What made it to the top? 2023 MetalCoffeeShop in review

By Dani Sheehan. 

The beginning of the year brings forward momentum as we make plans for resolutions and goals, but let’s take a moment to celebrate last year’s progress by reviewing our top metal content in 2023! 

There is never a lack of information on the Coffee Shops! We collected the top content in several categories to recognize the hard work of our crew and the success and growth of the metal industry. 

Top articles 

Top article of 2023 – “Subcontractors No More? NLRB Reverts to Stricter Employee Classification Rules” 

This article by Trent Cotney outlines all the changes to the Employee Classification Rules and what it means for employees utilizing work from subcontractors. He explains what to pay attention to as you classify your employees to ensure you are not left vulnerable to unnecessary legal action. You can check out other incredible articles in our newsroom. 

Top influencer response of 2023 – “Just-in-time Ordering Versus Warehousing Materials: Which is Best for Material Coordination?” 

MCS influencer John Kenney helps you understand the two different approaches to managing a contractor’s supply chain. He explains the benefits of both just-in-time ordering and warehousing materials, suggesting best practices amidst the changing economy. 

Top podcast and webinar episodes 

MetalCoffeeShop video of 2023 – “Lease or Buy Your Equipment” 

In Season 1, Episode 31 of MetalCast, Ken McLauchlan and Stephen Gosk of MetalForming join Heidi J. Ellsworth to discuss the best options for leasing or buying metal forming equipment. If you’re starting a sheet metal shop or building your fabrication equipment, this is an excellent webinar to help you grow your business. 

MetalCast of 2023 - “NFBA’s 2024 Expo” 

In this live interview with industry experts from the National Frame Building Association (NFBA), they join Karen Edwards to discuss the upcoming 2024 NFBA Expo. Find out what new initiatives they are focused on and what you can expect from the event! There’s still time to register and attend in Des Moines, Iowa from March 6-8, 2024. 

MetalTalk of 2023 - “How to Start a Sheet Metal Shop” 

In this MetalTalk episode, Heidi J. Ellsworth sits down with Chandler Barden of CIDAN Machinery Group to help contractors determine whether expanding their business should include a sheet metal shop. He answers important questions such as what it requires to make a new shop successful and how to expand your current shop.  

Top social media posts 

If you don’t already follow MetalCoffeeShop on Instagram and TikTok, these top videos will surely change your mind! Catch the Coffee Shop crew all year long as we continue to showcase our partners' industry highlights and the latest accomplishments in metal. 

Top TikTok 

This short video features Steve Brooks from Vicwest as he chats with Lauren White about the company’s True Nature Metal Roof Tiles. 

Top Instagram Reel 

This reel highlights Swenson Shear doing a PBR panel cutting demo.  

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