By The Coffee Shops™.  

New experiences, stronger audiences and a fresh message drive momentum for 2026. 

At the MCA Summer Meeting, METALCON show director Judy Geller outlined an ambitious vision for the event’s 35th anniversary, emphasizing growth, innovation and a renewed focus on delivering measurable value to attendees and exhibitors alike. 

A milestone year for the industry 

Celebrating 35 years, METALCON continues to position itself as a central hub for the entire metal construction industry. The event brings together contractors, architects, fabricators, manufacturers, suppliers, owners and developers under one roof — creating a unique environment where connections are made and business gets done. 

According to Judy’s presentation, the show is already demonstrating strong momentum heading into this year’s event in Orlando, with more than 235 contracted exhibitors and over 63,000 square feet of exhibit space nearly sold out. This high level of participation, along with continued investment from leading companies and MCA member organizations, underscores METALCON’s role as a key driver of industry engagement and growth. 

Shifting the message: From features to value 

One of the most notable changes for 2026 is how METALCON is positioning itself to prospective attendees. Instead of focusing on the number of booths or education sessions, organizers are shifting their messaging to highlight what attendees gain, and what they risk missing if they don’t attend. 

This value-driven approach emphasizes business opportunities, industry connections and competitive insights, helping attendees better understand the return on their time investment. 

New experiences designed to drive engagement 

Building on recent successes, METALCON is continuing to invest in immersive, one-of-a-kind experiences that draw attendees to the show floor and keep them engaged. 

For 2026, highlights include the U.S. Steel “Motion Experience,” a new “Future of Construction” feature and other interactive elements designed to spark conversation and drive traffic throughout the show floor. 

These attractions are designed to create energy, increase engagement and provide more opportunities for exhibitors to connect with attendees. 

Expanding audiences and building the next generation 

Another major focus this year is growing the audiences who influence purchasing and specification decisions. While contractors remain a core audience, METALCON is placing increased emphasis on architects, fabricators, manufacturers, owners, developers and emerging professionals. 

To support that goal, organizers highlighted expanded contractor education, more Spanish-language programming and networking opportunities and enhanced initiatives aimed at developing future leaders. 

Programs like the newly rebranded “Forge” initiative for women in the industry and the continued promotion of the 40 Under 40 program are helping strengthen the next generation of metal construction professionals. 

Creating measurable value for exhibitors 

A key theme throughout Judy’s presentation was delivering meaningful ROI for exhibitors. Data shows that a significant amount of purchasing occurs either on the show floor or within six months following the event, reinforcing METALCON’s importance as a business catalyst. 

By focusing on attracting the right attendees — those directly involved in purchasing and specification — the event aims to maximize value for exhibitors and maintain strong industry investment. 

More than a trade show 

Ultimately, METALCON is positioned as more than exhibits and education. It is a place where relationships are built, partnerships are formed and opportunities are created. 

With a nearly sold-out show floor, new experiential features and a clear focus on delivering value, the 2026 event in Orlando is shaping up to be one of METALCON’s most impactful years yet. 

By The Coffee Shops.™ 

The Metal Construction Association’s (MCA) scholarship program continues to support the educational aspirations of students connected to its member companies. 

Now in its third year, the MCA scholarship program awards $2,000 to selected students pursuing postsecondary education across a variety of fields, including college, vocational and trade programs. Recipients are chosen through a blind and competitive selection process that evaluates academic achievements, personal essays, extracurricular involvement and commitment to future career goals. 

