By Emma Peterson. 

What Pat Hiltman and Joe Sorrentino have seen the industry learn over the years. 

While at the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) 2026 show, Heidi J. Ellsworth had the opportunity to host two industry veterans on our sound stage – Pat Hiltman and Joe Sorrentino. Pat, who is the southeast regional manager of USG Securock Roof Boards, and Joe, who is the owner of JoeSorrentino LLC, both started in the roofing industry in the 1970s. In the decades between that beginning and today, they have not only established themselves as industry leaders and experts, but also watched the industry grow exponentially. In the conversation, they highlighted a couple of the major changes they have witnessed.  

Energy efficient design advancements 

One of the changes that Pat and Joe have both seen in the industry is how we build energy-efficient structures. Joe explained:  

When we started in the industry, I remember there was a lot of research on how making homes tight would save on energy...And this research was being driven by all these presentations where they would predict that energy costs were going to be more than your mortgage. Well, we know that hasn't happened, but what has happened is finally within the last, say, 20 years, we're now learning we need to build commercial buildings tight as well. 

And the tightening of that envelope is only one half of the story in how we have made buildings more energy efficient over the course of Joe and Pat’s careers. The other key part of the story is ventilation. Pat explained, “If you look at how the industry has trended, we went from having kind of open commercial buildings to tightening them up. But then we went too far and had sick building syndrome. Today, the big thing we’re all working on is using ventilation to find the right balance.” 

A growing relationship between consultants and contractors  

Another area that has seen a lot of change over the years is the relationship dynamic between consultants and contractors. Even just 30 years ago, building consultants and contractors did not often get along, however in light of more complex projects, like the energy efficiency challenges mentioned earlier, that is beginning to change. As Joe put it, “Collaboration is critical to success and also pushing our entire industry forward...It’s long been uncomfortable for consultants and contractors to work together, but the more you are uncomfortable and get through it, the stronger you become.” 

Want to hear more about how the roofing industry has changed over the decades? Check out the whole soundstage interview with Joe and Pat!

By Jenny Yu.  

Attendees of the 2026 IIBEC Convention gained insights, education and networking opportunities. 

On March 12-15, 2026, the 2026 IIBEC International Convention and Trade Show delivered on its promise to bring together roofing and building enclosure professionals for education, collaboration and innovation. In an episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth spoke with Brian Pallasch, EVP and CEO of the International Institute of Building Encloser Consultants (IIBEC), about the key takeaways that continue to shape how contractors, consultants and manufacturers work together. 

For Brian, one central theme for the conference was collaboration. “It really is about the partnership,” Brian stated. “When the contractor, the architect, the building enclosure consultant and the manufacturer work together, it’s to the benefit of the owner and the building. It’s a team.” As building systems grow more complex, this team approach is becoming essential across the industry. 

Brian also emphasized that IIBEC members play a critical role in ensuring quality and performance. “Our members are there to help the owner, the roofing contractor and the manufacturer get the job done — well done and right,” he said. That focus on quality was evident in both the educational sessions and conversations happening on the trade show floor. 

In addition, another key topic present throughout the conference and trade show was the long-term durability of building performance. “The idea of commissioning is, as buildings get more complex, you want to make sure that plans are actually being followed on the job site,” Brian explained, adding that building owners are increasingly focused on results: “They want to make sure that the building that they paid for is the building that they’re getting.” 

The Coffee Shops™ was thrilled to be part of such a successful event, recording live interviews that highlighted the innovation, learning and networking in strong supply. One standout moment included a Coffee Conversations® sponsored by Western Colloid Fluid Applied Roofing and Coating Systems, featuring a panel of industry experts who discussed the factors shaping the future of the roofing and building enclosure industry. 

“We had Lauren Morley, owner and president of R3NG Roofing and Gutters; Greg Hlavaty,  president of Western Colloid; and two amazing consultants, Sean Connolly and Dustin Smoot,” Megan Ellsworth of The Coffee Shops shared. “It was a fabulous conversation.” 

