By Emma Peterson. 

Join The Coffee Shops™ crew and our industry partners in Sacramento for four days of education, innovation and industry connection. 

The Coffee Shops™ crew is putting the finishing touches on our travel plans to get to Sacramento, California March 12–15, 2026 for the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC)’s International Convention and we want to see you at our booth and soundstage, sponsored by Western Colloid!  

This year’s show is predicted to host “1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other experts” for four days of learning, networking and more! With national sponsors like Carlisle, Elevate™, GAF, IB Roof Systems™, Johns Manville, Polyglass USA Inc., Sika Corporation, SOPREMA and Versico, this show is a must-attend for professionals in all parts of the roofing world.  

Expert-led education  

This show gives attendees a chance to learn from a variety of industry leaders and experts through their cutting-edge education sessions. Here are some of the incredible presenters that will be at this year’s show:  

• Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese will be hosting a “State of the Industry” session that will explore contract provisions and other emerging regulatory trends.  
• Darren Perry of SOPREMA has a session that discusses how low slope roofing can be enhanced in response to severe climate risks. 
• Amrize’s National Technical Manager Victor Rosenthal and Project Manager Rachael DeMeio will be teaching about trends in roof re-cover applications this year. 
• Jennifer Stephan from Benchmark’s session will dive into the world of Refrigerated Processing and Cold Storage Operations in relation to industrial roofing projects.  

Check out the full speaker list online!

An expo floor route 

The Coffee Shops crew will be on the expo floor hosting a soundstage at booth #1113! Here’s just a few of the other Coffee Shops friends and partners that can be found on IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention expo floor:  

• All Weather Insulated Panels (booth #1216) 
• Anchor Products (booth #907)  
• ATAS International (booth #728)  
• BITEC Inc. (booth #1023) 
• Brava Tile (booth #208) 
• CertainTeed (booth #227)  
• General Coatings Manufacturing (booth #926) 
• H.B. Fuller (booth #113) 
• ICP Building Solutions Group (booth #133) 
• IKO Industries (booth #426) 
• Leister (booth #619) 
• Malarkey Roofing Products (booth #213) 
• MuleHide (booth #814) 
• Roof Hugger (booth #707) 
• S-5! (booth #1019) 
• Sheffield Metals International (booth #625) 
• Sherwin Williams Roofing Solutions (booth #422) 
• Tremco (booth #321) 
• USG Securock (booth #401) 
• Western Colloid (booth #923) 
• Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions (booth #433) 

Explore the full expo floor map!

Register today and make sure you stop by to say hi to us and our industry friends at the IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention!

By Benchmark.

Benchmark named a 2025 Top Workplace in Iowa, an achievement we celebrate as a company, and as a community of professionals committed to excellence.

We are thrilled to announce that The Des Moines Register has awarded Benchmark a 2025 Top Workplaces honor (#37 for company size: 35-149). This prestigious recognition is a direct result of our team’s dedication and the vibrant culture we have cultivated together. It’s an achievement we celebrate not just as a company, but as a community of professionals committed to excellence.

This award is especially meaningful because it is based entirely on employee feedback. It reflects the authentic experiences and perspectives of the people who make Benchmark what it is today. We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment and what it says about our commitment to creating a supportive, engaging and rewarding work environment.

Our amazing team

This achievement belongs to every single member of the Benchmark team. Our leadership is honored to guide such a talented and dedicated group of individuals.

Vince Ellison, President of Benchmark, shared his thoughts on the award: “What makes this recognition so meaningful is that it comes from our people — the talented, committed team driving our work forward every day. This award reflects the relationships we’ve built, the accountability we hold ourselves to and the pride we take in our work. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this team and excited about what we’ll continue to build together.”

This employee-centric philosophy is at the core of our operations. We believe that investing in our people is the most effective way to drive success for our clients and our organization.

Lori Madrick, HR Director, also commented on the significance of this recognition: "Earning the Top Workplace award is a proud moment for all of us. It highlights the passion and commitment our people bring to their work each day. Our positive culture doesn't just make for a better workplace; it translates directly into the exceptional service and innovative solutions we deliver to our clients. I am so proud to be part of a team that genuinely supports one another and celebrates shared success."

