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<channel>
<title>MetalCoffeeShop</title>
<link>https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/</link>
<description>Metal Forum, Classifieds, Galleries and More!</description>
<language>en-us</language><item>
<title>MCA releases 2025 Annual Report</title>
<link>https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/post/mca-releases-2025-annual-report</link>
<description>mca-releases-2025-annual-report</description>
<pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 10:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/02/mca-mca-releases-2025-annual-report-website.png'
            alt='MCA releases 2025 Annual Report'
            title='MCA releases 2025 Annual Report'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>This annual report reflects the dedication and collaboration of MCA members and sets the stage for what&rsquo;s ahead.</h2>

<p>The Metal Construction Association (MCA) has released its <a href="https://metalconstruction.org/2025-annual-report" target="_blank">2025 Annual Report</a>. Read, download and share the report now to see MCA&rsquo;s key achievements throughout the year and the industry leaders who made them possible.</p>

<p>The 2025 Annual Report comprises four sections based on MCA&rsquo;s priorities:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Creating demand for metal: </strong>MCA promotes metal to architects, building owners&nbsp;and other decision-makers, growing the industry to create new opportunities for our members.</li>
	<li><strong>Educating members and the industry: </strong>MCA also educates industry stakeholders through live events and digital resources to ensure metal performs exactly as it should.</li>
	<li><strong>Growing membership: </strong>MCA&rsquo;s growth is driven by the value it offers members. That growth, in turn, fuels the delivery of impactful resources and amplifies our voice.</li>
	<li><strong>Industry leadership:</strong> Led by professionals actively working in the field, MCA reflects the industry to ensure association priorities, initiatives&nbsp;and investments are shaped by real‑world experience and focused on advancing shared goals.</li>
</ul>

<p>&ldquo;This annual report reflects the dedication and collaboration of our members, and it also sets the stage for what&rsquo;s ahead,&rdquo; MCA Executive Director Jeff Henry said. &ldquo;MCA&rsquo;s progress is driven by members who step up, share their expertise and help shape what comes next. Now is a great time to get involved with MCA so that your company benefits from our shared achievements.&rdquo;</p>

<p>Learn more at <a href="https://metalconstruction.org/membership" target="_blank">https://metalconstruction.org/membership</a> and <a href="https://metalconstruction.org/2025-annual-report" target="_blank">https://metalconstruction.org/2025-annual-report</a>.</p>

<p><strong>About the Metal Construction Association</strong></p>

<p>MCA exists to advance metal construction. Through MCA, a diverse group of companies involved in metal roof and wall systems come together to expand understanding of metal&rsquo;s performance, durability and design potential through education, research and advocacy. By working collectively, MCA members create market demand, shape best practices and support better building outcomes.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>MRA Execute Director Renee Ramey receives top honors for driving residential metal roofing growth, adoption</title>
<link>https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/post/mra-execute-director-renee-ramey-receives-top-honors-for-driving-residential-metal-roofing-growth-adoption</link>
<description>mra-execute-director-renee-ramey-receives-top-honors-for-driving-residential-metal-roofing-growth-adoption</description>
<pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/01/mra-mra-execute-director-renee-ramey-receives-top-honors-for-driving-residential-metal-roofing-growth-adoption-pr.png'
            alt='MRA Execute Director Renee Ramey receives top honors for driving residential metal roofing growth, adoption'
            title='MRA Execute Director Renee Ramey receives top honors for driving residential metal roofing growth, adoption'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>This top honor is bestowed upon an outstanding industry professional for their contributions to the success of the association and the betterment of the metal construction industry.</h2>

<p>Renee Ramey, executive director of the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA), recently received one of the Metal Construction Association&rsquo;s (MCA) highest honors &mdash; the Larry A. Swaney Award &mdash; at MCA&rsquo;s 2026 Winter Meeting held in San Antonio, Texas.</p>

<p>Ramey was honored with the Larry A. Swaney Award for her leadership role in working to grow the residential metal roofing market. In the U.S. alone, market share for metal roofing has risen from 3% at MRA&rsquo;s inception to now capturing over 17% of the overall residential roofing market. This top honor is bestowed upon an outstanding industry professional for their contributions to the success of the association and the betterment of the metal construction industry.</p>

