Recognizing the rising leaders shaping the future of metal construction

METALCON has announced the inaugural honorees of its 40 Under 40 Recognition Program, celebrating 40 professionals age 40 and under who are driving the future of metal construction. The honorees represent a broad cross-section of the industry, including manufacturing, roofing, engineering, construction, technology, sales, marketing and education.

Selected for their achievement, leadership, innovation and overall impact, the 2026 honorees are moving projects forward, improving processes, developing new technologies, strengthening customer relationships and helping shape the industry’s next generation of leadership.

“Our inaugural 40 Under 40 honorees represent the energy, talent and forward-thinking leadership that are moving the metal construction industry forward,” said Judy Geller, vice president of trade shows for PSMJ Resources, Inc., producers of METALCON. “They are already making an impact across every part of the industry, and we are proud to recognize their accomplishments and celebrate them at METALCON.”

The 2026 METALCON 40 Under 40 honorees are:

Chandler Barden | owner | CIDAN Machinery Group
Since entering architectural roofing in 2013, Chandler has risen from sales engineer to CEO of CIDAN Group while serving in Metal Construction Association leadership roles and promoting metal construction internationally.

Thad Barnette | director of commercial marketing | Sheffield Metals International / New Tech Machinery
Thad built The Metal Roofing Channel to more than 50,000 subscribers, hosting hundreds of industry experts and using education-driven marketing to connect professionals and strengthen metal construction brands.

Jay Bechtel | founder & CEO | Rib Runner Tools
With a background in construction, Jay recognized a critical need and developed RibRunner Tools to improve metal sheeting pre-installation, helping contractors streamline work through practical, field-driven innovation.

Alina Bosak | branch manager | Chicago Metal Supply
Alina champions architectural sheet metal by developing talent, educating customers through installation classes and advocating for metal’s essential role in construction.

Mason Burchette | owner & chief revenue officer | True Metal Supply
Mason co-founded the company in 2022 and scaled it to 45+ employees and multiple manufacturing facilities, combining nationwide growth with contractor education, digital tools and customer-focused manufacturing.

Joseph Canell | owner | Elevate Roofing and Solar
Joseph has built a company founded on integrity, quality craftsmanship and customer service while investing in education, innovative building practices and technologies that raise industry standards.

Mark Carlisle | industry marketing manager | U.S. Steel
For more than a decade, Mark has connected steelmaking with metal construction by leading U.S. Steel’s construction market intelligence, industry engagement and METALCON strategy and serving in leadership roles across multiple trade organizations.

Austin Cash | new product development manager | The Malco Group
Eight years after joining The Malco Group as a student intern, Austin became product development manager. Now as lead engineer, he led the TurboShear Rotary Panel Cutter from concept to production in 16 months.

Alex Corry | general manager - CDMG Building Systems | CDMG
Alex advanced from civil draftsman to general manager, delivering sustained revenue growth and earning selection to the Nucor Builder Advisory Council as one of 16 builders nationwide.

Daniel Cuenca | owner & general contractor | Mammoth Metal Structures & Mammoth Metal Manufacturing
Daniel is a results-driven leader whose experience, operational vision and commitment to excellence have driven Mammoth’s growth and strengthened its capabilities and reputation in the industry.

Megan Ellsworth | multimedia director | MetalCoffeeShop
Megan connects industry professionals through multimedia, education and conversation, including podcasts, webinars, panel discussions and video content, while serving in a leadership role with National Women in Roofing.

Max Esteban | founder & CEO | Maximilian Sheet Metal
After entering the sheet metal trade at 18, Max founded Maximilian Sheet Metal at 27, growing it into a respected firm while leading as designer, fabricator and project manager.

Scott Frankert | technical product manager, Coil & Extrusion | PPG Industries
Scott bridges technical expertise and commercial strategy, drawing on coil coating technologies and account-growth experience to lead adoption of advanced UV- and EB-curable coatings for manufacturers.

