By Jenny Yu.  

Industry leaders say demand for flexible, durable and lifestyle-focused steel buildings continues to expand into residential, commercial and luxury sectors. 

The barndominium market continues to gain momentum across residential, commercial and mixed-use construction, creating new opportunities for architects, builders, contractors and suppliers focused on metal building systems. During a recent METALCON webinar titled “Barndominium: Building smarter with metal,” industry experts Stacee Lynn of The Barndominium Company™ and builder Jason Millon of Premier Barndominiums shared insights into the growth of the sector, evolving customer expectations and the increasing role of steel in modern construction. 

Stacee explained that while many people associate barndominiums with Texas, the term originated decades ago in Connecticut. Today, the concept has evolved into much more than a barn-inspired residence. “A barndominium really is a clear span building, where all of the weight of the roof structure is carried on the perimeter,” Stacee stated, noting how the clear-span design gives owners greater flexibility during construction and future remodeling. “I question all the time why all homes aren’t built this way.” 

Consumer demand is being driven by a desire for open floor plans, lower maintenance and unique lifestyles. According to Jason, customers are increasingly attracted to the flexibility and aesthetics of metal structures. “People love it. They love the open concept,” Jason said. “It’s a lifestyle, and everybody wants that lifestyle.” 

The market is also expanding beyond residential applications. Stacee said demand is growing for luxury barndominiums, family compounds, wedding venues, sports facilities and commercial developments. “We’ve entered into the luxury barndominium world,” Stacee said. “We havet the people who can buy whatever they want, and they’re calling us because they’re interested in barndos.” 

Steel’s durability, fire resistance and long-term performance are further accelerating interest. Stacee believes changing insurance requirements and wildfire concerns will continue to influence construction choices. “There’s going to be a huge push by the insurance companies to encourage new construction in steel,” she said. 

As the market grows, both speakers emphasized the importance of education and collaboration among designers, builders and property owners. Successful projects depend on aligning design intent with construction methods and understanding local codes, financing requirements and material options. For contractors considering entering the market, Jason stressed the value of continuous learning. “Educate yourself,” he said. “Don’t just jump in there and start building.” 

Looking ahead, both experts agreed that barndominiums represent a long-term shift rather than a passing trend. Stacee summarized the opportunity for the industry: “Barndominiums are not going anywhere anytime soon. They’re going to be around for a very long time.” 

Watch the full webinar to hear more insights on barndominium design, construction trends, steel building innovation and emerging business opportunities across the market.

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.

Expanded program features hands-on demos, market outlooks, Florida CE credits and a new Latino Track.

 As METALCON marks its 35th anniversary in 2026, an expanded education and training program will give professionals from across the entire metal construction ecosystem new opportunities to build skills, improve performance and prepare for the year ahead. Taking place Oct. 7–9, in Orlando, Florida, this year’s program will emphasize practical training, market intelligence, technical education and business-focused learning.

With workforce development, changing codes, economic uncertainty and demand for field-ready training top of mind across the industry, METALCON will offer hands-on clinics, expert-led sessions, keynote presentations, industry outlook discussions, five specialized learning centers, Florida Contractor Continuing Education Credits and a new Latino Track featuring Spanish-language education and hands-on training.

"METALCON is more than a trade show - it is the metal construction industry's annual business and education summit," said Judy Geller, METALCON vice president of trade shows. "This year's education program reflects the issues professionals are navigating every day, from workforce development and field installation challenges to codes, building performance, technology, economic uncertainty and business growth. Attendees will leave with knowledge they can immediately apply in the field, in the office and across their organizations."

Hands-on training remains a defining METALCON advantage

What continues to set METALCON apart is its commitment to live, hands-on metal construction training. Attendees will have access to practical demonstrations and expert instruction designed to improve field performance, installation quality and jobsite efficiency.

METAL Mastery Clinics, presented by the Metal Construction Association and Metal Roofing Alliance, will take place on the show floor and feature industry best practices for the installation of standing seam metal panels, metal shingles and metal roofing retrofit systems. The clinics will help contractors better understand material selection, panel forming and proper installation techniques that improve efficiency, quality and building owner satisfaction.

The METALCON Training Zone, sponsored by Sherwin-Williams | MetalVue, will feature hands-on demonstrations using mock-ups and materials including painted steel, aluminum, zinc, copper and other specialty materials. Led by John Sheridan of Sheridan Metal Resources and his team of experts, demonstrations will be offered in English and Spanish, with tools available for audience testing and purchase.

