MRA announces two Best Residential Metal Roofing Project winners for Q-1 2026.

A show-stopping roof located in Promontory, Utah has been chosen as a top winner of Metal Roofing Alliance’s (MRA) Best Residential Metal Roofing Project competition for the first quarter of 2026.

Manufactured by MRA member Drexel Metals and installed by VIOTELL Roofing Solutions, the roofing system for this 10,000 square-foot home is designed to perform in Utah’s demanding climate, which includes heavy snow loads, harsh winters and intense summer sun exposure. In addition to long-term durability, the metal roof provides low-maintenance performance, sustainability benefits and improved energy efficiency typical of premium residential metal roofing systems.

This award-winning roof stands out for its highly complex roof design which has numerous transitions and intersecting planes. Metal was the preferred roofing material because it best supported the home’s architectural complexity and overall design aesthetic. The roof includes multiple facets, transitions and high-end detailing, all of which required a high level of precision to execute a watertight assembly while preserving clean visual lines.

“We’re proud of this one because it represents what high-end metal roofing should look like when it’s done right. The design pushed complexity, which demands a higher level of coordination, craftsmanship and accountability,” said Anthony Ortega, VIOTELL Roofing Solutions. “Our team stayed disciplined through every detail and delivered something that not only complements the architecture but is built to perform in Utah’s conditions long term.”

One of the most notable aspects of this project is how the roof establishes the home’s identity from the initial approach. The roofline is the first defining feature, setting the tone for the entire structure. Moving closer, the complexity of the facets and transitions becomes more apparent, framed by the surrounding landscape and retaining wall. The result is a roof that not only performs at a high level but also carries the architectural vision of the home.

MRA awarded Best Residential Metal Roofing Project to two top winners for the first quarter of 2026. The other winning entry features a stunning copper roof located in Possuum Kingdom, Texas, completed by Metal Master Roofing and Construction. See announcement here https://www.metalroofing.com/post/major-wow-factor-a-beyond-impressive-copper-roof-is-named-winner-of-mra-s-competition

With this phase of the competition now closed, the search is on for MRA’s Best Residential Metal Roofing project for the second quarter of 2026. Open to U.S. and Canada homeowners, contractors, installers and manufacturers, honors are awarded for project appearance, performance and originality/use of materials. Interested participants can find information about how to enter and competition rules online at https://www.metalroofing.com/mra-contest-form.

By Jenny Yu.  

Drexel Metals explains why oil canning is cosmetic and how contractors can minimize its appearance. 

Metal roofing is widely recognized for its durability, longevity and architectural appeal, but like any premium building material, it comes with considerations contractors and building owners should understand. In the article “Potential Metal Roofing Issues and How to Minimize Their Impact: Oil Canning,” Drexel Metals breaks down one of the most discussed aesthetic concerns associated with metal roofing and how thoughtful planning can significantly reduce its appearance. 

Oil canning refers to subtle waviness or rippling that may appear on the flat areas of metal roof panels. It is most noticeable when sunlight reflects across the surface, particularly in the afternoon. Importantly, Drexel Metals emphasizes that oil canning is not a structural or material defect. Instead, it is a cosmetic issue that does not affect the roof’s performance or weather resistance. 

According to the article, oil canning can result from several factors throughout the manufacturing and installation process. Stresses introduced during coil production and roll forming, variations in panel width and metal gauge, irregular roof decks and over-tightened fasteners can all contribute to panel distortion. Because flat sheet metal is naturally sensitive to minor variances, oil canning should be viewed as an expected characteristic rather than a failure. 

Drexel Metals outlines multiple best practices to help minimize oil canning. Increasing panel rigidity is one of the most effective strategies. This can be achieved by selecting heavier-gauge metal, reducing panel width and incorporating ribs or striations into the panel design. Proper deck preparation is equally important, as an uneven roof deck can telegraph through finished panels and create unwanted distortions. 

Installation techniques also play a critical role. Avoiding over-tightened fasteners and allowing for proper thermal expansion and contraction helps reduce added stress on panels. In addition, choosing a low-gloss finish can significantly reduce the visual impact of any remaining waviness by minimizing glare and reflection. 

