By Jenny Yu.  

IRE attendees explored how the insulated roof deck system streamlines installation and boosts performance. 

At the International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2026, All Weather Insulated Panels (AWIP) showcased its latest innovation in low-slope roofing: OneDek® insulated roof deck system. Industry professionals attending the show had the opportunity to explore how OneDek simplifies installation while delivering exceptional thermal performance and long-term energy efficiency for commercial roofing projects. 

OneDek is designed as an alternative to traditional multi-layer low-slope roofing assemblies, replacing separate steel decking and board insulation with a single insulated roof deck panel paired with a PVC or TPO membrane. This assembly reduces materials and installation steps, helping contractors save time and labor on the jobsite. 

“The insulated roof deck functions as decking, air and vapor barrier insulation and coverboard in one component,” notes AWIP’s product description, highlighting how the solution streamlines the construction process. For building owners and designers, OneDek delivers not just efficiency but also performance, offering a uniform, walkable surface that accommodates membrane installation without the need for additional coverboards or complex layering. 

IRE attendees saw firsthand how OneDek’s efficient design supports modern roofing demands, exploring product features including its thermal performance range, membrane options and how the insulated deck can contribute to overall building envelope efficiency. 

Watch our interview with the AWIP team to learn more about OneDek's real-world applications!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

From digital models to real-world execution, Auburn University students demonstrate leadership, innovation and excellence in roofing.

The Roofing Alliance 2026 Student Competition brought together top construction management programs from across the country, challenging students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world roofing scenarios. Rising to the top, Auburn University earned first place after months of preparation, a comprehensive written proposal and a strong final presentation at the International Roofing Expo (IRE).  

Representing Auburn University were Madi Goodwin, Heather Henderson, Patrick Johnson, Graham Roh (team captain) and Ashwin Varadhan (team alternate). The team was guided by faculty advisor Dr. Kenneth Sands and mentored by Paige Harvill of Nations Roof. 

The Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition is one of the industry’s premier workforce development initiatives. Each year, participating universities develop a complete bid package for a real project tied to the location of the International Roofing Expo. In 2026, the project focused on the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, requiring teams to prepare detailed estimates, logistics plans, safety protocols and deliver oral presentations to a panel of industry judges. Written proposal scores and oral presentation scores were combined to determine final rankings. 

The competition results highlighted the strength of roofing education programs nationwide, with Auburn University taking first place, the University of Florida earning second and Clemson University placing third. Individual presenter honors were awarded to Remi Nguyen of Clemson University and Sophia Petrandis of the University of Florida. 

During an interview with RoofersCoffeeShop® at the International Roofing Expo, the Auburn team shared insights into their experience, reflecting on the months of preparation that got them to the top spot and the opportunity to present on a national stage. 

Throughout the competition, the Auburn team operated as a mock roofing company, assigning leadership roles that mirrored real-world industry structure. Team members took ownership of key areas including estimating, project management, field operations and safety planning, working collaboratively to build a complete and competitive proposal. 

After months of preparation, the team described a strong sense of accomplishment following their final presentation, having successfully translated their plan into a polished delivery that earned them the number one placement. One of the most impactful aspects of the experience was visiting the project site in person. After analyzing drawings, digital models and site logistics for months, stepping onto the roof of the Cannery Casino and Hotel brought a new level of understanding. 

Students noted that transitioning from two-dimensional plans to a full-scale structure reinforced the importance of accuracy, coordination and attention to detail. Elements that had only existed on paper became tangible, giving real-world context to their logistics plans and construction strategies. 

The experience also highlighted the growing role of technology in construction. The team incorporated digital modeling into their preparation, reflecting the increasing use of advanced tools in roofing and project planning. 

While not all team members had prior roofing experience, the competition sparked a strong interest in the industry. Through hands-on learning, research and mentorship, students gained a deeper appreciation for commercial roofing and the opportunities it offers. 

Walking the expo floor further expanded that perspective. From induction welding systems and material lift equipment to emerging AI-driven solutions, the team saw firsthand how the industry continues to evolve with innovation and technology. 

As these students prepare to enter the workforce, they emphasize the importance of company culture, work-life balance and opportunities for professional growth. They seek organizations that value teamwork, invest in their people and provide meaningful career development. 

The Auburn University team’s first-place finish reflects not only technical excellence but also strong collaboration, leadership and adaptability. This team perfectly demonstrates the caliber of students entering the roofing industry and the impact of programs like the Roofing Alliance Student Competition. 

