supported, represented and included in the workplace is an important factor as they evaluate potential employers and long-term career paths.  Students are looking for companies that care about their people, their projects and their impact. Whether through safety, innovation or community involvement, they want to be part of organizations that stand for something meaningful. 

Perhaps most encouraging for the industry is the growing enthusiasm for roofing itself. Many students entered the competition with limited exposure to roofing, but through hands-on experience, mentorship and engagement at IRE, they developed a more genuine interest in pursuing careers in the field. 

The Roofing Alliance Student Competition continues to play a vital role in building a strong and motivated workforce for the future. 

To hear directly from these students, watch the interviews: 

• Bradley University: www.youtube.com/live/xfZ_pOO1UYk 
• University of Florida: www.youtube.com/live/SIEy9ofUUuo 
• Auburn University: www.youtube.com/live/E2nYV7TRhAY 
• Colorado State University: www.youtube.com/live/aSD9TeF-b94 
• Clemson University: www.youtube.com/live/RV1wsnO5qyk 

To learn more about the Roofing Alliance and its workforce development initiatives, visit roofingalliance.net. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Ronn Levine’s article dives into the challenges and opportunities in the roofing industry presented by labor, economic and technology trends. 

Recently, award-winning writer and editor Ronn Levine wrote an article for LBM Journal diving into the roles technology, relationships and training play in the roofing industry. The article provides great insight into how roofing professionals can find success in a challenging economic and labor market.  

Throughout the article, Ronn spoke to industry experts, such as Jack Gottesman (marketing and brand director at IKO), Sarah Lograsso (director of marketing and product management for Westlake Royal Building Products), Brian Cross (operations manager of Rocky Mountain Snow Guards),  David Ellis (VP for residential marketing at GAF) and The Coffee Shops™ President Heidi J. Ellsworth!  

In their conversation, Ronn and Heidi dove into the challenges and growth that Heidi has seen through the lens of RoofersCoffeeShop®, which will be celebrating its 25th anniversary next year!  

First she highlighted the labor shortages, which has been a persistent issue over the years, explaining, “Contractors and associations are working very strongly on workforce development, getting back into the high schools, the vocational schools, and thinking, ‘How do we get more skilled labor?’”  

From there, the conversation shifted to the economic outlook for roofing. One thing Heidi specifically mentioned was the semi-recent advancement of private equity firms, sharing, “The mergers of many companies into regional and national players, along with the influx of private equity funds, has changed the competitive marketplace.”  

Interested in the rest of Ronn and Heidi’s conversation, as well as the experts he interviewed? Read the whole article on LBM Journal’s website!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

This educational session in Salt Lake City focuses on protecting people, property and roofing professionals in high snow regions. 

RoofersCoffeeShop® and MetalCoffeeShop® recently attended a powerful and eye-opening snow retention training hosted by TRA Snow and Sun at the AGC of Utah Training Center in Salt Lake City. Roofing contractors from across Utah and the western United States gathered to better understand one of the most dangerous and often underestimated risks in roofing, the weight and movement of snow. 

The reality is simple and sobering. Snow is heavy. When it releases from a roof, it does not gently slide away, it can avalanche with devastating force. The training shared a striking example showing how quickly that weight adds up. In a 100 pound per square foot snow load scenario, just a small section of snow coming off a roof can weigh thousands of pounds. When that mass hits a person, the results can be catastrophic and often fatal. 

But the danger does not stop with human safety. Uncontrolled snow movement can rip gutters from the structure, tear off rooftop accessories, crush landscaping, destroy outdoor furniture and cause significant structural damage. For building owners, this means unexpected costs and liability. For contractors, it introduces a serious level of risk that cannot be ignored. 

Leading the training were Ben Anderson and Mindy Dahlquist, along with TRA teammates including Terry Anderson, founder and CEO, who shared the company’s history and answered questions. Their passion for engineered snow retention systems was evident throughout the day. They emphasized that snow retention is not an accessory, it is a critical part of a complete roofing system in any region that experiences significant snowfall. 

