Metal Influencers bring diverse expertise and real-world insight to help contractors navigate challenges, strengthen their businesses and shape the future of metal construction. 

The Coffee Shops™, the award-winning websites where the industries meet for technology, information and everyday business, announces the 2026-27 Influencers for MetalCoffeeShop® (MCS).     

MCS Influencers contribute their expertise to MetalCoffeeShop each month through interviews, videos and articles that explore important topics shaping the metal construction industry. Contractors, association leaders and service providers offer a broad range of perspectives, giving readers practical knowledge and a deeper understanding of industry challenges and opportunities. Their insights about emerging trends in metal construction, building a scalable management team and using AI to strengthen business are featured in the site’s dedicated MCS Influencers section. 

“Our MCS Influencers are helping move the metal industry forward by sharing real-world experience and forward-thinking ideas,” said Heidi J. Ellsworth, president and CEO of The Coffee Shops. “Their diverse expertise provides contractors with meaningful insights they can use to strengthen their businesses and prepare for what’s ahead. We believe in helping contractors, erectors and tradespeople from all parts of the metal construction industry.” 

We are proud to announce the following 2026-27 MCS Influencers: 

• John Kenney – Cotney Consulting Group 
• Jon Olsen – Malco Tools 
• Corey Lincoln – Metal Sales 
• Junny Lee – Sherwin-Williams 
• Lee Ann Slattery – ATAS International 
• Anthony Ortega – Viotell Metal Concepts 
• Sasha Demyan – Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association (MBCEA) 
• Randy Chaffee – Source One Marketing   
• Renee Ramey – Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) 
• Paul and Emily Marshall – Mr. and Mrs. Post Frame  
• Edward Montemayor – South Texas Metal Roofing 
• David Leinbach - Kaiser Martin Group, MBCEA president 
• Travis Sliger – 4Ever Metal Roofing 

For more information on the 2026-27 MCS Influencers, meet them here.   

About MetalCoffeeShop 

MetalCoffeeShop is committed to being an advocate and supporter of the metal construction industry.  With Sherwin-Williams and industry thought leader’s contributions, the site supplies consistent information, education and networking avenues for all metal construction professionals. Visitors to the site will not only find education and information but thought-leading editorial, multimedia and Influencer content that elevates the metal construction industry. Like RoofersCoffeeShop, MetalCoffeeShop is “Where the Metal Industry Meets!” For more information and involvement opportunities, visit www.metalcoffeeshop.com.  

About The Coffee Shops 

Award-winning websites and online communities make up The Coffee Shops. Starting with RoofersCoffeeShop, which launched in 2002, the growth of the sites has been explosive for the construction trades of roofing, metal, coatings and their customers. Currently featuring four sites, RoofersCoffeeShop, MetalCoffeeShop, CoatingsCoffeeShop and AskARoofer, all the sites are committed to advocating for the construction trades by supplying consistent information, education and communication avenues for all contractors, while promoting positive growth, education and success of construction industries overall. Visitors to the site continue to find excellent opportunities for sharing information while participating in important ongoing conversations concerning new technologies, safety and overall construction information and education. The Coffee Shops are “Where the Industries Meet!” For more information, visit www.thecoffeeshops.online. 

By The Coffee Shops®.

Make sure these sessions and exhibitors are on your METALCON short list.

METALCON is just around the corner happening October 7-9 in Orlando, Florida! With over 60 education sessions and 250 exhibitors, it’s important for attendees to plan their schedules carefully. From new products and services to innovative solutions, you won’t want to miss the chance to talk to these Coffee Shop partners: Carlise Architechtural Metals, Central States Manufacturing, Malco, Roof Huger, Van Mark, ATAS International, Inc., Metal Construction Association (MCA), Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA), Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings and more! Don’t forget to stop by booth 408 to meet the MetalCoffeeShop team!

Featuring an impressive lineup of industry experts and motivational speakers, the METALCON headline sessions just scratch the surface of the learning opportunities.