To learn more about oil canning and how to address it effectively, read the original article from Drexel Metals.

We are pleased to announce the addition of the DMC 250T Architectural Standing Seam Roof Panel to the Drexel Metals portfolio. The DMC 250T is a premium mechanically seamed roof system designed to deliver enhanced performance, installation efficiency and a clean, symmetrical architectural aesthetic.

The DMC 250T is engineered for applications down to ½:12 roof slope, an ideal solution for low-slope commercial and architectural projects. Its bi-directional panel design allows installers to begin at the roof center and work in both directions, improving installation speed while maintaining consistent panel alignment and visual balance.

The system utilizes a concealed-fastener clip attachment to accommodate thermal movement combined with factory-applied seam sealant and mechanical field seaming to ensure long-term weathertight performance. Panels are factoryformed and offered in multiple substrates and gauges.

Panel details

• Panel height: 2”
• Height above deck after install: 2.625”
• Standard widths: 16” and 18” (nominal)
• Panel length: Up to 54’
• Available substrates: 22- and 24-gauge painted Galvalume®, Drexlume™ and .032” and .040” aluminum

Fabrication

The DMC 250T panels and caps are currently fabricated at our Elk Grove Village, Illinois and Tyler, Texas, facilities.

Target market

The DMC 250T is designed primarily for commercial and architectural roofing applications, including education, healthcare, municipal, mixed-use and high-end architectural projects. Its low-slope capabilities, tested structural performance and refined visual appearance also make it a strong fit for design-driven projects where performance and aesthetics are equally critical.

Performance and testing

The DMC 250T has been tested to industry standards including UL 580 (Class 90), UL 1897, and multiple ASTM protocols for air, water, and structural performance, delivering confidence for demanding applications.

For more detailed information, please refer to the DMC 250T Profile Data Sheet.

By Jenny Yu.  

At IRE, Carlisle Architectural Metals shares how metal material performance, design and resilience are shaping the future. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, Heidi J. Ellsworth met with Mike Weis, vice president of sales for Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM). CAM brings together five established metal brands under one umbrella. “CAM is comprised of five different brands. Five different metal brands,” Mike explained. “Petersen Aluminum Corporation (PAC), Drexel Metals, Metal-Era, Hickman Edge Systems and Citadel Architectural Products.” While CAM serves as the parent organization, Mike emphasized that each brand maintains its own identity. “We are still very brand focused because every one of the brands provides its own value and has its own niche and its own market focus.” 

With over 25 years working in the industry, Mike has witnessed the exponential rise of metal in the roofing industry firsthand. “The significance of it is substantial,” Mike stated. “You can talk about sustainability, performance, visual aesthetics, design solutions, ease of install, longevity of product — so many reasons why metal has become more impactful to the architectural industry.” 

One of the main factors driving the accelerated adoption of metal is the extreme weather taking place nationwide, from fires on the west coast to hurricanes on the east coast. “If you think about Florida down in the southeast, all that hurricane work, you have to design a structure that can withstand that,” Mike said. He added that rigorous testing remains critical, noting, “That’s why testing is so important. We’re always going to invest in testing and always try to make sure that we’re helping create a safe building, that we’re providing a safe solution.” 

Along with impressive durability and weather-resistant properties, with metal, you don’t have to sacrifice design and aesthetics for performance. “There’s this new digital print technology that’s out there,” Mike explained. “You can create wood grains, you can create marble-looking finishes, you can produce a weathering aspect. Architects are really driving this. They like to make sure they're maintaining the original design intent of some of these buildings. You can do so many things with metal.” 

As contractors move beyond traditional roofing into full building envelope solutions, Mike emphasized that metal is here to stay. “Metal is going to continue to grow,” Mike said. “Carlisle is investing in the right way, and we’re proud to be a part of it.” 

Watch the interview to learn more about how CAM is helping lead the industry into the realm of metal.

By Drexel Metals.  

PRG Roofing blends decades of experience with Drexel Metals’ high-performance metal systems. 

Drexel Metals is proud to provide metal roofing solutions for companies like PRG Roofing & Construction, a company that serves the Southwest Florida region. Founded in 2018 by industry veteran Randy Garand, the company prides itself on providing quality service the first time around.  