Recognizing the 2026 scholarship winners 

This year, five outstanding students were honored, each representing a unique path and ambition: 

• Mattias Carney (Ontario, Canada): Mattias has received an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. He plans to pursue a STEM-focused education and aims to become a U.S. Air Force officer, demonstrating a strong commitment to leadership and service. 
• Rory Huck (Littleton, Colorado): Rory is currently studying at the University of Redlands, double majoring in mathematics and data science. Her academic focus reflects her goal of becoming an actuary, a career requiring precision and analytical expertise. 
• Hannah Bergthold (Siloam Springs, Arkansas): Hannah will attend the University of Arkansas to major in education. Her passion for teaching and helping others positions her for a meaningful career in the classroom. 
• Drew Sailors (Logansport, Indiana): Drew is studying agriculture business sales at Ivy Tech Community College and plans to continue at Purdue University. His background in organizations such as 4-H and FFA supports his career goals in agriculture and sales. 
• Colton Burks (Joshua, Texas): Colton will attend Ottawa University to study coaching and administration. His passion for athletics and mentorship will guide him toward a future in coaching and education. 

Investing in the future 

The 2026 scholarship recipients showcase a diverse range of talents and interests — from military service and data science to education and agriculture — reflecting the versatility and strength of the MCA community. The program not only provides financial assistance but also reinforces the association’s ongoing commitment to investing in the next generation of industry leaders. 

By supporting these students and celebrating their achievements through personalized profiles and photos, MCA continues to strengthen its connection to both member companies and their families while helping shape a promising future for the industry. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Articles of interest from June 2026. 

As the second fiscal quarter of the year comes to a close, it’s hard to believe we’re coming up on the halfway point of 2026. And the number of articles The Coffee Shops™ crew has published in that time (over 2,300 across all sites) can attest to how busy of a year it’s been. Of those thousands of articles, over 350 of them were posted in June alone. So, to help you keep up with all the news and information, we’ve rounded up the top ten articles from June.  

Our list starts off with an article highlighting Adams and Reese’s Trent Cotney’s May 2026 construction law updates and an article diving into a new Workforce Pell Grants that “could help roofing contractors recruit, train and grow the next generation of skilled workers.” 

From there, we have a wide variety of articles highlighting everything from the National Women in Roofing (NWIR) Oregon Council’s work coordinating a roof replacement for a Portland homeowner in need to how metal roofing protects against wildfires and the role of the Metal Construction Association (MCA) in the industry. 

Rounding out our list is our top three articles of June. In third place is an article our friends at Roof Hub wrote all about optimizing operational efficiency by using AI Smart Templates. Second goes to an article I wrote about how contractors can build trust and generate leads in a digital world. And first goes to Cotney Consulting Group’s article sharing a 5-year readiness playbook for roofing contractors. 

Top 10 articles from June 2026 

10 - Construction law insights and updates from May 2026 by Emma Peterson. 

9 - Workforce Pell Program could strengthen roofing’s workforce pipeline by Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

8 - Why government affairs matter to every roofing professional by Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

7 - Roofing community rallies for Oregon homeowner by The Coffee Shops™. 

6 - Maximizing fire resistance with metal by Anna Lockhart. 

5 - MCA advances technical leadership, expands market opportunities and builds momentum for 2026 by Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

4 - Navigating a new normal by Emma Peterson. 

3 - AI smart templates by RoofHub. 

2 - Word of mouth still works – It just looks different by Emma Peterson. 

1 - A 5-year readiness playbook for roofing contractors by Cotney Consulting Group. 

By The Coffee Shops. 

Understanding how this year’s midterms can have a broad impact on the metal industry.  

At the Metal Construction Association (MCA) Summer Meeting, legal counsel John Kelly delivered a timely, nonpartisan overview of the upcoming midterm elections, emphasizing process over politics and encouraging attendees to stay informed as the November elections approach. 

Framing his presentation as an educational baseline, John told attendees, “We’re going to talk about process. We’re going to talk about what’s coming and how to think through your choices.” He emphasized that his goal was not to influence political opinions but to help industry professionals better understand how the system works and what to watch in the months ahead. 

Why midterms matter 

Midterm elections, held halfway through a president’s four-year term, play a critical role in shaping national policy. John noted that “every seat in the U.S. House of Representatives and one-third of the seats in the United States Senate are up for election,” underscoring the broad impact of these contests. 

Currently, the balance of power in Congress is narrowly divided, making even small shifts in voter turnout potentially decisive. John explained that Republicans hold a slim majority in the House, while the Senate is similarly tight, with control hinging on a small number of seats. 

