By The Coffee Shops®.

Learn how training, mentorship and industry engagement can help contractors recruit and develop the future workforce.

The future of metal roofing and construction depends on attracting skilled workers and helping them succeed from day one. In a recent MetalCast™ episode, host Karen Edwards sat down with Jon Olson of The Malco Group to discuss how contractors can play a direct role in developing the next generation of trade professionals.

According to Jon, the industry is experiencing a significant generational shift as experienced workers retire faster than new talent enters the workforce. At the same time, many young people have had fewer opportunities to develop hands-on skills before entering a trade career. As a result, training has become more important than ever. “Training in many ways is the industry solution to try and bridge that gap between ‘I'm just starting out’ and ‘I'm here and I'm a productive addition to the team,’” Jon emphasized.

Malco supports workforce development through several initiatives, including its Head of the Class program, participation in SkillsUSA competitions and classroom engagement through the Building Talent Foundation. Jon explained that these programs expose students to career opportunities while rewarding achievement and encouraging interest in the trades.

Training, however, goes beyond formal programs. Jon emphasized the importance of creating a "winning and learning" environment where both mentors and apprentices remain open to learning. He noted that contractors should avoid assuming new workers understand concepts that may seem basic to seasoned professionals and instead focus on meeting students where they are.

Technology also plays an important role in attracting younger workers. Jon shared that contractors who invest in modern tools, training resources and educational content demonstrate a commitment to employee success. Resources such as product videos, troubleshooting guides and hands-on demonstrations can help workers gain confidence while improving productivity on the jobsite.

When discussing recruitment, Jon encouraged contractors to become involved with organizations such as SkillsUSA, serve as judges at competitions, mentor students and provide jobsite exposure. He believes helping students understand the pride that comes from building their communities can be one of the industry's strongest recruiting tools. “Allowing these aspiring trade pros to understand how rewarding this can be in building their community is a key aspect of showing them the benefits of their labor,” he explained.

Ultimately, workforce development starts with engagement. By investing in training, apprenticeships and mentorship, contractors can help ensure a stronger future for metal roofing and construction.

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about recruiting and training the next generation of trade professionals.

Acquisition adds local expertise and capabilities in Brazil while creating new opportunities to serve customers across the Americas.

The Malco Group is expanding its presence in Latin America following Aspen Pumps Group's acquisition of Brazil-based Forming Tubing, an established manufacturer of tubular components for the refrigeration and air conditioning market. Forming Tubing will be managed by The Malco Group, Aspen Pumps Group's Americas headquarters and operating platform.

The acquisition advances The Malco Group's strategy to build a stronger HVACR platform across the Americas by adding established local expertise, customer relationships and manufacturing capabilities in Brazil. It also creates opportunities to expand the solutions available to customers and improve how The Malco Group reaches and serves trade professionals throughout Latin America.

"Forming Tubing gives The Malco Group an established presence in an important HVACR market and brings us closer to customers throughout the region," said Rich Benninghoff, CEO of The Malco Group. "The company has a strong business, deep market knowledge and trusted customer relationships. Together, we can build on those strengths and create new opportunities for both businesses across the Americas."

Forming Tubing will continue to operate in Brazil under its established brand and current leadership, maintaining the local expertise, customer relationships and commitment to quality and service that have built its reputation over more than three decades.

Over time, the partnership creates opportunities to expand Forming Tubing's reach while bringing more of The Malco Group and Aspen Pumps Group portfolio to customers in Brazil and across Latin America. Forming Tubing's local presence can also support more efficient regional logistics and greater product accessibility, beginning with Aspen Pumps products currently sold in the Brazilian market.

"This is about combining local strength with global reach," Benninghoff said. "Forming Tubing has built a strong business in Brazil, and our goal is to help accelerate its next stage of growth while creating a stronger platform to serve customers throughout the region."