Jesse Gallimore | owner | JamesCo Builders LLC
Jesse built JamesCo Builders around transparency, quality and people-first leadership, strengthening partnerships across automotive, industrial, education and commercial markets.

Leland Gazo | co-owner | Blue Sky Roofing
At 28, Leland helped increase Blue Sky Roofing’s metal roofing revenue by 70% while expanding standing seam and architectural metal systems and mentoring Vermont’s next generation of craftsmen.

Brittni Goodwin | director - Sales | U.S. Steel
Recently promoted, Brittni drives measurable business growth, builds and develops teams and takes ownership of challenges, including new product development in steel.

Ray Haas | owner | Haas Stone & Steel, LLC and Mallet Supply, LLC
Ray advances roofing craftsmanship through traditional techniques and sustainable materials, sharing specialized knowledge through crew training, industry collaboration and improving access to quality sheet metal.

Lyndzye Harper | inside sales manager | S-5!
Lyndzye has distinguished herself by building strong relationships across the metal construction and solar industries. She helped shape the company’s first inside sales manager role, expanding lead development and account management.

James Henry | CEO | Copper Top Roofing and Sheet Metal, Inc.
James joined Copper Top Roofing and Sheet Metal at 19 and became owner at 29, building expertise in custom metal fabrication and standing seam roofing while investing in the people around him.

Jeremy Henson | CEO | ASCO Machines
Jeremy progressed from electrical distribution through sales and executive leadership to become owner and CEO of ASCO USA, building global partnerships that support innovation, growth and lasting industry relationships.

Eric Hinz | sales | Innovative Energy, Inc.
Eric advances the industry by identifying opportunities to improve products, streamline processes and deliver greater customer value while earning trust through professionalism, work ethic and a customer-first approach.

Amanda Johnson | sales & marketing manager | Roper Whitney
Amanda progressed from service coordinator to leading sales and marketing departments, becoming a recognizable sheet metal industry voice through educational video content and sustained professional growth.

Andy Keys | owner | Metal Ops
Andy has expanded contractor support beyond distribution, providing sales training and jobsite education that help roofing professionals better understand how metal roofing systems are sold and installed.

Zachary Lee | senior fulfillment manager | Mill Steel Company
Zachary helped lead development of the Mill Steel App, translating customer insights into a user-friendly digital experience that generated more than $100 million in sales during its first year.

Jace Lyon | executive director | Lyon Metal Roofing
“Born into the industry,” Jace combines hands-on manufacturing experience with an engineering background, advancing into executive leadership while helping strengthen the company’s leadership team and expand its market.

Mahsa Mahdavian | global technical marketing director | Scottsdale Construction Systems
Mahsa has advanced structural engineering through influential cold-formed steel research and steel deck design software, helping improve design methodology, workflows and practical application across the industry.

Brandon Mainor | president | Hornet Building Systems
Brandon oversees operations, applying hands-on manufacturing knowledge to modernize production through technology while maintaining a strong focus on customer service and company culture.

Victor Martinez | design team leader | The Barndominium Company
Victor transforms client visions into buildable plans, managing a pipeline of 40 to 70 active projects while making a measurable impact on projects, processes and people.

Seth McBride | president & founder | Steel Craft Builders
Seth built Steel Craft Builders around pre-engineered metal building expertise and customer service, using technology and AI to improve efficiency, accuracy and pricing across projects throughout the Southeast.

Chad Miller | president | Lyon Roofing, Inc.
Chad began working at Lyon Roofing as a teenager and, through years of hands-on experience, dedication and leadership, advanced through the company to become its president.

Kiara Nirghin | CEO & founder | Emanate
Kiara founded Emanate to bring frontier AI to industrial companies, combining experience as a Stanford AI Lab researcher and Google Science Grand Prize winner with metals-industry innovation.

Colin Palladino | managing director | New Castle Metal
Colin built the company’s roofing division from the ground up, growing the division from a single location into a six-location Northeast operation through entrepreneurial leadership.

Sarah Parks | CEO & co-founder | ContractorHUB
Sarah combines SaaS expertise with a strong understanding of contractor needs, building ContractorHUB around customer experience, ingenuity and product value while raising expectations for technology serving the trades.

