By Jenny Yu.  

CIDAN Machinery Group offers customers full-service support with every equipment purchase. 

In this MetalCast™ episode, Karen Edwards spoke with Ronnie Pollack, vice president of sales and marketing for CIDAN Machinery Group, about how the company supports customers long after the purchase of their machinery. Ronnie explained that the process begins well before a machine reaches a customer’s shop. He shared, “I'd say seven to 10 business days is what we're looking at to get it out the door. And depending on where you are in the country, it could be two weeks or 21 days max.” 

Ronnie emphasized that CIDAN’s support system extends beyond shipping and delivery. The company begins preparing customers well before installation day. “We send a pre-install package out to the customer to say, ‘Here are the requirements that you need to make sure your shop has.’ Once you're ready, we put you on the calendar right away. We don't wait until it delivers and then we put you on a calendar.” 

This preparation sets the stage for CIDAN’s three-part installation and training process. Technicians begin with the physical setup, which includes bolting the machine down and ensuring proper leveling. Functional checks follow, verifying power, controls and the movement of components such as the folding beam and pneumatics. Finally comes operator training. Ronnie noted that this step is essential for long-term productivity. “There’s introduction training and advanced training,” he shared. “Learning how to work the machine mechanically and how to navigate the software on our controller is one thing. Learning how to make some of these parts or learn how to make them in different ways — that's more of our applications training that we can also do on site.” 

Clear communication is central to CIDAN’s approach. “When we're selling this machinery, we want to make sure sales is communicating to the customer, ‘Here's what we're going to do,’ so that the customer has an understanding and has the same expectations,” Ronnie said. “We want to make sure we're aligned. We want to educate you on the process.” 

Going forward, education is something CIDAN plans to prioritize and expand upon. “This year, you're going to see us take a larger platform in educating our customer base,” Ronnie added. “Not on CIDAN Machinery, specifically, but it's going to be architectural education on how you can make your shops better.” 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about CIDAN’s approach to customer support.

Lee Ann Slattery will be first female chair.

The Metal Construction Association (MCA) is pleased to announce its new officers for 2026. Elected by MCA members, the board will be led by Lee Ann Slattery of ATAS International, the organization’s first female chair.

Slattery joins executive committee members:

• Vice chair: Bill Hartford, Sherwin-Williams
• Treasurer: David Stermer, Metal Sales
• Secretary: Chandler Barden, CIDAN Machinery
• Past chair: Brian Partyka, Carlisle Companies Inc
• Market development chair: Jules Dekovics, OMG
• MRA president: Todd Miller, Isaiah Industries, Inc.

Slattery joined the MCA board in 2020 and quickly became an officer, serving as chair of the market development committee. In 2023, she received MCA’s Patrick R. Bush Service Award. She serves on the education committee for the National Women in Roofing and is also a founder and a director of the Let’s Build Construction Camp for Girls. In 2020, she was inducted as a Fellow of the Construction Specifications Institute, where she served on its national board for four years. 

“I am excited about the upcoming growth and innovation for MCA and I believe we will reach new milestones with such a talented team of industry leaders on the board and staff,” said Slattery.

Slattery will succeed Chandler Barden, who most recently served as chair. Barden will continue serving as the association's secretary. The organization extends special thanks to him for his ongoing dedication to the industry.

The executive committee works alongside MCA directors, which include:

• RC Antal, ATAS International 
• Michael Beck, Accurate Perforating
• Mark Carlisle, US Steel
• Dustin Haddock, S-5!
• Jessica Haddock, S-5!
• DJ Highnote, RoofHugger
• Jeff Hock, Sheffield Metals
• Sean McCue, Precoat Metals
• Ken McLauchlan, Carlisle Building Products
• Karan Patel, Applied Fabricators
• John Trifonoff, East Coast Metals 
• Jodi Wagoner, Steel Dynamics
• Mike Weis, Petersen Aluminum Corp.

The board members are elected by the MCA members from the slate recommended by the nominating committee, with each serving a three-year term.

About the Metal Construction Association

Founded in 1983, MCA represents over 100 member companies that manufacture and distribute products for the metal construction industry. The association’s mission is to promote the use of metal in the building envelope. Member volunteers collaborate on projects to educate contractors and architects about best practices for metal design and installation, while also ensuring compliance with evolving building codes and standards that support safety, sustainability and performance. Companies involved in MCA benefit greatly from activities focused on research, codes and standards, market development and technical programs. For more information, visit metalconstruction.org.

Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Jessica Bravo.  

Desde herramientas hasta cursos de capacitación, el equipo de The Coffee Shops™ reúne los regalos perfectos para los profesionales del techado en esta guía para dar en grande esta temporada. 