Keynotes and industry outlook sessions address resilience, markets and what comes next

METALCON will feature keynote presentations and industry outlook programming that provide attendees with both inspiration and timely market intelligence.

Jim Abbott, inspirational speaker and Major League Baseball pitcher, will deliver "Nothing Can Stop You" on Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 9:00 a.m., followed by a meet and greet. Abbott's keynote will focus on resilience, gratitude and the ability to turn challenges into strengths, offering attendees a powerful perspective on perseverance, adaptability and leadership.

Kermit Baker, a leading economic voice in the architecture, design and construction sectors and former chief economist for the American Institute of Architects, will present "Building Through Uncertainty: A Market Outlook for the Construction and Design Industries" on Thursday, Oct. 8, at 9:00 a.m. His keynote will examine the economic forces shaping project activity, demand, pipeline trends and sector growth, helping attendees understand how current conditions may affect backlog, bidding environments, project starts and strategic business decisions over the next 12 months.

METALCON will also feature two industry outlook sessions addressing the business and compliance issues shaping metal construction. “Outlook: 2027 — The Future of Metal Construction” will bring together leading voices for a forecast panel focused on material costs, evolving codes, supply chain pressures, economic conditions and jobsite realities. “Metal Construction Code Updates: What’s Changed and What It Means” will help attendees understand recent and upcoming changes to codes and standards, with practical implications for design, specification, fabrication and installation.

Five learning centers connect attendees with targeted education

Designed for contractors, fabricators, architects, engineers, installers, designers and specifiers, the broader education program is organized around five specialized learning centers to help attendees quickly identify sessions relevant to their roles, business needs and technical interests:

• Contractor business success center: Practical strategies for improving profitability, operations and workforce development.
• Installation & techniques learning center: Jobsite-focused training on installation best practices, safety and field challenges.
• Metal performance learning center: Education focused on building performance, resilience, codes, standards and compliance.
• Tools & technology zone: Emerging technologies, software, automation and productivity tools changing how metal construction professionals work.
• Design district: AIA-accredited education for architects, designers and specifiers focused on design innovation and the use of metal in the built environment. 

Unlike general construction events, METALCON's education program is focused exclusively on the application of metal in design and construction, providing attendees with targeted insights and practical knowledge unavailable anywhere else.

Florida Contractor Continuing Education Credits

METALCON will offer dozens of Florida Contractor Continuing Education Credits, giving Florida contractors an opportunity to earn a significant portion of the continuing education required to maintain their licenses while gaining practical industry knowledge.

New latino track expands access to focused education and training

In response to the needs of the industry and the growing community of Spanish-speaking professionals in metal construction, METALCON will introduce a new Latino Track featuring educational sessions presented in Spanish, along with Spanish-language hands-on demonstrations in the METALCON Training Zone.

The new Latino Track is designed to expand access to high-value technical, business and leadership education while supporting contractors, installers, roofing professionals and project teams who are helping shape the future of the metal construction industry.

Sessions in the Latino Track include:

• From Vision to Profit: Building a Winning Business Plan in the Metal Industry
• Behind the System: Leadership, Communication & Growth in Modern Roofing
• From Coil to Code: How High-Performance Metal Roofing Systems Are Engineered, Tested and Manufactured
• Why Engineered Roofing Systems Matter More Than Ever 

METALCON takes place at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando from Wednesday, Oct. 7, through Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, with pre-show workshops beginning Tuesday, Oct. 6. Registration is now open at www.metalcon.com

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

METALCON takes place at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando from Wednesday, October 7 to Friday, October 9, 2026, with pre-show workshops beginning on Tuesday, 6.

At the only event where the metal construction industry comes together to make decisions, build partnerships and shape what’s next, METALCON’s keynotes will deliver timely perspectives on resilience, uncertainty and opportunity this October in Orlando.

Inspirational speaker and Major League Baseball pitcher Jim Abbott will deliver “Nothing Can Stop You” on Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 9:00 a.m., followed by a meet and greet. His keynote will focus on resilience, gratitude and the ability to turn challenges into strengths. Through his extraordinary personal and professional journey, Abbott will explore how adversity can shape identity, strengthen purpose and reveal new ways of thinking, adapting and leading. For METALCON attendees, his presentation will offer an inspiring perspective on perseverance, adaptability and embracing the circumstances that make each person and team unique.

