By Jenny Yu. 

As homeowner interest in metal roofing continues to grow, contractors can leverage new tools and resources to establish themselves in the metal space. 

As demand for metal roofing continues to rise, contractors are finding new opportunities to expand their offerings, increase margins and deliver long-term value to homeowners. During a recent episode MetalTalk™, Junny Lee of Sherwin-Williams discussed how metal roofing is evolving and how contractors can position themselves to take advantage of the trend through the company's MetalVue program. 

Junny, who joined the Sherwin-Williams marketing team after spending years in supply chain and operations roles, said metal roofing’s appeal comes down to performance, energy efficiency, aesthetics and value. “Metal continues to grow and drives interest from a lot of folks, especially homeowners and consumers,” Junny said. “Metal is a very durable product, and within durability, you still have several options based on the gauge and thickness of the steel.” 

Durability is an appealing selling point for many home and building owners, especially in areas where a sturdy roof is an essential line of defense against intense weather conditions. “In areas prone to extreme weather, especially hurricanes, a lot of failures of a home start with the roof,” Junny explained, noting that roof failures often lead to significant property damage when water penetrates the building envelope. “So, durable roofing material is extremely important.”  

Another factor driving the growth of metal in the market is energy efficiency. “A lot of our coatings can be measured through their solar reflectance and thermal emittance, which ultimately gives you the solar reflectance index,” Junny shared, adding that with energy efficiency comes increased savings. “On an annual basis, our coating will help you save money on energy bills, especially during the warm season. It all comes down to value: what is your roof doing for you?” 

At the same time, aesthetics has transformed metal roofing from a niche product into a mainstream design choice. With expanded color selections and textured finishes available through Sherwin-Williams coating systems, homeowners have more options than ever to create distinctive looks that complement their homes. “It’s a differentiator,” Junny said of the many options Sherwin-Williams provides. “It comes down to giving homeowners more options, and what better company to do that than one that knows color like Sherwin-Williams?” 

For contractors, Junny said metal roofing can open doors to higher-margin projects and hybrid business models. “It’s the opportunity for some to say, ‘you know what, I want to do less projects on an annual basis. Projects that provide wider margins,’” he said. 

Through MetalVue, Sherwin-Williams connects contractors with installation, sales and business development resources to help them successfully add metal roofing to their portfolios. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the full webinar to learn more about MetalVue, metal roofing trends and strategies for maximizing profitability.

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

The Metal Construction Association (MCA) is hosting a new education program for architects, designers, and specifiers in the Chicago region! This new in-person event is a standalone education program created by MCA and sponsored by Sherwin-Williams.

Form, Function, and Finish: Designing with Metal is a half-day event held the morning of Friday, May 29, and focusing on how metal roofing and wall systems are used in today’s building envelope—covering performance, detailing, and design flexibility. Architects, designers, and specifiers from throughout the Chicago area, Milwaukee, and northwest Indiana are invited to sign up now for this free event to earn continuing education credits!

The half-day event offers up to three AIA continuing education credits and features sessions on design, performance, resilience, and metal building envelope systems from: 

• Rick Schneider, founder and principal of ISTUDIO Architects 
• Samuel Chastain, director of commercial operations at Alfrex, Inc 
• Kyle Ferenc, district sales manager at ATAS International and vice president of the Chicago Chapter of the Construction Specifications Institute 

This first of its kind event supports MCA’s mission to deliver credible education, practical technical guidance, and trusted resources for design professionals working with metal. 

Save your seat today!

By Jenny Yu.  

The MetalVue Roadshow is set to provide contractors with the knowledge, resources and confidence to develop metal roofing businesses that last. 

Before the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) Convention and Expo officially begins, attendees have an opportunity to get the party started early by attending a special Sherwin-Williams MetalVue event! Titled “MetalVue Roadshow: Grow With Metal,” this experience is free of charge and takes place on June 9, 2026, from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, Florida. 

The focus of this event is to help contractors unlock new business opportunities by demystifying metal roofing. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the resources available to them through MetalVue, Sherwin Williams’ comprehensive program that helps both manufacturers and contractors sell more residential and commercial metal roofs.  