For Auburn University, the experience was more than a competition. It was a launching point into an industry defined by innovation, teamwork and long-term opportunity. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Sherri Miles explains how SkillsUSA is creating a stronger talent pipeline for the roofing industry. 

Across the United States, SkillsUSA regional competitions are heating up in preparation for the 2026 SkillsUSA National Championship, which will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia this June! To learn more about how students competing in the roofing trade are preparing for this national stage, Coffee Shops editor in chief Lauren White sat down with Sherri Miles, a fourth-generation roofing contractor in Virginia whose company, Miles Roofing, is closely involved in their local SkillsUSA chapter.  

Roofing is a relatively new addition to the SkillsUSA competition roster. The Roofing Alliance first became a partner organization in 2019 with Skills USA nationally.  The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has expanded the relationship and held first a “demo” competition in 2022!  This occasion was something that Sherri remembers well, as she was involved. She explained, “When NRCA started talking to SkillsUSA, one of the big initiatives was to get boots on the ground around the country to build relationships with local CTE teachers.  I befriended the head of the CTE for Virginia Beach Schools and told them, 'I really want commercial roofing to be a part of this. And I want you guys to be the first ones to participate.” 

That head of CTE got Sherri in contact with a carpentry teacher in the school system who invited the Miles Roofing team to present to his class a couple times. Through that relationship, Sherri and her team prepared the first Virginia team to compete in SkillsUSA for commercial roofing. She recalled, “We got some kids ready for competitions... One of my favorite parts has been when we have rainy days and getting to see my guys who are ProCertified roofers teach these kids. They love connecting with them and sharing the world of roofing with them.” 

That first year they sent one student from Virginia to Nationals, the second year it was two, the third year they sent one and this year, Sherri and Miles Roofing are part of a fundraising effort to send a student named Nick to the competition. She shared a bit of his story:  

The SkillsUSA director from Virginia was one of the teachers and administrators the NRCA brought to the International Roofing Expo (IRE).  After her return to Virginia she got us in contact with a student from a school system we had not worked with before in commercial roofing. He was interested in roofing but had not done any hands-on training with the products. He wasn’t quite prepared for the competition.  SkillsVA and the Virginia Association of Roofing Professionals (VARP) had him come to the state competition and compete as a demonstration and this kid was fantastic. He welded better than some of my guys who have been doing it for a while. He was a really quick study and we immediately knew that he needed to compete at Nationals.  

VARP gave him our endorsement to move on to Nationals and  then I received a text from his teacher saying, ‘Hey, we don’t have the money, I don’t think we can get him there.’   I started calling various organizations because this is a great kid, a great competitor who should be there representing Virginia. How do we get him to Atlanta? 

The answer, bring the roofing community together. Already, Sherri has gotten in contact with NRCA about scholarship money to help Nick’s journey to the SkillsUSA competition, “We will make sure this happens, he will be going. And looking to the future, I am already emailing and calling as many other players as I can to make sure that we have a more robust system in place in the future so other students don’t have to worry about not having the funding to go to Nationals.”  

Because at its core, SkillsUSA is so much more than just a competition. Sherri explained, “SkillsUSA isn’t just a competition. It’s the way we can start the pipeline of kids who are coming out of school credentialed, inspired and ready to join the trades.”  

Want to learn more about helping students make it SkillsUSA? Reach out to Sherri!

By Emma Peterson. 

Celebrate your crew and share your story with NRCA this June. 

Roofing is the hidden hero in many people’s lives; roofs protect their homes, families, businesses and possessions from the elements. To raise awareness about the significance of roofing and the important work of professionals across the roofing industry, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) will be hosting their annual National Roofing Week from June 7-13, 2026. 

During the week, NRCA will be sharing stories from professionals around the industry across their social media platforms. NRCA encourages members to “share their stories of charitable giving, crew and staff appreciation and signature roofing projects” by using the #NationalRoofingWeek2026 tag.  

Another great way to show your support for this initiative is by decking your crew out in National Roofing Week swag! These shirts are a great way to show your roofing pride with style. You can find more detailed information about participation and National Roofing Week assets to use in your photos and videos online. 

This year’s event is sponsored by a variety of industry-leading companies, including Georgia-Pacific, SRS Distribution, International Roofing Expo, Hanover Architectural Products, OMG Roofing Products, Roofing Alliance, SOPREMA and TuffWrap. If you need more information on National Roofing Week, contact NRCA Director of Communications Krista Berns (847-493-7531 or kberns@nrca.net) or NRCA Social Media Manager Madison Mahoney (847-493-7548 or mmahoney@nrca.net). 