Other highlights included a state-of-the-industry address by RCS Influencer and Adams & Reese LLP Partner Trent Cotney; a live demo showcasing the strength of USG Securock® cover boards; and visits with Johns Manville and Polyglass at their hospitality booths. 

Overall, as the industry continues to evolve, IIBEC remains a hub for innovation, connection and professional growth. 

Listen to the full podcast to hear more insights about the 2026 IIBEC International Convention and Trade Show.

By Dani Sheehan. 

The push for stronger, more adaptable roof assemblies is about giving contractors the tools they need to install with confidence today while knowing the system will hold up against whatever comes next. 

From increasingly severe weather to evolving building use, roofing contractors play a huge role in helping building owners prepare for the future. In a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Derrick Hutchinson, director of sales for Securock® Brand roofing at USG, shared how contractor feedback continues to shape the evolution of roof assemblies, especially when it comes to durability and long-term performance. 

Designing for a more demanding environment 

Roofing has always been about protection, but conditions are becoming less predictable and more extreme. Derrick pointed to a clear trend contractors are already combatting: “We’re seeing how storms are more frequent, hurricanes are getting stronger, hail is getting bigger. It’s just wild.” These extreme weather events are driving a shift in how materials are evaluated and specified. It’s no longer enough for a product to meet baseline performance standards. Products must hold up under repeated stress, both during installation and over the life of the roof. 

“We’re always thinking about durability,” Derrick explained. “What is durable enough so that when the contractors handle [our products], they feel good installing it? But also, when there’s a storm, how do you make sure that your products will perform extremely well?” Contractors need materials that install cleanly and consistently, but they also need confidence that those same materials will protect the building when conditions push the system to its limits. 

USG has approached that challenge by engineering cover boards that prioritize both strength and consistency across applications. Products like Securock® Gypsum-Fiber roof boards are designed with high compressive and flexural strength, helping systems better withstand wind uplift, hail impact and the realities of rooftop traffic.  

Future-proofing the roof system 

Durability alone isn’t enough. As Derrick recognized, “You may be installing a roof today, but it could be two years down the line, and the building owner might be asking ‘What can I do about my electricity bill?’” Contractors are increasingly being asked to think long past the initial installation date. Whether it’s adding solar arrays, additional rooftop equipment or even amenity spaces, the expectations for what a roof can support are expanding. 

Derrick joked that when the industry hears “solar ready” it automatically hears “cover board” because of how well the two components go together. Having a system designed with future loads and use cases in mind allows building owners to adapt over time without starting from scratch. He shared an example of a school using its roof as a hands-on training space for students learning to install solar systems: “You’re going to have kids going up there every day, installing a solar system, taking it apart, installing it again, and you’ll know the roof will continue to perform like no other.” 

All of this points to a bigger industry shift: resilience and longevity are no longer nice to have but are essential to controlling long-term costs. By extending the life of the system and reducing maintenance demands, you can help building owners see the bigger financial picture.  

Built with contractors in mind 

What ties all of this together is the role contractors play in shaping these solutions in the first place. From responding to extreme weather to planning for future building needs, the evolution of roofing systems is being driven by real-world challenges in the field. Through its Securock® roof board portfolio, USG continues to invest in solutions shaped by contractor feedback, helping you build systems that are not only resilient, but ready for the future. 

Listen to the full podcast episode to learn more about future-proofing roof systems in response to climate pressures, aging buildings and new performance demands.

Mason brings more than 25 years of experience in the building products industry, with senior leadership roles spanning operations, sales, marketing, product management and strategy. 

USG Corporation today announced that Jimmy Mason will join the company as president, Gypsum, and senior vice president, USG Corporation, effective June 1, 2026. In this role, Mason will provide strategic direction and leadership for USG’s Gypsum business units and teams.

Mason brings more than 25 years of experience in the building products industry, with senior leadership roles spanning operations, sales, marketing, product management and strategy. Most recently, he served as senior vice president of the New Construction business segment at American Woodmark, where he also led corporate marketing and product management. Prior to that, Mason spent 18 years with LP Building Solutions, most recently serving as executive vice president of the Oriented Strand Board business.