Tucker Pearson | head of sales | RenderDraw
Tucker works directly with fabricators and OEMs to modernize operations through software, using a consultative approach that builds trusted, long-term industry partnerships.

Erik Pilgrim | CEO & founder | RenderDraw
Erik is bringing AI-powered takeoffs, connected workflows and 3D visualization to metal construction, helping professionals improve estimating, configuration and project presentation without sacrificing technical precision.

Travis Rex | director of sales operations | EXCEPTIONAL Metals
Travis combines market insight, business acumen and collaborative leadership to identify opportunities, improve processes and turn innovative ideas into practical solutions that advance metal construction.

David Scott | COO | EcoSteel
As COO, David transformed operations, championed Building Information Modeling and helped drive tenfold company growth while overseeing complex steel-building projects and advancing operational leadership.

Ali Turner | S-5!
Ali has contributed to metal roofing through product launches, strategic messaging, technical content and industry education, helping communicate complex topics and broaden understanding across the industry.

Jesse Winternitz | application engineering & product support manager | S-5!
Jesse has built a career spanning engineering, product development and field application, leading a six-person team and serving as a key voice connecting engineering expertise with real-world application.

Elizabeth Woodworth | regional acoustical manager | Best Supply
Elizabeth manages regional acoustical ceiling sales across Tennessee, Kentucky and Indiana, including specialty metal systems, while serving on the National Association of Women in Construction Nashville’s board and advocating for women in construction.

The honorees will be formally recognized during METALCON 2026, taking place October 7–9 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Recognition includes a featured profile on METALCON.com, promotion through email, social media and trade publications, onsite recognition and an invitation to a Future Leaders Happy Hour.

As METALCON celebrates its 35th anniversary, the 40 Under 40 program puts the work and impact of the industry’s emerging leaders front and center at the annual gathering of the metal construction community.
 
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 The Coffee Shops®.  

MetalCoffeeShop to give away 10 Total Experience passes. 

Join us at the premier event for professionals interested in the advancement of metal construction. By bringing the industry together in a focused setting, METALCON creates an engaging environment where attendees can explore emerging ideas, discover new products and gain a broader perspective on the possibilities of metal as a building material. 

The conference and expo also offer meaningful opportunities for professional growth. Contractors can step beyond their day-to-day responsibilities, exchange insights with industry peers and learn from the experiences of others. This combination of education and collaboration can provide fresh inspiration that professionals can apply to their businesses, projects and careers. 

METALCON also highlights the innovation shaping the future of the industry. The event provides a valuable setting for professionals to consider evolving approaches, identify potential solutions to industry challenges and better understand how metal construction continues to develop. This emphasis on forward-thinking ideas makes the experience relevant to both established professionals and those building their careers in the field. 

Most importantly, METALCON helps strengthen the metal construction community. It serves as a gathering place for people who share a commitment to innovation, craftsmanship and the continued development of the industry. That sense of connection, combined with opportunities for discovery and learning, makes METALCON a valuable event for professionals looking toward the future of metal construction. 

METALCON brings the metal construction industry's very best brands and thought leaders under one roof for three days of unprecedented access, efficiency and education, and as a METALCON partner, MetalCoffeeShop is giving away 10 free Total Experience passes to the show! The Total Experience registration package is the premium pass to everything happening on the show floor. This includes access to more than 250 exhibitors, demos, keynotes, networking events and over 35 free accredited education sessions. 

Register here to win your free pass!

As a METALCON partner, MetalCoffeeShop is giving away 10 free Total Experience passes to the show! The Total Experience registration package is the premium pass to everything happening on the show floor. This includes access to 250+ exhibitors, demos, keynotes, networking events and 35+ FREE accredited education sessions. METALCON brings the metal construction industry's very best brands and thought leaders under one roof for three days of unprecedented access, efficiency and education.

Winners receive one Total Experience Pass for entry to the show. Travel and hotel are not included. 