Si tu año ha sido como el nuestro aquí en The Coffee Shops™, ¡seguro va tan rápido que apenas alcanzas a voltear las hojas del calendario! Nosotros también estamos sorprendidos, pero la temporada de regalos está a la vuelta de la esquina y es momento de empezar a planear qué dar a tus amigos, familia y compañeros de trabajo. Para hacerte la vida más fácil, si esta temporada te agarró desprevenido como a nosotros, nuestro equipo creó la guía definitiva de regalos, perfecta para cualquier contratista o profesional en tu vida. 

1 – Vas a estar triste si te pierdes este descuento de R-Club 

¿Tienes un contratista en tu vida que busca una red de apoyo u oportunidades de aprendizaje? ¡R-Club es la opción ideal! R-Club es un programa de Coffee Shops diseñado para crear un espacio exclusivo para profesionales del techado donde pueden aprender y convivir con otros expertos de la industria. Regalar una membresía al profesional del techado en tu vida es una excelente manera no solo de dar un presente, sino también de impulsar su crecimiento profesional. 

R-Club En Español llega pronto. Por ahora disfruta del Entrenamiento de Estimación - RoofersCoffeeShop Exclusivo que ofrece uno de nuestros miembros del R-Club.  

Y como oferta especial de Black Friday, ¡te ofrecemos un 50% de descuento en la membresía usando el código HOLLYJOLLY50!

2 – No te olvides delcollarín de tubería 

Lo último que alguien quiere al prepararse para las fiestas es una gotera arruinando el ambiente. ¡Eso es justo lo que evita el collar para tubería de Wil-Mar Products! Estos productos están hechos de hule EPDM que brinda una impermeabilización duradera para tubos de ventilación, y son esenciales en el kit de cualquier techador. 

Al eliminar una variedad de problemas de filtraciones con cinta y mástico, un paquete de estos puede ayudar al techador en tu vida a evitar una avalancha de problemas más adelante.

3 – “Jingle” y socializa en el IRE 2026 

Desde soluciones innovadoras y demostraciones prácticas hasta un programa educativo dinámico y oportunidades únicas de networking, el International Roofing Expo (IRE) es el lugar para cualquiera en el mundo del techado. El próximo show será en Las Vegas, Nevada, del 20 al 22 de enero de 2026. ¿Tienes un contratista o instalador que quiera mejorar sus conocimientos y conexiones? ¡Regálale un pase al IRE! 

Si te registras usando el código promocional de The Coffee Shops (INVITES492) obtienes entrada gratis al piso de exposición o 10% de descuento en una conferencia.

4 – La cizalla rotatoria de Malco es “nieve”-especiaI 

Combinando alto rendimiento con un precio accesible, la TurboShear de Malco es un accesorio especial que ahorra tiempo y esfuerzo a los profesionales. Puede usarse fácilmente con un taladro estándar A/C o inalámbrico de 1200 rpm y corta con precisión incluso patrones curvos y cuadrados estrechos. 

TurboShear es una gran adición a la herramienta de trabajo de cualquier persona que trabaje con metal.

5 – La capacitación para contratistas de John Kenney siempre es un buen regalo 

John Kenney, CEO de Cotney Consulting Group, es un nombre muy conocido en la industria del techado. Con más de 45 años de experiencia, ayuda a contratistas de todo el país a fortalecer su conocimiento en temas como estimación, liderazgo en campo y operaciones de proyectos. Sin importar el rol de la persona para quien estás comprando, él tiene un programa que le ayudará a hacer su trabajo mejor. 

Conoce más sobre sus clases para encontrar el regalo perfecto.

6 – El KARNAK 671 brilla con fuerza 

Este increíble producto es un sellador de techo de silicón de un solo componente de KARNAK. No solo resiste la intemperie, endurecimiento, desgaste y agrietamiento (lo que lo convierte en una solución de alto rendimiento), sino que también ha demostrado adherirse en una variedad de condiciones, incluso cuando la superficie está mojada. ¿Lo mejor? KARNAK lo ofrece en tres presentaciones: cubetas, tubos de calafateo y sobres. Esto facilita que los contratistas lleven el KARNAK 671 a cualquier sitio de trabajo. 

KARNAK 671 es la manera perfecta de mejorar el kit de cualquier aplicador.

7 – ¡Ilumina la vida de alguien con una soldadora inalámbrica Leister! 

Leister es conocida por su amplia gama de soldadoras plásticas y pistolas de calor que facilitan la vida de los contratistas. Una excelente opción de regalo es el kit de soldadura inalámbrica NEXTHEAT. Este kit es una solución completa para soldadura sin cables. Incluye la NEXHEAT 300 A-LP, famosa por sus soldaduras consistentes y confiables, además de una batería Bosch de 8 amperes y su cargador. 

