By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Residential softness, nonresidential strength and cost pressure are creating a complicated outlook for roofing contractors. 

The May construction numbers tell a story that roofing contractors should be watching closely. On one side of the market, residential construction continues to feel the weight of affordability challenges, elevated mortgage rates and cautious buyers. On the other side, non-residential work is showing strength, especially in areas like data centers, healthcare, manufacturing, utilities and infrastructure. For roofing, that means opportunity is still out there, but it may not look the same across every market, every contractor or every segment of the industry.

According to National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) reporting on Associated Builders and Contractors data, construction industry leaders were less optimistic in May even though confidence remained above the threshold that indicates expectations for growth. ABC’s Construction Confidence Index fell in all three categories during May, with staff expectations dropping from 65.5 to 61.3, profit margin expectations falling from 54.9 to 52.5 and sales expectations declining from 66.2 to 61.1. At the same time, ABC’s Construction Backlog Indicator increased from 8.8 months in April to 9.1 months in May and was up 0.7 months compared with May 2025.

That combination — lower confidence but higher backlog — is important. It suggests contractors are still busy, but they are also feeling pressured. ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu said the increase in backlog largely reflects major data center investments across the country, noting that the 14% of ABC members under contract to work on data centers had much higher backlog at 11.6 months compared with 8.6 months for those not working on data centers. For roofing contractors, this reinforces a key reality of today’s market: growth is not evenly distributed. Contractors tied into large-scale commercial, industrial or specialty work may be seeing strong demand, while others may be facing tighter margins, slower decisions and more competitive bidding.

The residential side of the market continues to be more challenging. The U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development reported that privately owned housing starts in May were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1,177,000, down 15.4% from the revised April estimate and down 8.7% from May 2025. Single-family starts were at a rate of 882,000, down 1.9% from April, while May housing completions were down 8.1% from April and 14.2% from May 2025. Thesenumbers matter to roofing because new residential construction directly affects demand for new roof installations, while slower completions can ripple through builders, suppliers, distributors and trade partners.

Builder confidence is also sending warning signals. The National Association of Home Builders reported that builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes fell two points to 35 in June, marking the 14th consecutive month that sentiment remained below 40. NAHB also reported that 35% of builders cut prices in June, up from 32% in May, and 62% were using sales incentives other than price cuts, up from 61% in May. NRCA highlighted the same numbers, noting that anything below 50 is considered negative in the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index and that builder sentiment dropped amid rising construction material costs and elevated mortgage rates. 

For roofing contractors serving the residential market, this does not necessarily mean demand disappears. Roof replacement, repair, insurance restoration and service work continue to move based on roof age, weather, homeowner need and property maintenance. But it does mean contractors may need to pay closer attention to homeowners' sensitivity around pricing, financing and project timing. When builders are offering incentives and cutting prices, consumers become more aware of deals and negotiations. Roofing contractors may need to communicate value more clearly, especially around durability, ventilation, energy performance, warranties and long-term protection of the home. 

The broader building industry is also showing signs of strength, but much of that strength is concentrated in large nonresidential and infrastructure projects. Dodge Construction Network reported that total construction starts improved 34.1% in May to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $1.78 trillion. Nonresidential building starts grew 17.8%, nonbuilding starts increased 91.9% and residential starts fell 2.1% over the month. On a year-to-date basis through May, total construction starts were up 12.7%, with non-residential starts up 12.3%, nonbuilding starts up 32.9% and residential starts down 4.9%. 

That is a clear reminder that the building industry is not moving as one market. Dodge reported that megaproject starts in healthcare, manufacturing, utilities and data centers drove sizable gains in May, while pockets of weakness remained in institutional construction, warehouses and residential construction. This unevenness affects roofing in very practical ways. Commercial roofing contractors may see opportunities tied to healthcare campuses, manufacturing facilities, energy projects, public work and data centers, while residential-focused companies may see a slower new construction pipeline. Distributors and manufacturers are navigating this split, balancing inventory and demand across steep-slope, low-slope, metal, coatingsand specialty systems. 