Attendees will gain the knowledge and tools to build long-term, sustainable metal roofing businesses. Industry experts will share insights on how to train installation crews for high-quality installation and customer satisfaction, as well as techniques for selling metal roofing with more confidence.  

One key resource that attendees will explore at the MetalVue Roadshow is Roofing Passport, the industry’s only fully automated roofing software platform for both estimating and ordering. Roofing Passport, applicable for both residential and commercial roofs, integrates seamlessly with Eagleview for precise aerial property measurements of existing structures and with Roofing WRX for estimation derived from drawings for new construction.  

MetalCoffeeShop is proud to be a partner of the MetalVue Roadshow. Other partners include Watts Removal Products, GiddyUp Roofing Software, Sheridan Metal Resources, Uplevel Digital and The StoneGate Group. With this full suite of industry leaders providing resources and support, the MetalVue Roadshow is set to be the pre-FRSA event you can’t miss.  

Register now to secure your spot for the FREE Metal Vue Roadshow before FRSA begins!

By Jenny Yu.  

Explore how contractors can overcome common barriers and transform their workflows with the proper training and resources.   

In a recent Lunch & Learn titled “Building Better Metal Roofing Installers,” host Megan Ellsworth spoke with John Sheridan, MCS Influencer and owner of Sheridan Metal Resources, about the importance of training for metal roofing contractors to improve profitability, craftsmanship and long-term resiliency in a crowded market.  

The learning objectives of this Lunch & Learn were threefold: 

1 - Understand why metal installation training is critical today 

2 - Identify how training improves contractor performance and profitability 

3 - Explore modern training resources and strategies for metal contractors 

Why metal installation training is critical today 

With 40 years of experience in the industry, John shared his insights on the first objective, stating, “The popularity of metal is outgrowing the skill set of metal contractors. Training needs to ramp up to keep up with demand.” 

Part of the metal evolution includes the number of options available in the market, from snap block systems, nail strip systems, standing seam systems and mechanical lock systems, and the complexity these choices add. “You can't teach anybody on one system anymore,” John explained. “You have to teach people on several systems, because most manufacturers that are using coil coatings have several different profiles, so you can't lock yourself into one specific product.” 

How training improves contractor performance and profitability 

Beyond improving installation quality, John emphasized that training directly impacts profitability by reducing costly mistakes and warranty issues. “A roof is never going to leak in the middle of a roof panel; it’s going to leak where something comes through that roof — a chimney, pipe, skylight or valley,” John said. “That’s where training comes in.” 

One of the newer approaches Sheridan Metal Resources has introduced is “boot camp” training, where trainers work alongside crews on active projects rather than in a classroom setting. “They learn real skills in a real-world application,” John shared. “That upfront investment gets their guys up to speed faster.” 

Modern training resources and strategies for metal contractors 

When it comes to finding the best training resources, John suggested that contractors take advantage of the tools offered by reputable suppliers in their area and attend trade shows to learn from peers in the industry. 

As a Sherwin-Williams MetalVue^SM vendor partner, John attested to the impact the cohesive program provides for contractors, no matter what stage they are in their metal roofing business. “You don't have to spend all your time weeding through so many different services; they have it ready to go,” John said. From estimating tools to lead generation, MetalVue offers a complete suite of resources for contractors to grow. “They've done their homework. They know what works and what doesn't. I wish I’d had that when I started my business.” 

Watch the full Lunch & Learn to learn more about metal roofing training strategies.

In this MetalCoffeeShop Lunch & Learn, Megan Ellsworth is joined by Sherwin-William's MetalVueSM Vendor Partner, John Sheridan, owner of Sheridan Metal Resources LLC, to explore why metal roofing installation training is no longer optional, but essential for staying competitive and profitable. This session breaks down how proper training improves efficiency, reduces costly mistakes and elevates craftsmanship. Walk away with a clearer path to building skilled crews and delivering higher-performing metal roofing systems. 