Conoce más sobre este práctico kit.

8 – ¡Regálales un producto Kool Seal! 

Kool Seal ha sido líder en la industria de productos para techos por más de un siglo. Sus productos ofrecen durabilidad excepcional, resistencia al clima y facilidad de aplicación. Puedes ayudar a un contratista en tu vida a elevar sus proyectos conectándolo con un representante de ventas de Sherwin-Williams para obtener muestras de sus recubrimientos premium. 

Contacta a un representante hoy mismo.

9 – Nunca tarde para pedir una bolsa de contratista Wryker 

Para el contratista que siempre está en movimiento, las bolsas de contratista de Wryker les sacarán una sonrisa cada vez que las usen. Son bolsas súper resistentes, perfectas para todo, desde pedacería de metal y paneles de yeso hasta empaques y restos de tejas. Diseñadas con película de 3 mil, tienen capacidad para 43 galones y compiten con el saco de Santa en funcionalidad. 

Conoce más sobre las bolsas de Wryker.

10 – Brrrrr… ¡ahorra con Instant Roofer! 

Diseñada por techadores para techadores, Instant Roofer conecta a los profesionales con herramientas de venta impulsadas por IA que ayudan a hacer crecer sus negocios. Entre estas herramientas están sus leads de alta calidad, reportes de medición instantánea y una calculadora integrada para techos. ¿Lo mejor? Tienen una oferta especial de un paquete que sería un excelente regalo. 

Adquiere el AI Sales Tool Bundle y obtén 30 días gratis.

11 – CIDAN no está jugando con su plegadora portátil 

Nueva este año, CIDAN Machinery Group lanzó ONROLL, una revolucionaria roladora portátil al mercado estadounidense. Está diseñada para operar en azoteas urbanas y en instalaciones remotas bajo viento y lluvia sin problema. Con una velocidad de 90 FPM y accionamiento por rodillos centrales, ONROLL es perfecta para instaladores que necesitan uniones precisas, suaves y eficientes en el sitio. 

¡Obtén la CIDAN ONROLL hoy mismo!

12 – ¡Un sellador Geocel siempre es un buen regalo! 

¿Buscas un regalo versátil que seguro será usado? El sellador adhesivo estructural 4600™ Hybrid de Geocel es un producto todoterreno que combina rendimiento poderoso con gran adaptabilidad. Puede usarse en una variedad de materiales (metal, mampostería, madera, espuma, vidrio y más) y aplicarse en condiciones tan extremas como 0° Fahrenheit. 

Regálales un producto multiusos que trabaje tan duro como ellos.

13 – Los elfos de Santa trabajan duro, pero el Catch-All Nail Catch trabaja más duro 

The Catch-All nació con la misión de mantener limpios los sitios de construcción de techos, una tarea nada sencilla. Pero sus productos llevan el reto al siguiente nivel, usando redes de caída, redes reforzadas para el suelo, postes plegables y más para evitar que los residuos toquen el piso. Como parte de su sistema de protección, también diseñaron el Nail Catch, un filtro que recolecta residuos durante las primeras semanas después del trabajo. 

El Nail-Catch es del tamaño perfecto para una media navideña. Usa el código “RCS” para obtener un 5% de descuento.

14 – Dale un regalo que dure: el Programa de Capacitación de Roofing Alliance y Clemson 

¿Buscas el regalo ideal para ese techador que siempre quiere aprender algo nuevo? Considera regalarle uno de los cursos en línea autodidactas creados por Roofing Alliance y Clemson University, diseñados específicamente para la industria del techado. Hay tres cursos disponibles: fundamentos del techado, administración del techado y negocios y liderazgo en techado. Cada curso dura 60 días, y si un contratista completa los tres, puede obtener el Roofing Professional Management Certificate. 

Si quieres dar un regalo que siga dando, esta es la opción.

Mantente al día con las últimas noticias de la industria registrándote en el eNews de Coffee Shop.

CIDAN Machinery Group today announced that Chandler Barden has been appointed Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2026. He will lead CIDAN Machinery Group globally, steering the company’s worldwide operations and growth agenda. 

Chandler has 14 years with CIDAN, during which he has worked closely with customers, dealers and partners across key markets. He currently serves as CEO of CIDAN Machinery Inc. in the United States and will succeed Petter Hjelmqvist, who will continue to support the transition and the Group in an advisory capacity. Chandler brings a strong track record in customer-driven growth and operational execution. His industry expertise across architectural and industrial fabrication makes him a natural choice to guide CIDAN forward.