Labor adds another layer to the picture. The NRCA reported that construction employment added 17,000 jobs in May, according to Associated Builders and Contractors, while nonresidential construction added 15,700 jobs with gains in all three subsectors. Non-residential specialty trade contractors added 11,400 jobs, heavy and civil engineering added 2,600 jobs and nonresidential building added 1,700 jobs. More construction jobs are good for the overall economy, but they also increase competition for skilled labor. Roofing contractors already dealing with workforce challenges may find themselves competing not just with other roofers, but with the broader construction market for crew members, foremen, estimators, project managers and service technicians. 

Material costs are another concern. The Associated General Contractors of America reported that input prices for new nonresidential construction rose 1.8% in May and 8.4% year over year, far outpacing the 3.5% year-over-year increase in what contractors said they would charge for new nonresidential building construction. The same report noted significant increases in diesel, aluminum, copper, brass and structural steel, and said construction respondents reported higher prices for items including construction materials, HVAC equipment, roofing materials and steel products. For roofing, this points directly to margin pressure. Even when backlog is strong, contractors can struggle if material, fuel, freight and labor costs move faster than pricing. 

The path forward is not all negative. The same May numbers show that demand still exists, especially in non-residential, infrastructure and specialized building sectors. Dodge Construction Network reported that nonresidential starts were up 12.3% year to date through May, commercial and industrial construction gained 32.9% and manufacturing starts rebounded 116.1% month over month in May. For roofing companies that can diversify across service, maintenance, reroofing, restoration, metal, coatings, commercial replacement or public work, the current market may create opportunities to stabilize revenue even when one segment slows. 

The takeaway for roofing professionals is that May’s construction numbers are less about a single up-or-down market and more about a market that is shifting. Residential construction is under pressure. Nonresidential work is being lifted by large projects, but not every contractor has access to those opportunities. Backlog remains encouraging, but confidence is slipping. Jobs are being added, but labor remains competitive. Material costs are increasing, but customers are still watching pricescarefully. 

For roofing contractors, now is the time to stay close to the numbers, understand the sectors driving work in their region and protect margins through disciplined estimating, strong purchasing relationships and proactive communication with customers. The building industry is still moving, but it is moving unevenly. Roofing companies that understand where the momentum is — and where the pressure points are — will be better positioned to adapt. 

Source note: This article draws from NRCA coverage of contractor confidence, employment market and homebuilder sentiment, U.S. Census Bureau May residential construction data, Dodge Construction Network May construction starts data, National Association of Home Builders builder sentiment reporting and Associated General Contractors of America reporting on May construction input prices.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Turning technology promises into confident business decisions. 

There’s no shortage of technology promising to help contractors work faster while reducing costs and improving accuracy. But when a new solution comes to your attention, it raises an important question: how do you really know if it will deliver on those promises? 

That is where a demo becomes more than a simple sales step. It gives contractors a practical way to move from interest to understanding, helping them determine whether a platform truly fits the way their business operates. 

Eagleview One™ is a strong example of why that firsthand look matters. The platform brings accurate 2D and 3D property measurements together so contractors can quote with greater speed while limiting site visits and avoiding costly surprises throughout the project lifecycle. Those benefits may sound compelling on paper, but contractors rarely make decisions based on features alone. They need to see how those capabilities translate into real-world performance. 

A demo helps bridge that gap. Instead of imagining how faster quoting might work, contractors can watch measurement data move into an estimate and see how quickly that information can become a proposal. Rather than hoping the platform will reduce re-measurements or change orders, they can observe how it handles project details and adjustments in real time. That kind of visibility turns broad claims into tangible outcomes. 

That same visibility also brings clarity to the adoption process. Solutions like Eagleview One are designed to support multiple scopes of work, including roofing and siding measurements within a single platform. While that consolidation is appealing, contractors still need to understand how the technology will fit into their current workflow. A demo shows how the platform is used, how intuitive it feels and how well it connects with existing processes, which often determines whether adoption will feel smooth or disruptive. 

From there, the conversation naturally moves to cost and return on investment. Subscription-based pricing and volume discounts can help lower measurement costs, but pricing alone does not always tell the full story. During a demo, contractors can better understand where savings may come from as fewer site visits lead to less material waste and fewer change orders. Seeing those efficiencies in context helps decision-makers evaluate value with more confidence. 