Be sure to take a photo of your team enjoying this Lunch & Learn and submit your photo here or email us. We will select a winner each month to win a pizza lunch!

Once you've finished watching, don't forget to test your knowledge by taking the fun, interactive quiz and be sure to hang your completion certificate in your work area!

Download the Learning Guide.

Watch the Lunch & Learn.

Metal roofing is exploding across every segment of construction, and contractors who want to grow need to be paying attention. In this MetalTalk ™, sponsored by Sherwin-Williams, we dive into what is driving that demand and how contractors can capitalize on it, whether they are adding metal for the first time or scaling an existing offering. From selling smarter with MetalVue to streamlining estimating with Roofing Passport using precise data from EagleView, this conversation is packed with real strategies to win more metal work. But the real excitement is the MetalVue Road Show, bringing hands-on training, live demos and real-world applications directly to contractors across the country. This is not just another training; it is an immersive experience designed to help crews, sales teams and owners immediately level up their skills and close more business. Join us to see how technology, training and momentum are coming together to power the future of metal roofing.

Register today!

By Jenny Yu.  

The upcoming webinar will gain insight into the evolving opportunities within the rapidly growing metal roofing market. 

Across the construction industry, metal roofing is becoming an increasingly important category for contractors focused on long-term growth. An upcoming MetalTalk™ titled “Maximizing Metal Margins With MetalVue” will explore how technology, training and sales strategies are helping contractors grow their metal roofing businesses more effectively. 

Sponsored by Sherwin-Williams, the webinar will feature Junny Lee, market segment manager for Sherwin-Williams' MetalVue program, discussing the factors driving increased interest in metal roofing and how contractors can position themselves to meet that demand. Topics will include modern design trends, energy efficiency, long-term durability and the lifecycle value that continue making metal roofing more attractive to homeowners and building owners. 

The webinar will also focus on the business opportunities contractors may miss if they do not offer metal roofing solutions. From premium project segments and repeat business opportunities to stronger differentiation in crowded markets, metal roofing is increasingly becoming a strategic growth category for contractors nationwide. 

Another key area the discussion will touch upon is how contractors can successfully scale their metal roofing operations through training, partnerships and technology integration. Junny will explain how MetalVue supports the sales process with visualization tools designed to simplify product selection, accelerate customer decision-making and improve close rates. 

Technology will play a central role in the conversation as well. Attendees will learn how Roofing Passport, powered by measurement data from Eagleview, can help contractors generate more accurate estimates, improve labor forecasting and reduce material waste through precise takeoffs and streamlined workflows. 

Finally, the webinar will spotlight the growing impact of the MetalVue Road Show, which brings hands-on training, live demonstrations and real-world product education directly to contractors across the country. The immersive training initiative is designed to help crews, sales teams and business owners strengthen their metal roofing knowledge and improve field performance. 

Register now to reserve your spot for this exciting MetalTalk!  

Honoring industry leaders for lifetimes of contribution and service to the metal industry.

In 2012, the Metal Constructon News Hall of Fame was formed through a collaboration with the Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA), Metal Construction Association (MCA) and Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association (MBCEA) to recognize "those individuals who have had a significant impact on the metal construction industry through their innovation, effort and leadership." 

These individuals are chosen based on five categories:

• Unique contribution: Looks specifically at the individual's creations and/or developments that advance the industry.
• Body of work: Assess the depth and breadth of the nominee's contributions to the industry across their entire career
• Legacy: Focuses on the long-lasting impacts of the nominee's work in the industry.
• Integrity: Highlights the ethical and professional standards that the nominee exhibits.
• Longevity: Requires the nominee to have been "actively involved in the industry for at least 10 years."

Now in its 14th year, the Hall of Fame has releasede the 2026 list of contractors, manufacturers and industry friends who have made a difference and been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Ted Wolfe

In the high-stakes, heavy-tonnage world of pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMB), the industry often risks losing sight of the people beneath the steel. Modern corporations frequently succumb to the “commodity trap,” viewing the market as little more than rows on a spreadsheet and total tons shipped. But for decades, the industry had a conscience — a “Southern gentleman” named Ted Wolfe who understood that while the factory produces the parts, it is the builder who produces the building.