Complete this form for your chance to win a pass and join us in Orlando October 7 - 9, 2026!

By Emma Peterson. 

METALCON is celebrating its 35th anniversary with special exhibits, networking events, industry awards and community celebrations!  

2026 marks 35 years of METALCON – the leading event for metal construction professionals. And this year’s show has a variety of special events planned to both celebrate this milestone and help professionals across the industry prepare for another 35 years of shaping the metal industry’s future. Here’s a shortlist of the events to expect from this year’s show, which is planned for October 7-9, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida!  

Steel on the Move Experience 

METALCON isn’t the only one celebrating an anniversary this year, U.S. Steel is celebrating 125 years of innovation in 2026! And to honor it, they have created a special Steel on the Move Experience that is coming to the METALCON show.  

This exhibit is an immersive experience that showcases “the story of steel and its essential role in building the infrastructure, products and communities that power everyday life.” It will be located at the center of the exhibit hall, making it easy for all attendees to stop by and explore the engaging displays, interactive content and inspiring stories.  

Learn more!

The 2026 METALCON Top Product Awards 

The annual product awards are back — this is its sixth year! These awards celebrate the innovative products, technologies and solutions that exhibitors at METALCON bring to the table. And the results are decided by YOU!  

So, make sure you fill out your voting form as you explore the expo floor (which will host more than 250 booths this year!). Voting ends on October 7, 2026, at 5 p.m. ET with announcements of the winners hosted at the show October 8, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. 

See the nominees!

Forge: Where women in metal shape what’s next 

This is the only event on this list that is separately ticketed (meaning you need to register for it in addition to your general METALCON registration), but it’s well worth the time and the $35 ticket!   

Hosted the day before the METALCON show kicks off, the Forge centers around the incredible female professionals who are pushing the metal industry forward. It offers everyone from emerging professionals to industry veterans a chance to sit in a room of women who understand exactly what you do and how hard you’ve worked to get where you are today. 

Attendees can look forward to a keynote from Rita Goodroe; a panel discussion featuring Bryce Batts, Kate Glantz, Erin Hoffman and Amanda Turner; networking activities and a reception sponsored by National Women in Roofing (NWIR). This is a must-attend for those looking for meaningful conversation, leadership insights and genuine connections that extend well beyond METALCON.  

Learn more.

Oktoberfest 

METALCON is all about bringing learning, fun and community together and no event is better representative of this than their Oktoberfest expo experience! The event officially kicks off on Wednesday, October 7 at The Backyard with a golf simulator challenge sponsored by HELIX Metalforming and John Stortz & Son. The rest of the celebration will happen at various exhibitor booths across the expo floor.  

See the schedule!

Speed networking 

With all the education sessions and other events happening, it can be hard to find time for spur-of-the-moment networking, which is why METALCON has set up a speed networking event for Wednesday night (10/7/2026). This is a huge opportunity to “meet contractors, manufacturers, architects, fabricators, suppliers and industry leaders through short, structured conversations designed to spark real relationships and business opportunities. 

Each round will last just a few minutes, so make sure you bring your business cards and strong elevator pitch!  

METALCON 35th anniversary bash 

And last but certainly not least, METALCON will be hosting a special 35th anniversary bash on Wednesday, right after the speed networking event!  

This party celebrates the community that has grown around METALCON since the first gathering back in 1991. It also puts the spotlight on METALCON’s special Legacy 10 companies who have been at every show! These companies include:  