That value becomes even more important in a competitive market. Contractors who use technology to streamline workflows and improve estimating accuracy are often better positioned to win work and serve customers well. A reliable measurement platform can support faster quoting and more efficient operations, but a demo gives contractors the opportunity to validate that advantage before making a commitment. 

Ultimately, scheduling a demo reduces uncertainty in a way that no email or brochure can. Whether contractors are evaluating Eagleview or another roofing technology solution, they need to know what they are looking at before getting in too deep. A live demonstration allows decision-makers to test assumptions, ask meaningful questions and see how a solution performs in practice. That experience leads to stronger, more informed decisions. 

If you are evaluating technologies that promise to improve efficiency and profitability, do not rely on descriptions alone. Take the time to see the platform in action. A demo is your opportunity to validate value, align the solution with your workflow and make decisions that create stronger results for your business and your customers. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Through workforce development, housing advocacy and practical jobsite resources, PEPA is helping contractors and manufacturers meet today’s challenges with confidence. 

The construction industry is moving through a time of change that is affecting contractors, manufacturers and the communities they serve. Workforce needs continue to shape business decisions, while housing demand and installation expectations are pushing the industry to think more strategically about how products are made, specified and installed. The Polymeric Exterior Products Association (PEPA) is meeting the moment with a practical, industry-minded approach that helps connect opportunity with real solutions.

A strong example of PEPA's work is their collaboration with the Building Talent Foundation. At a time when contractors continue to look for skilled labor, this effort helps connect employers with job seekers while also creating more visible pathways into the trades. It goes beyond simply filling open positions by connecting workforce access with training and certification programs that help new entrants build confidence and prepare for long-term success. 

That kind of alignment is important because bringing people into the industry is only the beginning. The greater opportunity is to create a system that helps them contribute at a higher level. By connecting recruitment with education and advancement, PEPA is helping strengthen the labor pipeline in a way that benefits contractors, manufacturers and the broader exterior products industry. 

Additionally, through articles and advocacy, PEPA is addressing housing affordability by connecting the national housing conversation to regulatory costs, zoning reform and access to code-compliant exterior products. In a PEPA article, “Addressing the Housing Crisis with Modern Zoning and Permitting,” the association points to the national shortage of affordable housing and notes that local permitting and zoning improvements can help reduce costs without compromising safety or quality. For contractors and manufacturers, that conversation matters because material choice can directly affect how efficiently homes are built and how accessible those homes are for buyers. 

They go on to highlight the work that PEPA has done to eliminate local bans on polymeric exteriors and describes zoning and permitting innovation as part of the broader housing solution. Articles and advocacy like this, aimed at protecting access to vinyl siding and other polymeric exterior products where local restrictions could limit options for builders and homeowners, position the association as both an advocate for material choice and a voice for practical construction solutions that support affordability, durability and long-term performance. 

That same practical focus shows up on the jobsite. PEPA’s updated Alternative Fastener Table is designed to support the decisions contractors make every day. Crews need installation guidance that is clear, accurate and aligned with code requirements and resources like this help simplify choices while supporting consistent application in the field. For crews, clearer guidance creates greater confidence in their work and more consistency from project to project. For building owners, it supports durability and performance over time. For the industry, it reinforces the quality standards that continue to build trust in polymeric exterior products. 

Overall, these efforts showcase PEPA’s ability to support the industry from several important angles without losing sight of the contractor experience. Workforce development, housing advocacy and jobsite resources all connect back to the same goal of helping professionals build better, work smarter and prepare for the future of exterior construction. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

The MCA Summer Meeting will drive innovation, education and industry growth.

As members of the Metal Construction Association (MCA) gather for their Summer Meeting, the conversations reflect an industry that continues to evolve with purpose. From technical education and market development to workforce recognition and major events, MCA is helping shape the future of metal construction while providing resources that support manufacturers, contractors, architects and design professionals. 

That leadership starts with a strong commitment to education and technical clarity. As demand grows for high-performing building systems, MCA continues to release updated technical bulletins and white papers that help the industry navigate changing codes, safety expectations and performance requirements. MetalCoffeeShop’s Karen Edwards participates in the MCA marketing committee and works to help amplify these important resources and events for the broader metal community. 