The training also featured Brava Roof Tile, who demonstrated how snow retention systems integrate with their premium roofing products. Their participation highlighted the importance of designing snow retention solutions that work seamlessly with different roofing materials, ensuring both performance and aesthetics. Seeing how snow retention interacts with synthetic roofing systems reinforced the need for a customized, engineered approach for every roof type. 

Also in attendance were leaders from key industry associations, including the Utah Roofing Contractors Association (URCA) and the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA), represented by Kris Hitesman of Capitol Roofing Service. Their presence reinforced the importance of collaboration across the industry to promote best practices, safety and ongoing education. 

A key part of the training focused on specific product applications, including the proper use and installation of snow brackets and snow fences. Attendees learned when each system is appropriate, how they perform under load and how to correctly install them to maximize effectiveness. The TRA team also demonstrated the use of their specialized clamp systems for installing snow fences without compromising roof integrity. Another major takeaway was TRA’s deep commitment to testing. The team shared how they rigorously test their systems to ensure the highest levels of performance in real-world conditions. Their approach goes beyond standard requirements, with a focus on making sure every product meets and exceeds building codes and delivers reliable, engineered protection. This dedication to testing reinforces confidence for contractors, architects and building owners alike. 

The training focused on three key areas, proper engineering, correct installation and effective communication with building owners. Contractors learned that every roof in a high snow area should be evaluated for snow retention and that systems must be designed based on load calculations, roof design and site conditions. Guesswork is not acceptable when lives and property are at stake. Equally important was the discussion around liability. Contractors were reminded that when snow avalanches off a roof, building owners often pursue legal action against everyone involved in the project. This includes manufacturers, designers and especially the installing contractor. One of the strongest takeaways was the need to include snow retention in every proposal and contract. If an owner chooses not to include it, contractors should require a formal sign-off acknowledging the risk. This step is critical for protecting roofing professionals from future claims. Beyond risk mitigation, the training also highlighted the opportunity for contractors to build stronger relationships with their customers. By educating owners on the importance of snow retention, contractors position themselves as trusted advisors, not just installers. This creates ongoing sales opportunities and reinforces the value of quality roofing systems that perform in real-world conditions.

Adding a bit of fun to the day, the TRA team also handed out custom trucker hats with unique branded badges, a small but memorable touch that reflected their strong culture and connection to the contractor community. Demonstrating a strong commitment to education and safety for the entire industry, the training was live streamed through TRA’s YouTube channel and will be available on demand through both MetalCoffeeShop and RoofersCoffeeShop YouTube channels as well as within TRA’s directories. This extended access ensures that contractors across the country can benefit from the training, reinforcing TRA’s dedication to making critical safety education widely available. For contractors working in snow-prone regions, the message is clear. Snow retention is not optional. It is essential. By understanding the risks, specifying engineered systems and educating customers, roofing professionals can protect their businesses while delivering roofs that truly perform. 

To learn more about engineered snow retention systems and how to integrate them into your roofing projects, visit TRA Snow and Sun or explore their directories on RoofersCoffeeShop® and MetalCoffeeShop® and view the full training on demand. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Join RCMA this October in Atlanta for the 2026 Fall Meeting.

At The Coffee Shops™, we are committed to sharing timely industry information while supporting the associations that move roofing forward. Organizations like the Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) play a vital role in advancing education, advocacy and innovation, and we are proud to help promote their work and encourage membership across the industry. 

That momentum is clear in 2026. Under the leadership of President Josh Poole, RCMA continues to expand its impact through growing contractor engagement, strong technical initiatives and new leadership guiding the association forward. 

RCMA recently welcomed new board leadership, including George Daisey of Dow Chemical Company as supplier vice president, along with Brent Crenshaw of EPS Materials and Jayne Rollason of Polyglass USA, Inc. as directors. Their experience and commitment reflect the strength of leadership shaping the future of roof coatings. 

A key focus continues to be RCMA’s growing Contractor Membership, bringing applicators into the conversation around codes, standards and best practices. This inclusion ensures that real-world insights are helping guide the industry while giving contractors access to technical resources, education and valuable industry connections. 

