Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Jessica Bravo.  

Descubre los eventos, seminarios y expositores que formarán parte del Western Roofing Expo 2026. 

Mantenerse al día en la industria del roofing puede ser todo un desafío. Ya sea enfrentando tormentas cada vez más intensas en el campo o lidiando con la escasez de mano de obra y materiales desde la oficina, contar con la información y las herramientas adecuadas es clave para seguir siendo competitivo. Afortunadamente, la Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) organiza cada año el Western Roofing Expo (WRE), un evento de dos días diseñado para ayudar a los profesionales del roofing a enfrentar estos retos y conocer las últimas tendencias de la industria. 

Considerado uno de los principales eventos regionales de roofing e impermeabilización, el WRE ofrece una exposición comercial de dos días, más de 30 seminarios educativos, almuerzos especializados, la competencia The Roofing Games™, torneos de golf y tiro deportivo (sporting clays), una subasta en vivo, demostraciones de productos y mucho más. Este año, el evento se llevará a cabo del 27 al 29 de septiembre de 2026 en el Paris Las Vegas, en Las Vegas, Nevada. 

El corazón del evento 

Las principales actividades se desarrollarán el lunes 28 y martes 29 de septiembre, con un programa que incluye 30 seminarios educativos, dos almuerzos especializados y un piso de exhibición con acceso gratuito para contratistas. 

Los seminarios del WRE son una excelente oportunidad para fortalecer conocimientos tanto técnicos como empresariales. Especialistas de toda la industria compartirán información sobre administración de negocios, tendencias del mercado, innovación y desarrollo técnico. Los asistentes también encontrarán rostros conocidos de la familia de The Coffee Shops™, entre ellos Trent Cotney de Adams and Reese, Amparo Sancen de Latinos En Roofing, John Kenney de Cotney Consulting Group y la presidenta de RoofersCoffeeShop®, Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

WSRCA ha preparado dos almuerzos especialmente pensados para los asistentes. El primero será el lunes, de 11:30 a.m. a 1:00 p.m., patrocinado por National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). Durante esta sesión, Craig Brightup, de The Brightup Group, y Chad Collins, de NRCA, analizarán las decisiones más recientes en Washington D.C. y cómo podrían afectar a la industria del roofing. 

El segundo almuerzo se realizará el martes, también de 11:30 a.m. a 1:00 p.m., con el patrocinio de Malarkey Roofing Products. En esta ocasión, los asistentes escucharán a la conferencista principal del WRE 2026, Shereen Thor, una comediante convertida en coach de liderazgo que ha trabajado con organizaciones como Google, Pandora, Slack, Safe Place for Youth y The Social Justice Learning Institute. Su conferencia ofrecerá herramientas útiles tanto para empresarios como para profesionales en cualquier etapa de su carrera. 

El piso de exhibición estará abierto el lunes y el martes. Esta será una excelente oportunidad para conocer las últimas innovaciones y tecnologías de la industria, ya que habrá demostraciones de productos cada hora. En ese mismo escenario de demostraciones también regresarán los esperados Roofing Games el martes. 

La exposición comercial también brinda la oportunidad de conversar con representantes de empresas líderes de la industria. ¿La mejor parte? ¡La entrada al piso de exhibición es GRATUITA para contratistas y roofers! Estaremos en el booth 12, así que no dejes de visitarnos para saludarnos. Además, muchos de nuestros amigos de la industria también estarán presentes, entre ellos Anchor Products (815), APOC (609), BITEC (151), Brava Roof Tile (840), Carlisle Architectural Metals (509), Drexel Metals (509), Equipter (826), Integrity Insurance & Bonding (360), Lakeside Construction Fasteners (154), New Tech Machinery (356), PABCO Roofing Products (703), Rocket Equipment (638), RoofScope (822), Sentry Building Innovations (150) and VELUX (361). 

Eventos adicionales y más 

Además de las actividades principales de los dos días, habrá eventos adicionales tanto antes (domingo 27 de septiembre) como después (miércoles 30 de septiembre). Davis Memorial Foundation organizará dos torneos, uno de tiro deportivo (sporting clays) y otro de golf. Los fondos recaudados en estos eventos se destinarán directamente al fondo de becas de Davis Memorial Foundation. Gracias a este programa, más de 195 estudiantes de preparatoria, licenciatura y posgrado han recibido apoyo para continuar con sus estudios. Estos eventos cuentan con un registro y una cuota de participación independientes. 