<p>In her role, Ramey guides MRA&rsquo;s focus on rigorous quality and uniformity standards and helps drive consumer and homeowner awareness and adoption in the U.S. and Canada by promoting the many benefits of high quality metal roofing. MRA works together with contractors, manufacturers, roofing coalitions and industry partners to highlight the advantages of residential metal roofing as a sustainable, long lasting and resilient option. Ramey has served as executive director of the MRA since 2017 and has long been recognized for her leadership role in the metal industry.</p>

<p>MCA also recognized long-time MRA member Rob Haddock, CEO and founder of S-5!, by awarding him the Patrick R. Bush Service Award. This award honors the outstanding volunteer contributions of an individual from an MCA member company. This award was created to commemorate Patrick R. Bush, a significant and long-serving member of the MCA board.</p>

<p>Haddock&rsquo;s legendary career as a renowned metal roofing expert, inventor and industry pioneer spans nearly four decades, earning him a long list of honors including an early induction into the Metal Construction Hall of Fame.</p>

<p>Previous MCA service award recipients can be seen here: <a href="http://www.metalconstruction.org/index.php/events/other-awards" target="_blank">www.metalconstruction.org/index.php/events/other-awards</a></p>

<p><strong>About Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA)</strong></p>

<p>Representing the residential metal roofing industry in the United States and Canada, the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) was formed to help educate consumers about the many benefits of metal roofing. For more information about MRA membership, residential metal roofing resources and tools, visit MRA at <a href="http://www.metalroofing.com" target="_blank">www.metalroofing.com</a>.</p>

<p><strong>About the Metal Construction Association</strong></p>

<p>Founded in 1983, MCA represents over 100 member companies that manufacture and distribute products for the metal construction industry. The association&rsquo;s mission is to promote the use of metal in the building envelope. Member volunteers collaborate on projects to educate contractors and architects about best practices for metal design and installation, while also ensuring compliance with evolving building codes and standards that support safety, sustainability and performance. Companies involved in MCA benefit greatly from activities focused on research, codes and standards, market development and technical programs. For more information, visit <a href="http://metalconstruction.org" target="_blank">metalconstruction.org</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Metal roofing surges as investment and confidence rise</title>
<link>https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/post/metal-roofing-surges-as-investment-and-confidence-rise</link>
<description>metal-roofing-surges-as-investment-and-confidence-rise</description>
<pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2026 12:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/01/fmi-metal-roofing-surges-as-investment-and-confidence-rise.jpg'
            alt='Metal roofing surges as investment and confidence rise'
            title='Metal roofing surges as investment and confidence rise'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Jesse Sanchez.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Industry research highlights sustained growth, evolving distribution models and long-term opportunity across residential and nonresidential construction.&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Heidi J. Ellsworth recently sat down with <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/fmi-consulting">FMI Research</a> Analyst <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/paul-trombitas">Paul Trombitas</a> <a href="https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/podcast/paul-trombitas-forging-ahead-with-metal">in this episode of MetalCast&trade;</a> for a data-driven discussion on the current state of the metal construction market. The conversation drew from a new 2025 study completed in partnership with the <a href="https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/directory/metal-construction-association-mca-2">Metal Construction Association (MCA)</a> and focused on why metal roofing and wall systems continue to gain ground across multiple market segments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Paul described the market outlook as exciting, pointing to growing awareness and familiarity as key drivers of demand. Those factors are translating into measurable growth, with metal roofing projected to reach 5 billion square feet by 2029. That increase represents 465 million square feet of incremental volume, signaling sustained momentum rather than a short-term surge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Residential roofing continues to anchor the market, accounting for roughly 84 percent of total metal roofing volume. Re-roofing remains the dominant application, but demand is broadening as homeowners gain greater familiarity with performance benefits. Paul explained, &ldquo;Residential still represents 84% of the market and heavily in the re-roof space.&rdquo; He noted that interest in new residential construction continues to grow alongside increased understanding of metal&rsquo;s durability and longevity. That expanding baseline of familiarity is helping metal move beyond niche adoption and into more mainstream consideration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nonresidential construction is also contributing to the upward trend. Metal roofing now represents more than 30 percent of the addressable nonresidential market, supported by growth in use for data centers, places of education, healthcare facilities and manufacturing plants. Paul emphasized that these segments remain favorable even as broader economic conditions fluctuate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another notable theme from the study is rising international interest. Sixty percent of respondents reported significant or substantial new entrants into the market.&nbsp; Paul noted, &ldquo;Everybody wants to be in the metal space right now.&rdquo; That interest is reflected in ongoing investment activity, mergers and acquisitions and the entrance of global manufacturers viewing metal as a bright spot within building products.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tariffs continue to influence near-term planning. While cost inflation remains a concern, Paul explained that added domestic mill capacity has reduced the likelihood of supply constraints. The greater challenge lies in balancing short-term uncertainty with long-term growth decisions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shifts in distribution are also reshaping the landscape. An increased emphasis on distribution is helping manufacturers reach a wider range of contractors and supports emerging system-based approaches that simplify sourcing, training and scalability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As contractors look ahead, Paul stresses the importance of building familiarity with metal systems and investing in workforce education. &ldquo;One of the big things is just understanding and having that familiarity because it is a different approach, the installation techniques, the tools, the requirements.&rdquo; He added that using industry research and association resources can help contractors better position their businesses for long-term growth by aligning training, strategy and market opportunity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/post/paul-trombitas-forging-ahead-with-metal-podcast-transcript">Read the transcript</a>, <a href="https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/podcast/paul-trombitas-forging-ahead-with-metal">Listen to the podcast</a> or <a href="https://youtu.be/LnGRVl6Pu1E">Watch the Webinar</a>&nbsp; to learn more about metal market trends and research insights!</strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>MCA honors Rob Haddock and Renee Ramey with service awards</title>
<link>https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/post/mca-honors-rob-haddock-and-renee-ramey-with-service-awards</link>
<description>mca-honors-rob-haddock-and-renee-ramey-with-service-awards</description>
<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2026 16:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/01/mca-mca-honors-rob-haddock-and-renee-ramey-with-service-awards-website.png'
            alt='MCA honors Rob Haddock and Renee Ramey with service awards'
            title='MCA honors Rob Haddock and Renee Ramey with service awards'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>The awards were announced on January 14 during MCA&#39;s 2026 Winter Meeting in San Antonio, Texas.</h2>