“My father, a roofing installer himself, drilled into me the importance of doing things properly the first time,” Randy shared. “Not just for speed, but for long-term durability and pride in your work.” That mindset continues to guide PRG Roofing & Construction today under the leadership of Randy and general manager Rob Sineni.  

PRG Roofing has earned a reputation for its attentive leadership and dedication to delivering performance-driven roofing systems. “For us, it’s about the people, about standing behind your work and being the roofer we’d hire for our own home,” Randy expressed.  

Drexel Metals’ roofing stands strong through Florida storms 

A seasoned roofer with more than four decades of experience, Garand knows that few regions test a roof like Southwest Florida. Between high-speed winds, tropical storms, extreme heat and humidity, roofs must withstand some of the harshest conditions in the country. That’s why Garand has relied on standing seam metal roofs from Drexel Metals since 2008, long before he founded PRG Roofing. 

“We’ve had a lot of storms, and we haven’t had a single roof failure yet,” Randy noted. “Even through Hurricane Ian, which is the costliest hurricane in Florida’s history, every one of our Drexel Metals roofs stayed in place.”   

In particular, he recalled one project from 2018 that has now successfully weathered three major hurricanes without a single issue. “While traditional roofs around them were shredded, theirs looked like the day we put it on,” Randy shared. “That homeowner became our biggest advocate in the community, and we ended up doing many more roof installations in the neighborhood.”  

The engineering behind metal roofing confidence 

The performance behind Drexel Metals’ standing seam metal roofing isn’t by chance; it’s engineering. Designed for challenging environments, a standing seam metal roof can provide wind resistance of up to 120 miles per hour. Select systems are certified to wind resistance testing standards such as: UL 580 Wind Uplift, TAS 125 Wind Uplift, UL 1897 Extended Phase Wind Uplift, ASTM E1592 Uniform Static Pressure Uplift and ASTM E1680 Air Infiltration. They are also certified to the highest impact resistance class, according to UL 2218 impact rating standards. This helps mitigate the risk of damage from wind-borne debris that flies during storms.   

Tested to multiple standards, roofing systems made from a high-quality metal substrate can also endure fire and rain events. With this level of performance, standing seam metal roofs by Drexel Metals can last roughly two to three times longer than other roofing systems, reducing replacement costs and improving safety. This long-term durability has led to Florida homeowners wanting more metal roofs over their heads. “When people saw their asphalt shingle roofs shredded during storms and the metal roofs still intact, it was a no-brainer,” Randy shared. “They wanted what survived.”  

Business growth through partnership and education 

PRG Roofing’s steady growth is rooted in quality craftsmanship and integrity. Randy and Sineni also attribute part of their success to their longstanding partnership with Drexel Metals.  

“We carry samples from different manufacturers to our sales visits,” Rob explained. “When customers hold a directional panel that we install with clips next to a thinner 26-gauge nail-strip panels, the difference is clear. We then ask them, ‘Which one would you rather have protecting your home?’ They always understand once they feel it.”   

Garand and Sineni also value the direct relationship they have with Drexel Metals. “Being able to buy directly from a trusted manufacturer gives us control over the coils and flat sheets that go on our projects. That’s how we maintain quality,” Rob said.   

In a market where roofing can easily become a commodity, PRG Roofing also values Drexel Metals’ consistency and accountability. “When you buy through a supplier, you don’t always know where the product comes from or how it’s made,” Randy explained. “With Drexel Metals, we know the origin, the process and the people behind it. Working with them also gives us more peace of mind on warranties.”  

That trust has proven its worth in Florida’s demanding climate. “Fortunately, we’ve had no warranty claims or issues ever,” Randy shared. “Our roofs’ proven performance through major storms has put us in the spotlight and promoting Drexel Metals’ standing seam metal roofs has almost tripled our business.”  

Raising the bar for roofing excellence 

With every Drexel Metals roof installed, PRG Roofing strengthens its reputation for excellence and resilience. Their track record through Florida’s harshest storms speaks for itself. It is proof that when craftsmanship meets engineered performance, the result is roofing that truly lasts.  