Keynote: nothing Can Stop You

Former Major League Baseball pitcher Jim Abbott shares his remarkable journey from Flint, Michigan, to throwing a no-hitter at Yankee Stadium. Born without a right hand, Jim developed creative ways to pursue his goals while learning the importance of accountability and trust. His inspiring keynote explores how mindset can transform adversity into personal growth, helping attendees recognize their own challenges as opportunities to build resilience, adapt and celebrate the experiences that shape who they are.

Register today!

Keynote: Building Through Uncertainty: A Market Outlook for the Construction and Design Industries

What economic forces will shape construction and design during the next 12 months? Former American Institute of Architects Chief Economist Kermit Baker examines the indicators influencing project activity, sector growth and client priorities. Attendees will gain a data-driven view of shifting pipelines, regional market differences and emerging opportunities. The session provides a forward-looking framework to help industry professionals anticipate risks, align business planning with changing conditions and make informed decisions in an uncertain market.

Register today!

Industry Outlook: Metal Construction Code Updates: What’s Changed and What it Means

Code changes can lead to permit delays, redesigns and compliance gaps when they are missed or misunderstood. Industry experts Bill Beals, Paul Deffenbaugh and Bob Zabcik will break down significant recent and upcoming updates affecting metal construction. Covering design, specifications, fabrication and installation, the session will help attendees understand current compliance requirements, distinguish the roles of standards organizations and prepare for emerging trends that could influence future projects and business decisions.

Register today!

Industry Outlook: 2027 the Future of Metal Construction

Industry leaders examine the economic, regulatory, material and jobsite forces expected to shape metal construction through 2027. Panelists Kermit Baker, Jeff Henry, Vincent Sagan and Benton Trotter will connect current market realities with the challenges and opportunities ahead. Attendees will explore how supply conditions, evolving codes and construction pressures are influencing project costs, delivery methods and building practices, gaining practical insights for managing risk and positioning their businesses for the next 12 months.

Register today!

The formal sessions are just one way to learn. Attendees will also enjoy a massive exhibition hall where they can network and learn from each other. Make sure our MetalCoffeeShop booth 408 is on your list too!

While you’re in the hall, don’t miss our Coffee Shops partners including: Western States Metal Roofing, BITEC, Franklin International, Giddy Up, H.B. Fuller / GSSI, Latinos en Roofing, MARCO Industries, Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA), McElroy Metal, MetalForming Inc., MFM Building Products, RoofScope and more!

Don’t miss the metal event of the year! Register for METALCON and use code 30MCS for $30 off passes!

HVAC professionals need tools that can keep up with the demands of the jobsite. Malco Tools’ HVAC Pro Kits bring together essential, professional-grade tools organized by application and packed in a premium Veto TECH PAC backpack for convenient, durable organization on the go. With three options available, HVAC pros can choose the kit that fits their work, from the Install Kit to the Install & Service Kit or the Ultimate Pro Kit for maximum productivity.

Each kit is designed to help keep the tools you need organized, accessible and ready for the next job, making it easier to spend less time searching through your tool bag and more time getting the work done.

• Install Kit: Essential tools for HVAC installation professionals
• Install & Service Kit: A broader selection for installation and service work
• Ultimate Pro Kit: A comprehensive setup designed for maximum productivity
• Premium organization: Each kit comes packed in a durable Veto TECH PAC backpack
• Application-focused: Tools are selected around the needs of HVAC trade professionals

Explore the HVAC Pro Kits from Malco Tools and find the setup built for your work.

In this MetalTalk™ webinar, host Megan R. Ellsworth is joined by Breanna Welke, VP of strategic communications with The Malco Group and Meredith Giesting, VP of design with Veto Pro Pac, to explore what it means for contractors now that Veto Pro Pac has joined The Malco Group. Known for premium tool storage built for trade professionals, Veto Pro Pac brings a new layer of organization and durability to Malco’s growing ecosystem of contractor solutions. The discussion looks at how the partnership supports metal contractors with smarter workflows, better jobsite efficiency and new innovations like the EVO line. Tune in to learn how this collaboration is helping deliver more complete solutions for the trades. 

Listen to the podcast.

Watch the podcast.