Join the NRCA in celebrating the essential work your crew does each day and promote the importance of hiring professionals!

By The Coffee Shops™. 

From marketing to operations, AI is beginning to reshape how roofing companies work — but success depends on how it’s used. 

On the final morning of International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2026, a packed room of contractors, manufacturers and industry professionals gathered early for a timely conversation on artificial intelligence (AI). Hosted by Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), the panel brought together voices from across the industry to cut through the noise and talk about what AI actually looks like in practice. 

Featuring Ken Kelly of Kelly Roofing, Wendy Marvin of Matrix Roof & Home, Anna Anderson of Art Unlimited and Josh Adams of Roof Scout, the discussion focused on how contractors can start using AI intentionally and effectively in their businesses today. Despite the early hour, the session sparked strong engagement and an active Q&A, signaling just how top-of-mind this topic has become across the industry. 

1 – AI is a tool, and it’s only as good as how you use it 

One of the clearest messages from the panel was that AI responds to direction. The more specific and thoughtful your input, the more useful the output. Ken compared AI to a golden retriever – eager to please, but unlikely to challenge you unless you ask it to. If you’re not getting the answers you need, it’s often a prompting issue, not a platform issue. 

This requires a different way of thinking. Instead of asking quick, surface-level questions, users need to approach AI the way a customer might approach a search engine: with detailed, specific context and a clear goal in mind. 

2 – The human element still matters 

While AI can streamline workflows and reduce manual tasks, the panelists were quick to point out that it doesn’t replace the human side of the business. 

Customers still want to work with people they trust. They want clear communication, accountability and relationships, especially for residential roofing. AI can support that experience, but it shouldn’t replace it.  

Internally, AI can also help reduce common pain points. Instead of entering the same data across multiple systems or manually reviewing documents, teams can use AI to handle repetitive tasks more efficiently. Wendy stressed that not only saves time, but can also reduce the risk of human error.  

3 – Without alignment, AI creates more problems than it solves 

As more companies experiment with different AI tools, another challenge is starting to emerge: inconsistency. If everyone on your team is using different platforms in different ways, it becomes difficult to maintain a unified voice, protect your data and ensure reliable results. The panel stressed the importance of creating internal standards early. 

That can be as simple as building a shared prompt library, documenting best practices or designating internal leaders to guide adoption like Josh and his team do. The key is making sure your team is working from the same playbook. 

4 – Your data is your competitive advantage 

Beyond the tools themselves, one of the most important takeaways from the discussion centered on data. Your customer information, job history and internal processes are some of your most valuable business assets. How you store, manage and use that data will directly impact how effective your AI tools can be. 

The panelists warned against relying on free platforms for sensitive information. In many cases, data entered into free tools can be used to train broader models, making it accessible beyond your organization. Investing in secure, paid solutions, and understanding how your data is being used is critical. Owning your data means maintaining control, protecting your customers and positioning your business to adapt as technology continues to evolve. 

This is an evolution, and it’s moving fast 

While AI is often framed as a sudden disruption, this panel discussion offered a more grounded perspective. From business-to-business and business-to-consumer interactions, the industry is now beginning to explore business-to-agent workflows, where AI systems communicate with one another to complete tasks, according to Anna. Whether it’s processing information, analyzing documents or supporting decision-making, these tools are becoming more integrated into everyday operations. 

Discussions like the RT3 panel are exactly what this organization was created to support. As a consortium of industry thought leaders, RT3 is focused on exploring emerging technologies and helping contractors understand how to implement them in practical, meaningful ways. 

By bringing together perspectives from inside and outside the roofing industry, RT3 provides insight, resources and real-world context to help businesses navigate change. 

Start small, stay intentional 

For contractors looking to get started with AI, the message from this discussion was clear: you don’t have to do everything at once. 

Start with one or two areas where AI can make an immediate impact. Build consistency within your team, protect your data and refine your approach as you go. AI isn’t replacing anyone. But it is changing how work gets done. Those who take the time to understand it and can use it intentionally will be better positioned for what comes next. 

By Anna Lockhart.  

Learn the importance of optimizing your business opportunities and offerings by adding metal roofing to your line up!  

Live from The Coffee Shops™ sound stage at the 2026 International Roofing Expo, Karen Edwards sat down with Melissa Dunson from Central States Manufacturing to discuss the latest updates from the brand and what attendees could expect from their booth on the trade show floor.  