<p>The Metal Construction Association (MCA) presented its Patrick R. Bush Service Award to Rob Haddock of S-5! and its Larry A. Swaney Award to Renee Ramey of the Metal Roofing Alliance. The awards were announced on January 14 during MCA&#39;s 2026 Winter Meeting in San Antonio, Texas.</p>

<p>The Patrick R. Bush Award honors the outstanding volunteer contributions of an individual from an MCA member company. This award was created to commemorate Patrick R. Bush, a significant and long-serving member of the MCA board.</p>

<p>This year&rsquo;s recipient is Rob Haddock, founder of S-5! Rob entered the industry at just 19, founding a company that erected pre-engineered steel buildings. Today, his legendary career has earned him an early induction into the Metal Construction Hall of Fame. A renowned metal roof expert, inventor and industry pioneer, Rob created an entirely new market for non-penetrating roof attachments and holds numerous patents. He is also the director of the Metal Roof Advisory Group, a global consulting firm serving clients since 1989.</p>

<p>A contractor-turned-consultant, Rob developed innovative solutions for attaching rooftop ancillaries, such as snow guards and HVAC equipment, which led him to found S-5! in 1992, where he serves as CEO. Under his leadership, S-5! products have been installed on more than 3 million roofs in 76 countries, supported by 217 patents and over 50 roof manufacturer endorsements. A lifetime honorary member of the Metal Construction Association since 1985, Rob has dedicated nearly four decades to advancing the industry through extensive volunteer and leadership service. Rob is the author of many articles and white papers, as well as a teacher and top-rated presenter. Rob&rsquo;s years of service to the industry earned him MCA&rsquo;s Larry A. Swaney Award in 2015.</p>

<p>The Larry A. Swaney Award is bestowed upon an outstanding industry professional for their contributions to the success of the association and the betterment of the metal construction industry.</p>

<p>This year&rsquo;s honoree is Renee Ramey, executive director of the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA). Under her leadership, metal roofing&rsquo;s residential market share grew dramatically from 3% at the alliance&rsquo;s inception to 17%. She has guided MRA&rsquo;s focus on rigorous quality and uniformity standards, including wind-resistance testing for flashings and trim, helping drive broader adoption across manufacturers and installers.</p>

