By Dani Sheehan. 

From experimenting with hybrid sales strategies to learning how to let go of control, the lessons shared during this year’s Meet N’ Greet reflect the real challenges contractors face today. 

The Women in Post Frame Meet N’ Greet, hosted by the National Frame Building Association (NFBA) at this year’s 58th Annual Conference and Expo, brought together professionals from across the industry for conversation, connection and candor. It offered a dual perspective on what it really takes to succeed in construction today that was rooted both in business strategy and in personal transformation. 

The business case: Why visibility and relationships still win 

When Randy Chaffee talks about business, it doesn’t feel like a strategy session. It feels more like a conversation with someone who genuinely loves people. That’s because, at his core, Randy builds relationships with everyone he meets. 

For decades, his career was built the old-school way: miles on the road, conversations over meals, handshakes that turned into long-term partnerships. And even as the industry has evolved, that part of his approach hasn’t changed, because in his words and in his actions, people are still the point. 

Like many contractors, Randy was suddenly cut off from the face-to-face interactions that had always fueled his business when the pandemic began. But instead of waiting for things to go back to normal, he found new ways to stay connected, through video, podcasts and social media, as a way to maintain and strengthen relationships. This journey became the foundation for his new book, “Asphalt and Algorithms: A Road Warrior’s Playbook for Winning Results in the Hybrid Sales Arena.” 

His message to contractors isn’t about choosing between old-school and new-school strategies. It’s about honoring both: 

• Keep showing up in person 
• Keep investing in relationships 
• Don’t underestimate the power of being consistently visible online 

Because at the end of the day, visibility is about staying present in people’s lives. And that’s really the heart of Randy’s approach: business is built on connection. 

The personal reality: What happens when control is taken away 

While Randy reminded us how to stay connected and visible in a changing industry, Linda Vap challenged us to look inward and ask a much harder question: what happens when the very thing you’ve built your identity around is suddenly out of your control? Together, they shared an important message about not only how we show up for others, but also what happens when we’re forced to show up for ourselves in an entirely new way. 

After a life-altering accident left her unable to run her company day-to-day, Linda was forced to confront something many leaders never fully examine: Who are you when you’re no longer in control? 

In this industry, when business and family are often intimately connected, this question hits close to home. The company often becomes your identity. Your purpose. Your proof of success. But Linda’s experience revealed the risk that often comes with that mindset. Despite building a strong team and systems over many years, she struggled to let go when it mattered most. And in that struggle, she uncovered a hard truth: empowering your team only works if you’re willing to trust them. 

Her journey highlighted a shift many leaders need to make: 

• From controlling to coaching 
• From doing everything to allowing others to lead 
• From identity in work to identity beyond it 

Where these messages meet 

Together, Randy and Linda painted a picture of what today’s contractors need to succeed: 

1 – Adapt your business: The way you sell, market and connect has changed. Embrace tools that expand your reach without losing your personal touch. 

2 – Evolve your leadership: Building a strong team is as much about trusting as it is about training. Growth often requires stepping back, not stepping in. 

3 – Separate identity from output: Your company is something you build, but it’s not who you are. The stronger your sense of self, the stronger your leadership becomes. 

4 – Stay open to change, even when it’s uncomfortable: Whether it’s adopting new technology or redefining your role, the contractors who grow are the ones willing to adapt. 

So much more than a meet and greet 

Events like this are exactly what the Women in Post Frame Chapter are designed to create. More than just a networking group, the chapter is building a space where women can: 

• Share real experiences 
• Learn from different leadership styles 
• Support one another’s growth in and out of the field 

The group also has a book club led by Emily “Mrs. Post Frame” Marshall, which meets again in May 2026 with a discussion of Randy’s new book. It’s another way to stay engaged, sharpen your thinking and connect with peers across the country. And leaders like Robyn Ommen and Emily Marshall are continuing to build momentum for women in post frame by introducing a Woman of the Year Award at next year’s conference.  