About The Malco Group

The Malco Group is a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality HVACR and building construction products based in the Americas. With a focus on innovation, precision engineering and field-tested performance, The Malco Group powers the success of trade pros and businesses across the continent. Its portfolio includes ACE Chemical, Aspen Pumps, Beckett, Big Foot Systems, C&D Valve, HydroBalance, Malco Tools, Unilite and Veto Pro Pac. Follow The Malco Group on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest innovations and product launches, or visit malcogrp.com.

About Aspen Pumps Group

Aspen Pumps Group, headquartered in the United Kingdom, is a global leader in condensate removal pumps, tools and installation and maintenance accessories for the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) aftermarket. Aspen's innovative product offering is delivered through highly respected products and brands. Aspen has strong partnerships with a global network of wholesalers who value Aspen's service offering, continuous product innovation and extensive product range. The company is backed by Inflexion, a leading mid-market private equity firm with over £11bn assets under management. For more information about Aspen, visit www.aspenpumps.com.

By The Coffee Shops®.  

How direct collaboration with technicians and tradespeople influences product development. 

The success of Veto Pro Pac was built on solving one tradesperson's challenge, but according to founder Roger Brouard, the company's growth has depended on understanding the needs of many different trades. 

During an episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Roger described how customer feedback led the company beyond residential construction and into new industries. One of the most significant opportunities emerged during the 2008 recession when heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians began reaching out with a specific request. "They really liked our bags, but the pockets were not big enough to accommodate their meters," Roger explained. 

Rather than making assumptions, he immersed himself in their work. Roger connected with a local HVAC contractor, met with technicians, examined the bags they were currently using and spent weeks accompanying them on service calls. "I would go out and go on service calls with the heating and cooling techs and got to understand how they work," Roger said. 

The experience led to the development of an entirely new product line designed around the unique tools and workflows of HVAC professionals. It also established an approach that would later influence products for marine trades, electricians, plumbers and other specialized users. Karen noted the importance of that customer-focused mindset, saying, "Manufacturers that listen to the end user and take that feedback and integrate it into their products always seem to do very, very well." 

That philosophy continues with newer innovations such as the EVO platform, which allows users to customize and adapt tool organization systems for different jobsite conditions. Roger said the goal was to create a system that provides "much more customization and adaptability for guys working in the field so they can work smarter and more efficiently." 

Looking back, Roger believes one key factor separates the company from many competitors. "Most of these bags have been designed by designers who never seriously swung a hammer in their life," he said. 

For contractors and technicians, that connection to real-world experience remains at the heart of the brand's appeal. Products developed alongside end users are often better equipped to support the demands of the trades they serve. 

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about tool organization and storage solutions. 

Por The Coffee Shops® 

Asegúrate de incluir estas sesiones y expositores en tu lista de prioridades para METALCON.  

Del 7 al 9 de octubre en Orlando, Florida, la industria se reunirá para tres días de educación, innovación y networking. Con más de 60 sesiones educativas y 250 expositores, es importante que los asistentes planifiquen su agenda con anticipación. Desde nuevos productos y servicios hasta soluciones innovadoras, no querrás perder la oportunidad de conversar con estos socios de The Coffee Shops®: 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 y muchos más. Además, no olvides visitar el stand 408 para conocer al equipo de MetalCoffeeShop®.

Conferencia Magistral: Nada Puede Detenerte 

El exlanzador de las Grandes Ligas Jim Abbott compartirá su extraordinaria historia, desde Flint, Michigan, hasta lanzar un juego sin hit ni carrera en el Yankee Stadium. Nacido sin mano derecha, Jim encontró formas creativas de perseguir sus metas mientras aprendía la importancia de la responsabilidad y la confianza. Su inspiradora conferencia explora cómo la mentalidad adecuada puede transformar la adversidad en crecimiento personal, ayudando a los asistentes a reconocer sus propios desafíos como oportunidades para desarrollar resiliencia y adaptarse al cambio. 

¡Regístrate hoy!