<p>Renee partners with contractors, manufacturers, roofing coalitions and industry partners to promote increased metal adoption, maintain high-quality standards and encourage ongoing knowledge-sharing. She also leads MRA&rsquo;s annual residential market research, providing members with valuable insights into market trends, and is a strong advocate for sustainable, resilient building practices, highlighting metal roofing&rsquo;s infinite recyclability.</p>

<p>Previous MCA service award recipients can be seen here: <a href="http://www.metalconstruction.org/index.php/events/other-awards" target="_blank">www.metalconstruction.org/index.php/events/other-awards</a></p>

<p><strong>About the Metal Construction Association</strong></p>

<p>Founded in 1983, MCA represents over 100 member companies that manufacture and distribute products for the metal construction industry. The association&rsquo;s mission is to promote the use of metal in the building envelope. Member volunteers collaborate on projects to educate contractors and architects about best practices for metal design and installation, while also ensuring compliance with evolving building codes and standards that support safety, sustainability and performance. Companies involved in MCA benefit greatly from activities focused on research, codes and standards, market development and technical programs. For more information, visit <a href="http://metalconstruction.org" target="_blank">metalconstruction.org</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Thriving in 2026: Key strategies for success</title>
<link>https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/post/thriving-in-2026-key-strategies-for-success</link>
<description>thriving-in-2026-key-strategies-for-success</description>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 10:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/01/mca-thriving-in-2026-key-strategies-for-success-canva.png'
            alt='MCA Thriving in 2026: Key strategies for success'
            title='MCA Thriving in 2026: Key strategies for success'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By The Coffee Shops&trade;.</p>

<h2>At the 2026 MCA Winter Meeting, Alex Chausovsky delivered a powerful message about navigating a year of modest growth and heightened uncertainty. &nbsp;</h2>

<p><a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/alex-chausovsky" target="_blank">Alex Chausovsky</a>&rsquo;s insights for the <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/metal-construction-association-mca-2" target="_blank">Metal Construction Association&nbsp;(MCA)</a> centered on adaptability, proactive planning and leveraging relationships to build resilience. Here&rsquo;s what leaders should take away from his presentation.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Data over emotion&nbsp;</h3>

<p>Alex stressed that decisions must be grounded in facts, not fear or speculation. &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t allow your fear, emotion, anxiety or water cooler talk drive decisions. Look at the data, understand what is reliable, what is not and then make your decisions based on that.&rdquo; In a volatile environment, data-driven strategies are the foundation for success.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Growth won&rsquo;t come to you&nbsp;</h3>

<p>For companies satisfied with 1&ndash;2% volume growth, the market will likely deliver that by year-end. But for those aiming higher, Alex was clear: &ldquo;You&rsquo;ve got to actually get out there and take it. You gotta hustle.&rdquo; &nbsp;</p>

<p>Market share gains and new customer acquisition will be essential for outperforming in 2026. Leaders must actively pursue opportunities rather than wait for them to appear.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Plan for multiple futures&nbsp;</h3>

<p>One of Alex&rsquo;s most strategic recommendations was scenario planning. &ldquo;Probably the biggest strategic thing that you can start doing long term is not just have one plan. Have multiple plans for multiple scenarios and be willing to pivot depending on what happens.&rdquo; Flexibility and readiness to adapt will separate thriving businesses from those that struggle.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Communication is your competitive edge&nbsp;</h3>

<p>In a complex market, strong relationships matter more than ever. Alex advised doubling communication with customers and supply chain partners. &ldquo;If you double the rate of communication, that really elevates the relationship from a transactional one to a value-added partnership.&rdquo; &nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharing insights and asking for feedback builds trust and creates resilience when conditions turn challenging.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Control what you can&nbsp;</h3>

<p>While external factors remain unpredictable, businesses can control their internal actions. Protect margins, pivot toward out-performing sectors and embrace nimbleness. &ldquo;Doing business as you&rsquo;ve always done is probably not going to get you to where you need to be,&rdquo; Alex warned. Leaders must be willing to rethink traditional approaches.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Invest in productivity&nbsp;</h3>