The latest updates address issues that are influencing projects across North America, including the use of foam plastic insulation within combustible wall assemblies, fire performance testing for metal composite materials and the changing landscape of cool roof requirements. By bringing these topics into focus, MCA is giving the industry practical guidance that supports better decisions in design, specification and installation. 

That same focus on practical support is also driving MCA’s work to expand opportunities for metal in residential construction. The new Residential Wall Marketing Initiative is designed to increase awareness and adoption of metal wall systems by clearly communicating their durability, design flexibility, low maintenance and long-term value. With member participation and support, the initiative will help fund outreach, tools and marketing resources that can open new doors in a rapidly growing segment of the market. 

As MCA looks to strengthen market awareness, it is also preparing for one of the industry’s most anticipated gatherings. METALCON 2026, scheduled for October 7-9 in Orlando, will celebrate its 35th anniversary with a renewed emphasis on hands-on education. MCA will have a prominent presence at the show through Metal Mastery Clinics that highlight best practices for standing seam systems, metal shingles and retrofit applications. 

The momentum around events and education also extends to the people who will carry the industry forward. MCA’s new 40 Under 40 program is designed to recognize emerging leaders who are already making an impact in metal construction. Alongside that recognition, the association continues to invest in workforce development through its scholarship program, providing financial support to students connected to member companies and helping build the next generation of industry professionals. 

Together, these efforts show how MCA continues to position metal as a high-value solution for both commercial and residential construction. Through technical leadership, collaborative engagement, market development and investment in future talent, the association is helping keep metal at the forefront of performance, sustainability and design innovation. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

As roofs take on a larger role in energy generation and rainwater management while supporting climate adaptation, partnerships between manufacturers, associations and contractors become increasingly important.

As roofing professionals around the globe respond to higher expectations for building performance, international collaboration is becoming essential to a more resilient future for the trade. For Wienerberger, one of the industry’s leading building envelope manufacturers, that commitment comes through its work with the International Federation for the Roofing Trade (IFD). 

Wienerberger provides sustainable building solutions across the entire building envelope, supporting new construction and renovation while bringing roof, wall, facade, paving, water and energy infrastructure solutions into a broader approach to the built environment. With operations in 28 countries and more than 200 production sites, the company is recognized as the world’s largest brick producer and a market leader in clay roof tiles in Europe. 

That roofing focus makes the company’s relationship with IFD especially meaningful. IFD brings together trade organizations, manufacturers and industry partners who serve the roofing profession while creating lasting connectionsthat support the shared professional, technical and business interests of the roofing trade internationally. 

As an IFD partner member, Wienerberger participates in a broader international roofing community where education and professional exchange help shape the continued evolution of the trade. Through this network, manufacturers and roofing professionals have more opportunities to share knowledge while understanding emerging needs and supporting stronger outcomes across the industry. 

For contractors, that connection matters because roofing is no longer only about the product installed on the roof. It is about delivering systems that perform while meeting higher expectations for sustainability and supporting buildings designed to last. IFD reinforces work through industry education and technical resources that encourage professional exchange while helping strengthen the trade. 

Wienerberger’s work across the building envelope aligns with many of these priorities as the company continues to emphasize climate-resilient solutions and more functional roof systems. As roofs take on a larger role in energy generation and rainwater management while supporting climate adaptation, partnerships between manufacturers, associations and contractors become increasingly important. 

By engaging in the IFD partner network, Wienerberger is helping advance a larger conversation about the future of roofing. The partnership brings product innovation together with trade expertise while supporting better buildingsand a more resilient, sustainable roofing industry around the world. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Ellsworth shares that she is looking forward to helping guide strategy and advocacy for the roofing industry in these new roles!  

Since 1886, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has advocated and support professionals across the construction industry through education, training and advocacy. NRCA operates through a board structure, with 35-40 directors and nine executive committee officers, all of whom are chosen through a nomination process.  

This year, we are thrilled to share that our very own Heidi J. Ellsworth will be joining the board! She was announced at the 139th NRCA Convention back in January, along with Greg Arnold, Matt Atkinson, Alexandra Chacon, Eric Dosch, Bryson Galloway, Dave Hesse, Anthony Kahny, Josh Kelly, Gregory Malcolm, Jonathan Reader and Tim Stephens.  