Born without a right hand, Abbott built an extraordinary athletic career defined by resilience, creativity, accountability and trust. Raised in Flint, Michigan, by parents who viewed his limb difference not as a disability but as an opportunity, he became a standout athlete at the University of Michigan, where he earned All-Big Ten and All-American honors. He also played for Team USA, helping lead the United States to a gold medal at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea. Selected in the first round of the 1989 Major League Baseball draft, Abbott went on to play 10 Major League seasons for the Angels, Yankees, White Sox and Brewers. In 1993, he pitched a no-hitter for the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium.

Kermit Baker, a leading economic voice in the architecture, design and construction sectors and former chief economist for the American Institute of Architects (AIA), will present “Building Through Uncertainty: A Market Outlook for the Construction and Design Industries” on Thursday, Oct. 8 at 9:00 a.m., followed by participation in an industry panel at 10:30 a.m. His keynote will examine the economic forces currently shaping project activity, demand, pipeline trends and sector growth. Attendees will gain insight into how today’s market conditions may affect backlog, bidding environments, project starts and strategic business decisions over the next 12 months.

At AIA, Baker originated the “Work on the Boards” Survey, a monthly assessment of business conditions at architecture firms and the source of the widely followed Architecture Billings Index. He also coordinated the AIA Consensus Construction Forecast Panel and wrote regular economics columns for AIA Architect. Baker also served as project director of the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University from 1995 to 2021. He holds a master’s degree in urban planning from Harvard University and a Ph.D. from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the same field.

“Both speakers bring two distinct but highly relevant perspectives to METALCON,” said Judy Geller, METALCON vice president of trade shows. “Jim’s story will inspire attendees to think differently about adversity, resilience and possibility, while Kermit’s outlook will provide timely market intelligence to help inform business decisions for the year ahead. Together, their keynotes reflect METALCON’s role as both an educational forum and a strategic business event for the metal construction industry.”

METALCON takes place at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando from Wednesday, Oct. 7 to Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, with pre-show workshops beginning on Tuesday, 6. Registration is now open at www.metalcon.com

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

In this METALCON Live!, Heidi J. Ellsworth brings together a designer, manufacturer and contractor for a real-world conversation on barndominiums, one of the fastest-growing trends in metal building today. Blending residential living with durable, efficient construction, barndominiums are reshaping how owners think about design, performance and cost. This panel dives into how these projects are evolving, from the materials and systems being specified to the growing influence of metal in both structure and style. The discussion also highlights the critical collaboration between architects, manufacturers and builders to ensure successful outcomes. Attendees will walk away with practical insights on design considerations, product selection, code requirements, customer expectations and how to capitalize on this expanding market. 

Register today!

Recognizing the rising leaders shaping the industry.

METALCON has launched its new 40 Under 40 Recognition Program, highlighting rising leaders driving the future of metal construction.

Forty professionals, age 40 and under, will be honored for their work influencing projects, teams and processes – from jobsites and fabrication floors to engineering and design – at the only event where the metal construction industry comes together to make decisions, build partnerships and shape what’s next.

“The program spotlights professionals who are already making an impact across the metal construction industry while also representing its next generation of leadership,” said Judy Geller, vice president of trade shows for PSMJ Resources, Inc., producers of METALCON. “These are individuals driving projects forward, improving how work gets done and helping shape where the industry is headed.”

Nominations are now open and can be submitted via the online nomination form by the July 21, 2026 deadline. Honorees will be selected by a cross-industry panel based on achievement, leadership, innovation and overall impact.

“As METALCON marks its 35th anniversary, this program is about elevating the people who are actively shaping the industry’s direction,” continued Geller. “40 Under 40 puts their work—and their impact—front and center where the industry comes together.”

Selected honorees will receive industry-wide recognition, including a featured profile on METALCON.com, promotion through email, social media and trade publications, and recognition onsite at METALCON 2026, taking place October 7–9, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Honorees will also be invited to a Future Leaders networking reception.

Eligible nominees must be 40 years of age or younger and actively working in or contributing to the metal construction industry. Candidates may be nominated by peers, managers, employees or other industry professionals or may self-nominate with an external reference.

The program aims to elevate the professionals who are driving innovation, improving processes and leading teams across the industry today—those helping define how the industry continues to evolve.