“After a thorough vetting process, I’m excited that Jimmy Mason will be leading our Gypsum business into its next chapter,” said Chris Macey, president and CEO of USG Corporation. “He has spent his career in building products, he knows the industry and many of our customers and he will be a great addition for our teams.”

“I’m honored to join USG and lead the Gypsum business,” said Jimmy Mason. “USG has an outstanding reputation for its people, its customer relationships and its commitment to operational excellence. I’m excited to support the team, serve our customers and keep improving how we execute every day.”

USG’s Gypsum division is one of the largest and most complex networks of its kind in North America. In this role, Mr. Mason will focus on strengthening customer partnerships, supporting the division’s people and operations, and helping guide its next phase of growth. He will report directly to Chris Macey, president and CEO of USG Corporation.

About USG Corporation

USG Corporation, an industry-leading manufacturer of building products and innovative solutions, is the parent company of CGC and USG LATAM. Headquartered in Chicago, we serve construction markets around the world with wall, ceiling, flooring, sheathing and roofing products that enable our customers to build the outstanding spaces where people live, work and play. For additional information, visit usg.com.

CEO Christopher Griffin will retire June 30, 2026, after more than 30 years at USG Corporation.

USG Corporation, North America’s leading building materials manufacturer, today announced that President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Christopher Griffin will retire later this year after more than 30 years of service to USG. Concurrent with this news, USG’s Board of Directors and owner Knauf Group, have appointed Christopher Macey — currently USG’s chief operating officer (COO) — as president and CEO, effective April 1, 2026.

Celebrating a legacy of Lleadership as USG approaches its 125th year

Mr. Griffin’s retirement marks the conclusion of a distinguished career spanning more than 35 years in the building materials industry, including over 30 years with USG Corporation and its subsidiaries. Since his appointment as CEO in 2019 following the company’s acquisition by Knauf Group, Mr. Griffin has overseen a period of historic growth, industry-leading innovation and consistent operational excellence across North America.

"It has been the honor of my professional life to lead USG and work alongside the most talented team in the industry," said Christopher Griffin, outgoing president and CEO of USG Corporation. "Since I joined nearly three decades ago, we have lived up to our reputation for innovation while investing in our people, modernizing our facilities, and being the best and easiest building materials manufacturer to do business with for our customers. As we approach USG’s 125th anniversary, I am proud of what we have accomplished together and am confident the company is well positioned for its next chapter of growth over the next century.”

Under Mr. Griffin’s leadership, USG successfully navigated its transition to a privately held company under Knauf ownership, while significantly expanding its market-leading positions in wallboard and ceilings. His tenure has been defined by a "customer-first" philosophy and a commitment to safety and employee engagement that has consistently surpassed industry benchmarks.

“On behalf of the Knauf family and USG’s Board of Directors, I want to sincerely thank Mr. Griffin for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to our people, our customers and our performance. He leaves the company well positioned for the future,” said Dr. Uwe Knotzer, general partner of Knauf Group. “We warmly welcome Christopher Macey as USG’s next president and CEO and look forward to working with him to build on our momentum and continue delivering for customers and communities across North America.”

A leader for the next chapter

Mr. Macey brings more than 30 years of experience in the building materials industry and a strong record of operational leadership and commercial execution. Most recently, he served as chief operating officer at USG, where he led the company's manufacturing, supply chain and digital transformation initiatives. Previously, Mr. Macey served in several senior leadership roles, leading CGC (Canada) and USG Mexico/LATAM, and more recently, as including president of USG’s Gypsum Division.

In his new role as president and CEO, Mr. Macey will be responsible for driving USG’s strategic priorities, including continued investment in manufacturing, customer service excellence and talent development across the business. Incoming president and CEO, Christopher Macey said: “USG’s rich history and reputation for excellence are well known in our sector. I am grateful for the strong foundation Chris Griffin and the USG team have established, and I look forward to working together as we continue to serve our customers and innovate for the future.”