<p>Finally, Alex urged companies to evaluate their efficiency by asking, &ldquo;Are we doing things in the smartest, most efficient, most productive way possible?&rdquo; Technology investments and process improvements can deliver significant performance gains even when the market is stagnant. Research potential ROI and implement changes that drive measurable results.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bottom line? 2026 may not be a year of explosive growth, but it can be a year of strategic wins. By focusing on data, hustling for new opportunities, planning for multiple scenarios, strengthening relationships and investing in productivity, businesses can position themselves to thrive in uncertainty.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Tariffs in 2026: A new era of trade policy and global risk</title>
<link>https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/post/tariffs-in-2026-a-new-era-of-trade-policy-and-global-risk</link>
<description>tariffs-in-2026-a-new-era-of-trade-policy-and-global-risk</description>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/01/mca-tariffs-in-2026-a-new-era-of-trade-policy-and-global-risk-canva.png'
            alt='MCA Tariffs in 2026: A new era of trade policy and global risk'
            title='MCA Tariffs in 2026: A new era of trade policy and global risk'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By The Coffee Shops&trade;.</p>

<h2>Understanding how tariffs will impact the metal construction industry is important for business leaders to plan for success. &nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>At the 2026 <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/metal-construction-association-mca-2" target="_blank">Metal Construction Association</a> Winter Meeting, economic analyst <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/alex-chausovsky" target="_blank">Alex Chausovsky</a> delivered a sobering assessment of the evolving U.S. tariff landscape under President Trump&rsquo;s second term. His remarks highlighted a dramatic shift in strategy compared to Trump&rsquo;s first term, with far-reaching implications for businesses and global alliances.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>A lone-wolf approach to tariffs&nbsp;</h3>

<p>&ldquo;The biggest difference in my view,&rdquo; Alex explained, &ldquo;is that he [Trump] no longer cares or even desires to get anyone&#39;s support or backing on this course of action. He&#39;s decided, &#39;I&#39;m going to go at it alone.&#39;&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since January 2025, the administration has implemented roughly 75 tariff actions, all through executive orders. This unilateral approach even bypasses traditional party support. &ldquo;He doesn&rsquo;t even need the backing of his own Republican Party,&rdquo; Alex noted. &ldquo;He&rsquo;s just saying, &#39;Executive order, I decided, I&rsquo;m gonna do this.&#39;&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>One recent example: a 25% tariff on any country doing business with Iran, announced via tweet. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s very difficult to actually answer, well, what does &lsquo;doing business with Iran&rsquo; mean? How do you apply that?&rdquo; Alex said, underscoring the ambiguity and complexity of enforcement.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Tariffs as a geopolitical tool&nbsp;</h3>

<p>Unlike Trump&rsquo;s first term, which focused on reducing trade deficits, tariffs now serve broader geopolitical aims. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re talking about things like critical minerals for the Chinese, immigration and drug trade in North America, NATO defense spending and even internal politics in Brazil,&rdquo; Alex explained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This expansion of negotiating points introduces significant risks. &ldquo;The biggest risk factor we&rsquo;re facing right now,&rdquo; he warned, &ldquo;is an alienation of our traditional allies&hellip; pushing them into the very welcoming and open arms of our main adversaries, namely countries like China and Russia.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>He cited India&rsquo;s recent overtures toward Beijing and Moscow as an alarming example saying, &ldquo;Prime Minister Modi was seen at a summit in Beijing recently, being very friendly &mdash; beyond normal levels &mdash; with President Xi and President Putin. That is not the kind of thing we want to maintain over time.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Legal challenges and what&rsquo;s next&nbsp;</h3>

<p>Currently, three major tariff categories dominate U.S. trade policy:&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>IEEPA tariffs:</strong>&nbsp;Country-specific, via executive order</li>
	<li><strong>Section 232 tariffs: </strong>Product-specific, requiring congressional investigation</li>
	<li><strong>Section 301 tariffs:</strong> Targeting anti-dumping practices, primarily against China</li>
</ul>

<p>But the legal foundation of IEEPA tariffs is under scrutiny. &ldquo;We could have an imminent ruling from the Supreme Court that says IEEPA tariffs are unconstitutional,&rdquo; Alex revealed. If overturned, the government faces a logistical nightmare, he says. &ldquo;We&rsquo;ve collected something like $130 billion worth of tariffs, and there is no process that exists right now for the government to pay that money back.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Impact on businesses and inflation&nbsp;</h3>