Under Chandler´s leadership in North America, CIDAN Machinery Inc. has expanded its customer base and strengthened service capabilities while advancing the Group’s strategy as a One-StopPartner for machinery, software and lifecycle support.

“I’m honored to lead CIDAN Machinery Group and build on our momentum worldwide,” said Chandler Barden, incoming Group CEO. “Our mission is to make it easier for architectural and industrial customers to plan, produce and deliver with confidence. We bring together machines, software, automation and service in oneintegrated experience. We will keep investing in innovation and in our people so customers can keep Shaping Tomorrows World.”

Outgoing CEO Petter Hjelmqvist added: “Chandler combines commercial rigor with a hands-on understanding of production realities. He lives our customer promise and the One-Stop-Partner approach that defines CIDAN. The Group is in excellent hands.”

Strategic focus

As Group CEO, Chandler will focus on:

• Accelerating innovation across CIDAN’s portfolio of folding, longfolding machines, coil handling, slit & cut-to-length solutions and connected software.
• Strengthening global service, training and spare-parts availability to maximize uptime. 
• Advancing the One-Stop-Partner strategy – delivering integrated machines, software, financing options, tooling and lifecycle support. 
• Deepening collaboration across Europe and North America to deliver consistent customer value and faster lead times.

About CIDAN Machinery Group

CIDAN Machinery Group is a global manufacturer of sheet-metal processing solutions, helping customers plan, bend, slit, cut and deliver with precision. With Nordic roots and a worldwide footprint, CIDAN combines machinery, software and service to act as a OneStop-Partner for architectural and industrial OEMs. Guided by the tagline “Shaping Tomorrows World,” CIDAN drives customers to produce safely, sustainably and profitably.

By Emma Peterson. 

From tools to training courses, The Coffee Shops™ crew wraps up the perfect presents for roofing pros in this guide to giving this holiday season. 

If your year has been anything like ours here at The Coffee Shops™, it’s going by faster than you can flip the months on the calendar! We’re shocked, too, but the gift-giving season is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning what to get for your friends, family and coworkers. To make things a little easier if this season caught you off guard like it did us, our team has created the ultimate gift giving guide perfect for any contractor or professional in your life.  

1 – Yule be sad if you miss out on this R-Club discount  

Do you have a contractor in your life looking for a network of support or learning opportunities? Look no further than R-Club! R-Club is a Coffee Shops program created to make an exclusive space for roofing professionals where they can learn and socialize with other professionals from across the industry. Gifting the roofing professional in your life with a membership is a great way not only to give them a present but also to uplift their business savvy! 

And for a Black Friday special, we are thrilled to offer a 50% off discount for R-Club memberships using code HOLLYJOLLY50!

2 – Don't fir-get a pipe collar 

The last thing anyone wants when getting ready for the holidays is a leaky roof ruining the festivities. That’s what the Wil-Mar Products’ pipe collar helps avoid! These products are made out of an EPDM rubber that provides long-lasting waterproof counterflashing for vent pipes and is a must-have for any roofing professional’s toolkit.  

Eliminating a variety of tape and mastic leaking problems, a case of these can help the roofer in your life avoid an avalanche of problems later.

3 – Jingle and mingle at IRE 2026 

From innovative solutions and hands-on demos to a dynamic education program and unmatched networking opportunities, the International Roofing Expo (IRE) is the place to be for anyone in the roofing world. The next show will be hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada from January 20 – 22, 2026. Have a contractor or installer in your life looking to level up their knowledge and relationships? Consider giving them an IRE pass!  

If you register using The Coffee Shops’ promo code (INVITES492) for a free expo hall admission or 10% off a conference pass!

4 – Malco’s rotary sheer is snow special 

Combining high-performance with a reasonable sales tag, Malco’s TurboShear is a special accessory that saves professionals time and labor. It can easily be used with the chuck of a standard 1200 rpm A/C or cordless drill and cuts precisely enough to navigate tight curved patterns and squares.  

TurboShear is a great addition to the toolbag of anyone working with metal on the jobsite.

5 – John Kenney's contractor training is always a sleigh 

John Kenney is the CEO of Cotney Consulting Group and a household name in the roofing industry. With over 45 years of experience, he helps contractors around the country scale knowledge across topics such as estimating, field leadership and project operations. No matter the role of the person you’re shopping for, he has a training program that will help them get the job done. 

Learn more about his classes so you can find the perfect match for your loved one!

6 – The KARNAK 671 shines bright 

This amazing product is a single-component, silicone roof sealant from KARNAK. Not only does it resist weathering, hardening, chalking and cracking (making it a well-rounded, high-performance solution), it has been proven to stick to a roof in a variety of conditions, including when it’s wet. And the best part about this product? KARNAK offers it in three different forms – buckets, caulk tubes and pouches! This makes it easier for contractors to bring KARNAK 671 with them to every job site.  