By The Coffee Shops®. 

When traditional options on the market don’t cut it, sometimes you have to do it yourself. One carpenter-turned-designer shares his experience pursuing innovation in creating a new tool bag. 

In an episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Karen Edwards sat down with Roger Brouard, founder of Veto Pro Pac, to discuss the importance of innovation and pursuing solutions for day-to-day problems. From facing frustration on the jobsite to designing a solution, Roger exemplifies what it means to innovate for the betterment of your industry. Now, his products are a part of The Malco Group and are some of the most relied upon tool storage solutions on the market for industry professionals. 

After facing endless frustration with the traditional soft-sided tool bags, Roger was eager for a better solution for storing his tools on the jobsite. He shared, recalling his frustration of traditional tool storage, “You’d dump everything on the ground and dig through it; it was an exercise of aggravation and frustration to get a needed hand tool.” 

A carpenter by trade and experienced in hands-on problem solving, Roger went to the drawing board and came up with a solution of his own: the Veto Pro Pac. Relying on a vertical layout rather than the traditional horizontal storage systems for the job, the bag is easy to access and sort through. Vertical tiered pockets on a flat panel are inside the bag, streamlining the user’s ability to navigate the system, finding what they need without obstruction and clutter. He shared, “It all came together and I knew it was better than any tool bag on the market, and I knew it would sell.” 

To toughen up the design, as the jobsite often requires a bit of rough handling and wear to the exterior, the bag is made using a plastic, sturdy base. He shared, “A plastic base solved three situations: moisture protection, tear protection and stability to a loaded tool bag.” A tough product for a tough trade, ready to take on the day-to-day needs of carrying so many tools and heavy products. It was vital not only to create a product that’s sturdy, but one that’s going to outlast the rest.  

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about Roger and his journey to building Veto Pro Pac. 

In this MetalTalk™ webinar, host Megan R. Ellsworth is joined by Breanna Welke, VP of strategic communications with The Malco Group and Meredith Giesting, VP of design with Veto Pro Pac, to explore what it means for contractors now that Veto Pro Pac has joined The Malco Group. Known for premium tool storage built for trade professionals, Veto Pro Pac brings a new layer of organization and durability to Malco’s growing ecosystem of contractor solutions. The discussion looks at how the partnership supports metal contractors with smarter workflows, better jobsite efficiency and new innovations like the EVO line. Tune in to learn how this collaboration is helping deliver more complete solutions for the trades. 

Listen to the podcast.

Watch the podcast.

In this MetalTalk™ webinar, host Megan R. Ellsworth is joined by Breanna Welke, VP of strategic communications with The Malco Group and Meredith Giesting, VP of design with Veto Pro Pac, to explore what it means for contractors now that Veto Pro Pac has joined The Malco Group. Known for premium tool storage built for trade professionals, Veto Pro Pac brings a new layer of organization and durability to Malco’s growing ecosystem of contractor solutions. The discussion looks at how the partnership supports metal contractors with smarter workflows, better jobsite efficiency and new innovations like the EVO line. Tune in to learn how this collaboration is helping deliver more complete solutions for the trades. 

Listen to the podcast.

Watch the podcast.

In this MetalTalk ™, Karen Edwards is joined by Malco Group’s Vice President of Marketing, Rebecca Talbot, to explore how a company known for its innovation in the HVAC-R trades is bringing new solutions to the metal roofing and siding market. From the launch of the TSCP1, expanded C-RHEX line and DEFT folding tools, Malco is redefining efficiency and precision on the jobsite. The team shares insights from METALCON, discusses real contractor feedback and offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Malco continues to engineer tools that meet the evolving needs of metal professionals. 

Listen to the MetalTalk.

Watch the MetalTalk.

MCS Influencer Jon Olson says to focus on the benefits of metal when navigating HOAs.

Selling metal roofing to HOAs and other property owners isn't always easy. For contractors, one of the biggest challenges is helping price-sensitive customers look beyond the initial investment and understand the long-term value. While metal roofing may have a higher upfront cost than other roofing materials, its durability, longevity and lower maintenance requirements often deliver a much stronger return on investment over the life of the roof. 

