By The Coffee Shops®.

Make sure these sessions and exhibitors are on your METALCON short list.

METALCON is just around the corner happening October 7-9 in Orlando, Florida! With over 60 education sessions and 250 exhibitors, it’s important for attendees to plan their schedules carefully. From new products and services to innovative solutions, you won’t want to miss the chance to talk to these Coffee Shop partners: Carlise Architechtural Metals, Central States Manufacturing, Malco, Roof Huger, Van Mark, ATAS International, Inc., Metal Construction Association (MCA), Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA), Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings and more! Don’t forget to stop by booth 408 to meet the MetalCoffeeShop team!

Featuring an impressive lineup of industry experts and motivational speakers, the METALCON headline sessions just scratch the surface of the learning opportunities.

Keynote: nothing Can Stop You

Former Major League Baseball pitcher Jim Abbott shares his remarkable journey from Flint, Michigan, to throwing a no-hitter at Yankee Stadium. Born without a right hand, Jim developed creative ways to pursue his goals while learning the importance of accountability and trust. His inspiring keynote explores how mindset can transform adversity into personal growth, helping attendees recognize their own challenges as opportunities to build resilience, adapt and celebrate the experiences that shape who they are.

Register today!

Keynote: Building Through Uncertainty: A Market Outlook for the Construction and Design Industries

What economic forces will shape construction and design during the next 12 months? Former American Institute of Architects Chief Economist Kermit Baker examines the indicators influencing project activity, sector growth and client priorities. Attendees will gain a data-driven view of shifting pipelines, regional market differences and emerging opportunities. The session provides a forward-looking framework to help industry professionals anticipate risks, align business planning with changing conditions and make informed decisions in an uncertain market.

Register today!

Industry Outlook: Metal Construction Code Updates: What’s Changed and What it Means

Code changes can lead to permit delays, redesigns and compliance gaps when they are missed or misunderstood. Industry experts Bill Beals, Paul Deffenbaugh and Bob Zabcik will break down significant recent and upcoming updates affecting metal construction. Covering design, specifications, fabrication and installation, the session will help attendees understand current compliance requirements, distinguish the roles of standards organizations and prepare for emerging trends that could influence future projects and business decisions.

Register today!

Industry Outlook: 2027 the Future of Metal Construction

Industry leaders examine the economic, regulatory, material and jobsite forces expected to shape metal construction through 2027. Panelists Kermit Baker, Jeff Henry, Vincent Sagan and Benton Trotter will connect current market realities with the challenges and opportunities ahead. Attendees will explore how supply conditions, evolving codes and construction pressures are influencing project costs, delivery methods and building practices, gaining practical insights for managing risk and positioning their businesses for the next 12 months.

Register today!

The formal sessions are just one way to learn. Attendees will also enjoy a massive exhibition hall where they can network and learn from each other. Make sure our MetalCoffeeShop booth 408 is on your list too!

While you’re in the hall, don’t miss our Coffee Shops partners including: Western States Metal Roofing, BITEC, Franklin International, Giddy Up, H.B. Fuller / GSSI, Latinos en Roofing, MARCO Industries, Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA), McElroy Metal, MetalForming Inc., MFM Building Products, RoofScope and more!

Don’t miss the metal event of the year! Register for METALCON and use code 30MCS for $30 off passes!

HVAC professionals need tools that can keep up with the demands of the jobsite. Malco Tools’ HVAC Pro Kits bring together essential, professional-grade tools organized by application and packed in a premium Veto TECH PAC backpack for convenient, durable organization on the go. With three options available, HVAC pros can choose the kit that fits their work, from the Install Kit to the Install & Service Kit or the Ultimate Pro Kit for maximum productivity.

Each kit is designed to help keep the tools you need organized, accessible and ready for the next job, making it easier to spend less time searching through your tool bag and more time getting the work done.

• Install Kit: Essential tools for HVAC installation professionals
• Install & Service Kit: A broader selection for installation and service work
• Ultimate Pro Kit: A comprehensive setup designed for maximum productivity
• Premium organization: Each kit comes packed in a durable Veto TECH PAC backpack
• Application-focused: Tools are selected around the needs of HVAC trade professionals

Explore the HVAC Pro Kits from Malco Tools and find the setup built for your work.