<p>For companies hoping tariffs will disappear, Alex was blunt. &ldquo;They&rsquo;re not going anywhere. 2026 is going to just have an evolution of the tariff landscape.&rdquo; Expect new tariffs on critical sectors like semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, robotics and industrial machinery &mdash; categories that could significantly affect manufacturing and construction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The economic ripple effect is clear. &ldquo;My expectation is, we probably end the year somewhere in that 3% to 5% range for inflation,&rdquo; he said, citing the shift from companies absorbing tariff costs to passing them on to customers. &ldquo;The bulk of the impact of tariffs is still out in front of us.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<h3>The bottom line&nbsp;</h3>

<p>Alex&rsquo;s advice to businesses is to focus on profitability, not just revenue growth. &ldquo;You don&rsquo;t want to have customers and business opportunities where it&rsquo;s actually costing you money to do business,&rdquo; he cautioned. With tariffs reshaping global trade and inflationary pressures mounting, vigilance and adaptability will be critical for survival in 2026.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>AI and automation: Revolutionizing metal construction and manufacturing</title>
<link>https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/post/ai-andautomation-revolutionizingmetalconstructionandmanufacturing</link>
<description>ai-andautomation-revolutionizingmetalconstructionandmanufacturing</description>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/01/karen-article-for-mca-ai-andautomation-revolutionizingmetalconstructionandmanufacturing.png'
            alt='AI and automation - Revolutionizing metal construction and manufacturing'
            title='AI and automation - Revolutionizing metal construction and manufacturing'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By&nbsp;The Coffee Shops&trade;.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Technology&nbsp;isn&rsquo;t&nbsp;just changing today&rsquo;s workflows&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;it&rsquo;s&nbsp;laying&nbsp;the foundation for a smarter, more efficient future in metal construction and manufacturing.&nbsp;</h2>

<p>At the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/metal-construction-association-mca-2" target="_blank">Metal&nbsp;Construction&nbsp;Association (MCA)</a>&nbsp;2026 Winter Meeting, Denver Riggleman, founder of RIIG Technology&nbsp;and former U.S.&nbsp;Congressman, delivered a compelling talk on how&nbsp;artificial&nbsp;intelligence (AI) and automation are transforming industries&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;including metal roofing,&nbsp;construction&nbsp;and manufacturing. His insights revealed not only the potential of AI but also practical examples of how companies can&nbsp;leverage technology to stay competitive.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Why AI&nbsp;matters for&nbsp;metal construction&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>

<p>AI is not just about futuristic robots or science-fiction scenarios.&nbsp;Denver&nbsp;emphasized that AI&rsquo;s real power lies in automation and data integration, stating, &ldquo;Automation across multiple channels creates&nbsp;efficiencies.&nbsp;No matter the industry&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;technology transfer works the same way.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>For metal roofing and manufacturing, this means:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Faster&nbsp;estimation and&nbsp;bidding:&nbsp;</strong>AI can process drone imagery to generate&nbsp;accurate&nbsp;roof measurements and job estimates automatically.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Error&nbsp;reduction:&nbsp;</strong>By&nbsp;consolidating&nbsp;fragmented CRMs and historical data, AI minimizes manual mistakes.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Labor&nbsp;optimization: </strong>Companies can scale productivity without scaling headcount, freeing skilled workers from repetitive tasks.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h3>Real-world&nbsp;examples of AI&nbsp;impact&nbsp;</h3>

<p>Denver&nbsp;shared a striking example from the healthcare industry, saying,&nbsp;&ldquo;One orthopedic practice was losing north of $5 million per month in insurance verification and claim issues. AI fixed that.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similar inefficiencies exist in&nbsp;construction&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;slow&nbsp;RFQ responses, manual data&nbsp;entry&nbsp;and compliance challenges. AI can automate these processes, saving time and money.&nbsp;He also highlighted the potential for drone-based automation, saying,&nbsp;&ldquo;If I can take a picture of a roof and have AI generate an estimate and job approval without a human, why wouldn&rsquo;t I?&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Investment and ROI: What&nbsp;are&nbsp;companies&nbsp;spending?&nbsp;</h3>

<p>According to&nbsp;Denver, companies are investing 1&ndash;2% of annual revenue in automation initiatives. While that may sound significant, the returns are compelling,&nbsp;&ldquo;Saving money is earning money. If you can&nbsp;eliminate&nbsp;manual errors and speed up processes,&nbsp;you&rsquo;re&nbsp;not just cutting costs&mdash;you&rsquo;re&nbsp;creating competitive advantage.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Beyond AI: Building the right tech stack&nbsp;</h3>