Because of these narrow margins, he stressed that the upcoming elections “will make a difference in terms of where we are years from now,” particularly when it comes to legislative priorities and policy direction. 

Breaking down the numbers 

To give attendees context, John reviewed the structure of Congress and how elections influence control. The Senate consists of 100 members serving six-year terms, with a simple majority typically requiring 51 votes. However, he pointed out that in many cases, 60 votes are needed to advance legislation due to procedural rules. 

In the House, all 435 seats are up for election every two years, with 218 votes needed to pass legislation. John noted that the current House majority is “just by a hair,” highlighting how competitive many districts have become. 

This balance underscores the volatility of midterm cycles, where a shift of only a few seats can change which party controls the legislative agenda. 

Historical trends and voter behavior 

Looking at historical patterns, John explained that the party in control of the White House often loses ground in midterm elections. “This trend is sometimes known as the presidential penalty,” he said, citing past elections where incumbent parties lost dozens of House seats. 

Turnout is another key factor. Midterms typically draw about 40% of eligible voters, compared to closer to 60% in presidential election years. That lower turnout can amplify the influence of motivated voters, particularly those driven by strong opinions about the direction of the country. 

“Enthusiasm and dissatisfaction pull voters to the polls in greater numbers,” John said, noting that voters often use midterms to send a message about the current administration. 

Key issues shaping the election 

John highlighted several major issues likely to influence voters this cycle, beginning with the economy. Rising consumer prices and fluctuating energy costs, he said, “become a volatile campaign issue” that resonates with a wide range of voters. 

He also pointed to global conflict and immigration policy as significant factors shaping voter sentiment. Each issue carries both economic and social implications, which can shift priorities across different regions and demographics. 

In addition to policy concerns, structural factors such as redistricting and legal rulings on voting practices could play an outsized role in determining outcomes. John encouraged attendees to pay close attention to these developments as they evolve ahead of Election Day. 

What to watch in the months ahead 

With just over four months until the election at the time of the presentation, John emphasized the importance of staying informed. He pointed attendees to nonpartisan forecasting tools and political analysis resources, like Sabato’s Crystal Ball, to track key races and trends. 

He also cautioned that the political landscape can shift quickly. “What we know today could be a different analysis” in the coming weeks, he said, noting how rapidly external events can influence voter perception and campaign momentum. 

Ultimately, control of Congress will depend on a handful of competitive races, especially in closely divided districts and battleground states. While early indicators suggested the House could be more likely to change hands, the Senate outlook remained more uncertain. 

Participation matters 

John closed his presentation with a reminder about civic engagement, reinforcing that election outcomes are shaped by those who show up. 

“We do not have government by the majority,” he said. “We have a government by the majority who participate.” 

For professionals in the metal construction industry, understanding the mechanics of elections and their potential policy impacts is critical. As John’s presentation made clear, even small shifts in participation and voter sentiment can have lasting effects on legislation, regulation and the business environment. 

By The Coffee Shops™. 

Data centers fuel the next phase of growth.  

At the 2026 MCA Summer Meeting, Paul Trombitas of FMI delivered a comprehensive market outlook, highlighting strong long-term growth across construction sectors, shifting geographic demand and evolving dynamics driven by data centers, consolidation and emerging technologies. 

“This gives us a good sense of what the overall trend of the market is,” Paul said. “No one chases 100% of the marketplace, but it helps you understand where you are headed.” 

Nonresidential and infrastructure drive growth 

FMI’s Q2 2026 outlook shows a changing balance across construction segments. While residential has historically dominated, recent years have brought greater parity between residential and nonresidential markets. 

“Residential and nonresidential are representing very similar volumes now,” Paul explained. “A lot of that is due to high demand from data centers and high-tech manufacturing, along with some softness in residential.” 