This incredible group will serve for the next three years, focusing on supporting strategy development and ensuring that the interests of NRCA members remain at the heart of operations. They will be led by an executive committee that includes Chad Collins as chairman of the board, Sherri Miles as chairman of the board-elect, Michelle Boykin as vice-chairman, Scott Kawulok as vice-chairman and Lynn Price as vice-chairman.  

And this is not the only board position Heidi will be taking on this year; she will also be joining the Roofing Alliance’s Board of Trustees! The Roofing Alliance is NRCA’s 501(C)(3) foundation and “serves as a catalyst for long-term growth, leadership and excellence across the roofing industry.” Their work includes everything from funding research and organizing workforce development sessions to coordinating philanthropic outreach and developing education resources. 

Overseeing all of these operations is their Board of Trustees, which is composed of “210 dedicated, diverse and thoughtful roofing contractors, manufacturers, suppliers and distributors, service providers and industry professionals united in their commitment to shape, strengthen and advance the roofing industry.” Heidi will be joining this distinguished leadership group for the 2026-27 cycle, under the leadership of Sherri Miles and John Campbell. 

Looking ahead, Heidi cannot wait to start making a difference:  

I am honored to serve on both the NRCA Board of Directors and as a trustee of the Roofing Alliance. The roofing industry has given me so much throughout my career, and the opportunity to contribute to these outstanding organizations is truly humbling. I am committed to bringing strong leadership, fresh ideas and thoughtful collaboration that will help strengthen our industry, support its future growth and ensure roofing continues to thrive for generations to come. 

Learn more about Heidi’s roles at www.nrca.net/about/leadership and www.roofingalliance.net/about/leadership.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

RCMA is encouraging greater participation from contractors and industry professionals while reinforcing the value that coatings bring to building performance, sustainability and roof longevity.

The Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) recently shared a strong message in their May newsletter, "RCMA's Latest in Roof Coatings!," of continued momentum across the roof coatings industry with a clear focus on contractor engagement, education and long-term industry growth.

A key opportunity highlighted in the newsletter is RCMA’s Project of the Year Award, which invites contractors to showcase their best roof coating projects. This program is designed to recognize outstanding craftsmanship while helping contractors gain visibility for work that extends roof life and improves performance. Submissions are open through June 30, 2026, offering a timely opportunity for contractors to put their projects in the spotlight.

At the same time, RCMA continues to expand its Contractor Membership program, positioning it as an important resource for companies looking to stay competitive and involved in industry conversations. Membership provides access to advocacy efforts, technical expertise, education and networking opportunities with manufacturers and peers. The organization emphasizes that contractor involvement plays a critical role in shaping standards and advancing the industry.

The newsletter also highlights ongoing technical leadership, including the release of a new Coatings Tech Note focused on transportation requirements under U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. This guidance helps manufacturers, contractors and distributors better understand classifications, shipping considerations and compliance requirements tied to roof coating products, reinforcing the importance of safe handling and accurate product knowledge. 

Education also continues to be a priority, with RCMA supporting learning through webinars along with their technical resources and industry conversations. A recent CoatingsCast™ episode featuring RCMA members Chris Huettig and Cody Wilson explores the value of contractor membership and the opportunities it creates for growth and connection across the industry. 

Across its committees, RCMA remains active in addressing regulatory updates, advancing research and supporting initiatives such as Environmental Product Declarations. New forums within the RCMA Member Center are also helping members collaborate more effectively, share insights and stay informed on industry developments impacting roof coatings across North America.

Looking ahead, RCMA is preparing for its 2026 Fall Meeting, taking place October 7 through 8 in Atlanta, Georgia. The event will bring together industry leaders, innovators and professionals for valuable discussions, networking and insights into the future of roof coatings. 

RCMA’s continued focus on recognition, education, advocacy and collaboration is helping drive awareness and growth across the coatings sector while creating meaningful opportunities for contractors to expand their businesses and influence the future of the industry.

To learn more about RCMA programs, membership and upcoming events, visit www.roofcoatings.org.  To connect with contractors, manufacturers and suppliers in the coatings industry, explore the directory and visit the RCMA directory at www.CoatingsCoffeeShop.com.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Fire resistance, durability and design innovation are driving new demand. 