Original article and photo source: Drexel Metals

By Drexel Metals.  

Standing seam metal roofs are reliable solutions for homeowners seeking proven protection in serious weather conditions. 

Across the United States, many homeowners are reaching a critical point as their roofs begin to show signs of age and wear. Data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) notes that most homes on the Gulf Coast, for example, were built between 25 to 30 years ago, putting a large share of roofs well within the window for replacement. For roofing contractors, this data signals growing demand for re-roofing services, especially as property owners look to more durable solutions that can withstand heat, storms and other weather-related events. We recommend contractors educate homeowners on the options available to them.  

Why asphalt shingles fall short 

A report published in the Insurance Journal states that approximately 72% of existing homes in the Gulf Coast have asphalt shingle roofs. While once dubbed the go-to roofing material, namely for its affordability and widespread availability, asphalt shingles are now largely considered a costlier and less reliable option for homeowners.   

Case in point: Insurance companies have grown increasingly wary of asphalt shingle roofs due to their weatherability and performance. As Florida Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky flagged, asphalt shingles often fail to meet their advertised 30-year lifespan, especially in a climate defined by high heat, humidity and frequent hurricane-level winds.  

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) post-storm analysis backs this up. After Hurricane Ian, the agency found that 90% of asphalt shingle roofs older than seven years showed visible damage, compared to just 21% of metal panel roofs. That stark contrast highlights that asphalt shingles just can’t keep up with serious weather events.  

Further, in states like Florida, asphalt shingle roofs are only insurable for about 10 to 12 years (less than half their marketed lifespan). Even when coverage is available, homeowners are often left footing the bill for frequent replacements or expensive repairs every decade. So, what looks like an “affordable” roof upfront quickly becomes a recurring expense.  

And that’s before factoring in the fine print. Most asphalt shingles warranties are prorated, meaning coverage decreases as the roof ages. To make matters worse, many warranties include “Act of God” exclusions that deny protection against wind or fire damage, which are exactly the types of events homeowners in this region face most often.  

These insurance challenges give roofing contractors the opportunity to offer homeowners a roofing solution that is a smarter long-term investment: a standing seam metal roof.   

Standing seam metal roofs offer tested performance 

Standing seam metal roofs are engineered for performance, providing reliable protection against the region’s toughest weather conditions. Select systems are designed to withstand wind speeds up to 120 mph and are certified to wind resistance testing standards, including UL 580 Wind Uplift, TAS 125 Wind Uplift, UL 1897 Extended Phase Wind Uplift, ASTM E1592 Uniform Static Pressure Uplift and ASTM E1680 Air Infiltration. Additionally, metal roofing provides reliable wet-weather performance and is certified to ASTM E1646 Water Infiltration standards and can achieve the TAS 100 Wind-Driven Rain designation. Further, metal roof systems rank highest with a class four rating when certified to UL 2218, which tests their impact resistance and ensures maximum protection from wind-borne debris during hurricanes and severe storms.  

For homeowners, this level of reliability translates into extended insurance coverage, often ranging between 25 to 30 years, with reduced premiums. Metal roofs also help eliminate the cycle of more frequent roof replacements, offering significant home ownership savings. Additionally, leading manufacturers like Drexel Metals stand behind their products’ longevity and performance. Their standing seam metal roofs are backed by a 25-year non-prorated warranty, meaning the coverage stays consistent over time. There are no hidden exclusions or “Act of God” clauses, just straightforward protection that reflects the proven durability of the product itself.  

Ultimately, a standing seam metal roof overhead is a smarter long-term investment for homeowners.   

Before your next re-roofing project, reach out to your nearest Drexel Metals Rep to learn more about installing standing seam metal roofing systems.   

Original article source: Drexel Metals

By Jenny Yu.  

In a time of market uncertainty, this company unites five leading brands to fuel momentum across its architectural metals portfolio. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards spoke with Carlisle Architectural Metals’ (CAM) Vice President of Growth, Brad Van Dam, about the latest trends in the industry and how contractors can stay competitive in both commercial and residential roofing. The CAM portfolio brings together some of the most established and trusted brands in the metals industry, including Hickman Edge Systems, Metal-Era, Drexel Metals, PAC-Clad Petersen and Citadel Architectural Products, with roughly 17 facilities across the United States. 