Looking ahead through 2030, FMI forecasts: 

• Residential growth around 4% to 4.5% 
• Nonresidential growth near 6% 
• Nonbuilding growth approaching 7.8% 

Overall, the total construction market is expected to grow at roughly 5.8%, with infrastructure tied to power and data centers driving much of the expansion. 

“That power is largely related to supporting the infrastructure for data centers,” Paul said. “That is the biggest challenge right now.” 

Data centers reshape the market 

Few sectors are influencing construction as dramatically as data centers. FMI projects data centers will continue to drive both demand and project prioritization across the country. 

“Data centers themselves are growing at about an 18% annual rate through 2030,” Paul noted, adding that they are now being separated from traditional office construction due to their rapid expansion. 

Their impact extends beyond project volume. Data centers are also influencing material demand, construction timelines and geographic investment. 

“They only care about getting the new technology in,” Paul said. “They’re willing to pay more for whatever allows them to do that faster.” 

Secondary cities gain momentum 

Shifting population trends and corporate relocations are fueling growth in emerging markets. Secondary cities such as Raleigh, Charlotte, Nashville and Tampa are becoming major construction hubs. “You follow where the population is moving,” Paul said. “That’s exactly where the dollars are going.” 

Corporate relocations are accelerating this trend, driving demand for housing, healthcare, education and commercial infrastructure in these regions. 

Metal roofing and wall systems show strong gains 

FMI’s updated forecast for metal roofing projects steady growth through 2030, with total square footage expected to increase by roughly 16%. Nonresidential applications are expected to lead that expansion. “There’s stronger growth in nonresidential industrial, institutional and commercial,” Paul said. 

Residential still accounts for the majority of metal roofing volume, but nonresidential is gaining share. Replacement work also dominates the market, making up more than 90% of activity. 

On the wall side, growth is even more pronounced. FMI forecasts more than 30% growth in metal wall systems, supported by industrial development and increased adoption in residential applications. “Metal wall continues to see very favorable growth,” Paul said, citing durability, sustainability and design flexibility as key drivers. 

Pricing and materials remain a concern 

Despite strong growth projections, pricing volatility continues to create uncertainty, particularly with aluminum and other substrates. “Aluminum prices have risen sharply, and that has prompted some projects to shift away from metal,” Paul said. “There’s concern about being overpriced relative to competing materials.” This pricing pressure could influence material selection, especially in cost-sensitive segments. 

Industry consolidation accelerates 

Another major theme highlighted in the presentation was consolidation across the supply chain. Recent acquisitions involving major distributors have reshaped the competitive landscape. “It’s almost an arms race of who can buy more and bigger distributors,” Paul said. 

At the same time, new entrants and smaller players are entering the market, creating a widening gap between large, consolidated firms and emerging competitors. “The middle is in a unique position,” Paul explained. “They’re trying to figure out how to position themselves between those two extremes.” 

AI adoption expands across construction 

Artificial intelligence is also gaining traction across the industry, though adoption varies widely. “Some companies are still hesitant, while others are using it for planning and logistics,” Paul said. He emphasized that successful adoption depends on clearly defined use cases. “The ones doing it effectively are building a business case,” he said. “They’re identifying challenges first, then selecting the right tool to address them.” 

Labor, power and supply chain shape the future 

Looking ahead, several constraints could influence growth, including labor availability, energy infrastructure and supply chain challenges. Power capacity, in particular, may become a limiting factor for data center expansion. 

“In Northern Virginia, data centers already represent nearly 30% of electricity consumption,” Paul said. “That’s going to be one of the biggest issues.” 

At the same time, modular construction and prefabrication are emerging as key strategies to address labor shortages and accelerate project timelines. 

Strong outlook with strategic considerations 

Overall, FMI’s forecast points to sustained growth, particularly in nonresidential and infrastructure sectors, supported by data center expansion and regional shifts. “There’s still a lot of optimism,” Paul said. “But there’s also underlying uncertainty that companies are navigating.” 

For contractors, manufacturers and distributors, success will depend on understanding shifting demand, adapting to consolidation and leveraging new tools and technologies to stay competitive. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

The MCA Summer Meeting will drive innovation, education and industry growth.