Metal siding is experiencing significant growth across residential and light commercial construction, and the reasons go far beyond aesthetics. In 2026, homeowners and contractors are increasingly choosing metal wall systems because they solve some of the biggest challenges facing building exteriors today: fire, pests and rot. What is especially notable is that this shift is not just anecdotal; it is backed by steady market growth and changing homeowner priorities. 

Globally, the metal siding market is growing at an estimated five to six percent annually, with steady expansion expected over the next decade. In the United States, growth is more measured, reflecting a mature market, but the real momentum is happening in higher-end residential applications where metal siding is gaining share due to performance, longevity and design flexibility. 

Unlike traditional materials, metal siding is non-combustible, making it an important option in areas where fire risk is increasing. It also resists insects and pests and eliminates the risk of rot caused by moisture exposure. These performance advantages are aligning with a market that is prioritizing long-term durability and reduced maintenance, especially among homeowners investing in remodels and “forever homes.” 

At the same time, the broader siding market continues to grow at approximately four to five percent annually, driven largely by residential remodeling and exterior upgrades. Within that growth, metal siding is carving out a larger role, particularly in premium segments where homeowners are willing to invest more upfront for lower lifetime costs and better performance. 

Equally important is what is happening on the roofing side of the metal market. Metal roofing is not only growing; it is outperforming many traditional roofing materials and is projected to exceed five billion square feet of volume by 2029, with residential applications representing the majority of that demand. This growth is driven by the same factors influencing siding, including durability, sustainability, insurance considerations and long-term value. 

What is accelerating adoption across both roofing and siding is the rapid evolution of color, coatings and profiles. Contractors and homeowners are no longer limited to basic painted panels. Today’s metal systems offer an expanding range of matte finishes, textured coatings and nature-inspired colors such as charcoals, slate grays, greens and patina-style metallics that are seeing the fastest growth in demand. Matte and low-gloss finishes in particular are gaining popularity because they reduce glare, hide handling marks and elevate the perceived quality of both roofing and siding systems. 

Advanced coating technologies are playing a central role in this transformation. Modern coil coating processes create highly durable, factory-applied finishes that bond tightly to the metal surface, improving corrosion resistance and long-term performance. These coatings also enable printed and textured designs that realistically replicate wood grain, stone, tile and even traditional siding profiles, allowing metal to deliver both performance and aesthetics. 

Companies like Sherwin-Williams are leading this innovation with advanced coil coating systems that provide UV resistance, fade protection and long-term color retention while supporting a wide range of architectural finishes. At the same time, manufacturers such as Central States Manufacturing are bringing these innovations to market through finished metal siding and roofing panels that incorporate these new colors, textures and profiles into complete building envelope systems. 

This is an important distinction. While some companies in the supply chain focus on coated coil, manufacturers like Central States are delivering ready-to-install siding and roofing systems that allow contractors and homeowners to take full advantage of these design advancements in real-world applications. 

For contractors and homeowners, metal siding represents a shift in thinking. It is no longer a niche or purely commercial solution. It is a high-performance, design-forward option that meets the demands of modern construction while delivering resilience against fire, pests and moisture-related deterioration. 

As fire resilience, durability and long-term value continue to shape building decisions, metal siding and roofing are positioned to play an even larger role in the future of exterior design. The data supports what many contractors are already seeing in the field. This is not a short-term trend; it is a long-term shift toward better-performing materials that also meet the growing expectations for design and aesthetics. 

To learn more about these innovations, visit the directories for Sherwin-Williams and Central States Manufacturing on MetalCoffeeShop.com and RoofersCoffeeShop.com. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

New Workforce Pell Grants could help roofing contractors recruit, train and grow the next generation of skilled workers. 

A long-supported workforce initiative championed by the roofing industry is moving closer to reality and it could provide meaningful opportunities for contractors looking to build stronger crews for the future. On March 6, the Department of Education announced the publication of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to implement the Workforce Pell Grant Program approved by Congress in 2025 as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, also known as the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. The new program expands Pell Grant eligibility to students enrolled in short-term, career-oriented workforce training programs, helping put workforce education on a more equal footing with traditional college degree pathways. 

For years, Pell Grants have largely been limited to students enrolled in longer-term college degree programs. While traditional higher education received federal support, many students pursuing careers in the skilled trades often faced limited financial assistance for technical and workforce training. Workforce Pell Grants are designed to help change that by creating greater access to career-focused education for students interested in hands-on professions such as roofing.