Conferencia Magistral: Construyendo en la Incertidumbre: Perspectivas del Mercado para las Industrias de la Construcción y el Diseño 

¿Qué factores económicos influirán en la construcción y el diseño durante los próximos 12 meses? El execonomista en jefe del American Institute of Architects, Kermit Baker, analizará los indicadores que afectan la actividad de los proyectos, el crecimiento de los distintos sectores y las prioridades de los clientes. Los asistentes obtendrán una perspectiva basada en datos sobre las tendencias del mercado, las diferencias regionales y las oportunidades emergentes que les ayudarán a tomar decisiones informadas en un entorno de constante cambio. 

¡Regístrate hoy!

Perspectiva de la Industria: Actualizaciones de Códigos para la Construcción Metálica: Qué Cambió y Qué Significa 

Los cambios en los códigos pueden provocar retrasos en permisos, rediseños y problemas de cumplimiento cuando no se conocen o se interpretan incorrectamente. Los expertos Bill Beals, Paul Deffenbaugh y Bob Zabcik analizarán las actualizaciones recientes y futuras que afectan a la construcción metálica. La sesión abordará aspectos relacionados con el diseño, las especificaciones, la fabricación y la instalación, ayudando a los asistentes a comprender los requisitos actuales y prepararse para las tendencias que podrían influir en futuros proyectos. 

¡Regístrate hoy!

Perspectiva de la Industria: 2027, el Futuro de la Construcción Metálica 

Líderes de la industria examinarán las fuerzas económicas, regulatorias, de materiales y de obra que darán forma a la construcción metálica rumbo a 2027. Los panelistas Kermit Baker, Jeff Henry, Vincent Sagan y Benton Trotter conectarán la realidad actual del mercado con los desafíos y oportunidades que se avecinan. Los asistentes explorarán cómo las condiciones de suministro, la evolución de los códigos y las presiones en la construcción están influyendo en los costos, los métodos de entrega y las prácticas del sector. 

¡Regístrate hoy!

Las sesiones educativas son solo una parte de la experiencia. Los asistentes también podrán recorrer una enorme área de exhibición para establecer contactos, descubrir nuevas soluciones y aprender directamente de profesionales de toda la industria. Asegúrate de incluir el stand 408 de MetalCoffeeShop® en tu recorrido. 

Mientras visitas la expo, también encontrarás a varios socios de The Coffee Shops®, entre ellos 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 y muchas otras empresas destacadas del sector.

No te pierdas el evento metalero del año. Regístrate para asistir a METALCON y utiliza el código 30MCS para obtener $30 de descuento en tu pase. 

By The Coffee Shops®. 

Contractor support starts with workforce development and practical jobsite solutions. 

Labor shortages continue to challenge contractors across roofing, metal construction and other skilled trades. According to Rich Benninghoff, CEO of The Malco Group, manufacturers have an important role to play in helping contractors work more efficiently while also supporting the industry's future workforce. 

Speaking with Karen Edwards on a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Rich explained that workforce capacity remains one of the biggest issues facing contractors today. He pointed to retirements and competition for skilled labor as factors reducing the number of available workers while demand for projects continues to grow. "There are less people to do more work," Rich pointed out. 

As crews become harder to staff, manufacturers are increasingly focused on helping contractors maximize efficiency. Rich said Malco concentrates on solutions that “improve time, quality, rework" and other factors that can help crews accomplish more with fewer people on the job. 

Addressing workforce shortages also means helping attract and develop the next generation. Rich highlighted the company's longstanding support of industry education initiatives such as SkillsUSA and Head of the Class. "We wanted to have our brand name Malco to be synonymous with help supporting solutions and quality," Rich said. 

Programs like The Malco Group’s Head of the Class allow instructors to recognize outstanding students, while SkillsUSA provides opportunities for contractors and manufacturers to connect with future tradespeople. Rich said these initiatives help establish trust early in a worker's career and reinforce Malco's commitment to training, support and professional development. 