If there was one takeaway from this year’s event, it’s this: success isn’t just about what you build; it’s how you build it and who you become in the process. And for those who weren’t in the room this year, the message is clear: there’s real value in showing up. 

Learn more about NFBA’s Women in Post Frame Chapter and we hope to connect with you next year! 

By Dani Sheehan. 

A growing community gathered in Oklahoma City this year to celebrate craftsmanship and strengthen the post-frame industry. 

Members of the National Frame Building Association (NFBA) gathered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for the 2026 NFBA 58th Annual Conference and Expo, bringing together builders, suppliers and industry leaders to share ideas and celebrate the post-frame community. 

Held at the Oklahoma City Convention Center, this was the first time NFBA has hosted its annual expo this far west. The new location proved to be a success, drawing record attendance and introducing the show to new builders and markets. 

“This is our first time in Oklahoma City, so we really weren’t sure how it was going to go,” Morgan Arwood, membership director for NFBA, shared in a live floor interview. “We were pleasantly pleased to have so many people here at the show.” 

Moving the expo farther west allowed contractors from states such as Texas and Arizona to attend more easily, expanding the reach of the event and bringing new participants into the post-frame community.  

Trade show floor showcases 

The expo floor gave attendees the opportunity to explore the latest innovations shaping the post-frame industry, with exhibitors highlighting new products, equipment and services designed to support builders and contractors. 

We had a great time exploring the show floor, frequently pausing at the demo area as they assembled an entire post-frame building in a matter of hours. Our partners at Everlast Roofing were highlighting their color guides with a magnetic board of samples you could touch and see how different lighting affected each shade. MetalForming LLC brought their tried-and-true Schroeder and Schechtl machines while also announcing their newest partnership with New Tech Machinery. We loved capturing content with K9 Fasteners®, who shared why their fasteners exceed the durability and performance standards needed in places like Oklahoma and Colorado that endure frequent extreme weather events. And Jamie at Chem Link showed us how quickly and easily their M1® Universal Adhesive and Sealant repairs leaks even underwater! 

NFBA continues expanding its reach 

As the industry continues to grow, NFBA is working to ensure its annual expo remains accessible to members nationwide. Future expo locations are expected to rotate among cities such as Columbus, Ohio; Louisville, Kentucky; and Nashville, Tennessee, while periodically introducing additional outlier locations to expand the association’s reach. 

“As the National Frame Building Association, we have to be national,” Morgan said. “By moving locations and introducing the show to different regions, the goal is to help post-frame gain traction and attract more builders.” 

Celebrating craftsmanship  

One of my favorite events of the expo each year is the awards luncheon, where NFBA members gather to celebrate the craftsmanship and innovation shaping the post-frame industry. This year’s Building of the Year Awards saw a record 110 project submissions! Winning projects represented a wide range of building types, including agricultural, commercial and residential structures, demonstrating the versatility and design flexibility that post-frame construction offers.  

To recognize companies of varying sizes, awards were divided into three categories this year based on annual post-frame sales volume. Each winning project received two plaques, one for the builder and one for the building owner. “When a building owner gets to display a Building of the Year award and someone asks who built it, it becomes a great referral opportunity for that contractor,” Morgan added. 

In addition to honoring outstanding projects, NFBA also recognized individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry. Awards presented during the ceremony included Crew Foreman of the Year to celebrate the field leaders who help ensure projects are completed safely and successfully. The association’s highest honor, the Bernon G. Perkins Award, was presented to Ken Gieseke, who recently retired from McElroy Metal. A past NFBA president, Ken has long been recognized for his dedication to the association and his leadership within the metal construction industry. 

Networking and community remain at the heart 

While the trade show floor and educational sessions are central to the expo, NFBA always provides numerous opportunities for members to connect and strengthen relationships across the industry. Both the PLYCO reception and the NFBA Social and Silent Auction were favorited this year. Proceeds from the silent auction support the NFBA Foundation, the association’s charitable arm dedicated to advancing the industry through research, technology initiatives and education. This year was an important milestone as the foundation awarded its first two scholarships to support the next generation of our industry. 