KARNAK 671 is the perfect way to level up any applicator’s toolbox.

7 – Light up someone's life with a cordless Leister hand welder!  

Leister is known for their wide range of plastic welders and heat guns that make contractors' lives easier in the field. A great gift option from their collection is the NEXTHEAT overlap welding kit. This kit is a complete solution for wireless welding. The kit not only includes the NEXHEAT 300 A-LP, which is known for consistent and reliable welds, but also an eight-amp battery from Bosch and a matching charger. 

Learn more about this handy kit!

8 – Gelt them a Kool Seal product! 

Kool Seal has been a leader in the roofing products industry for over a century. Their products reliably deliver exceptional durability, weather resistance and ease of application.  You can help a contractor in your life elevate their roofing projects with Kool Seal products by connecting them with a Sherwin-Williams sales representative to get samples of their premium roof coatings. 

Contact a representative today!

9 - Flurry up and get one of Wryker’s contractor bags 

For the contractor on-the-go, Wryker’s branded contractor bags will put a smile on your loved one’s face every time they use it! These are hyper-tough bags perfect for everything from metal scraps and drywall to packaging and shingle scraps. Designed out of 3-mil film, these bags hold 43 gallons and give Santa’s sack of toys a run for its money in functionality.  

Learn more about Wryker’s contractor bags!

10 – Brrrrr-ing on the savings with Instant Roofer 

Designed by roofers, for roofers, Instant Roofer connects professionals with AI-powered sales tools that help their businesses grow. These tools include their high-quality roofing leads, instant measure reports and the built-in roofing calculator. And the best part? There is a special deal on a bundle of the measure reports and roofing calculator that would make a great gift! 

Get the AI Sales Tool Bundle and get 30 days free!

11 – CIDAN is not elfing around with their portable break 

New this year, CIDAN Machinery Group launched ONROLL, a revolutionary portable roll former, to the U.S. market! This roll former is designed to operate on urban rooftops and at remote installs through wind and rain without a problem. Combined with a 90 FPM speed and center-driven pinch-roller drive, ONROLL is perfect for the installer that needs accurate, smooth and efficient seams on site.  

Get the CIDAN ONROLL today!

12 – A Geocel sealant is always a n-ice gift!  

Looking for a versatile gift that will definitely be used? Geocel’s 4600™ Hybrid Structural Adhesive Sealant is a jack-of-all-trades sealant that combines powerful performance with amazing adaptability. It can be used on a variety of materials (metal, masonry, wood, foam, glass, etc.) and can be applied in conditions as harsh as 0° Fahrenheit.  

Get them a multi-tasking product that works as hard as they do.

13 – Santa's elves work hard, but the Catch-All Nail Catch works harder 

The Catch-All was founded on the goal of keeping roofing construction sites clean – far from an easy goal. But their products rise to the challenge every time, using chute nets, reinforced ground nets, collapsible support poles and more to keep roofing debris from hitting the ground. As a part of their extensive protection system, they also designed the Nail Catch, which is a filter system that collects debris in the first few weeks after the job.    

The Nail-Catch is the perfect size for a stocking stuffer! Use code “RCS” to get a 5% discount on your purchase.

14 - Make a fa-la-la-la-lasting impression with the Roofing Alliance Clemson Training Program 

Looking for a gift for the roofer in your life who’s always looking to learn new skills? Consider gifting them one of Roofing Alliance and Clemson University’s self-paced online courses tailored to the roofing industry! There are three different courses to choose from: roofing fundamentals, roofing management and roofing business and leadership. Each course is 60 days long and if a contractor finishes all three, they can earn a Roofing Professional Management Certificate! 

If you want to give the gift that keeps giving, look into the Roofing Alliance Clemson Training Program.

Stay up to date with the latest industry news when you sign up for the Coffee Shop eNews. 

By Anna Lockhart.  

Scoring a price-locked, tariff-free machine is a rare opportunity in today’s market, and CIDAN is here to deliver. 

In this episode of MetalCast™, Karen Edwards sat down with Ronnie Pollack, vice president of sales and marketing for CIDAN Machinery, to discuss the brand’s game-changing offerings for sheet metal professionals looking to advance their business growth and sales profits. With tariff-exempt machinery available for purchase, CIDAN offers metal professionals a price they can’t refuse!  

Ronnie explained the luck and happenstance CIDAN stumbled upon earlier in the year. He shared, “Prior to the tariffs, we’d planned to offer a quicker turnaround time for our customers, so we housed some inventory. And we were lucky enough to get those machines out before the midnight deadline on April 5. And once those machines hit the water before the deadline, those are the quote-unquote, tariff-free machines.” Because of this, CIDAN has been able to offer customers machinery at a tariff-free price, a relief for many contractors now that prices elsewhere are skyrocketing.  