1. AkzoNobel: AkzoNobel has been a trusted METALCON exhibitor since the very beginning, showcasing their advanced paints and coatings to the attendees of the show. 
2. ATAS International: For more than 60 years, ATAS International has manufactured high-performance metal roofing, wall, ceiling and perimeter systems and for over half that time they’ve been supporting METALCON. 
3. Atlas Bolt & Screw: The Atlas team describes METALCON as “more than a trade show” and have been showcasing their commitment to building lasting relationships with contractors, manufacturers and industry partners by attending every show.  
4. AZZ Precoat Metals: As one of North America's leading providers of coil coating solutions, AZZ has met their customers at METALCON year-after-year. 
5. Englert: For years (35 to be precise) Englert has used METALCON to meet the architects, contractors and decision makers who use their metal roofing, gutter systems and rainware products in the field. 
6. Metal Construction News: A leading industry publication, their team has been at every METALCON show providing media support. 
7. McElroy Metal: As a manufacturer of metal-specific products, it only makes sense the McElroy Metal has been at every one of METALCON’s metal-dedicated shows. 
8. Metal Rollforming Systems: When asked why their team has made it a priority to attend METALCON all 35 years, the Metal Rollforming Systems team put it simply, “These connections allow us to stay ahead of market trends.” 
9. PPG: PPG has been in front of customers and behind the scenes supporting METALCON through initiatives like the Design District for decades now. 
10. Roof Hugger: Since METALCON’s inception, Roof Hugger has been there. Their longstanding commitment exemplifies the collaborative spirit that defines the event. 

Overall, this bash is a must-attend of the 2026 show as it boasts a full schedule of food, drinks, entertainment and community that you won’t want to miss.  

Get your tickets today 

Don’t miss your chance to attend these incredible events, as well as explore METALCON’s extensive expo floor and education programming! The show will be hosted October 7-9, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. All events listed above are included in your registration except for the Forge, which is a separately ticketed event. Advance sign-up is encouraged.  

Register for the show today and use code 30MCS for $30 off your show pass!

As a METALCON partner, MetalCoffeeShop is giving away 10 free Total Experience passes to the show! The Total Experience registration package is the premium pass to everything happening on the show floor. This includes access to 250+ exhibitors, demos, keynotes, networking events and 35+ FREE accredited education sessions. METALCON brings the metal construction industry's very best brands and thought leaders under one roof for three days of unprecedented access, efficiency and education.

Winners receive one Total Experience Pass for entry to the show. Travel and hotel are not included. 

Complete this form for your chance to win a pass and join us in Orlando October 7 - 9, 2026!

As a METALCON partner, MetalCoffeeShop is giving away 10 free Total Experience passes to the show! The Total Experience registration package is the premium pass to everything happening on the show floor. This includes access to 250+ exhibitors, demos, keynotes, networking events and 35+ FREE accredited education sessions. METALCON brings the metal construction industry's very best brands and thought leaders under one roof for three days of unprecedented access, efficiency and education.

Winners receive one Total Experience Pass for entry to the show. Travel and hotel are not included. 

Complete this form for your chance to win a pass and join us in Orlando October 7 - 9, 2026!

As a METALCON partner, MetalCoffeeShop is giving away 10 free Total Experience passes to the show! The Total Experience registration package is the premium pass to everything happening on the show floor. This includes access to 250+ exhibitors, demos, keynotes, networking events and 35+ FREE accredited education sessions. METALCON brings the metal construction industry's very best brands and thought leaders under one roof for three days of unprecedented access, efficiency and education.

Winners receive one Total Experience Pass for entry to the show. Travel and hotel are not included. 

Complete this form for your chance to win a pass and join us in Orlando October 7 - 9, 2026!

By Emma Peterson. 

With more than 250 exhibitors, expanded educational programming and interactive experiences across the show floor, METALCON continues to be the industry's premier gathering for metal construction. 

METALCON, the only event in the industry dedicated solely to the application of metal in design and construction, is just around the corner! Produced by PSMJ Resources, Inc., in partnership with the Metal Construction Association, this year’s show will be hosted October 7-9, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida!  

This show brings metal professionals from across the country, whether you are a contractor, fabricator, manufacturer, supplier, designer or distributor, together to evaluate innovative products on the expo floor, build powerful partnerships at events, learn about the future of the industry in education sessions and push the industry forward, together. Keep reading to learn a bit about what to expect from this year’s show!  

METALCON 2026 education program 

Education has always been a cornerstone of the METALCON experience. For this year’s show, the METALCON team has expanded their educational offerings! In addition to their traditional metal construction, architecture, engineering and manufacturing workshops and complimentary sessions, they have added four Spanish-language education sessions! 