From first-time attendees to long-time members, the expo reflected a culture of collaboration and mentorship that has long defined the post-frame industry. “The people in this industry are fantastic – truly some of the kindest people you’ll ever meet,” Morgan shared. “It’s fun to be around them and it’s fun to be part of an association that supports them.” 

Catch up on what you missed at this year’s expo with other live interviews on our MetalCoffeeShop YouTube channel!

By Dani Sheehan. 

In a cliffhanger economy, the contractors who stay informed and adaptable won’t just weather uncertainty – they’ll come out ahead of it. 

At the National Frame Building Association’s (NFBA) 58th Annual Conference and Expo, economist Dr. Anirban Basu delivered a keynote address on this year’s outlook and how to plan for success. Describing the economic outlook as a cliffhanger, Dr. Basu pointed to a mix of slowing growth, persistent inflation and shifting labor dynamics that continue to shape construction markets. While his forecast did not signal an imminent recession, it highlighted growing risks that contractors should be monitoring, especially as new global developments add further uncertainty to the economic landscape. 

Inflation continues to weigh on consumers 

One of the most pressing challenges remains inflation, which continues to impact both businesses and homeowners. 

Consumer sentiment, Dr. Basu noted, has fallen to levels comparable to the Great Recession, reflecting widespread frustration with rising costs. Over the past several years, cumulative inflation has significantly exceeded the long-term target of 2% annually, with essentials like energy and food driving much of the increase. 

For contractors, this has a direct impact on customer behavior. While spending levels may appear strong on paper, much of that growth is simply due to higher prices, not increased demand. In practical terms, homeowners are paying more for the same goods and services, leaving less room in their budgets for unnecessary services. 

Interest rates continue to slow construction activity 

In response to inflation, the Federal Reserve began raising interest rates in 2022, a move that continues to ripple through construction and real estate markets. Although rates have stabilized, they remain elevated, making financing more expensive for both contractors and their customers. Because much of the construction industry relies on financing, Dr. Basu explained how higher borrowing costs have contributed to: 

• Slower project starts 
• Reduced housing activity 
• Increased hesitation among property owners 

This environment requires greater attention to pricing, financing options and customer education. 

Growth continues for some 

Despite ongoing challenges, the broader economy is still growing, with projections for 2026 ranging between 1.8% and 2.8%. However, Dr. Basu emphasized that this growth is highly uneven. Much of the economic strength is concentrated among higher-income households, while many Americans continue to feel financial strain. A significant portion of the population does not participate in the stock market, limiting their ability to benefit from recent gains. This divide has important implications for construction demand, particularly in residential markets where affordability remains a concern. 

Warning signs across construction 

The labor market, while still relatively strong, is showing signs of softening. Unemployment remains low at around 4.5%, but job growth has slowed significantly in recent months. At the same time, layoffs are beginning to increase, and hiring activity is becoming more cautious. 

For the construction industry, labor challenges remain complex: 

• Workforce availability continues to be a concern 
• Approximately 30% of construction workers are foreign-born 
• Policy changes could further impact labor supply 

Several leading indicators suggest that construction activity may face headwinds in the months ahead. Dr. Basu pointed to declines in residential building permits, architectural and design activity and nonresidential construction spending. At the same time, high office vacancy rates continue to affect urban markets, and manufacturing activity has slowed. While the industry is not in decline, these signals suggest that we’re entering a more cautious phase. 

While these statistics suggest cause for concern, not all sectors are slowing. One of the strongest areas in construction today is data center development, driven by continued investment in artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure. These projects are helping support overall construction activity, even as other sectors experience slower growth. 