Keeping the needs and well-being of their customers top of mind is a priority for CIDAN, Ronnie emphasized. From offering the machinery purchased and delivered before the tariff date to ensuring customers receive the most efficient and fast turnaround times as possible, CIDAN continues to look for ways to make the lives and finances of their customers a little easier. This one-stop partnership model certainly sets them apart from the rest, particularly in a market that faces high uncertainty today.  

Their goal is to pair metal professionals with the right machine to fit their needs, and hopefully that ideal fit is one of their tariff-free options. “Hopefully, one of those machines that we have in inventory that are not tariffed is going to fit your needs. And obviously if it doesn't fit your needs, we're going to work with you to find the most affordable and quickest turnaround solution we can,” Ronnie shared. “We're not here to push machines just because they're cheaper. We want to make sure because it's such an investment that you, the customer, get the right machine that you can grow with.” 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the MetalCast to learn more about CIDAN Machinery, their tariff-exempt machines and how to make the most of their offerings!

By Anna Lockhart.   

METALCON 2025 offered attendees a front row view of the latest design trends and innovations hitting the market.  

Live from the trade show floor at the 2025 METALCON expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, host Heidi J. Ellsworth sat down with a panel of metal professionals to discuss the state of the industry and the latest trends entering the market. This special episode of Coffee Conversations®, sponsored by MetalVue by Sherwin-Willams, featured notable panelists Luiz Sánchez of Sherwin-Williams, Chandler Barden of CIDAN Machinery, Nigel Kreft of Elevate Structures and Anthony Ortega of Viotell Metal Concepts. 

As the largest and only specialized trade show dedicated to the metal construction industry, METALCON was buzzing with exciting new product launches and demonstrations of the latest technologies. The energy was impressive, and the ability to see these up-and-coming innovations firsthand gave attendees a look at the ways they can elevate their business. Nigel shared, “What really struck me, being on the construction side of it, is the diverse product offerings. Roofing types, sheet metal types, colors, finishes, etcetera. The industry has really evolved into a more mature palette with colors and stuff like that, and I think some of the stuff that is out there is really cool.” 

Whether contractor, builder or a professional working in another side of the trade, the trade show floor offered a wonderful opportunity for all metal professionals to network and experience the aspect of community. Chandler shared, “I’ve been coming to the show for the last 14 years. The industry is growing, and it’s great getting to see familiar faces and your friends, getting to catch up and meet new people.”  

The show has also provided exhibitors with the opportunity to showcase their products and services firsthand with eager, new customers who might not have seen their offerings before METALCON. Luis explained, “There's a lot of questions that a lot of customers coming by have. They might not know all the things we have to offer and we get to explain to a lot of people all of the options that we offer in every business. It's been very good.” 

Even for installers, the trade show has been a great success. Anthony shared, “It's a little unique for us, because we're coming in as the installers, as the one providing the end product. We always love coming to METALCON because we get to see all the fun toys. It’s really exciting for us to come down here and see what we are seeing in the field and then connect it with great suppliers to figure out if there's a solution out there for our clients or a better way to do it, a way to optimize.” 

Watch the full conversation to get the highlights from the show and the panelists’ big takeaways from their time on the trade show floor.

By Jenny Yu. 

This new control system is designed to empower operators with simplified programming, SIM-enabled connection and improved machine output. 

In a time of ever-increasing demand for efficiency, it’s critical that manufacturers keep customer needs in mind by providing new and improved technologies. That’s why CIDAN Machinery Group now offers sheet-metal fabricators working with their F-series folders with a powerful new option. The company’s latest control system, nuLINK, was built to streamline operations and simplify programming while delivering advanced service capabilities. 

The nuLINK system features a bright 21-inch multi-touch display and interactive 3D graphics that guide the operator through each bend, rotation and flip. Profiles and job data are stored in a central, secure database, allowing multiple operators and teams to collaborate on projects with confidence.  

What sets nuLINK apart is its connectivity. A built-in SIM connection enables real-time remote access to both the machine’s PLC and HMI, automatic cloud back-ups, online updates and full remote diagnostics, with no physical cable required. It reduces service technician waiting time, enhances uptime and secures long-term system stability. 

Using nuLINK is easy. CIDAN provides these five simple steps for operators to follow:  

1 - Find a profile in the catalogue similar to what you need by searching or browsing. 

2 - Edit the selected profile or create your own from scratch by drawing with your fingers. 

3 - Alternatively use the line-by-line programming to set the angles and dimensions directly. 