“It's really cool to see CAM putting the effort into growing these five brands and the overall architectural metals group,” Brad shared. “I’m very proud to be a part of that. My job is to grow it as the vice president of growth. I like to say, my job title is not vice president of decline. So, how do we get it going, regardless of what the market is doing and all the craziness around us? How do we continue to grow this business and grow for our people and our culture?” 

This growth is anchored in the appeal and performance of metal. “It hits on a lot of the key points that are important in the market — sustainability, durability, ease of installation,” Brad said. “Aesthetically, people like the look of metal. It’s clean, it’s sleek, it’s newer, it really gives you that feel of something unique and strong.” 

Brad acknowledged that market uncertainty, from tariffs to interest rates, continues to shape the behaviors and decisions in the industry, or what Brad calls “the pulse.” Yet, he maintained that those challenges have also opened new opportunities. “Data centers, large warehouses, some multifamily — those segments have done better during this uneasy market — really have shined for a lot of contractors. Those veins of strength add a lot of momentum,” he stated. 

From CAM’s perspective, their mission remains clear. “It’s full steam ahead,” Brad said. “How do we help customers? How do we focus on the customer? What are the ways that we can bring more value to those we’re dealing with?” 

Listen to the podcast to learn more about how CAM is meeting the shifting needs of an evolving roofing market. 

By Drexel Metals.  

Combining the strength of metal roofing with effective snow retention offers lasting protection against snow, ice and structural damage. 

As winter approaches, heavy snowfall can transform rooftops into high-risk zones. What seems like a winter wonderland can quickly turn into a serious safety hazard. The weight of snow that collects on rooftops can strain roof structures, cause leaks, ice dams and even lead to costly damage. Here at Drexel Metals, we know that property owners in cold climates need roofing systems designed to withstand harsh winter conditions. 

Metal roofing continues to lead the way in performance and protection during the winter months. Its smooth surface allows snow and ice to shed quickly, helping prevent excessive buildup that can compromise the roof’s integrity. However, when that snow releases, it can slide off in large sheets, endangering people and property below. The best way to manage this risk is with a snow retention system, a critical component that helps regulate how snow and ice leave the roof, enhancing both safety and performance for homeowners and contractors alike. 

Snow retention systems help keep homes and homeowners safer 

On metal roofs, snow retention systems increase friction between the roof surface and the accumulated snow, helping to keep the snow in place. These snow guards work by regulating the rate at which snow and ice shed from the roof, evacuating it in a gradual manner rather than all at once. This controlled release helps prevent property damage and injury, making snow retention systems a smart and important investment in snow-prone regions. As a result, contractors integrating a reliable snow retention system can deliver not only a high-performance, visually appealing metal roof, but also grant greater peace of mind to the homeowner.   

A reliable, next-generation snow retention system 

Not all snow guards are created equal. Low-quality or poorly installed guards can shift under pressure, underperform during heavy snowfall or damage the roof. That’s why it’s critical to choose a trusted system with proven performance. Take the S-5!®  ColorGard® 2.0 snow retention system offered through Drexel Metals, for example. Designed with safety, simplicity and reliability in mind, the next-generation ColorGard snow retention system is engineered to reduce the risk of rooftop avalanches while preserving the sleek aesthetics of a metal roof.   

A true “lay-and-play” system, ColorGard 2.0 significantly speeds up installation time. The new VersaClip™ 2.0 can be installed directly over splices, removing the need for in-field cutting. The included splice ensures continuous, unbroken snow retention with room for expansion and contraction of the ColorGard sections, ensuring accumulated snow and ice don’t slide off the roof “en masse” and endanger homeowners or their property.   

Preventing ice dams by treating the metal roof as a complete building system 

Snow retention is one part of the winter roofing equation. Preventing ice dams is another major concern. These form when heat escapes from the interior of the home and warms the roof surface, causing snow to melt. As temperatures drop overnight, the melted snow refreezes — typically at the eaves. Over time, repeated melting and refreezing cycles cause ice to build up along the roof edge, gradually working its way up the slope. This accumulation creates a barrier, or “dam,” that traps additional melted water behind it. With nowhere to go, that trapped water can back up under the roof covering, potentially leading to various roof system performance issues and leaks inside the home.   