<p>Denver&nbsp;cautioned that AI alone&nbsp;isn&rsquo;t&nbsp;enough. As Denver put it,&nbsp;&ldquo;There&rsquo;s&nbsp;no way everything is going to be AI. You need full-stack developers, data scientists and engineers who understand microservices, Kubernetes and relational databases.&rdquo;&nbsp; This&nbsp;holistic approach&nbsp;ensures that automation layers are secure,&nbsp;scalable&nbsp;and adaptable to future changes.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>The future: Energy,&nbsp;data&nbsp;and&nbsp;compliance&nbsp;</h3>

<p>As AI adoption grows, so does the demand for data centers and energy.&nbsp;Denver&nbsp;warned, &ldquo;Data centers will pull&nbsp;more and more&nbsp;energy off the grid. We need solutions&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;SMRs, natural gas, offshore&nbsp;power.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s&nbsp;all coming.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also noted that compliance is another critical area where AI can&nbsp;help, adding, &ldquo;Do you know what rulemaking or legislation is coming out in state and federal right now&nbsp;that&rsquo;s&nbsp;going to affect your business? AI can help predict that.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Key&nbsp;takeaways for&nbsp;metal&nbsp;roofing and manufacturing leaders&nbsp;</strong></p>

<ol>
	<li><strong>Start small, think big: </strong>Identify&nbsp;pain points&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;RFQs, compliance, estimation&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;and explore automation solutions.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Invest&nbsp;wisely: </strong>Budget 1&ndash;2% of revenue for AI and automation to stay competitive.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Build&nbsp;expertise: </strong>Hire or train AI engineers and data specialists;&nbsp;don&rsquo;t&nbsp;rely solely on off-the-shelf tools.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Plan for&nbsp;power and&nbsp;policy: </strong>Engage in local energy discussions and&nbsp;monitor&nbsp;regulatory changes.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

<p>Denver&nbsp;summed it up best, sharing, &ldquo;When you look at your companies,&nbsp;you&rsquo;re&nbsp;already successful. The question is&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;how successful do you want to be?&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>MCA 2026 Winter Meeting</title>
<link>https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/post/mca-2026-winter-meeting</link>
<description>mca-2026-winter-meeting</description>
<pubDate>Sat, 10 Jan 2026 08:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2025/12/mca-2026-winter-meeting.png'
            alt='MCA 2026 Winter Meeting'
            title='MCA 2026 Winter Meeting'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>Network to Benefit Your Company and Career at the MCA Winter Meeting&nbsp; | The <a href="https://metalconstruction.org/index.php/events/winter-meeting/winter-meeting-2026" target="_blank"><strong>MCA Winter Meeting</strong></a> isn&rsquo;t just about learning&mdash;it&rsquo;s about building relationships that can transform your work. From lively receptions to shared conversations over meals, every moment is designed to help you connect with industry leaders, peers, and innovators who share your drive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://metalconstruction.org/index.php/events/winter-meeting/winter-meeting-2026" target="_blank"><strong>Register now to join us in San Antonio, TX, January 13-15</strong></a>, to ensure you have countless opportunities to connect with members of this dynamic community of metal construction professionals.&nbsp; You&#39;ll engage with industry colleagues from different locations, specialties, and roles at events throughout our meeting! Don&rsquo;t miss your chance to expand your network and strengthen your professional community.</p>

<p><a href="https://metalconstruction.org/index.php/events/winter-meeting/winter-meeting-2026" target="_blank"><strong>Register today</strong></a> and start planning the conversations that will shape your year.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>A sneak peak of the MCA Winter Meeting 2026</title>
<link>https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/post/a-sneak-peak-of-the-mca-winter-meeting-2026</link>
<description>a-sneak-peak-of-the-mca-winter-meeting-2026</description>
<pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2026 09:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/01/mca-a-sneak-peak-of-the-mca-winter-meeting-2026.png'
            alt='A sneak peak of the MCA Winter Meeting 2026'
            title='A sneak peak of the MCA Winter Meeting 2026'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Jenny Yu.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2>This year&rsquo;s gathering will provide members with opportunities to learn, engage and explore.&nbsp;</h2>