4 - Automatically calculate the folding sequence and fine-tune your set-up. 

5 - Follow the step-by-step folding sequence and watch how to handle the material and tools. 

By merging connectivity and ease of use, nuLINK gives metal professionals a tool for precise metal folding that improves uptime and operator confidence while positioning manufacturers to be competitive in this digital production age. 

Learn more about how nuLINK can help streamline your operations for your team.

CIDAN Machinery Group, a global leader in sheet metal machinery and software solutions, has launched nuLINK™, a new CNC control system for the F-series folders that redefines service and support with a future-ready maintenance interface.

nuLINK’s built-in SIM connectivity provides remote access, real-time monitoring, secure cloud backups and online updates - ensuring that machines stay up to date and downtime is minimized. With continuous connectivity, operators and service teams can resolve issues quickly and keep production running at peak efficiency.

Beyond its advanced maintenance interface, nuLINK also simplifies everyday folding tasks. A 21-inch multi-touch screen and 3D graphics guide operators step-by-step through every bend, rotation and flip. Job data is backed up in a central database, allowing entire teams to collaborate with confidence.

Key advantages of nuLINK include:

• Smart maintenance: Remote diagnostics, real-time monitoring and cloud-based backups reduce downtime and improve machine stability.
• Simplified programming: Drag-and-draw 3D design or quick line entry—no CAD experience required.
• Error prevention: Smart preparation mode suggests optimal bend sequences and flags collisions before production.
• Operator-friendly interface: Expert-level results are achievable by any operator, regardless of experience.

Additional features such as a box generator, tapered profile support, notch pattern library and 3D simulation with tool setup guidance make nuLINK a complete, future-ready solution for modern sheet metal shops.

For more information, visit www.cidanmachinery.com

Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Jessica Bravo.  

¡No te pierdas el evento internacional más grande de la industria del metal: METALCON 2025! 

Cada año, METALCON reúne a profesionales de todo el mundo y de la industria del metal para tres increíbles días de redes y aprendizaje. Los asistentes pueden esperar conectarse con profesionales afines, explorar innovaciones interminables en techado y recibir educación que ayudará a hacer su negocio más competitivo, eficiente y rentable. Sigue leyendo para conocer más sobre lo que podrás esperar del evento de este año, que se llevará a cabo del 21 al 23 de octubre de 2025 en Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Dos conferencias magistrales inspiradoras 

¡Este año, el evento contará con dos increíbles conferencias magistrales! La primera será presentada a las 9:00 a.m. el martes 21 de octubre por el Sargento de Estado Mayor Clinton Romesha. Clinton participó en la batalla de 14 horas en Kamdesh, uno de los enfrentamientos más mortales de la Guerra de Afganistán y recibió la Medalla de Honor. Ha compartido su historia en un libro bestseller del New York Times (Red Platoon: A True Story of American Valor), que inspiró la aclamada película The Outpost, protagonizada por Scott Eastwood y Orlando Bloom. En su charla, “Always Forward – Lessons in Leadership and Resilience,”Clinton hablará sobre liderar con propósito y perseverar bajo presión. 

La otra conferencia magistral será presentada por Alex Chausovsky, director de análisis y consultoría en el Bundy Group, el miércoles 22 de octubre a las 9:00 a.m. Alex cuenta con más de dos décadas de experiencia en investigación y análisis de mercados. Habiendo asesorado a empresas en América del Norte y del Sur, Europa y Asia, la conferencia de Alex, “Economic and Labor Market Update – What to Expect in 2025 and Beyond,” es el recurso perfecto para los profesionales que buscan aprender más sobre "eventos económicos sensibles al tiempo, como inflación, tasas de interés, aranceles, inmigración, condiciones del mercado laboral, gasto del consumidor, inversión empresarial y actividad industrial.” 

¡Conoce más sobre los presentadores principales!

Ocho talleres profundos 

¿Buscas una forma de mejorar tus habilidades prácticas mientras estás en METALCON? Asegúrate de registrarte en algunos de estos talleres dirigidos por expertos: 