Our commitment

We understand that our success is built on the foundation of a strong, healthy culture. This award is not a finish line but a milestone on our continuous journey of improvement. It inspires us to keep listening to our employees and investing in initiatives that support their personal and professional growth.

We are dedicated to creating an environment where our team feels empowered, heard and valued. From professional development opportunities to fostering a healthy work-life balance, our goal is to make Benchmark an exceptional place to build a career.

What makes a top workplace?

The Top Workplaces award is not determined by a panel of judges, but by the people who know a company best: its employees. The process is managed by Energage, LLC, an employee engagement technology partner. They conduct a confidential survey that goes directly to our team members.

This survey measures 15 key culture drivers that are essential for organizational success. These drivers include:

• Alignment: Understanding where the company is going and how we will get there.
• Execution: Believing that the company operates efficiently and in line with its goals.
• Connection: Feeling appreciated, valued and that your work has meaning.

By Emma Peterson. 

Honor the past, celebrate the present and get ready for the future at this year’s NWIR conference!  

Originally conceived in 2014, but officially founded in 2016, the National Women in Roofing (NWIR)'s goal has always been to support the women “breaking [the stereotype that the roofing industry is geared towards men] by pursuing a variety of career paths and demonstrating that a diverse industry is a stronger industry.” One of the ways they work towards fulfilling that mission is by hosting their annual conference, NWIR Days!  

NWIR Days is an event always full of opportunities for attendees to not only network and learn together, but to build each other up and create a stronger community of roofers. This upcoming NWIR Days will be hosted from January 17-18, 2026, at the Sahara Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Keep reading to learn more about the special events, keynotes and sessions happening at the upcoming conference! 

Special events 

On Saturday, January 17, attendees can attend one of two luncheons hosted by the DEI Committee and the NWIR Hispanic Council. Following lunch, attendees can choose from a variety of education sessions presented in Spanish or the inaugural Council Leader Training session. That evening will feature an optional ticketed event themed “Starry, Starry Night.” This is a great way to catch up with old friends and make new ones while celebrating 10 years of NWIR! The welcome event runs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

Day two is the “main event” and includes an exciting Grand Opening Kickoff Celebration marking NWIR’s incredible 10 years of existence! From speaking with the founders about the organization’s beginnings to looking ahead at the new areas of focus for 2026, this celebration will be a great way to learn more about NWIR.  

More highlights of the day include three blocks of informative education sessions and the 2026 Awards Luncheon featuring the 2026 World Awards and Rising Star winners. Later in the day, CertainTeed and QXO are hosting a networking event including refreshments and the QXO Challenge – A fun challenge/race that attendees can take part in and win prizes! 

Finally, the 2026 conference will end with the Closing Ceremony thanking outgoing chair Christee Roberson and installing new chair, Christine Mockenhaupt! 

Check out the full event schedule.

Education sessions 

This year’s conference boasts over a dozen different sessions across three blocks on Sunday, January 18, 2026. We can’t cover them all, but we wanted to highlight some of the ones that Coffee Shop crew members and customers are a part of:  

• Roofing is like a sandwich – Understanding the basics: Taught by Lynn Picone and Kimberly Santiago of GAF, this foundational course is perfect for anyone who is new to the roofing industry looking for a fun way to gain “essential knowledge of roofing systems, materials, terminology and common practices.” 
• Bridge the gap with your content – How to create videos that convert: In the modern era, video and visuals are the language of modern marketing. In this session, our very own Heidi J. Ellsworth will moderate a discussion all about building engagement and trust with an audience through video.  
• Strong teams and tough conversations – A panel discussion: Featuring Maya Irizarry of Solutions by Maya, LLC, Dave MacLean of the Certified Contractors Network and Elise Schmidt of Benchmark, Inc., this panel will dive into ways to strengthen your team with key communication tools. 
• Build loyalty, not turnover – Supporting working parents in roofing: Presented by the NWIR DEI Committee and moderated by The Coffee Shops’ Megan Ellsworth, this panel will talk about how you can support your employees as they navigate one of life’s biggest challenges – parenting.  
• Shark tank savvy: Software tools to help you up your game – Maureen Greeves and Mardee Billingsley of Tremco will dive into how contractors can use SafetyCulture, Smartsheet and 0365 Power Apps to make their operations more efficient.  
• What roofing can learn from HVAC and technology – In a session all about operational efficiency and service-based models, Sue Drummond and Angie Snow from ServiceTitan share what we can learn from the HVAC and tech sectors. 
• Speak up, show up: Building confidence in work and life – Whether you are asking for a raise at work or setting a personal boundary, Mandy Mcintyre (Level-Up Consulting) wants to help you find the language and mindset to stand tall.  