Tony “TR” Raimondo and Phil Raimondo

The metal building industry is often defined by those who can bridge the gap between rigorous engineering and visionary leadership. For nearly four decades, Tony “TR” Raimondo and his son, Phil Raimondo, embodied this balance, transforming Behlen Manufacturing Company from a struggling enterprise into a global industry titan. Their combined leadership represents a unique “father-son” milestone in the Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA) history, marking a legacy of service that has fortified the industry’s standards, market reach and workforce.

Jeff Alexander

In the world of industrial coatings, few names carry as much weight as Jeff Alexander. As the global vice president of sales for the coil and extrusion division of The Sherwin-Williams Company, Alexander doesn’t just help to manage a multibillion-dollar business; he shapes the very aesthetic and structural integrity of the modern built environment. With a career spanning four decades, Jeff’s induction into the Hall of Fame recognizes a leader whose impact is measured not just in square footage coated but in the enduring partnerships and organizational cultures he has built.

Arnold Corbin

In the specialized world of insulated metal panels (IMPs) and pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs), few professionals have bridged the gap between manufacturing precision and jobsite reality as effectively as Arnold Corbin. With a career spanning over four decades at the forefront of the industry’s evolution — from the early days of Metl-Span to his current leadership within the Nucor Insulated Panel Group — Arnold has become a foundational figure whose influence extends far beyond the corporate boardrooms of his employers.

Richard Ahrens

In the storied history of the Florida construction industry, few figures have managed to bridge the gap between legacy and logic as effectively as Richard Ahrens. A third-generation leader representing a heritage that dates back to 1902, Richard did not merely maintain a family business; he transformed it. By blending the grit of a traditional builder with the analytical precision of an academic, he moved the pre-engineered metal building (PEMB) industry from the fringes of economical utility into the mainstream of high-performance architectural design.

Mark Detwiler

Through a career spanning the full spectrum of structural engineering — from the details of project design to the influence of national standards — Mark Detwiler has been a cornerstone of the metal industry. His trajectory is defined not merely by his professional advancement from hands-on engineering to senior technical leadership, but by a tireless commitment to the safety, reliability and advancement of metal building systems. Mark’s work represents a rare bridge between the theoretical rigors of applied research and the practical realities of the field.

Find more information online.

By Emma Peterson. 

Check out what The Coffee Shops™ readers are clicking on. 

It’s hard to even believe that it’s already April. If your March has been anything like ours has been at The Coffee Shops™, it has been very busy! So, to help our readers keep track of everything that happened in the last month, we put together a list of the top-read articles on RoofersCoffeeShop®, MetalCoffeeShop® and CoatingsCoffeeShop® in March 2026.  

One thing we noticed when looking at the data for our trending article topics was the sheer number of articles focused on workforce development and business advice. For example, Emma Peterson highlighted how SkillsUSA helped two young roofers find a mentor for life and how National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has made workforce development one of their key initiatives.   

Additionally, Jenny Yu shared key information for metal roofers about how Sherwin-Williams' MetalVue program acts as “a comprehensive support system for contractors that connects them to all the tools they might need” to succeed. Additionally, John Kenney of Cotney Consulting Group dove into general construction safety practices and how the fundamentals are key to building a long-lasting, successful business.  

Our top article list from March 2026 

10 - Finding the path to roofing by Emma Peterson 

9 - Navigating a new world of technology by Emma Peterson 

8 - Business-in-a-box for metal roofing by Jenny Yu 

7 - Finding your path through mentorship by Emma Peterson 

6 - Brakes and beyond: Products for efficiency and customization by Jenny Yu 

5 - The state of roofing recruitment and retention by Emma Peterson 

4 - General construction safety principles: The core practices every outdoor trade should follow by John Kenney 

3 - Inspiring the next generation of roofers by Emma Peterson 

2 - A new safety frontier by Emma Peterson 

1 - Level up your team with training by Emma Peterson