As members of the Metal Construction Association (MCA) gather for their Summer Meeting, the conversations reflect an industry that continues to evolve with purpose. From technical education and market development to workforce recognition and major events, MCA is helping shape the future of metal construction while providing resources that support manufacturers, contractors, architects and design professionals. 

That leadership starts with a strong commitment to education and technical clarity. As demand grows for high-performing building systems, MCA continues to release updated technical bulletins and white papers that help the industry navigate changing codes, safety expectations and performance requirements. MetalCoffeeShop’s Karen Edwards participates in the MCA marketing committee and works to help amplify these important resources and events for the broader metal community. 

The latest updates address issues that are influencing projects across North America, including the use of foam plastic insulation within combustible wall assemblies, fire performance testing for metal composite materials and the changing landscape of cool roof requirements. By bringing these topics into focus, MCA is giving the industry practical guidance that supports better decisions in design, specification and installation. 

That same focus on practical support is also driving MCA’s work to expand opportunities for metal in residential construction. The new Residential Wall Marketing Initiative is designed to increase awareness and adoption of metal wall systems by clearly communicating their durability, design flexibility, low maintenance and long-term value. With member participation and support, the initiative will help fund outreach, tools and marketing resources that can open new doors in a rapidly growing segment of the market. 

As MCA looks to strengthen market awareness, it is also preparing for one of the industry’s most anticipated gatherings. METALCON 2026, scheduled for October 7-9 in Orlando, will celebrate its 35th anniversary with a renewed emphasis on hands-on education. MCA will have a prominent presence at the show through Metal Mastery Clinics that highlight best practices for standing seam systems, metal shingles and retrofit applications. 

The momentum around events and education also extends to the people who will carry the industry forward. MCA’s new 40 Under 40 program is designed to recognize emerging leaders who are already making an impact in metal construction. Alongside that recognition, the association continues to invest in workforce development through its scholarship program, providing financial support to students connected to member companies and helping build the next generation of industry professionals. 

Together, these efforts show how MCA continues to position metal as a high-value solution for both commercial and residential construction. Through technical leadership, collaborative engagement, market development and investment in future talent, the association is helping keep metal at the forefront of performance, sustainability and design innovation. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

The MCA Summer Meeting will drive innovation, education and industry growth.

As members of the Metal Construction Association (MCA) gather for their Summer Meeting, the conversations reflect an industry that continues to evolve with purpose. From technical education and market development to workforce recognition and major events, MCA is helping shape the future of metal construction while providing resources that support manufacturers, contractors, architects and design professionals. 

That leadership starts with a strong commitment to education and technical clarity. As demand grows for high-performing building systems, MCA continues to release updated technical bulletins and white papers that help the industry navigate changing codes, safety expectations and performance requirements. MetalCoffeeShop’s Karen Edwards participates in the MCA marketing committee and works to help amplify these important resources and events for the broader metal community. 

The latest updates address issues that are influencing projects across North America, including the use of foam plastic insulation within combustible wall assemblies, fire performance testing for metal composite materials and the changing landscape of cool roof requirements. By bringing these topics into focus, MCA is giving the industry practical guidance that supports better decisions in design, specification and installation. 

That same focus on practical support is also driving MCA’s work to expand opportunities for metal in residential construction. The new Residential Wall Marketing Initiative is designed to increase awareness and adoption of metal wall systems by clearly communicating their durability, design flexibility, low maintenance and long-term value. With member participation and support, the initiative will help fund outreach, tools and marketing resources that can open new doors in a rapidly growing segment of the market. 

As MCA looks to strengthen market awareness, it is also preparing for one of the industry’s most anticipated gatherings. METALCON 2026, scheduled for October 7-9 in Orlando, will celebrate its 35th anniversary with a renewed emphasis on hands-on education. MCA will have a prominent presence at the show through Metal Mastery Clinics that highlight best practices for standing seam systems, metal shingles and retrofit applications. 