Honorees will be announced in September and formally recognized during METALCON 2026. For more information or to complete a nomination form, visit www.metalcon.com.

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

By Fiona Maguire-O’Shea, METALCON.

Keynote insights highlight rising costs, uneven demand and sectors driving construction forward. 

Before leaders of the metal building industry in Colorado Springs, Colorado, keynote speaker Anirban Basu, a widely respected industry economist, underscored both the opportunities and headwinds facing construction: the U.S. economy is still growing, but growth is increasingly uneven and industry professionals need to be clear-eyed about where opportunity exists and where risk is building. 

Speaking at the joint Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association/Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBCEA/MBMA) event, Anirban offered an early roadmap to the financing, labor, inflation and market questions facing the metal construction industry — conversations that will carry into METALCON 2026, where thousands of metal construction professionals will gather amid ongoing discussion about the market forces shaping the year ahead. 

Anirban, chief economist for the Associated Builders and Contractors, the Construction Financial Management Association and the Modular Building Institute and a former chair of the Maryland Economic Development Commission, brought a practical, construction-focused perspective to the stage. His core point was blunt: The economy is growing, but the benefits are uneven. “So, it’s a lopsided economic expansion with some families really benefiting, and other families really fading in terms of standard of living,” Anirban said.  

Prices, rates and project pressure 

One of Anirban's clearest messages centered on inflation and the frustration it is creating. He said there is “a fair amount of angst out there regarding the economy,” as well as “a fair amount of unhappiness” and “a significant amount of discontent,”driven in part by rising everyday costs such as groceries. At the heart of that discontent, he said, is “high and rising prices.” He noted that overall inflation has climbed 29% since May 2020, while core inflation has risen 25.7% over the same period. 

That matters because inflation continues to keep interest rates elevated, raising the cost of capital and making many projects harder to pencil. Anirban noted that after holding its benchmark rate near zero early in the pandemic, the Federal Reserve raised it to about 5.5% before later easing, but borrowing costs remain high relative to the pre-pandemic environment. As he put it, “Borrowing costs go up, project financing costs go up. That’s not good for construction projects.”

Anirban also said inflation is likely to linger, keeping interest rates higher for longer — an unwelcome outlook for the construction industry, which needs private financing costs to come down to support more construction starts. 

That pressure is most visible in residential construction and parts of the commercial market. Anirban pointed to declining housing under construction, weak permit activity and continued softness in multifamily, where many projects are simply not viableat today’s financing and input-cost levels. 

He also emphasized that the office sector remains a weak spot, with remote and hybrid work continuing to weigh on vacancy in major metropolitan areas, putting pressure on property values, lender appetite and municipal tax bases. As a result, private-sector work tied to traditional office, speculative multifamily and other rate-sensitive development remains under strain. 

Where strength is concentrated 

At the same time, Anirban made clear that not all construction sectors are struggling. He singled out data centers and the energy generation and distribution infrastructure needed to support them as two of the strongest opportunities ahead. “These two segments of construction tend to be the strongest going forward,” he said. 

He described artificial intelligence as one of the defining drivers of capital spending in today’s economy, with hyperscalers, such as Amazon and Meta, spending about $450 billion last year on related architecture and infrastructure and expected to spend $700 billion to $725 billion this year. He also noted that data centers used about 4.4% of U.S. electricity in 2023 and could consume well above 12% by 2028. Those trends will keep driving demand for power generation, transmission and related utility work, while also reinforcing the appeal of fast-track, durable building systems. 

Public construction is another relatively bright spot. Anirban showed that while total nonresidential construction has flattened, infrastructure-related categories such as transportation, water supply, sewage and waste disposal and conservation-related work continue to benefit from public funding already moving through the system. In practical terms, that means companies with exposure to civil, utility and public-sector work may find better near-term stability than those dependent on speculative private development. 

Materials costs remain a problem 

Anirban underscored rising construction input costs, particularly in metals-related categories. He said construction materials prices overall were up 48% from February 2020 to March 2026. The more targeted figure may be even more important: Anirban said the producer price index – the price received by producers – for architectural and structural metals manufacturing was up 7.4% year over year and 75% since February 2020. He also pointed to steep increases in steel mill products and fabricated structural metal products, highlighting how tariff policy and supply-side pressures continue to affect pricing. 