RCMA is also advancing technical excellence with resources like Coatings Tech Note 6 on white roof coatings, providing practical guidance on performance, application and energy efficiency. At the same time, member companies are driving innovation across the industry, with SOPREMA USA and Fluid Applied Roofing (FAR) recognized at the 2026 International Roofing Expo (IRE) for their award-winning technologies. Collaboration remains at the core of RCMA’s success, with new members like BITEC® and AB Specialty Silicones strengthening the association’s network and expertise. 

Looking ahead, the RCMA 2026 Fall Meeting, taking place October 7–8 in Atlanta, Georgia, will bring together industry leaders, technical experts and decision-makers for two days of collaboration and forward-thinking discussion. For contractors, manufacturers and suppliers, this is the time to get involved.

Plan to attend the Fall Meeting and be part of the conversations shaping the future of roof coatings. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.  

From above the rooftops of New York’s Financial District, Eagleview Horizon ™ introduces a new era of geospatial intelligence.  

From 60 floors above Manhattan, with sweeping views of rooftops stretching toward the skyline’s endless horizon, Eagleview introduced a product designed to change how the industry sees and works with property data. The setting at the Roebling Room at Manhatta was more than symbolic. It perfectly reflected the vision behind Eagleview Horizon™; a new way to look across properties, portfolios and entire regions with clarity, speed and intelligence.  

Attending the launch, I was struck by how fitting it was to stand above the very rooftops that define so much of our industry. With New York City’s complex landscape below, Eagleview unveiled a technology built to simplify that complexity through advanced geospatial intelligence and agentic AI. With a room full of industry leaders, it was a proud moment for me personally to attend the launch, since I was also a part of the Eagleview startup. Horizon is truly a culmination of the hard work put in from the very beginning by many people throughout the last three decades who have been focused on empowering industries with highly precise data produced from aerial imagery.  

Eagleview Horizon is not just another tool. It represents the evolution of more than 25 years of verified property intelligence combined with cutting-edge artificial intelligence. Built on the foundation of Eagleview One™, the platform leverages one of the most comprehensive aerial imagery datasets in the country to deliver actionable insights across roofing, construction, insurance, government and property management.  

What makes Horizon stand out is its ability to act as an intelligent partner rather than a passive platform. Users can interact with AI agents to analyze properties, identify opportunities and make decisions faster than ever before. Whether it is a roofing contractor identifying storm-damaged areas or a property manager prioritizing maintenance across thousands of units, the system transforms workflows that once took hours into minutes.  

From a roofing perspective, the implications are significant. Contractors can now request detailed, color-coded maps showing aging roofs within a defined radius of a storm, filtered by critical data points such as roof type, size and condition. This level of targeting has the potential to redefine how contractors approach sales, inspections and long-term planning. It is truly a game changer.  

Today, the reach of Eagleview One and Eagleview Horizon extends far beyond roofing, addressing a much broader ecosystem. Insurance professionals can prioritize claims based on damage likelihood. Government agencies can better assess risk and plan infrastructure. Solar companies can refine prospecting and improve conversion. Across industries representing more than $1 trillion in economic activity, the common thread is the need for faster, more accurate decision-making driven by reliable data.  

What resonated throughout the launch was the emphasis on trust. Every insight delivered by Eagleview Horizon is backed by high-resolution imagery and verified property data. In an era where AI is often questioned for accuracy, this commitment to data integrity sets a new standard. The atmosphere at the launch reinforced that message. Looking out over the city, it was easy to see the scale of what Eagleview is addressing; millions of structures, each with their own story, condition and opportunity.  

The launch was just the beginning. Eagleview Horizon was featured in The Wall Street Journal and on video screens in Times Square. The full launch will take place in August of 2026.  This first step was not just memorable but a proud moment for the roofing industry overall.  

As the event concluded and the city's lights began to reflect off the rooftops below, one thing was clear; Eagleview Horizon is not just about seeing properties from above. It is about understanding them in entirely new ways and turning that understanding into real-world results.  

For contractors, manufacturers, insurers and property professionals, this launch signals a shift. The horizon is no longer a distant line. With the right technology, it is now a starting point for smarter decisions and stronger business outcomes.  

For more information on Eagleview Horizon and Eagleview One, visit the Eagleview directory on RoofersCoffeeShop.