Explore all the education sessions.

Registration for NWIR Days 2026 is now open! There is also a special room block available at the Sahara for attendees. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Regular maintenance keeps facilities operating smoothly while protecting long-term investments. 

Benchmark works with facility leaders who want to extend the life of their assets, and roof health sits at the center of that strategy. Roof maintenance may sound routine, but experts say the impact is anything but ordinary. As Jason Hackman, the company’s RRO, notes, a roof serves as a facility’s “frontline defense against weather” and the choices made about inspection and upkeep echo across financial, operational and environmental outcomes. 

Professionals responsible for capital planning know that small issues can grow quickly when a roof is ignored. Jason warns that deferred maintenance can lead to escalating repair costs and even structural problems linked to water infiltration and mold. With an emphasis on routine care reinforces a broader message across the industry. Keeping a roof in good shape is not just a matter of safety. It is a matter of smart asset protection. 

One of Jason’s key ideas is the way proactive maintenance extends the life of roof systems. Identifying minor leaks, checking flashings and keeping drainage paths clear all help reduce premature failures. As Jason explains, longevity is closely tied to proactive care, which allows teams to spot underlying issues before they compromise an entire system. 

There is also a positive financial angle. Planned maintenance reduces the shock of unbudgeted repairs and supports better forecasting. Facilities that build consistent inspection programs typically see fewer disruptions and steadier spending, which helps reinforce confidence among stakeholders. 

Energy performance is another selling point. When insulation stays dry and membranes remain watertight, buildings run more efficiently and rely less on HVAC systems. This can translate into reduced utility costs and measurable sustainability gains. Even simple cleaning routines, like removing debris from gutters, support both energy performance and system health. 

Across industries, planned roof care supports safety, cuts costs and strengthens long term value. It also reflects the growing expectation that facilities operate responsibly and efficiently. 

Learn more about how consistent roof maintenance can protect your facility and improve long term performance!

In her new role, Lesley will leverage her extensive leadership expertise to support Benchmark’s next phase of growth and innovation within the roofing industry.

Benchmark, Inc., a trusted leader in roof and pavement consulting, is pleased to announce the appointment of Lesley Vossenkemper as its new chief operating officer/integrator. With 25 years of experience leading mission-driven organizations, Lesley brings a proven record of scaling businesses and driving strategic growth while maintaining a core focus on operational excellence.

In her new role, Lesley will leverage her extensive leadership expertise to support Benchmark’s next phase of growth and innovation within the roofing industry. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to build and scale operations, including growing a new business unit to $70 million in revenue. Her experience ensures that as Benchmark expands its services, its foundational commitment to quality and client success will remain paramount.

Vince Ellison, president of Benchmark, expressed his confidence in the new appointment. "What stood out about Lesley from the start was her ability to lead real growth while staying grounded in what’s best for people and clients. She’s led complex teams, scaled new lines of business and knows how to execute a plan. I’m confident she’s the right person to help us strengthen the business we have today and build the one we’re aiming for next."

A transparent and diplomatic leader, Lesley is dedicated to developing high-performing teams and fostering a culture of teamwork and accountability. She holds a BA in Communications/Marketing/Public Relations from Mount Mercy University and an AA from Kirkwood Community College. Her community involvement includes recently joining the Board of Directors for Kirkwood's Facility Foundation.

"I’m inspired by Benchmark’s enduring commitment to its people and clients," said Lesley. "I am excited to partner with Vince and our exceptional team to build on the decades of success to advance and accelerate the firm’s next phase of growth and innovation."

About Benchmark, Inc.

Benchmark, Inc. has been a trusted leader in roof and pavement consulting for over 30 years. Dedicated to delivering independent advice, innovative services and reliable solutions, the company helps organizations make informed decisions, mitigate risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of their facility assets. With a mission to empower its clients, Benchmark consistently raises the bar for technical expertise and fosters strong, collaborative relationships built on trust.

By Benchmark. 

Drone tech is transforming how commercial roofs are inspected, maintained and budgeted. 