This development is especially important to the roofing industry. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has long supported Workforce Pell legislation and advocated for its approval over many years. Expanding access to workforce education funding has also been a recurring priority during Roofing Day in D.C., where industry leaders regularly meet with lawmakers to discuss workforce shortages, training needs and policies that strengthen the skilled trades. 

The timeline

Beginning July 1, 2026, eligible students who meet the standard financial need criteria for traditional Pell Grants may qualify for assistance while enrolled in approved workforce training programs. To qualify, programs must be offered through accredited institutions that participate in federal financial aid and must meet several requirements. Eligible training programs must:

• Be between eight and 15 weeks in length
• Prepare students for employment in high-skill, high-wage or in-demand careers
• Lead to portable, industry-recognized credentials

Credentials also must count toward an associate or bachelor’s degree pathway while meeting performance standards.

The big picture

For roofing contractors, this could become an important workforce development tool at a time when labor shortages continue to challenge businesses across the country. By opening financial aid opportunities for shorter-term workforce education, more students, veterans, career changers and young workers may see skilled trades such as roofing as a realistic and affordable career path. Contractors who partner with accredited technical schools, trade programs and workforce development organizations may gain access to a stronger pipeline of trained workers who already have foundational knowledge in safety, roofing systems and construction practices. 

The timing aligns with broader workforce efforts already underway across roofing. NRCA continues investing in workforce development, technical education and initiatives such as SkillsUSA, where the association will support a record number of roofing competitors during the 2026 national competition in Atlanta. These efforts, combined with Workforce Pell Grants, have the potential to strengthen roofing’s talent pipeline and create more opportunities for the next generation of skilled workers. 

As implementation moves forward, NRCA remains optimistic about the impact Workforce Pell Grants can have on the skilled trades. For roofing contractors, this program may offer more than educational access. It may help create a stronger future workforce while making roofing careers more attainable and affordable for those interested in joining the trades. 

For more information on workforce development, advocacy initiatives and how the roofing industry is supporting future workforce solutions, visit NRCA and the NRCA ROOFPAC directory on RoofersCoffeeShop. 

By Jenny Yu.  

The honor highlights Heidi's leadership in advancing the roofing and outdoor industries. 

The Coffee Shops™ are proud to share that our President, Heidi J. Ellsworth, was recently recognized by Women We Admire as one of the Top Women Leaders of Oregon for 2026. The annual list honors accomplished women leaders who are making significant contributions across industries while demonstrating leadership, innovation and a commitment to advancing their professions. 

Women We Admire is a membership organization and professional network comprised of women executives and leaders across the United States and Canada. Through its annual recognition programs, the organization celebrates women who are driving growth, fostering innovation and creating positive impact within their industries and communities. 

Heidi was recognized for her decades-long leadership in the roofing and building industries and for her role in helping grow The Coffee Shops into some of the industry's most influential media and community platforms. Heidi has spent more than 30 years advancing roofing sales, marketing, business development and industry engagement and is also widely known for her advocacy of workforce development, industry inclusion and education. 

Under Heidi’s leadership, The Coffee Shops have continued to expand their reach and influence. Over the past year, they've launched OutdoorCoffeeShop™, a digital community dedicated to the outdoor living and exterior construction markets. The new platform extends The Coffee Shops’ mission of connecting contractors, manufacturers and industry professionals through education, networking and business resources. 

They also expanded internationally with the launch of RoofersCoffeeShop.uk, bringing its established model of industry news, education and community engagement to roofing professionals across the United Kingdom. The expansion reflects the growing demand for accessible industry resources and opportunities to connect roofing professionals around the globe. 

In addition to leading The Coffee Shops, Heidi remains active throughout the industry through speaking engagements, board service and mentorship initiatives. Her work with organizations such as National Women in Roofing, National Roofing Contractors Association and Roofing Alliance has helped strengthen opportunities for professionals throughout the roofing sector. 

To learn more about the women recognized on this year’s list, visit Women We Admire’s Top Women Leaders of Oregon for the 2026 feature. You can also learn more about Heidi’s ongoing impact on the industry at her RoofersCoffeeShop directory!