The momentum around events and education also extends to the people who will carry the industry forward. MCA’s new 40 Under 40 program is designed to recognize emerging leaders who are already making an impact in metal construction. Alongside that recognition, the association continues to invest in workforce development through its scholarship program, providing financial support to students connected to member companies and helping build the next generation of industry professionals. 

Together, these efforts show how MCA continues to position metal as a high-value solution for both commercial and residential construction. Through technical leadership, collaborative engagement, market development and investment in future talent, the association is helping keep metal at the forefront of performance, sustainability and design innovation. 

Education lineup connects industry shifts with real-world metal design decisions.

As architects and design professionals face growing pressure to make smarter decisions about carbon, code compliance, material performance and long-term resilience, METALCON is expanding its Design District programming for 2026 with a new education lineup centered on the issues shaping today's built environment.

Taking place October 7–9, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, The Design District @ METALCON will provide a focused space for design professionals to examine what is changing across the metal construction ecosystem and why those changes matter before the next project is designed, specified or built.

The 2026 program connects big-picture industry shifts — from embodied carbon and Environmental Product Declarations to adaptive reuse and high-performance façade systems — with practical, project-level decisions attendees can carry onto the METALCON show floor as they evaluate materials, systems and solutions.

"Design professionals are being asked to make increasingly complex decisions about materials, performance, sustainability and compliance," said Judy Geller, vice president of Tradeshows at METALCON. "The Design District gives them direct access to the education, experts and real-world applications they need to make those decisions with confidence."

Among the 2026 program highlights is keynote speaker Kermit Baker, a leading economic voice in the architecture, design and construction sectors and former chief economist for the American Institute of Architects. Kermit’s keynote, “Building Through Uncertainty: A Market Outlook for the Construction and Design Industries,”  will examine the economic forces shaping project activity, demand, pipeline trends and sector growth, giving attendees timely context for the year ahead.

Featured Design District sessions: Wednesday, October 7, 2026

• The Hidden Carbon in Metal Buildings – 10:30 a.m.
  Vincent Sagan of the Metal Building Manufacturers Association and Amanda Turner of Cornerstone Building Brands will examine embodied carbon in metal building systems, including material selection, manufacturing impacts, EPDs and integrated design strategies.
• Industry Outlook: Metal Construction Code Updates – What's Changed and What It Means – 1:30 p.m.
  Bill Beals of Therm-All, Paul Deffenbaugh of Deep Brook Media and Bob Zabcik of Z-Tech Consulting will break down recent and upcoming code changes affecting metal construction and what they mean for design, specification, fabrication and installation.
• MasterClass: Shipping Container Upcycling – Opportunities and Challenges with Supply Chain Connected Modular Steel Units – 3:00 p.m.
  Stephen Bender, architect and instructor at the University of Florida, will explore how upcycled shipping containers can become adaptable, cost-effective building solutions while navigating sustainability, supply chain, code and project delivery challenges.

Featured Design District sessions: Thursday, October 8, 2026

• Building Through Uncertainty: A Market Outlook for the Construction and Design Industries – 9:00 a.m.
  Kermit Baker, former chief economist for the American Institute of Architects, will examine the economic forces shaping project activity, demand, pipeline trends and sector growth.
• Industry Outlook: 2027 – The Future of Metal Construction – 10:30 a.m.
  Kermit Baker, Jeff Henry of the Metal Construction Association and Vincent Sagan of the Metal Building Manufacturers Association will discuss the economic, supply chain, regulatory and jobsite forces shaping metal construction through 2027.
• Why Metal Wins – 12:00 p.m.
  Brent Schipper will explore why metal continues to be selected for performance, resilience, sustainability, aesthetics, durability, recyclability and design flexibility.
• Metal in Adaptive Reuse: Crafting Community, Transparency and Identity Through Design-Build – 1:30 p.m.
  Debra Wilson of Interstruct Orlando, LLC will use two design-build case studies to show how reclaimed and newly applied metal systems can support adaptive reuse, transparency, texture, durability and community-focused design.
• Architectural Metal Plate Systems: Durable Design for Today's Buildings – 3:00 p.m.
  John Scornse of ATAS International, Inc. will examine how solid metal plate systems support design flexibility, durability, fire resistance, complex forms, finish options and high-performance building envelopes.