Preparing for an uncertain year 

Dr. Basu outlined several factors that could shape the direction of the economy in the coming year: 

• Layoff activity and labor market shifts 
• Continued inflation and material costs 
• The pace of interest rate changes 
• Ongoing investment in AI and data centers 
• Consumer spending, particularly among higher-income households 

He also noted that broader global developments could further influence supply chains, energy costs and overall economic stability. While the economic outlook for 2026 may feel uncertain, it also presents an opportunity for contractors to take a more strategic approach to their business. 

As Dr. Basu outlined, the current market is not defined by a downturn, but by uneven conditions. This makes awareness and adaptability more important than ever. 

Successful contractors can focus on clear communication with their customers, helping them understand long-term value, financing options and the cost of waiting. When homeowners are hesitant, trust and education can make a meaningful difference in their decision making. 

At the same time, shifting demand is creating new opportunities. Growth in sectors like data centers and infrastructure, along with continued investment from higher-income households, means there are still strong pockets of activity for contractors who are positioned to serve them. Operational efficiency and diversification are becoming key differentiators. With material costs and labor challenges still in play, contractors who streamline their processes, strengthen supplier relationships and plan ahead for pricing fluctuations are better equipped to protect margins. 

Perhaps most importantly, periods of uncertainty often reward those who stay engaged in their industry. Events like NFBA’s annual expo provide opportunities to learn from peers, explore new solutions and stay informed about the trends shaping the market. 

While the year ahead may bring challenges, it also offers the chance to sharpen your strategies, strengthen your business and position yourself for long-term success.

Meet with more than 2,000 post frame industry professionals!

Make your mark before the busy season starts. Industry professionals are looking to add to their list of trusted contacts as projects for 2026 begin to book up. Show up and show off what makes your company – and your products – the right fit!

Join 200 leading exhibitors and CONNECT with more than 2,000 post-frame builders, suppliers, distributors, academics, and code and design professionals.

Learn more about the NFBA audience by downloading the exhibitor prospectus.

See remaining booth spaces and secure yours by submitting an expo space application on the NFBA 2026 Floor Plan 

If you have any questions or would like more information about the NFBA 2026 Expo, please contact Expo Management. 

NFBA Expo Management
Hall-Erickson, Inc.
pfilippelli@heiexpo.com
(630) 929-7960

Learn more at the NFBA website!

MCS Influencer Randy Chaffee says it's time to get rid of old biases and embrace women in the metal industry.

Editor's note: The following is the transcript of a live interview with Randy Chaffee of Source One Marketing. You can Read the interview below, Listen to the podcast or Watch the recording.

Jenny Yu: Hello everybody, my name is Jenny Yu with a MetalCoffeeShop® Influencer response. I'm here with Randy Chaffee of Source One Marketing. How's it going, Randy?

Randy Chaffee: Jenny, it's going great, how are you?

Jenny Yu: I'm doing well, thank you.

Randy Chaffee: Awesome. We always have some great chats, I love it.

Jenny Yu: We do, thank you. And this month we are going to chat about something that I care about, which is women in the workforce, specifically in metal. We were wondering if you could share your thoughts on specifically the role that men can play, male allies, in leadership to advance women in the industry.

Randy Chaffee: You know, that's a great question and I'm glad we're talking about it. I love women in the industry, right? I think that, as a matter of fact, that the National Frame Building Association (NFBA), which I'm on the board of directors for, we have a Women in Post Frame event, for example. I love to support that event because I've been around strong, good quality women for a long time, and I don't think it's even any more a matter of "should they" or "could they." It's like, why are we even thinking that way? There's an incredible amount of quality women that do things every bit as good or better — there I said it, whether you like it or not, men. So let's just forget that old school stuff and understand and support.

And you're exactly right, we can be their ally. We don't need to push them aside. They don't need to just — and I say just, I don't mean to be negative, but they're not just the office girl, right? If that's what it is, that's a great important part, but they could be a crew leader, they can be a superintendent, they can be an engineer, they can be a salesperson, they can be anything they want to be. And we're missing such a valuable — forget the social part of it — just from a business standpoint, they're so talented, and we're just silly to pass up on 50% of the quality people to do quality work.