Additional quotes

"The appointment of Chris Macey as CEO ensures that our relationship-first approach to business remains our top priority. Chris has been a vital partner to our Latin American operations for years. His transition to president and CEO of USG is a win for our customers and our people, and we are excited to keep winning together under his leadership." — Fernando Fernandez, president, USG LATAM

“Chris Macey’s deep history with the Canadian business gives our team at CGC immense confidence as he takes on this new role as president and CEO of USG Corporation. Having led the Canadian business himself, Mr. Macey understands our unique customer needs in the market. We look forward to building on the momentum established under Christopher Griffin’s leadership and continuing our growth across Canada.” — Steve Youngblut, president, CGC Inc.

About USG Corporation

USG Corporation, an industry-leading manufacturer of building products and innovative solutions, is the parent company of CGC and USG LATAM. Headquartered in Chicago, we serve construction markets around the world with wall, ceiling, flooring, sheathing and roofing products that enable our customers to build the outstanding spaces where people live, work and play. For additional information, visit usg.com.

About Knauf Group

The Knauf Group is the parent company of USG. As a global manufacturer of building materials and construction systems, Knauf employs more than 42,000 employees across 300+ production facilities and sales organizations in 90+ countries. For more information, visit: knauf.com/en.

USG officially introduces Chris Macey as CEO.

Today USG Corporation marks the official leadership transition of Chris Macey to president and chief executive officer. Chris Macey, a 30-year industry veteran who recently served as USG’s chief operating officer, takes the helm following a planned succession process first announced earlier this year.

“I am honored to lead USG at such a pivotal moment,” said Chris Macey, president and CEO of USG Corporation. “Having spent 20 years with this company and three decades in this industry, I know that our customer-first culture is our greatest strength. My focus is on maintaining our momentum and ensuring we stay the course on the strategy that has made us an industry leader.”

During his two decades at USG, Macey has held leadership roles in every major North American division, including serving as president of USG’s Gypsum division and leading the company’s Canadian (CGC) and Latin American (USG LATAM) businesses.

Christopher Griffin, who served as president and CEO and led the company through a period of transformation and growth, will remain as CEO Emeritus through June 30, 2026, supporting the final phase of the transition. “It’s been the honor of my career to lead USG and work alongside such talented people. With Chris Macey at the helm, I know the company’s future is in excellent hands,” said Griffin.

With the leadership transition effective today, USG remains focused on its core priorities of safety, manufacturing innovation and being the best and easiest building materials manufacturer to do business with across its footprint of more than 70 facilities in North America. As the company enters its 125th year of operation, this transition marks the beginning of USG’s next chapter of growth and industry leadership. 

About USG Corporation

USG Corporation, an industry-leading manufacturer of building products and innovative solutions, is the parent company of CGC and USG LATAM. Headquartered in Chicago, we serve construction markets around the world with wall, ceiling, flooring, sheathing and roofing products that enable our customers to build the outstanding spaces where people live, work and play. For additional information, visit usg.com.

About Knauf Group

The Knauf Group is the parent company of USG. As a global manufacturer of building materials and construction systems, Knauf employs more than 42,000 employees across 300+ production facilities and sales organizations in 90+ countries. For more information, visit: knauf.com/en.

By Emma Peterson. 

From fire resitance to very severe hail ratings, learn how USG has built a catalogue of products that can take on whatever elements are thrown at them.  

Recently, The Coffee Shops™ crew hosted a sound stage, sponsored by Western Colloid, at the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC)’s 2026 Convention. One of the incredible guests that stopped by to chat with us was Rob Cox, the technical sales manager at USG Securock.  

Rob opened the conversation by highlighting the alignment between USG and IIBEC’s missions, sharing, “We produce higher performance cover board products that add value to a roof system. So we’re really focused on making roof systems more resilient, which goes hand-in-hand with what the IIBEC engineers and consultants are doing.” 

And when it comes to roofing cover boards, USG offers one of the most comprehensive catalogues of products. Rob explained, “We have five different coverboards, so each one has its own place. And, depending on what type of building is being worked on, each has its place. Some are ideal for high-traffic and puncture resistance, where others are better against fire or handling a high wind zone.”  