<p><a href="https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/podcast/mca-winter-meeting-looking-ahead">In a recent episode of MetalCast&trade;</a>, Karen Edwards spoke with Jeff Henry, executive director of the <a href="https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/directory/metal-construction-association-mca-2">Metal Construction Association (MCA)</a>, about MCA&rsquo;s upcoming Winter Meeting taking place on January 13-15, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>With speakers and networking opportunities lined up, the Winter Meeting is gearing up to be the must-attend event for starting the year on a strong note. One keynote speaker will be economist Alex Chausovsky. &ldquo;He&rsquo;ll be talking about the state of the industry, the economy, where construction is headed, what will be happening in the arena for metal and the entire geopolitical environment as well,&rdquo; Jeff shared. &ldquo;He&rsquo;ll give some insights about how to do business in an age of uncertainty, which is a timeframe that we exist in at the moment.&rdquo;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another voice that will be sure to spark ideas and conversation is Denver Riggleman, former Air Force intelligence officer and former congressman. Denver is also the CEO and founder of Riggleman Information &amp; Intelligence Group (RIIG) &mdash; HOOTL (Humans Out of the Loop), a company focused on developing AI-driven tools for healthcare and insurance automation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;Technology is changing, especially with AI. It&#39;s changing so fast that we barely have time to plan for how we&#39;re going to incorporate it and use it,&rdquo; Jeff stated. &ldquo;Denver has some really interesting takes about the use of AI and its implications, and how to develop strategies for informed adoption of AI. He&rsquo;ll provide some interesting insights and considerations for members to reflect upon as they approach their internal policies and applications of that technology.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Along with these esteemed speakers, the Winter Meeting will shed light on MCA&rsquo;s developing programs for its members, like their contractor and installer training program. &quot;We&#39;re in the midst of developing an online interactive curriculum,&rdquo; Jeff said. &ldquo;We hope to roll out phase 1 in late 2026, and that&#39;ll address standing seam, through-fastened panels, metal shingles &mdash; both painted and stone-coated. It will be robust.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Providing such educational support reflects MCA&rsquo;s priorities for the new year and beyond. &ldquo;We want to be the resource for understanding and providing best practice guidelines for the installation of the products that our members sell,&rdquo; Jeff stated. &ldquo;We&#39;re excited about that opportunity.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/podcast/mca-winter-meeting-looking-ahead">Listen to the podcast</a> or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFh0jfWsoNQ&amp;embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.metalcoffeeshop.com%2F">Watch the recording</a> to learn more about what the MCA Winter Meeting 2026 will hold!</strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Women Who Build</title>
<link>https://www.metalcoffeeshop.com/post/women-who-build</link>
<description>women-who-build</description>
<pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2026 08:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/01/mca-women-who-build.jpg'
            alt='Women Who Build'
            title='Women Who Build'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>Elevating the Leaders Shaping the Future of Walls and Ceilings</h2>

<h3><span style="color:#ce2027">Deadline</span>: January 23, 2026</h3>

<p><strong>Women Who Build</strong> recognizes the exceptional women transforming the walls and ceilings industry through leadership, innovation, and dedication. This feature profiles the architects of change&mdash;from business owners and executives to project managers, estimators, and skilled tradeswomen&mdash;who are building stronger companies, mentoring the next generation, and advancing the industry forward.</p>

<p>The program honors women across all career stages and roles who demonstrate:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Leadership Excellence</strong>: Driving business growth, operational innovation, or team development</li>
	<li><strong>Technical Mastery</strong>: Advancing installation techniques, safety standards, or product knowledge</li>
	<li><strong>Industry Impact</strong>: Contributing to workforce development, advocacy, or community engagement</li>
	<li><strong>Mentorship &amp; Vision</strong>: Championing diversity and creating pathways for future industry leaders</li>
</ul>

<p>Whether they&rsquo;re running multi-million dollar contracting firms, managing complex commercial projects, developing breakthrough building solutions, or training the next generation of craftspeople, <strong>Women Who Build</strong> spotlights the professionals whose expertise and determination are literally shaping the built environment.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wconline.com/women-who-build?utm_medium=emailsend&amp;utm_source=NL-WC-Walls+%26+Ceilings&amp;utm_content=BNPCD251223022_01&amp;oly_enc_id=6211F5573989A4A#nominate"><strong>Submit your nomination today!</strong></a></p>]]></content:encoded>
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