And so I think as men know, we work and live in what's still somewhat of a male-dominated world, it is what it is. But the emphasis needs to come back onto us as the men in the industry to support women in a big way, to take them under our wing where they need it. Sometimes they don't need it. But if they do? Support them, be there for them, suggest them and work with them as equals and as true partners. It's a mindset that older school things creep into play sometimes. And I think we got to get rid of that.

And I go to this NFBA meeting coming up with the women of post frame. I attended it last year, Jenny, and I was a little scared because I was only one of one guys in the room of 100. I stayed by the door but still, with that said, it was just amazing to be around the high quality that's out there. We're shooting ourselves in the foot in the industry if we don't recognize that and just get rid of the old biases and all that stuff. Are you the best person for the job, regardless of all the stuff, right? I don't care who you are. If you're the best at the job, that's who we should have. And we should embrace that and promote it and love it. That's what we should do.

Jenny Yu: Excellent, I couldn't agree more.

Randy Chaffee: Awesome. I knew you'd agree. I'm pretty smart. Jenny, thank you.

Jenny Yu: You are. Thanks, Randy.

By Jenny Yu.  

NFBA leaders outline how the Oklahoma City event will deliver practical learning, meaningful connections and industry insight. 

The post-frame industry will gather in Oklahoma City February 25-27, 2026, for the 58th Annual NFBA Building Expo 2026, an event designed to deliver practical education, hands-on demonstrations and high-value networking for builders, suppliers and manufacturers.  

In this episode of MetalCast™, Karen Edwards spoke with National Frame Building Association (NFBA) leaders about what attendees can expect. Morgan Arwood, NFBA membership director, discussed the structure of the education program and encouraged attendees to plan ahead: “We have three tracks of education: business management is one, sales and marketing is another and the third is safety and technical. If I could offer any advice to somebody who's interested in attending, go ahead and look at the schedule, plan out which educational sessions you want to go to.” 

Speakers will include MCS Influencers Stacee Lynn, “The Barndominum Lady®” and Oliver Bell from The Barndominium Company™, along with Paul and Emily Marshall, “Mr. and Mrs. Post Frame,” offering insights tied directly to today’s post-frame market. “We really try to bring education that is going to speak to a traditional builder,” Morgan shared.  

Beyond the classroom, the expo floor will feature an interactive build with a purpose. NFBA vice president Josh Nowlin explained that attendees will be able to see post-frame construction in action while supporting the local community. “We're going to do a shed building this year and we're going to build it out post frame style,” Josh said. “Certain times each day will demo certain aspects of the construction. We're going to feature products from some of our vendors that will be installed onto the project, and once the show's over, we can donate it to a local women's shelter.” 

The event’s keynote will focus on the economic outlook shaping construction decisions nationwide. NFBA president Joe Shimp shared his excitement about the keynote speaker Dr. Anirban Basu, chairman and CEO of Sage Policy Group. “He is a phenomenal economic speaker who brings some comedic relief to a boring subject. He has the energy to take any difficult, technical topic and make it entertaining,” Joe stated. “A lot of our members have a desire to know more about the economic climate right now. So it's great timing.” 

Finally, the panel stressed how networking is one of the cornerstones of the whole expo experience. “Whether you're a manufacturer, supplier, vendor, builder, supplier — it doesn't matter,” Josh expressed. “If you're in the post frame industry, this is an event you don't want to miss because of the networking: the networking in the hallway, the networking at dinner, the networking at the continental breakfast or whatever is, is where it's at. I personally have built lasting relationships just attending the show. It's phenomenal for that.” 

Read the first article in this series, Listen to the podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about how the NFBA supports its members and elevates the post frame industry. 

By Emma Peterson. 