In fact, USG recently announced an expansion of their catalogue with the development of the cover boards that can pass a very severe hail test (not being punctured or damaged when a 2-inch ball of ice hits the board at 160 feet/second). Rob spoke a bit about this, explaining, “Over the last few years, we’ve seen the very severe hail map grow in terms of what regions are impacted...And so we made a board that can be put underneath a membrane to protect the insulation on a roof, which is actually one of the most expensive parts of the roofing system!”  

Learn more about USG’s coverboards and the Weather Defense Board by watching the whole interview with Rob.

By Emma Peterson. 

Join The Coffee Shops™ crew and our industry partners in Sacramento for four days of education, innovation and industry connection. 

The Coffee Shops™ crew is putting the finishing touches on our travel plans to get to Sacramento, California March 12–15, 2026 for the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC)’s International Convention and we want to see you at our booth and soundstage, sponsored by Western Colloid!  

This year’s show is predicted to host “1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other experts” for four days of learning, networking and more! With national sponsors like Carlisle, Elevate™, GAF, IB Roof Systems™, Johns Manville, Polyglass USA Inc., Sika Corporation, SOPREMA and Versico, this show is a must-attend for professionals in all parts of the roofing world.  

Expert-led education  

This show gives attendees a chance to learn from a variety of industry leaders and experts through their cutting-edge education sessions. Here are some of the incredible presenters that will be at this year’s show:  

• Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese will be hosting a “State of the Industry” session that will explore contract provisions and other emerging regulatory trends.  
• Darren Perry of SOPREMA has a session that discusses how low slope roofing can be enhanced in response to severe climate risks. 
• Amrize’s National Technical Manager Victor Rosenthal and Project Manager Rachael DeMeio will be teaching about trends in roof re-cover applications this year. 
• Jennifer Stephan from Benchmark’s session will dive into the world of Refrigerated Processing and Cold Storage Operations in relation to industrial roofing projects.  

Check out the full speaker list online!

An expo floor route 

The Coffee Shops crew will be on the expo floor hosting a soundstage at booth #1113! Here’s just a few of the other Coffee Shops friends and partners that can be found on IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention expo floor:  

• All Weather Insulated Panels (booth #1216) 
• Anchor Products (booth #907)  
• ATAS International (booth #728)  
• BITEC Inc. (booth #1023) 
• Brava Tile (booth #208) 
• CertainTeed (booth #227)  
• General Coatings Manufacturing (booth #926) 
• H.B. Fuller (booth #113) 
• ICP Building Solutions Group (booth #133) 
• IKO Industries (booth #426) 
• Leister (booth #619) 
• Malarkey Roofing Products (booth #213) 
• MuleHide (booth #814) 
• Roof Hugger (booth #707) 
• S-5! (booth #1019) 
• Sheffield Metals International (booth #625) 
• Sherwin Williams Roofing Solutions (booth #422) 
• Tremco (booth #321) 
• USG Securock (booth #401) 
• Western Colloid (booth #923) 
• Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions (booth #433) 

Explore the full expo floor map!

Register today and make sure you stop by to say hi to us and our industry friends at the IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention!

By Jenny Yu. 

Building enclosure professionals won’t want to miss out on this annual industry event!   

The International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) is gearing up for its 2026 International Convention and Trade Show, set to take place March 12–15 in Sacramento, California, at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. This annual event draws building enclosure professionals, including roofing consultants, architects, engineers and product manufacturers, for education, networking and industry insights. Registration is now open, with early rates available through February 6, 2026.  

Attendees will find a robust program that includes educational sessions covering topics ranging from roofing, waterproofing, sustainability and codes, as well as other related topics designed to advance professional knowledge and earn continuing education hours. A two-day trade show with more than 140 exhibiting companies will spotlight the latest roofing, exterior wall and building enclosure products and services. Participants can connect with manufacturers, consultants and peers on the show floor, which also features product demonstrations and sponsored receptions. The Coffee Shops™ will be there with a sound stage sponsored by Western Colloid — be sure to stop by! 