• Entrenamiento en Instalación de Techos Metálicos: Parte 1 – Curso con Certificación: Organizado el 20 de octubre de 1:00 p.m. a 5:00 p.m. por la Metal Construction Association, este taller promete ayudarte a dominar lo básico de sustratos, seguridad, selladores y más. 
• Entrenamiento en Instalación de Techos Metálicos: Parte 2 – Curso con Certificación: La segunda parte del curso del 20 de octubre, esta sesión se llevará a cabo el 21 de octubre de 8:30 a.m. a 12:30 p.m. y profundizará en lo aprendido en la Parte 1. 
• Formado en Rollo para la Industria de la Construcción Metálica – Parte 1: También se realizará el 21 de octubre de 8:30 a.m. a 12:30 p.m., este taller ofrece una serie de presentaciones de expertos en formado en rollo: Shawn Huffman, Josh Beck, Andy Allman y Steve Ebel. 
• Técnicas Avanzadas de Instalación de Exteriores Metálicos para Contratistas de Techos y Construcción: Si buscas una experiencia práctica que agudice tus habilidades en techado y construcción metálica, no te puedes perder este taller, que se llevará a cabo el 21 de octubre de 8:30 a.m. a 12:30 p.m. 
• Techos Metálicos de la A (Aluminio) a la Z (Zinc): Dirigido por Rob Haddock de S-5!, este taller será un curso intensivo sobre todo lo relacionado con los metales y se realizará el 21 de octubre de 8:30 a.m. a 12:30 p.m. 
• Taller de Detalles en Techos de Low Slope – Curso con Certificación: Este taller, que se llevará a cabo en la tarde del 21 de octubre (de 1:00 p.m. a 5:00 p.m.), te dará la oportunidad de aprender todo sobre la instalación de techos metálicos de baja pendiente. 
• Blueprint hacia el Éxito Administrativo – Gestión de Crédito y Cobranza en la Construcción: Y para aquellos que buscan ayuda administrativa, esta sesión el 21 de octubre de 1:00 p.m. a 5:00 p.m. cubrirá desde la fijación de términos de crédito hasta el desarrollo de políticas y manejo de cobranzas. 
• Formado en Rollo para la Industria de la Construcción Metálica – Parte 2: Por último, la segunda parte del taller de formado en rollo del 21 de octubre se llevará a cabo el 22 de octubre de 8:30 a.m. a 12:30 p.m. y contará con dos nuevos expertos: Brian Rogers y Paul Williams. 

Estos talleres están diseñados para ayudar tanto a profesionales principiantes como avanzados a aprender, obtener credenciales y trabajar con profesionales de la industria. 

¡Obtén más detalles sobre los talleres!

35+ sesiones educativas 

Además de los talleres prácticos y profundos, habrá más de 35 sesiones educativas repartidas en seis categorías diferentes: 

• Crecimiento empresarial e innovación: Las sesiones de esta categoría ayudan a encontrar estrategias prácticas y probadas por expertos que te ayudarán a administrar un negocio más inteligente y rentable. 
• Desempeño en la construcción: Diseñadas para quienes están involucrados en el diseño, la construcción o el cumplimiento de normativas de edificios metálicos, estas sesiones ofrecen educación dirigida por expertos sobre la mitigación de riesgos frente a eventos climáticos extremos. 
• Instalación y técnicas: Patrocinadas por CIDAN Machinery Group, las sesiones en esta categoría buscan proporcionar a los instaladores y contratistas los conocimientos necesarios para mejorar sus prácticas de construcción. 
• Masterclass: Las sesiones de esta categoría están diseñadas para ayudar a los profesionales experimentados a profundizar su experiencia, yendo más allá de los conceptos básicos y abordando estrategias críticas en situaciones reales. 
• Distrito de Diseño: El Distrito de Diseño @ METALCON fue creado específicamente para arquitectos, diseñadores, especificadores e ingenieros. Las sesiones impartidas aquí ofrecen la inspiración, conocimientos, conexiones y créditos necesarios para que los diseñadores profesionales sobresalgan con el metal. 
• Clínicas de maestría en metal: Organizadas en el salón de exposiciones, estas sesiones cuentan con expertos de la Metal Construction Association y la Metal Roofing Alliance y son el recurso perfecto para contratistas e instaladores que buscan mejorar sus técnicas de instalación metálica. 

¡Consulta la lista completa de sesiones!

275+ expositores 

Por último, el evento contará con un increíble salón de exposiciones con más de 275 stands para explorar. ¡Es una gran oportunidad para conocer las innovaciones y soluciones más recientes que se están desarrollando en la industria del techado por parte de empresas líderes como AkzoNobel (Stand #5005), Cougar Paws (Stand #7104), H.B. Fuller (Stand #3035), New Tech Machinery (Stand #4027), Sheffield Metals (Stand #4033), Unified Steel (Stand #7098) y Van Mark Products (Stand #4104)! El equipo de Coffee Shops™ estará allí (Stand #2001), ¡así que asegúrate de pasar, saludar y visitar nuestro escenario sonoro, patrocinado por Sherwin-Williams! 

¡Explora el mapa completo de la feria!

¡Regístrate ahora para METALCON 2025 usando este enlace de registro y recibe $30 de descuento en los costos de registro! O usa el código 30MCS para obtener el mismo descuento.