From an action‑packed expo floor to standout speakers and special events, here’s what to expect at this year’s NFBA show.  

Join more than 1,000 post-frame professionals at the 2026 National Frame Builders Association (NFBA)’s annual conference and expo! This year’s show will be hosted from February 25 to 27 at the Oklahoma City Convention Center in Oklahoma and is sponsored by leading companies like Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings and McElroy Metal. It's the 58th year NFBA has hosted the show and promises to be a hub for professionals wanting to “find new products, learn best practices and network with colleagues.” 

Explore the expo 

Always a highlight of the show, the expo floor at this year’s conference is full of innovative products and engaging manufacturers. MetalCoffeeShop® will be there in the foyer, so make sure to stop by and say hello to our incredible team!  

Additionally, a lot of our industry friends will be at the show, including but not limited to Everlast Roofing (Booth 645), Dripstop (Booth 937), K-9 Fasteners (Booth 232), MARCO Industries (Booth 201), MetalForming (Booth 903), Progressive Metals (Booth 745) and S-5! (booth 743).  

Check out the full expo floor map!

Level up your learning 

And the expansive expo is just the tip of the iceberg of what the NFBA conference has to offer attendees! On Tuesday (February 24), NFBA will be hosting certification testing in room 104, which is a great opportunity to take your skills and reputation to the next level.  

Then, on Wednesday (February 25) and Thursday (February 26), there will be 13 hours of educational breakout sessions per day. These sessions cover everything from business management to technical skills. Some of our industry friends are even leading some sessions, like Paul and Emily Marshall (two of our incredible MCS Influencers who you might also know as Mr. and Mrs. Post Frame).  

You can find the full schedule of education sessions online.

Exceptional events 

And, throughout the entire three days of the show, there are a variety of special events. Some of the highlights include:  

• Keynote speaker: Wednesday morning (10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.) will see Dr. Anirban Basu of Sage Policy Group deliver a powerful keynote all about the economic state of the industry. His talk will “deliver timely economic outlooks, industry-relevant analysis and forward-looking insights to help attendees better understand what’s ahead — and how to prepare their businesses for it.” 
• 2026 Women in Post Frame Meet & Greet: Later that day (February 25), NFBA will be hosting their much-anticipated Women in Post-Frame Meet & Greet at the Petroleum Club (transport provided for registered attendees). This casual event is a great way to make connections with other professionals who understand the experiences you have had.  
• Awards Luncheon: On Thursday, February 26 from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., NFBA will host their annual awards luncheon. This ticketed event recognizes “exceptional performance-based accomplishments by [NFBA] members” with awards like Building of the Year, Excellence in Safety and the Bernon G. Perkins Award. 
• 2026 NFBA Foundation Auction: Closing the night on Thursday (7-10 p.m.) is the NFBA Social and Foundation Auction. The goal of the Foundation is to raise awareness of the post-frame industry by supporting education and industry advancements. This year’s theme is rodeo, so grab your hat and boots and get ready for a fun night in support of a good cause.  
• Friday fun: The last day of the show (February 27) will have a variety of expo floor competitions as well as the grand prize drawing. Whether you’re participating or cheering on from the crowd, the Screw-Driving Competition (10 a.m.) and the Nail-Pounding Competition (11 a.m.) are can’t miss events.  

If you haven’t already, make sure you are registered for this year’s NFBA conference and expo!

By Jenny Yu.  

Find out what’s new at the association’s upcoming 58th annual event! 

In a recent episode of MetalCast™, Karen Edwards spoke with the key leaders from the National Frame Building Association (NFBA) to discuss the 58th Annual NFBA Building Expo 2026. For the first time, the Expo will take place in Oklahoma City. "It's exciting to bring the show a little further west, a little further south and incorporate more of the nation into our show,” Morgan Arwood, NFBA membership director, stated. “There are so many fun things to do in Oklahoma City.”  