MCS Influencer Jon Olson says when customers understand the long-term value behind the investment of a metal roof, price becomes just one part of the conversation.

Selling metal roofing comes with its challenges — especially when upfront cost is part of the conversation. But price is only one piece of the story. Helping building owners understand the long-term value of metal roofing, from durability and lower lifecycle costs to energy efficiency and sustainability, can turn hesitation into confidence. Here are a few key selling points that can help you make the case and close more metal roofing sales.

When reviewing the costs of metal roofing solutions with customers, it often helps to lay out the longevity differences between asphalt and metal roofs so the total cost can be compared. While conventional asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 30 years, metal roofing systems can last for 40 to 70 years, or more — delivering two to three times the service life. This extended durability reduces replacement costs, minimizes material waste and lowers the environmental impact associated with repeated roof replacement cycles.

Other costs to consider when comparing metal roofing to asphalt shingles are:

• Insurance - In many states the cost to insure a metal roof is lower than an asphalt shingle roof. Work with local insurance agents to understand the typical savings in your area so you can provide customers with ballpark savings. 
• Utilities - An often-overlooked benefit of metal roofing is that many of the coatings on metal roofs are reflective, reducing the heat absorbed by the sun, making it easier and more cost effective to cool the building in the summer.  
• Maintenance - Metal is generally low maintenance. Metal roofing is easy to clean with mild soap and water. This means roofs can typically be cleaned with household products, decreasing the environmental impact of maintaining the roof. 

Once customers understand the financial differences, lean into environmental benefits. Metal roofing is one of the most sustainable roofing materials available, containing typically 25% or more recycled content and is 100% recyclable at the end of its service life. Recycling metal roofs helps reduce landfill waste and support a circular economy. In contrast less than 10% of asphalt roofing waste is recycled in the United States. 

Furthermore, building owners are finding that pairing solar panels with metal roofs helps reduce the long-term cost of the solar panels as the roof does not need to be replaced mid service life of the solar panels. This drives the cost of ownership for solar panels down and in turn increases sustainability.    

Metal roofing has a strong story to tell. When customers understand the long-term value behind the investment, price becomes just one part of the conversation. Using these key talking points to help tell that story can build confidence and close more metal roofing sales.

In this MetalTalk™ webinar, host Megan R. Ellsworth is joined by Breanna Welke, VP of strategic communications with The Malco Group and Meredith Giesting, VP of design with Veto Pro Pac, to explore what it means for contractors now that Veto Pro Pac has joined The Malco Group. Known for premium tool storage built for trade professionals, Veto Pro Pac brings a new layer of organization and durability to Malco’s growing ecosystem of contractor solutions. The discussion looks at how the partnership supports metal contractors with smarter workflows, better jobsite efficiency and new innovations like the EVO line. Tune in to learn how this collaboration is helping deliver more complete solutions for the trades. 

Listen to the podcast.

Watch the podcast.

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.

Eric Ford | senior manager, purchasing | Carlisle Construction Materials
Over the past decade, Eric Ford has become a results-driven supply chain and procurement leader in the steel and construction materials industries. He has led M&A integration, supplier development and unified supply chain strategy while mentoring procurement professionals and strengthening supplier partnerships.

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®. 

When traditional options on the market don’t cut it, sometimes you have to do it yourself. One carpenter-turned-designer shares his experience pursuing innovation in creating a new tool bag. 

In an episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Karen Edwards sat down with Roger Brouard, founder of Veto Pro Pac, to discuss the importance of innovation and pursuing solutions for day-to-day problems. From facing frustration on the jobsite to designing a solution, Roger exemplifies what it means to innovate for the betterment of your industry. Now, his products are a part of The Malco Group and are some of the most relied upon tool storage solutions on the market for industry professionals. 

After facing endless frustration with the traditional soft-sided tool bags, Roger was eager for a better solution for storing his tools on the jobsite. He shared, recalling his frustration of traditional tool storage, “You’d dump everything on the ground and dig through it; it was an exercise of aggravation and frustration to get a needed hand tool.” 