Building science tells us that airflow beneath the roof can help maintain a cooler, more consistent roof temperature, reducing the chances of ice dams. That’s where ventilation solutions like Defend-R Vent can make a difference. This ventilated composite panel features closed-cell rigid polyiso that offers the highest R-values per inch compared to other types of insulation. It utilizes solid wood spacers to add a standard one-inch air space between the roof and the already high-performance insulation board. This creates cross-directional airflow beneath the roof, which supports more consistent roof temperatures. In application, the performance capabilities of Defend-R Vent help contractors eliminate hot and cold spots on the roof where ice dams can be formed and support overall roof system health.  

With the right systems in place, from snow retention to ventilation, you can deliver a high-performance, durable and winter-ready metal roof that delivers lasting value and safety.  

Original article source: Drexel Metals

By Jenny Yu.  

Drexel Metals Plus members gain exclusive access to benefits that improve quality, efficiency and long-term success. 

Drexel Metals’ commitment to supporting quality-driven metal roofing professionals is taking center stage with the Drexel Metals Plus program. Designed to recognize and reward top-tier partners, the program includes a host of benefits aimed at improving user project quality, efficiency and competitiveness. 

One key requirement for joining the Drexel Metals Plus program is participating in Drexel’s machine maintenance program. “We created this machine maintenance program probably about three or four years ago,” shared Brian McLaughlin, national sales manager of Drexel Metals and director of associations at Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM), in this MetalTalk™ episode. “The team is made up of tech reps that have 60-plus years of hands-on experience.” The program includes a full QA audit, preventive maintenance and on-call technical support, helping reduce downtime and maintain panel fabrication standards. 

Quality assurance also extends to Drexel’s unique Gold Standard Warranty, available exclusively to Drexel Metals Plus members. “It’s fully transferable. You can transfer it once, you can transfer it twice, you can transfer it 10 different times,” Brian said. “You get material and labor, so you get full coverage peace of mind on any type of paint finish claim.” 

Technology also plays a pivotal role in Drexel Metals Plus, particularly through the Roofing Passport software — a tool integrated with Sherwin-Williams and EagleView to automate takeoffs and streamline quoting. “With Roofing Passport, it does it automatically,” stated Brian. “You can actually upload your plans and it gives a full takeoff. Our customers are able to get up to 30 quotes per estimator.” 

Ultimately, the Drexel Metals Plus program is aimed at educating and supporting partners while spreading the word about Drexel Metals’ impressive name. “The more folks are knowledgeable about installation practices of metal roofing,” Brian started, “the better our industry will benefit from it, because the last thing we want is a subpar installation. We want Drexel Metals that have a quality name behind our product.” 

Read the transcript, Listen to the episode or Watch the conversation to learn more about how Drexel Metal Plus program can elevate your business to greater success. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn about all the events and opportunities available at METALCON 2025.  

When you think about trade shows, you probably initially think about the exhibit floor or the education sessions offered. And while these are huge draws by themselves, trade shows offer so much more than that! For example, METALCON (which boasts over 30 educational sessions and more than 275 exhibitors), also gives contractors and other metal professionals opportunities to network, have fun and give back!  

This year’s show, which is sponsored by industry leaders like Exceptional Metals (silver sponsor), Drexel Metals and Van Mark Products, will be held from October 21-23, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada. There’s a lot happening during those three days, so we’ve put together a comprehensive overview for you! To learn more about the expo floor and educational opportunities, check out our previous article, 2 keynotes, 8 workshops, 35 educational sessions and over 275 exhibitors. For information about the networking and charity events, keep reading!  