Another development to debut at the 2026 Expo is a new category for the Building of the Year Awards, NFBA’s annual awards program for members to showcase their best work. Previously, applicants could apply under the “Masters” and “Experts” categories based on company revenue, one from $0 to $6 million and the other $6 million and up. "There’s a big difference between a $1 million company and a $6 million company, so we’ve added a third category,” Morgan explained. “Now, we’ve got zero to $3 million, $3-$6 million and $6 million and up. This is going to give even smaller builders a chance to showcase their work.” 

On top of the fun events and awards the NFBA has planned, opportunities for learning and certification are the cornerstones of the conference and expo. “The education sessions are my favorite part,” Josh Nowlin, NFBA vice president, shared. With different tracks available in topics like leadership, sales and marketing, and safety, there’s something for everybody. “There’s something for the business owner, the crew members, the leadership of the organization,” he added. “I’ve learned something new every year.” 

By attending sessions, members can earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) toward accreditation. “Getting certified is more than just certificate on the wall; it's a commitment to post frame construction and learning,” Joe Shimp, NFBA president, stated.  

NFBA currently offers the only post-frame-specific education in the nation. “It's a great way to onboard new employees, and it's a great way to certify seasoned employees,” Morgan added. “This will be the second time that we've offered certification testing at the conference and expo, and last year was the first year we had graduates at the award ceremony. We're so excited to do that again this year.” 

In this commitment to offer valuable educational opportunities, NFBA is looking to expand their reach even further. “The end goal is that we get into the Department of Labor with our own post-frame journeyman program,” Morgan shared. “Just this year, we've talked to some schools in California, and they're going to be integrating our curriculum into their summer programs. It’s going to take time, but it’s certainly gaining steam.” 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about the 58th annual NFBA Building Expo 2026. 

by Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Make sure your voice is heard by taking this post-frame industry survey on glue-laminated, nail-laminated and solid-timber posts.

The post-frame industry continues to grow as builders, suppliers and designers embrace new materials, methods and technologies. Yet even with this momentum, one challenge remains constant: understanding how products are being used in the field and what professionals need to do their best work. That is why industry surveys are so important. They give every member of the post-frame community a chance to shape the direction of research, education and future product development.

A current initiative is calling on professionals to share their experiences with glue-laminated, nail-laminated and solid-timber posts. Whether you use these materials every day or only for select projects, the National Frame Building Association (NFBA) your input offers real value. By taking a few minutes to share your perspective, you help provide the clarity and insight that associations and manufacturers rely on to make informed decisions.

Surveys like this help identify trends that may not be obvious on the jobsite. They show where the industry is heading, where challenges may be emerging and where new opportunities exist. Are certain materials gaining traction? Are builders facing installation obstacles? Are suppliers seeing shifts in demand? Accurate, field-based feedback makes it possible to answer these questions with confidence.

Your participation also helps inform product development and distribution decisions. When manufacturers understand how materials perform in real-world applications, they can refine designs, improve availability and prioritize the features that matter most to builders and designers. This type of collaboration supports a stronger supply chain and ensures the industry continues to innovate with purpose.

Just as important, survey insights support broader discussions around best practices and training. When associations can ground educational content in real field experience, the entire industry benefits. From safety resources to installation guides to technical workshops, feedback from builders and suppliers helps ensure that training stays relevant and practical.

Finally, surveys strengthen the connection between every corner of the post-frame community. Builders, engineers, architects and suppliers all bring different perspectives to the table. When those viewpoints are combined, the industry gains a shared understanding that leads to better solutions and stronger long-term growth.

Your voice matters. By taking part in association surveys, you help create a more informed, more innovative and more unified future for post-frame construction.

The survey takes less than three minutes to complete.

Thank you for contributing your experience and insight to help move the post-frame industry forward.

Take the survey to share your valuable insights.

By Emma Peterson. 

Roofing associations nationwide are sharing their time and resources to support their communities and the future of the industry. 