As the leading manufacturer of metal building materials, Central States is a trusted source for any metal roofing needs a contractor might have. Melissa mentioned the growing desire across the market for standing seam products, which was the primary focus of their booth display set up. “If you know anything about what’s happening in the metal industry right now, standing seam roofing is predicted to grow the fastest – 14% year-over-year,” she explained. “So, we’ve set up some beautiful displays to highlight how our clip systems work and provide visuals when discussing quality, specs and availability with attendees.” 

IRE is the perfect opportunity for non-metal contractors to learn more about the opportunities metal can offer their business. “Metal is growing, and many people are interested in learning more about the buzz. So, we encourage attendees to stop by our booth to talk about the logistics of installing metal roofs and any educational information,” Melissa added.  

With metal roofing being projected to be one of the fastest forms of roofing to grow for the next decade, now is the perfect time for contractors to consider the benefits of adding metal services to their lineup. Melissa shared, “We get a lot of people who say, ‘I think I want to offer metal, but I need to know how to install and sell the product.’ And that’s what we do. We’re here to help contractors understand how to sell metal to home and building owners, and how to best communicate its value.” 

She emphasized the benefits of metal roofing being a major reason to give metal products a try. With metal materials offering significantly longer lifespans and levels of durability than traditional roofing materials, it’s hard not to see the benefit of utilizing the material. She urged IRE attendees to stop by the Central States booth, where they could get an up-close look at an interactive kiosk, designed to showcase the digital educational tools that contractors can use to expand their understanding and knowledge of the selling, installation and ordering processes for metal roofing.  

With endless opportunities for metal roofing in the next several years, now is the time for contractors to consider their options and the success they might find with companies like Central States Manufacturing on their side.  

Watch the full conversation to learn more about the offerings from Central States Manufacturing and what metal can do for your business!

By Jenny Yu.  

Van Mark’s industrial portable brake is giving contractors an accessible way to grow their metal roofing services. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, Van Mark Products Corporation showcased its latest innovations while engaging contractors eager to expand into the metal roofing market.  

Scott Totin, regional sales manager of Van Mark, said the show delivered steady booth traffic and meaningful conversations. “It’s been a very busy show, so that’s been great,” Scott expressed. “Lots of contractors coming by, saying hi and viewing our products.” 

Founded six decades ago, Van Mark built its reputation on creating a portable metal bending solution at a time when such equipment was not readily available. Today, the company continues to refine its patented product. “The brake that we have in our booth today is what we consider our Rolls-Royce of the market,” Scott stated, describing the Van Mark Industrial Metal Master. “It is the most heavy-duty, industrial version of what we can do. It bends 24-gauge steel, which a lot of metal roofing contractors favor because it makes their job a lot easier.” 

Weighing about 260 pounds and mounted on a wheeled cart, the portable unit allows contractors convenience and flexibility. “They can bring the shop right to their job site,” Scott stated.  

As metal roofing gains traction, Scott said more contractors are exploring ways to diversify. “More and more architects are drawing into their plans a combination of metal and asphalt,” he said. “Being able to do both makes a more valuable commodity to the general contractor they’re working for or homeowners that they’re working for.”  

Van Mark’s unique position in the market offers an affordable and accessible entry point for contractors who may not be ready to invest in larger shop machines. “It’s a nice niche that we find ourselves in, being able to really help a contractor grow their business,” Scott shared. “Down the road, they may end up buying that bigger machine, but they still keep ours because they know the value of it.” 

The Coffee Shops™ had the opportunity to visit Van Mark’s booth and see the Industrial Metal Master. Watch their booth interview for a close-up look! 

Watch the full soundstage interview to learn more about Van Mark’s portable brakes and how the company is helping contractors expand into the metal roofing market!

By Jenny Yu.  

Western States Metal Roofing showcased its manufacturing process and new product innovations at IRE 2026. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, Western States Metal Roofing debuted a new booth featuring its first 3D display, giving attendees a hands-on look at the company’s growing line of metal roofing and siding products.  

“We wanted to create something people could walk up to, touch and really see the 3D effect,” Jasmine Rubio, purchasing manager of Western States Metal Roofing, told The Coffee Shops™. 

A major draw at the booth was the company’s T-8 Plankwall® wood-look panel. “People are so excited about our T-8 Plankwall,” Jasmine shared. “They love how you can use this inside and outside for a residential feel. People are using this instead of real wood because it's more durable and energy efficient. Plus, you're not going to have issues like rotting or termites.” 