By maintaining a presence in schools, trade programs and industry events, The Malco Group aims to support workers from their first experience with tools through the entirety of their careers. Swing by Booth1376 at METALCON to get a look at the Malco Groups’ latest innovations in making jobsites more efficient.  

As labor challenges continue, partnerships between manufacturers, educators and contractors may prove increasingly important for sustaining the industry's workforce pipeline. 

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about workforce development and contractor support. 

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!

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. 

By Jenny Yu. 

MalcoEdge delivers solutions that help contractors improve accuracy, speed and jobsite consistency. 

As contractors face demand for faster installations and more reliable performance, Malco Tools is providing what they need with MalcoEdge™: a purposeful lineup of refrigeration tools designed to support modern HVACR challenges. Rather than offering a narrow portfolio of tools, the MalcoEdge line brings together a full ecosystem engineered for reliability, durability and efficiency to support everything from initial lineset installation to full system lifecycle troubleshooting and repair.  

MalcoEdge tools for contractors 

• Vacuum pumps: Designed for efficient system evacuation, these compact, jobsite-ready pumps support mobility while delivering reliable performance for residential and light commercial applications. 
• Recovery units: Built for speed and safety, these units provide dependable refrigerant recovery with durable construction and features that support compliance and consistent operation. 
• Hoses: MalcoEdge provides three lines of hoses: Safe Seal, Easy Seal and TurboFlow. These hoses help maintain system integrity, improve flow efficiency and reduce refrigerant loss during service and installation. 
• Manifolds: Featuring durable construction, clear gauges and quick-turn ball valve operation, manifolds provide control and accuracy for both routine service and complex system work. 
• Measurement equipment: Digital gauges and diagnostic tools deliver fast, accurate readings with clear displays and alerts, helping contractors verify performance and troubleshoot efficiently. 
• Tube tools: From cutting and bending to flaring and deburring, these tools are designed for clean, precise connections that reduce rework and support long-term system reliability. 
• Service tools: Purpose-built for critical field tasks, these tools enhance control and precision in tight jobsite conditions while supporting faster, more consistent results. 

Visit Malco Tools’ website or their directories on RoofersCoffeeShop® and MetalCoffeeShop® to learn more about how you can streamline operations and elevate performance with MalcoEdge’s full lineup of HVACR solutions! 

By Jenny Yu.  

The Malco Group highlights training and mentorship as essential to addressing the industry's labor shortage. 

Nobody in the industry gets to where they are alone, and with an ongoing labor shortage, participating in hands-on mentorship and training programs are more important than ever. In a recent episode of MetalCast™, Karen Edwards sat down with Jon Olson, MetalCoffeeShop® Influencer and learning and product training manager for The Malco Group, to discuss how training, mentorship and industry involvement can help bridge the talent gap. 

According to Jon, the challenge facing the trades is twofold: an aging workforce and fewer young people entering the industry with hands-on experience. “The industry is facing a major generational transition,” Jon stated. “Too many people are retiring for the number of people coming in.” 

To help address that challenge, Malco has invested heavily in workforce development initiatives. Through programs such as their Head of the Class Student Recognition Program, as well as partnerships with organizations like SkillsUSA and Building Talent Foundation, the company works to introduce students and aspiring trade professionals to rewarding careers in the skilled trades. “Training, in many ways, is the industry solution to try and bridge that gap between, ‘I'm just starting out,’ and ‘I'm a productive addition to the team,’” Jon explained. 

Beyond formal training, Jon emphasized the importance of mentorship and creating a culture of continuous learning, not only for those new to the industry but for everyone. He encourages contractors to adopt a mindset of “winning and learning,” where every challenge becomes an opportunity for growth.  

“Training doesn't need to be over-structured,” Jon said. “You need to embrace each opportunity you have through continuous improvement and other means to really allow people to learn in their own way.” 

As labor challenges continue across the construction sector, Jon believes contractors who embrace this type of culture while prioritizing training, mentorship and professional development will be best positioned to build stronger teams and long-term success. 

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about workforce development, training and Malco's impact on the overall future of the skilled trades.