With industry-leading experts like Rob Haddock (S-5!), Vincent Sagan (Metal Building Manufacturers Association), Kermit Baker (American Institute of Architects), Amparo Sancen (Latinos En Roofing), Renee Ramey (Metal Roofing Alliance), Stephen Bender (University of Florida College of Design Construction and Planning), Kyle Rea (Adams and Reese) and Ryan Dalgleish (RAiNA), these sessions offer attendees a veritable wealth of information.  

Please note: All education sessions, except workshops, are included with your registration. No sign-up is needed. Just arrive at your selected session at the scheduled time and location. Seating is first come, first served. 

Browse the education offerings. 

By The Coffee Shops®. 

METALCON brings hands-on training, expert-led education and year-round resources to contractors. 

As building codes, materials and technologies continue to change, metal construction professionals need practical ways to keep their knowledge current. Geared toward professionals at every stage of their career, METALCON supports ongoing contractor education with opportunities designed for contractors, architects, engineers, fabricators, manufacturers and other professionals across the industry. 

The annual event brings education to life through workshops, technical sessions, live demonstrations and product training. Expert-led workshops offer immersive instruction before and during the show, giving participants opportunities to improve practical skills, earn select credentials and gain continuing education credits. This year’s programs include metal roof installation training, roll forming education and a course covering metal roofing materials from aluminum to zinc.  

Learning continues throughout the show with sessions focused on metal roofing systems, insulated metal panels, building envelope performance, sustainability, project management, business growth and emerging technologies. The METALCON Training Zone and Metal Mastery Clinics add skills-based demonstrations, while Design District sessions explore architectural trends, building science and innovative materials. This year, METALCON is also expanding its offerings with educational sessions in Spanish, designed for contractors, fabricators and tradespeople. 

The new Contractor Business Success Center expands the program with sessions on winning work, managing risk, improving profit margins and building stronger teams. Four education sessions presented in Spanish will also increase access to technical education for Spanish-speaking contractors, fabricators and tradespeople. 

Professional development extends beyond the annual event through METALCON Online. Its webinars, technical presentations and expert-led programs help professionals explore installation practices, code updates, product innovations and business strategies throughout the year. 

Together, METALCON’s in-person and online education gives industry professionals opportunities to build skills, pursue credentials and prepare for a changing marketplace. 

Learn more about METALCON education and training opportunities.

By The Coffee Shops®.  

MetalCoffeeShop to give away 10 Total Experience passes. 

Join us at the premier event for professionals interested in the advancement of metal construction. By bringing the industry together in a focused setting, METALCON creates an engaging environment where attendees can explore emerging ideas, discover new products and gain a broader perspective on the possibilities of metal as a building material. 

The conference and expo also offer meaningful opportunities for professional growth. Contractors can step beyond their day-to-day responsibilities, exchange insights with industry peers and learn from the experiences of others. This combination of education and collaboration can provide fresh inspiration that professionals can apply to their businesses, projects and careers. 

METALCON also highlights the innovation shaping the future of the industry. The event provides a valuable setting for professionals to consider evolving approaches, identify potential solutions to industry challenges and better understand how metal construction continues to develop. This emphasis on forward-thinking ideas makes the experience relevant to both established professionals and those building their careers in the field. 

Most importantly, METALCON helps strengthen the metal construction community. It serves as a gathering place for people who share a commitment to innovation, craftsmanship and the continued development of the industry. That sense of connection, combined with opportunities for discovery and learning, makes METALCON a valuable event for professionals looking toward the future of metal construction. 

METALCON brings the metal construction industry's very best brands and thought leaders under one roof for three days of unprecedented access, efficiency and education, and as a METALCON partner, MetalCoffeeShop is giving away 10 free Total Experience passes to the show! The Total Experience registration package is the premium pass to everything happening on the show floor. This includes access to more than 250 exhibitors, demos, keynotes, networking events and over 35 free accredited education sessions. 

Register here to win your free pass!