Materials volatility continues to shape pricing, bidding, procurement strategy and project timing. In a market where owners are already struggling with financing, further escalation can push work from delayed to dead. 

Labor and location still matter 

Labor remains another complicated piece of the outlook. Anirban noted that construction job openings have not surged the way some expected, even with changes in immigration policy affecting workforce availability. He said about 25% of the construction workforce is foreign-born, but the expected increase in advertisements for native-born or documented workers has not materialized. The reason, he suggested, is that between residential and nonresidential construction, overall construction spending has been in decline, even though some individual segments continue to grow. That means labor availability, wage pressure and productivity remain key concerns, particularly in labor-intensive trades. Even where demand exists, execution still depends on workforce access and retention. 

Anirban also urged the audience to think regionally, not just nationally. Some markets can transcend a weakening economy, particularly when population growth continues to drive demand. Economic momentum remains strongest in places that continue to attract people and business investment, including parts of Texas, Florida and the Carolinas. Those regions are more likely to support job creation and construction demand. Markets dealing with population outflows, weak office fundamentals or fiscal strain face a more difficult path. 

What comes next for metal construction 

As the industry looks ahead to METALCON 2026, the same questions Anirban raised continue to shape conversations about where work is coming from, which projects still pencil and how companies can position themselves for the next phase of the cycle. Strength remains concentrated in a relatively narrow group of drivers – artificial intelligence spending, data centers, power infrastructure and public work – while other parts of the market remain constrained by financing costs, input prices and softer demand. 

In closing, Anirban said, “So there are four things I’m watching to determine whether or not we’re going to enter recession.” First is the conflict in the Middle East, which he said the stock market appears to be treating as temporary, even though “it hasn’t ended yet, and things can go wrong.” Second is hyperscaler spending, particularly what major technology companies say about their investment plans. Third is the stock market’s performance, which is closely tied to that spending. Fourth is layoff activity, as hiring remains soft and a meaningful pickup in layoffs could quickly push unemployment higher and put more pressure on consumer spending. 

For now, Anirban said, initial unemployment claims remain low — a sign that employers are still largely holding on to their workers. That, he said, “speaks to economic stability.” His conclusion was cautiously optimistic: “My forecast is for growth in 2026.”  

That leaves the industry with a message that is neither alarmist nor complacent. Opportunity remains, especially in segments tied to infrastructure, energy and advanced technology. But so do serious headwinds, particularly for projects that depend on easier financing, steadier input costs and broader private demand.

That conversation will continue across the industry in the months ahead — including at METALCON 2026, scheduled for Oct. 7–9, 2026, in Orlando, Florida. Registration is now open. Learn more at www.metalcon.com. 

By The Coffee Shops.  

Attendees of this METALCON Live! will gain a deeper understanding of materials, collaboration and opportunities in barndominium construction. 

On May 20, 2026, MetalCoffeeShop® will host a METALCON Live! panel titled “Barndominiums: Building Smarter With Metal,” bringing together industry experts to explore how this fast-growing segment is reshaping residential construction. 

Hosted by Heidi J. Ellsworth, the event features a panel that reflects the full project lifecycle, from design to manufacturing to construction. MCS Influencer Stacee Lynn, widely known as The Barndominium Lady™, will offer a designer’s perspective rooted in her experience creating luxury, steel-frame homes that blend open-concept living with high-end finishes. Through The Barndominium Company, she has helped homeowners nationwide transform metal structures into functional and visually striking residences. 

Joining her is Jason Millon, a contractor focused on craftsmanship and client experience. As founder of Premiere Barndominiums LLC and co-owner of Milltins Construction and Development, Millon brings practical insight into building processes, project execution and how to deliver spaces designed for long-term living. 

Together, the panel will examine what defines a barndominium and how it compares to traditional residential structures, while also addressing the factors driving rapid market growth. Attendees can expect a deep dive into materials and systems, including structural approaches, roofing, siding and insulation trends, as well as the expanding role of metal in both performance and architectural design. 

The conversation will also tackle common misconceptions around cost, timelines and complexity, while outlining key considerations for codes, zoning and permitting. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of collaboration between architects, manufacturers and builders to improve constructability and reduce project challenges. 

For contractors, the event offers actionable guidance on preparing for barndominium projects, managing unique client expectations and positioning their business to capitalize on this expanding market. 

Register now to attend the METALCON Live! and learn how to build smarter with metal.