Networking opportunities 

As the largest international event dedicated to metal construction and design, METALCON is the perfect place to connect with professionals from across the industry! Make sure to take advantage of these incredible networking opportunities that will take place during the show:  

• Welcome party: Hosted in the Exhibit Hall at 4:00 p.m. on October 21, this event is included in your registration and is a great way to reunite with old friends or make new ones. 
• Metal and mimosas: With this popular annual event, METALCON has created a space for women of the industry to come together and celebrate their successes! This exciting event will take place at 7:00 a.m. on October 21 and includes a $25 participation fee.  
• Oktoberfest happy hours: Raise a glass to deals and discoveries with the Oktoberfest celebration at METALCON! Running all three days of the trade show and included in your registration, taking part in this event is as easy as visiting participating booths across the show floor and enjoying an ice-cold beer! 
• Speed networking: METALCON’s speed networking event (hosted in the Main Theater on October 21 at 3:00 p.m.) is the perfect way to maximize your time and connections. Make sure to bring plenty of business cards!  
• Valley of Fire: Consider getting to Vegas a bit early for this pre-show, off-site event. Attendees will get to explore the stunning Valley of Fire with U.S. Marine Corps veteran Adam Bautz, founder of Outdoor Travel Tours and graduate of The Semper Fi & America’s Fund Apprenticeship Program! 
• Stock Car Pit Crew Challenge: Want to test your ability to work as a team under pressure? This fast-paced, pit-crew style competition is all about speed, skill and teamwork! Sponsored by MetalForming and hosted at booth #1150 all three days of the trade show, be sure to stop by for the chance to win some major bragging rights! 
• Top Product Awards: Want to find out the most innovative products and services that are shaping the future of the metal industry? Make sure to check out the Top Products Awards! The winners will be announced live from the Deck on October 22 at 2:30 p.m. If you haven’t already voted, make sure to vote for your favorite products before October 21 (you might see The Coffee Shops own MetalTalk™ in the “other” category!).  
• Future Leaders Happy Hour: Held in the Backyard at 4:00 p.m. on October 22, this is an event designed for the “rising stars, apprentices, management trainees and go-getters age 40 and under.”  

Special events 

METALCON is your opportunity to be in the room where it happens! You will not want to miss these incredible live events that will be taking place during this year’s event:  

• The Training Zone: Sponsored by Sherwin-Willaims' MetalVue program, this is a hands-on training area that will demonstrate best practices related to metal tools and materials. Led by the incredible John Sheridan and his team of Sheridan Metal Resources experts, there will be events both in English and Spanish to participate in. 
• Design District: Known as a “show-within-a-show,” the Design District illustrates the variety of ways that metal can be used in construction and design. Whether you’re struggling with an architectural challenge or just wanting to spark your creativity, this zone will introduce you to new ways of thinking about metal. 
• Metal Mastery Clinics: Hosted by industry experts from the Metal Roofing Alliance and the Metal Construction Association, these clinics cover the nuances of industry best practices. From roll forming on-site to creating retrofitted systems, the knowledge to be gained from these clinic sessions is sure to improve contractor efficiency and boost customer satisfaction. 
• Live from METALCON: And if you want to be a part of the buzz in real time, make sure to stop by The Coffee Shops’ booth (#2001)! Not only will our amazing crew be there, but we will also be hosting a live MetalCast episode that you can watch firsthand!  

Giving back 

Beyond the show itself, METALCON is proud to be coordinating two powerful ways to give back to those who have served our country:  

• Building for a cause: METALCON is coordinating materials and funds to construct a 2,500+ sq. ft. steel frame for a barndominium live on the show floor! After being constructed during METALCON, this Barndo Project will be “gifted to a deserving hero through the Military Warriors Support Foundation.” From the designing of the space to the construction and final walkthrough, you can be a part of this meaningful project by donating materials, labor, equipment, services or finances.  
• METALCON Deck donations:  2025 marks another year of METALCON working with Semper Fi & America’s Fund, a “non-profit dedicated to providing urgently needed resources and financial support to critically wounded, ill and injured members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families.” To support, all you need to do is stop by the METALCON Deck and talk to the show management team! While there, you can also grab a beer (as a part of the Oktoberfest fun), ask questions, network, provide feedback and win on-site prizes! 

If you haven’t already, make sure to register for METALCON 2025 using this link and receive $30 off registration costs (you can also use code 30MCS for the same discount)!