Beyond the exhibit hall, IIBEC has arranged a wide variety of exciting activities for attendees to participate in. The schedule opens with auxiliary seminars and networking opportunities on March 12, followed by formal welcome receptions, an annual awards ceremony and specialty events such as a golf tournament and an emerging professionals reception. The convention also hosts the Excellence in Building Enclosure Consulting (EBEC) Awards on March 14, recognizing outstanding achievements in the field. 

Hotel accommodations are available in the Sacramento area to assist attendees in securing convenient lodging near the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. IIBEC has secured official room blocks at the Hyatt Regency, Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel, Residence Inn and The Citizen Hotel. Early planning is encouraged, as Sacramento draws visitors from across the United States and beyond for this premier industry gathering. 

A wide range of sponsorship packages are still available, each including prominent recognition and unique opportunities for memorable convention engagement. Current sponsors include Carlisle, Elevate™, GAF, Johns Manville, Polyglass, Sika, SOPREMA and Versico Roofing Systems (platinum sponsors); Anchor Products, H.B. Fuller, IB Roof Systems™ and USG Securock® Brand (gold sponsors); and Georgia-Pacific Building Products.   

Register today to secure early registration and explore the latest developments in roofing, waterproofing and building enclosure design!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Building enclosure professionals across the industry are making plans to gather in Sacramento, California, March 12–15, 2026.

Hosted by the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC), the annual IIBEC International Convention & Trade Show brings together consultants, contractors, manufacturers and service providers focused on roofing, waterproofing and total building enclosure performance. With more than 20 education sessions and a trade show featuring over 140 manufacturers and service providers, the event delivers valuable insight, technical expertise and meaningful industry connection.

The convention runs Thursday, March 12 through Sunday, March 15, with the auxiliary seminar taking place on Thursday and the trade show floor openi on both Friday, March 13 and Saturday, March 14. From education to exhibits to networking, the week is designed to help professionals strengthen their knowledge and expand their relationships.

One of the featured moments of the week will be the opening ceremony and keynote presentation on Friday, March 13 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Attendees will hear from Brett Culp, an award-winning documentary filmmaker and keynote speaker, presenting Superhero Leadership in Uncertain Times. His message focuses on purpose-driven leadership, authenticity and service during moments of change, offering inspiration that resonates far beyond the conference hall.

Throughout the convention, attendees will also have the opportunity to connect during a full schedule of networking events including the RCI-IIBEC Foundation golf tournament, welcome reception, regional meetings, trade show receptions, awards ceremony, emerging professionals networking event, foundation live auction and the President’s Annual Banquet. These gatherings create valuable opportunities to build relationships that strengthen careers and businesses long after the event concludes.

The trade show floor will once again feature leading manufacturers and service providers supporting the building enclosure industry. RoofersCoffeeShop is proud to have partners participating as sponsors at the conference, including Carlisle Construction Materials, Elevate, GAF, Johns Manville, Sika, SOPREMA, Versico Roofing Systems, Anchor Products, H.B. Fuller, IB Roof Systems and USG. Their continued involvement reflects a shared commitment to education, innovation and long-term industry advancement.

Adding to the energy of the event, The Coffee Shops™ will once again host a full sound stage on the trade show floor sponsored by Western Colloid, interviewing consultants, contractors and exhibitors throughout the conference. These live conversations will spotlight industry trends, real-world challenges and the voices shaping the future of the building enclosure and roofing communities.

Overall, the 2026 IIBEC International Convention & Trade Show delivers a powerful combination of education, innovation and connection in one place. Whether your focus is technical expertise, professional development or expanding your industry network, this event offers insight and opportunity at every level.

And time is running out to take advantage of early registration pricing. The early registration deadline is February 6, 2026, and once it passes, rates are set to increase. Hotel rooms at the official convention hotels are also filling quickly, making now the best time to finalize travel plans.

Register now to secure early pricing, book your hotel before availability is gone and join building enclosure professionals from across the country in Sacramento. Be part of the conversations shaping the future of the industry.