A carpenter by trade and experienced in hands-on problem solving, Roger went to the drawing board and came up with a solution of his own: the Veto Pro Pac. Relying on a vertical layout rather than the traditional horizontal storage systems for the job, the bag is easy to access and sort through. Vertical tiered pockets on a flat panel are inside the bag, streamlining the user’s ability to navigate the system, finding what they need without obstruction and clutter. He shared, “It all came together and I knew it was better than any tool bag on the market, and I knew it would sell.” 

To toughen up the design, as the jobsite often requires a bit of rough handling and wear to the exterior, the bag is made using a plastic, sturdy base. He shared, “A plastic base solved three situations: moisture protection, tear protection and stability to a loaded tool bag.” A tough product for a tough trade, ready to take on the day-to-day needs of carrying so many tools and heavy products. It was vital not only to create a product that’s sturdy, but one that’s going to outlast the rest.  

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about Roger and his journey to building Veto Pro Pac. 

In this MetalTalk™ webinar, host Megan R. Ellsworth is joined by Breanna Welke, VP of strategic communications with The Malco Group and Meredith Giesting, VP of design with Veto Pro Pac, to explore what it means for contractors now that Veto Pro Pac has joined The Malco Group. Known for premium tool storage built for trade professionals, Veto Pro Pac brings a new layer of organization and durability to Malco’s growing ecosystem of contractor solutions. The discussion looks at how the partnership supports metal contractors with smarter workflows, better jobsite efficiency and new innovations like the EVO line. Tune in to learn how this collaboration is helping deliver more complete solutions for the trades. 

Listen to the podcast.

Watch the podcast.

Rapid Response was developed to seal leaks in units which were losing gas so quickly that a faster response was required. Rapid Response is capable of sealing leaks in systems losing up to 100% of the charge within 72 hours. Current products on the market typically seal leaks losing up to 15% of the charge within 7 days.  The product is formulated to work on the molecular level to create a bond to the metal surface within the unit where the leak occurs. This reaction creates a stronger, faster seal in these low- and high-pressure systems than ever before attainable. Compatible with all refrigerants … do not use in ammonia or CO2 systems

Learn more about Monster seal.

MCS Influencer Jon Olson says that training is key to integrating new technology.

Many pros are looking for technology that will make their planning easier and their company more profitable. While there are many choices out there, it’s important to remember that technology is often only as good as what you feed into it.

First, remember that every project has review and revision cycles. It is common to think of tasks like design as a one-time deliverable, but in reality, most projects will require multiple rounds of feedback and refinement. When building your project plan, account for those review loops from the start to ensure you are setting realistic goals. For example, if you typically develop a solution for a customer and review it with them two to three times, build your plan to show this. Doing so ensures your customers are getting exactly what they are looking for, and you are getting projects done on time. Plan for the process, rather than bypassing the process and derailing your plan.

Another important planning consideration is to remember that weather happens. Building your plans around perfect weather is building a flawed plan. Your tasks that require good weather should be planned with a buffer in mind so that you finish the project ahead of plan if the weather is great, and you can be on-plan if weather does not cooperate. This is not a perfect process but is an important consideration as you build your project plans and timelines.

Training is one of the most critical factors in the successful adoption of any new technology. People naturally gravitate towards the tools they know and feel confident using, so introducing a new platform requires more than a one-time training session. Repetition is required to drive home key habits and consistent usage. The more comfortable people become with the technology, the more they are likely to embrace it as part of their daily workflow. And of course, keep it simple.

As you review opportunities to improve your business using new technology and systems, remember that often the simplest solution is the best solution. Technology should enhance what is already working, not replace it unnecessarily. Remember to build on your successes and incorporate them into new solutions so you do not lose your competitive advantage.

In this MetalTalk™ webinar, host Megan R. Ellsworth is joined by Breanna Welke, VP of strategic communications with The Malco Group and Meredith Giesting, VP of design with Veto Pro Pac, to explore what it means for contractors now that Veto Pro Pac has joined The Malco Group. Known for premium tool storage built for trade professionals, Veto Pro Pac brings a new layer of organization and durability to Malco’s growing ecosystem of contractor solutions. The discussion looks at how the partnership supports metal contractors with smarter workflows, better jobsite efficiency and new innovations like the EVO line. Tune in to learn how this collaboration is helping deliver more complete solutions for the trades. 

Listen to the podcast.

Watch the podcast.