Understanding how to communicate those benefits can make the difference between winning the project and losing it on price alone. Let's take a closer look at the sustainability advantages of metal roofing and how you can overcome common objections and build a stronger case with your customers. 

Not all roofing materials are created equal; it’s critical that owners understand the differences to ensure they make informed decisions. When it comes to the sustainability of roofing materials, it’s important to talk about the longevity of roofing products, the recyclability of the materials and what the materials are made of.  

Many compare metal roofs to asphalt roofs as these are the most common due to cost. Asphalt roofs last 15-30 years, but only premium shingles carry a class 4 impact resistance. This means they provide the shortest lifespan of roofing materials and are prone to storm damage. While exposed-fastener metal roofing is the most affordable metal roofing option, it also has the shortest lifespan, typically 25 to 40 years, because the fasteners and their seals eventually wear out. Standing seam metal roofs, by comparison, commonly last 40 to 70+ years, while copper roofs can exceed 100 years. 

Although the upfront investment is higher, the extended lifespan makes metal roofing a smart long-term choice. In many cases, a metal roof can last two to four times longer than an asphalt shingle roof, reducing maintenance, replacement costs and the amount of material sent to landfills over time. Many heavy-gauge metal roofing systems are also Class 4 impact rated, providing superior resistance to hail and storm damage and help the roof perform longer than many traditional roofing options. 

Fun Fact: Some copper roofs have been documented to last 200 years or more! Although this is an amazing lifespan, copper roofs are also one of the most expensive options.    

When discussing roofing options with owners, sustainability can be a powerful way to shift the conversation from upfront cost to long-term value. Asphalt shingles are made from new petroleum products and are rarely recycled and most end up in a landfill. Metal roofing, on the other hand, is made of steel, aluminum, copper or Zinc. New steel roofing material is typically made from 25%-80% recycled steel depending on the manufacturer. These metals are easy to recycle, with most if not all, being recycled after use.  

A roof that lasts longer, requires fewer replacements and can be recycled at the end of its service life offers benefits that extend well beyond the initial installation. For many owners, those advantages make metal roofing an investment worth considering. 

By Jenny Yu. 

MalcoEdge delivers solutions that help contractors improve accuracy, speed and jobsite consistency. 

As contractors face demand for faster installations and more reliable performance, Malco Tools is providing what they need with MalcoEdge™: a purposeful lineup of refrigeration tools designed to support modern HVACR challenges. Rather than offering a narrow portfolio of tools, the MalcoEdge line brings together a full ecosystem engineered for reliability, durability and efficiency to support everything from initial lineset installation to full system lifecycle troubleshooting and repair.  

MalcoEdge tools for contractors 

• Vacuum pumps: Designed for efficient system evacuation, these compact, jobsite-ready pumps support mobility while delivering reliable performance for residential and light commercial applications. 
• Recovery units: Built for speed and safety, these units provide dependable refrigerant recovery with durable construction and features that support compliance and consistent operation. 
• Hoses: MalcoEdge provides three lines of hoses: Safe Seal, Easy Seal and TurboFlow. These hoses help maintain system integrity, improve flow efficiency and reduce refrigerant loss during service and installation. 
• Manifolds: Featuring durable construction, clear gauges and quick-turn ball valve operation, manifolds provide control and accuracy for both routine service and complex system work. 
• Measurement equipment: Digital gauges and diagnostic tools deliver fast, accurate readings with clear displays and alerts, helping contractors verify performance and troubleshoot efficiently. 
• Tube tools: From cutting and bending to flaring and deburring, these tools are designed for clean, precise connections that reduce rework and support long-term system reliability. 
• Service tools: Purpose-built for critical field tasks, these tools enhance control and precision in tight jobsite conditions while supporting faster, more consistent results. 

Visit Malco Tools’ website or their directories on RoofersCoffeeShop® and MetalCoffeeShop® to learn more about how you can streamline operations and elevate performance with MalcoEdge’s full lineup of HVACR solutions!