Jasmine also explained the manufacturing process behind the finishes showcased at the event. “These are painted onto our coil and then we stock the 48-inch coil in-house. Then we manufacture and roll it through our machines,” she said. “It'll be a flat sheet prior and then we'll form it into whatever panel the customer wants.” 

In addition to existing offerings, Jasmine hinted at a new panel expected to launch in the coming months, which was incorporated into the 3D display to give contractors an early preview. 

When asked what Western States Metal Roofing is most looking forward to in 2026, Jasmine answered immediately. “Expansion,” she stated. “We are based in Phoenix, Arizona, and have other facilities throughout the country, and we’re excited to expand to the Midwest and the East Coast. We’re ready.”   

Watch the full interview and their interview on the RoofersCoffeeShops® Soundstage to learn more about Western States Metal Roofing’s latest innovations! 

By Jenny Yu.  

The 17th Annual Community Service Day Project gathered 30 volunteers  to serve Las Vegas residents in need. 

Before exhibitors and attendees filled the International Roofing Expo trade show floor, 30 volunteers gathered for the event’s 17th Annual Community Service Day Project on Monday, January 19, 2026.  

In partnership with nonprofit Rebuilding Together - Southern Nevada and sponsored by industry leaders including Sika Corporation and GAF, this year’s Community Service Day provided conference attendees with an opportunity to give back to the local community by donating their time to repair homes for two low-income Las Vegas residents. 

“We donate $15,000 to help pay for all of the construction materials and the Rebuilding Together labor,” Bill Bellico, vice president of Sika, told KLAS 8 News Now. 

The first homeowner was 78-year-old Minnie Davis. Minnie has owned her home since 1985, but after the passing of her husband Bob in October 2025, keeping up with the maintenance of the property was too physically and financially burdensome. IRE volunteers stepped up to paint walls, repair doors and clean up the yard, earning Minnie's gratitude.  

“It’s overwhelming to see all these people take care of me,” Minnie expressed. “If I could, I’d give them all a million dollars for helping me!” 

Volunteers also helped with repairs and yard cleanup for a low-income 73-year-old couple who have owned their home for 20 years and struggled with the upkeep of their property due to their older age and financial difficulties.  

Overall, the IRE Community Service Day was a day of giving back while building industry unity, setting the stage for a successful conference experience. “It’s a really rewarding day, because you’re bringing together people across the industry, creating stronger ties within the community,” Bill shared. 

Image source: International Roofing Expo

By Jenny Yu.  

The NRCA’s first time hosting members of SkillsUSA at the annual IRE convention sparked fruitful discussions about the future workforce of roofing. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) hosted 23 members of SkillsUSA to join in the learning and networking festivities. SkillsUSA is a partnership of educators and the trade industries aimed at building a future skilled workforce through education and competitions across the United States. 

“We’re trying to drive more traffic and interest in roofing and show what the community of the industry can offer,” Shane Muncy, NRCA director of workforce development said. Part of the IRE experience included a bingo card scavenger hunt, which took attendees to different sponsor booths; a presentation of the newly released “Thermoplastic Hands-On Training Plans” course; and a roundtable discussion that allowed for attendees to share information about how SkillsUSA works within different schools and states throughout the country. 

“There was a spark in the room during our discussions about the high school to technical college pipeline,” Tracey Scoville, board vice chair for construction education for SkillsUSA, said on the energy of the roundtable discussions. “There is a massive community ready to support our kids if we just show them how.” 

After 34 years in a classroom helping students find their footing in the trades, Tracey has had many experiences at conferences. Attending this year’s IRE as a guest of the NRCA was different. “It didn’t feel like just another meeting; it felt like a homecoming,” Tracey shared, expressing her appreciation for the fully funded opportunity. “Being heard is one thing, but being truly listened to is another, and the respect shown to my experience meant the world to me.” 

Tracey also recalled several other key moments that left a lasting impact after the conference ended, including the opportunity to speak with CEO McKay Daniels about how SkillsUSA isn’t merely “filling jobs,” but changing lives by elevating a craft she has loved for over three decades. 

Overall, the first IRE for SkillsUSA hosted by NRCA was a huge success for all parties involved. 

“The IRE experience was very uplifting and productive for our collective initiative,” Shane reflected. “A very busy and engaging three days; most definitely worth the efforts and passion of the CTE Committee.” 

Learn more about how NRCA and SkillsUSA are preparing the next generation for the future of roofing!