Together, this lineup gives design professionals a practical view of the forces influencing metal construction while offering the opportunity to earn up to a year’s worth of AIA Learning Units, including HSW credits. Design District attendees also have access to METALCON keynotes, networking events and more than 35 additional education sessions, giving them more ways to build expertise, exchange ideas and discover what is next in metal design and construction.

The programming is especially relevant for architects focused on performance, resilience and aesthetics; designers exploring new materials and applications; specifiers sourcing compliant, high-performance systems; and engineers working across envelope performance, acoustics, sustainability and constructability.

About METALCON

Established in 1991, METALCON is the only annual event dedicated exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction. Produced by PSMJ Resources, Inc., in partnership with the Metal Construction Association, it brings together decision-makers from across the metal construction ecosystem to explore innovations shaping the built environment. More than a trade show, METALCON serves as the industry’s annual business summit — where deals are made, partnerships are formed and the next 12 months take shape. For more information, visit www.metalcon.com/architects.

By The Coffee Shops.™ 

The Metal Construction Association’s (MCA) scholarship program continues to support the educational aspirations of students connected to its member companies. 

Now in its third year, the MCA scholarship program awards $2,000 to selected students pursuing postsecondary education across a variety of fields, including college, vocational and trade programs. Recipients are chosen through a blind and competitive selection process that evaluates academic achievements, personal essays, extracurricular involvement and commitment to future career goals. 

Recognizing the 2026 scholarship winners 

This year, five outstanding students were honored, each representing a unique path and ambition: 

• Mattias Carney (Ontario, Canada): Mattias has received an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. He plans to pursue a STEM-focused education and aims to become a U.S. Air Force officer, demonstrating a strong commitment to leadership and service. 
• Rory Huck (Littleton, Colorado): Rory is currently studying at the University of Redlands, double majoring in mathematics and data science. Her academic focus reflects her goal of becoming an actuary, a career requiring precision and analytical expertise. 
• Hannah Bergthold (Siloam Springs, Arkansas): Hannah will attend the University of Arkansas to major in education. Her passion for teaching and helping others positions her for a meaningful career in the classroom. 
• Drew Sailors (Logansport, Indiana): Drew is studying agriculture business sales at Ivy Tech Community College and plans to continue at Purdue University. His background in organizations such as 4-H and FFA supports his career goals in agriculture and sales. 
• Colton Burks (Joshua, Texas): Colton will attend Ottawa University to study coaching and administration. His passion for athletics and mentorship will guide him toward a future in coaching and education. 

Investing in the future 

The 2026 scholarship recipients showcase a diverse range of talents and interests — from military service and data science to education and agriculture — reflecting the versatility and strength of the MCA community. The program not only provides financial assistance but also reinforces the association’s ongoing commitment to investing in the next generation of industry leaders. 

By supporting these students and celebrating their achievements through personalized profiles and photos, MCA continues to strengthen its connection to both member companies and their families while helping shape a promising future for the industry. 

You’re invited to attend the Metal Construction Association (MCA) Summer Meeting! Join us June 23-24 in Rosemont, IL. This event is a must for everyone in the metal construction industry, regardless of your company type, product specialty or professional role.

Here’s what you can look forward to: 

• Insights from Experts: Learn how the current and developing economic and governmental situations are expected to impact your business and discover strategies to tackle potential challenges. Our speakers will bring you up to date amid constant changes.
• Interactive Roundtable Discussions: Learn about project MCA is working on related to the products you’re most interested in. Discuss opportunities and challenges that MCA can address to educated architects and contractors who use your products.
• Networking Social Events: Connect with colleagues across companies and roles in a relaxed setting, fostering new relationships and unwinding with like-minded professionals

Add the summer meeting to your calendar today!