Whether you are shopping for gifts, trying to get together with family or just wrapping up loose ends from 2025, the winter holiday season is a busy time. But we wanted to take a moment to pause and highlight how some people are giving back during this busy time. In no particular order, here are six stories of industry associations coming together this December to build up their communities by giving back. 

1 – Arizona Roofing Contractor Association (ARCA) 

The ARCA closed out their year of giving with their annual holiday party on December 10, 2025. The party, which was hosted at Fate Brewery from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., was in support of their Roofers Giving Back initiatives. These initiatives benefit: 

• Home of Hope: The ARCA Young Professionals group is gathering unwrapped gifts or monetary donations to purchase gifts this December for children at Home of Hope! 
• Youth On Their Own: The Tucson Bowling Committee is spending the month collecting non-perishable food items for the Youth On Their Own organization. 
• AZ Cancer Foundation: And Arizona Women in Roofing is collecting donations to support their efforts to purchase toys for the children at the AZ Cancer Foundation.  

If you want to donate to any of these causes, visit azroofing.org. For more information, call 602-335-0133. 

2 – Metal Roofing Contractors Association (MRCA) 

Interested in advancing education, research and the future of the roofing industry? Consider supporting the MRCA Foundation! This foundation was created to raise awareness and improve the roofing industry by “supporting educational programming, industry research and industry-related academic scholarships.” 

Learn more about the foundation and donate to support their work! 

3 – The Associated Roofing Contractors of Oregon and SW Washington (ARC) 

This was the third year that the ARC gathered for a Christmas Dinner and Auction! Hosted on December 6 at the Sheraton Portland Airport Hotel, this night was not only a fun gathering but a fundraiser for Fort Kennedy.  

Fort Kennedy is a nonprofit that provides food, clothing and other essential resources to homeless and low-income veterans in Oregon and Washington. Their mission is simple, “To enable all veterans to move forward in their lives after military service [by providing] transitional housing and shelter, ensure access to employment, family counseling and benefits.” 

Learn more about ARCOSWW and about Fort Kennedy.  

4 – Utah Roofing Contractors Association (URCA) 

A few states over, URCA also hosted a holiday party on December 5. Held at the PierPont Place, it was a casino royale themed party complete with blackjack, delicious food and a dazzling raffle. And like the other associations we’ve been highlighting, it was all for a good cause! URCA’s 2025 holiday party supported JustaBreak.org, a Utah-based nonprofit that gives cancer patients and caregivers joyful getaways to help bring them joy during their treatments.  

Learn more about URCA and learn more about JustaBreak.org. 

5 – International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) 

For 2025 Giving Tuesday (the Tuesday following Thanksgiving), IIBEC set out to raise money for their foundations, RCI-IIBEC Foundation (US) and RCI Foundation Canada (Canada). These foundations aim to better the industry and help move towards safer, more secure building enclosures in many different ways, including:  

• Industry-leading research: Support for these foundations supports research efforts that move the industry forward.  
• Funding publications: These foundations manage the publication of many key publications, like the 5th edition of Wind Uplift Pressures on Low-Slope Roofs. 
• Collaborative work: Because of the support they get, these foundations can collaborate with other organizations, like the Charles Pankow Foundation, to combine efforts for improving the state of the industry. 

If you’re interested in supporting IIBEC’s foundations, contact Rick Gardner, foundations development officer, at rgardner@iibec.org. 

6 – National Frame Builders Association (NFBA) 

NFBA also has a charity organization that you can support! The NFBA Foundation works specifically to strengthen the future of the post-frame building industry. One of their biggest initiatives is their scholarship program, which opens doors for students who are current employees of NFBA member companies or family members of those current employees pursuing higher education fields that support construction and the post-frame profession. 

In addition to this, the NFBA Foundation also supports key training programs and research initiatives around the industry, such as the new edition of the NFBA Post Frame Building Design Manual.  

Donate to the NFBA Foundation and support the future of post-frame building!