Collecting data for a roof doesn’t always require climbing ladders or guessing from grainy photos nowadays. Today’s roofing decisions start hundreds of feet above ground with the help of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV’s), also known as drones. As drones have become more than just a buzzword in commercial property management, companies like Benchmark are leading the charge by combining aerial data capture with deep industry know-how. The result? Sharper insights, safer inspections and a proactive strategy that protects your assets and your bottom line. 

An integral part of the big picture 

A proactive, comprehensive approach is imperative in roof asset management. Data collected via a Benchmark UAV is added to a client’s secure SITEMAN® database, where it’s easily accessible for them to review. 

UAV drone services 

• Orthomosaic: A series of photographs are taken, which are then processed to create one single image which is uniform in scale. This image can then be used to create highly accurate drawings of the site. 
• Visual/Thermal: By taking photos in both the visual and infrared light spectrum the images can help identify defects within building assets. By conducting infrared moisture scans of roof areas with a UAV, highly accurate measurements can be obtained to assist in budgeting and planning repairs and replacements. 
• Remote inspection: Whether due to safety or inability to access, there are times when an inspection with “boots on the roof” approach is not possible. When these situations arise, a UAV inspection of the roof may be the next best option. High resolution orthomosaics and 200x telephoto cameras allow for a detailed visual inspection. 
• Additional drone services: While Benchmark remains committed to providing top-tier roof and pavement consulting, they can also provide additional imaging services, including: 
  • Solar panel thermal inspections 
  • Lighting inspections 
  • Site photos 

Watch this webinar to learn more: 

Original article and photo source: Benchmark

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Elise Schmidt and Troy Kaiser will share proven pavement management strategies for facility leaders.

As infrastructure continues to face increasing demands from traffic loads and environmental conditions, maintaining pavement performance has become a top priority for facility managers. For roofing contractors, it is good to understand all parts of the building envelope including pavement. At the upcoming FacilitiesNet NFMT Remix, industry experts Elise Schmidt, vice president of operations at Benchmark, and Troy Kaiser, senior consultant at Benchmark, will lead a session designed to help professionals extend the life of their pavement systems through proactive and cost-effective maintenance practices.

Their presentation, “Maximizing Pavement Lifespan with Strategic Maintenance Programs” (Session RC.1), will take place on Thursday, October 16, from 8:00–8:50 a.m. This in-depth session will focus on how to develop and implement long-term pavement management strategies that reduce lifecycle costs, improve safety and maintain the overall integrity of facility assets.

Schmidt and Kaiser will guide attendees through the process of evaluating pavement conditions, including how to identify subtle signs of wear and early deterioration that often go unnoticed. By recognizing these indicators early, facility teams can address issues before they escalate into costly repairs or replacements.

The session will also explore innovative approaches to rehabilitation and maintenance, highlighting methods that balance budget constraints with performance goals. Attendees will learn how to prioritize projects based on condition assessments, available resources and long-term planning objectives. Real-world examples will showcase how organizations have successfully implemented strategic maintenance programs that extend pavement service life and reduce overall costs.

In addition, the presenters will demonstrate how pavement maintenance can be integrated into broader facility management strategies. By aligning pavement upkeep with energy efficiency, safety initiatives and capital planning, facility leaders can ensure consistent performance across all infrastructure systems.

Designed for experienced facility managers and maintenance professionals, this session will provide actionable insights and advanced tools for managing pavement assets more efficiently. Attendees will leave equipped with practical strategies to enhance safety, improve operational reliability, and protect their long-term investments. Roofing contractors will understand how the pavement portion of the building envelope works and may even be inspired to expand their business offerings.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Jennifer Stephan to present at NFMT Remix on roofing system durability and longevity.

The roofing industry continues to evolve as designers, contractors and manufacturers focus on resilience, sustainability and performance. At the upcoming FacilitiesNet NFMT Remix, attendees will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of what it takes to build roofing systems that endure through challenging conditions and deliver long-term value.

Jennifer Stephan, roof operations leader at Benchmark, will lead the session “Designing Resilient Roofing Systems for Optimal Performance” on Wednesday, October 15, from 3:40–4:30 p.m. (Session WD.3). With extensive expertise in materials science and building envelope design, Jennifer will explore how thoughtful system design and material selection can directly influence a roof’s ability to withstand environmental stressors such as extreme temperatures, wind uplift and moisture intrusion.

