By The Coffee Shops™. 

Technology isn’t just changing today’s workflows — it’s laying the foundation for a smarter, more efficient future in metal construction and manufacturing. 

At the Metal Construction Association (MCA) 2026 Winter Meeting, Denver Riggleman, founder of RIIG Technology and former U.S. Congressman, delivered a compelling talk on how artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are transforming industries — including metal roofing, construction and manufacturing. His insights revealed not only the potential of AI but also practical examples of how companies can leverage technology to stay competitive. 

Why AI matters for metal construction  

AI is not just about futuristic robots or science-fiction scenarios. Denver emphasized that AI’s real power lies in automation and data integration, stating, “Automation across multiple channels creates efficiencies. No matter the industry — technology transfer works the same way.” 

For metal roofing and manufacturing, this means: 

• Faster estimation and bidding: AI can process drone imagery to generate accurate roof measurements and job estimates automatically. 
• Error reduction: By consolidating fragmented CRMs and historical data, AI minimizes manual mistakes. 
• Labor optimization: Companies can scale productivity without scaling headcount, freeing skilled workers from repetitive tasks. 

Real-world examples of AI impact 

Denver shared a striking example from the healthcare industry, saying, “One orthopedic practice was losing north of $5 million per month in insurance verification and claim issues. AI fixed that.” 

Similar inefficiencies exist in construction — slow RFQ responses, manual data entry and compliance challenges. AI can automate these processes, saving time and money. He also highlighted the potential for drone-based automation, saying, “If I can take a picture of a roof and have AI generate an estimate and job approval without a human, why wouldn’t I?” 

Investment and ROI: What are companies spending? 

According to Denver, companies are investing 1–2% of annual revenue in automation initiatives. While that may sound significant, the returns are compelling, “Saving money is earning money. If you can eliminate manual errors and speed up processes, you’re not just cutting costs—you’re creating competitive advantage.” 

Beyond AI: Building the right tech stack 

Denver cautioned that AI alone isn’t enough. As Denver put it, “There’s no way everything is going to be AI. You need full-stack developers, data scientists and engineers who understand microservices, Kubernetes and relational databases.”  This holistic approach ensures that automation layers are secure, scalable and adaptable to future changes. 

The future: Energy, data and compliance 

As AI adoption grows, so does the demand for data centers and energy. Denver warned, “Data centers will pull more and more energy off the grid. We need solutions — SMRs, natural gas, offshore power. It’s all coming.” 

He also noted that compliance is another critical area where AI can help, adding, “Do you know what rulemaking or legislation is coming out in state and federal right now that’s going to affect your business? AI can help predict that.” 

Key takeaways for metal roofing and manufacturing leaders 

1. Start small, think big: Identify pain points — RFQs, compliance, estimation — and explore automation solutions. 
2. Invest wisely: Budget 1–2% of revenue for AI and automation to stay competitive. 
3. Build expertise: Hire or train AI engineers and data specialists; don’t rely solely on off-the-shelf tools. 
4. Plan for power and policy: Engage in local energy discussions and monitor regulatory changes. 

Denver summed it up best, sharing, “When you look at your companies, you’re already successful. The question is — how successful do you want to be?” 

By Jenny Yu.  

This year’s gathering will provide members with opportunities to learn, engage and explore. 

In a recent episode of MetalCast™, Karen Edwards spoke with Jeff Henry, executive director of the Metal Construction Association (MCA), about MCA’s upcoming Winter Meeting taking place on January 13-15, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas.  

With speakers and networking opportunities lined up, the Winter Meeting is gearing up to be the must-attend event for starting the year on a strong note. One keynote speaker will be economist Alex Chausovsky. “He’ll be talking about the state of the industry, the economy, where construction is headed, what will be happening in the arena for metal and the entire geopolitical environment as well,” Jeff shared. “He’ll give some insights about how to do business in an age of uncertainty, which is a timeframe that we exist in at the moment.”  

Another voice that will be sure to spark ideas and conversation is Denver Riggleman, former Air Force intelligence officer and former congressman. Denver is also the CEO and founder of Riggleman Information & Intelligence Group (RIIG) — HOOTL (Humans Out of the Loop), a company focused on developing AI-driven tools for healthcare and insurance automation.  

“Technology is changing, especially with AI. It's changing so fast that we barely have time to plan for how we're going to incorporate it and use it,” Jeff stated. “Denver has some really interesting takes about the use of AI and its implications, and how to develop strategies for informed adoption of AI. He’ll provide some interesting insights and considerations for members to reflect upon as they approach their internal policies and applications of that technology.” 

Along with these esteemed speakers, the Winter Meeting will shed light on MCA’s developing programs for its members, like their contractor and installer training program. "We're in the midst of developing an online interactive curriculum,” Jeff said. “We hope to roll out phase 1 in late 2026, and that'll address standing seam, through-fastened panels, metal shingles — both painted and stone-coated. It will be robust.” 

Providing such educational support reflects MCA’s priorities for the new year and beyond. “We want to be the resource for understanding and providing best practice guidelines for the installation of the products that our members sell,” Jeff stated. “We're excited about that opportunity.” 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about what the MCA Winter Meeting 2026 will hold!

By Jenny Yu.  

Educational sessions will focus on the economy, Artificial Intelligence and resilience in the industry. 

The Metal Construction Alliance (MCA) will host its 2026 Winter Meeting at the Hyatt Regency Hill County Resort and Spa in San Antonio, Texas, from January 13-15, 2026. The event will be one of the industry’s first major gatherings of the new year. Attendees can look forward to an agenda full of expert-led sessions spanning economic forecasts, workforce strategy, AI applications and more.  

Be sure check out the following sessions! 

Keynote speaker: Alex Chausovsky 

Tuesday, January 13, 9:15 a.m. 

The opening keynote speaker is Alex Chausovsky, director of analytics and consulting of The Bundy Group. Alex will offer a data-driven economic and labor market update highlighting inflation, interest rates, supply-chain dynamics and actionable talent-retention strategies. 

Keynote speaker: Denver Riggleman 

Tuesday, January 13, 12:45 p.m. 

Just after lunch, former U.S. Congressman and Air Force intelligence officer Denver Riggleman of Riggleman Information and Intelligence Group (RIIG) will take the stage to make the case that automation is not the future — it is now. His talk will explore how cutting-edge technology can reshape production, installation, labor and business operations in metal construction. 

Panel: Metal Resilience in Construction 

Wednesday, January 14, 8 a.m.  

This panel will bring together leading voices in architecture, engineering and sustainability to discuss how metal roofing and wall systems offer strength, fire resistance and durability — crucial features for structures built to withstand hurricanes, wildfires, hail and extreme weather. 

Networking events 

Outside the classroom, networking events will give attendees ample opportunity to connect, collaborate and create new visions for metal construction in the new year. These include: 

• Attendee breakfasts 
  • 8-8:45 a.m. Tuesday, January 13 
  • 7:15-8 a.m. Wednesday, January 14 
  • 7:30-8:15 a.m. Thursday, January 15 
• Networking lunch: 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Tuesday, January 13 
• Welcome reception: 5-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 13 
• Women in Metal-Construction dinner: 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, January 13 
• Golf Outing at Hill Country Golf Club: 12-5 p.m. Wednesday, January 14 
• Briscoe Western Art Museum tour: 12-3:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 14 
• Awards reception & dinner with guests 
  • Reception: 6:30-7:15 pm Wednesday, January 14 
  • Dinner: 7:15-9:30 pm Wednesday, January 14 

Register for the MCA 2026 Winter Meeting and sign up to sponsor any of the many events and initiatives.