The presentation will examine how each component — from membranes and adhesives to insulation and fasteners — contributes to the overall performance of a roofing system. Attendees will gain insight into how different material combinations affect long-term durability, as well as how to select systems that align with both performance goals and sustainability objectives. Jennifer will also address how to balance the often-competing priorities of initial cost versus lifetime value, helping contractors and designers make informed, strategic choices that optimize budgets without compromising quality or longevity.

Another key takeaway from this session will be an overview of advanced installation practices that enhance system resilience. Jennifer will discuss real-world examples that highlight the impact of precision workmanship, proper detailing and adherence to manufacturer specifications. These elements, when combined with well-chosen materials and designs, form the foundation of a truly resilient roofing system.

For roofing professionals dedicated to delivering high-performing, sustainable and cost-effective roof systems, this session promises to provide practical knowledge and actionable strategies. Attendees will leave equipped with tools to strengthen their design decisions and elevate the performance of every roof they build.

This recognition underscores Benchmark's commitment to cultivating a positive and supportive work environment where employees feel valued and empowered. 

Benchmark proudly announces it has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2025 honor by The Des Moines Register. This prestigious award is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage, LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the success of any organization, including alignment, execution and connection.

This recognition underscores Benchmark's commitment to cultivating a positive and supportive work environment where employees feel valued and empowered. 

“What makes this recognition so meaningful is that it comes from our people,” commented Vince Ellison, president of Benchmark, “the talented, committed team driving our work forward every day. This award reflects the relationships we’ve built, the accountability we hold ourselves to and the pride we take in our work. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this team and excited about what we’ll continue to build together.”

Lori Madrick, HR director, also commented on the significance of this recognition: "Earning the Top Workplace award is a proud moment for all of us. It highlights the passion and commitment our people bring to their work each day. Our positive culture doesn't just make for a better workplace; it translates directly into the exceptional service and innovative solutions we deliver to our clients. I am so proud to be part of a team that genuinely supports one another and celebrates shared success."

About Benchmark

With over 30 years of expertise, Benchmark is a trusted leader in roof and pavement consulting, providing independent guidance and dependable solutions. Their mission is to empower clients with informed decision-making, risk mitigation and the long-term sustainability of facility assets. Dedicated to creating lasting value, Benchmark also fosters a rewarding and supportive environment for its employees.

For more information, please visit www.benchmark-inc.com.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Experts share how AI, collaboration and cross-industry connections are reshaping the future of roofing and paving consulting alike. 

In a conversation that blended technical insight with candid reflection, Vincent Ellison and James Santiago, RRO from Benchmark shared their perspectives on the state of roofing and paving consulting at the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) 2025 Convention during an interview from TheCoffeeShops soundstage. 

Benchmark, a consulting firm that operates in both roofing and paving, has steadily evolved under new leadership. “I had the privilege of taking over for Benchmark as the president last June,” said Vincent. For him, IIBEC 2025 wasn’t just about networking, it was about learning. “I love the focus on education here,” he added, noting his enthusiasm for a session he participated in on artificial intelligence, presented by Mike Ramos. 

“It’s a big buzzword right now in the industry, AI,” added James, a senior consultant based in Long Island. “Whether it’s report writing or assessing conditions, it’ll be interesting to see how AI integration takes off in the next few years.” While Benchmark’s work spans both roofs and pavement, the overlap is more practical than philosophical. Vincent acknowledged that roofing and paving don’t always align naturally but emphasized that the company expanded into paving after consistently finding strong business opportunities and forming solid partnerships in that space. 

The pair praised IIBEC for its inclusive, collaborative environment. From manufacturers to contractors, the show brought together professionals across sectors. “We’re all experiencing these issues together,” said James. “Together we could come up with a holistic solution to some of these issues we’re experiencing nationwide.” 

That sentiment, "together," surfaced repeatedly throughout the discussion. Both pointed to the convention as a rare and valuable moment when typically, siloed industry players could build common ground. “We’re all very passionate about our perspective,” Vincent said, “You do see the commitment to doing it together.” 

Watch the full interview to learn more about how AI, collaboration and a shared commitment to problem-solving are helping bridge gaps across the building envelope industry!