Miércoles 30 de septiembre, el International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) llevará a cabo una jornada especial de capacitación de 9:00 a.m. a 2:30 p.m. Este evento ayudará a los asistentes a fortalecer sus conocimientos sobre la industria de la envolvente del edificio (building enclosure). El programa incluye dos cursos: uno sobre los fundamentos de los sistemas de techado y otro enfocado en las actualizaciones más importantes de los códigos internacionales de construcción. El registro y la cuota para esta jornada de capacitación son independientes del registro general del evento. 

Regístrate y asegura tu lugar 

El registro para el WRE 2026 ya está abierto. Puedes registrarte en línea. El evento se llevará a cabo del 27 al 29 de septiembre de 2026 en el Paris Las Vegas, en Las Vegas, Nevada. Al celebrarse en el Paris Las Vegas, existen diversas opciones de hospedaje cercanas. WSRCA ha negociado tarifas preferenciales en el Paris Las Vegas, Planet Hollywood y Horseshoe Hotel, con habitaciones disponibles desde $91 dólares por noche. 

¿No estás seguro de que el costo del registro se ajuste a tu presupuesto? RoofersCoffeeShop®, en colaboración con Western Colloid, llevará a cinco profesionales al evento sin costo. Al participar en nuestro concurso, tendrás la oportunidad de ganar un pase con acceso a la exposición comercial, el almuerzo anual, el contenido en español, las sesiones educativas y el almuerzo legislativo. 

¡Conoce más sobre el WRE 2026!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Advancing roofing knowledge through industry education. 

Trade shows are the best time for continuing education. This fall as roofing professionals head to Las Vegas, they will have an opportunity to sharpen their expertise and earn continuing education credits during IIBEC's Education Day at the Western Roofing Expo on September 30, 2026. 

Designed for roofing consultants, contractors, architects and other building enclosure professionals, the program offers a full day of education focused on roofing fundamentals and the future of building codes. The day begins with Roofing Practice Series: Roof Assemblies – Fundamentals, a comprehensive course covering the design, installation, inspection and maintenance of roof systems. Attendees will gain a stronger understanding of roofing terminologies along with the importance of common roof assemblies, water and vapor movement, heat transfer and the overall role that roof design plays in protecting buildings while supporting energy efficiency and code compliance. 

As building science continues to evolve and performance expectations increase, roofing professionals are expected to understand more than ever before. Today's projects require knowledge of how moisture management, thermal performance and material selection work together to create durable and resilient roof systems. This session helps attendees strengthen their technical foundation while earning 3.0 IIBEC Continuing Education Hours (CEHs) and 3.0 AIA Learning Units/Health, Safety and Welfare credits. 

The afternoon session, Changes to the I-Code 2027 Edition, focuses on significant updates coming to the International Code Council's 2027 codes. Participants will learn about evolving energy conservation requirements, key differences between ASHRAE 90.1-2025 and the 2027 International Energy Conservation Code, as well as broader trends influencing the code development process. The course also provides insight into how code changes are developed and adopted throughout the industry. 

For contractors, consultants and design professionals, staying ahead of regulatory changes is a key part of delivering successful projects. Understanding upcoming code requirements not only helps ensure compliance but also allows professionals to provide greater value to building owners seeking long-term performance, sustainability and resilience. The session provides 1.5 IIBEC CEHs and 1.5 AIA Learning Units. 

Opportunities like IIBEC's Education Day continue to be an important part of industry events such as the Western Roofing Expo. Beyond earning credits, attendees gain access to practical knowledge that can be applied immediately in the field while also preparing for changes that will shape roofing and building enclosure design for years to come. 

To learn more about IIBEC's Education Day and register for the program at the Western Roofing Expo, visit the IIBEC website and secure your place today.  Be sure to also enter the Western Colloid WRE contest for free registration at 2026 Western Roofing Expo Ticket Giveaway — RoofersCoffeeShop®.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

FlashCo’s national plant network and upcoming edge metal updates were key topics at IIBEC 2026. 

At International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) 2026, FlashCo emphasized how fast delivery, specification support and new product development are shaping its work with roofers, architects, and consultants. Speaking on The Coffee Shops™ soundstage, sponsored by Western Colloid, Rob Drew, Marketing Manager for FlashCo, described the company’s national footprint, specification support, product development, and focus on helping contractors finish projects efficiently. 

FlashCo’s network of ten plants allows the company to ship standard and custom products in one to three days, including custom scuppers, vents, drains and edge metal. For contractors nearing the end of a project, that speed can make a meaningful difference. Rob said FlashCo understands that roofers are focused on completing the job and moving efficiently to the next one, and the company aims to support that process by delivering ready-to-install products quickly. 

The conversation also touched on why the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) show is important for FlashCo. Rob noted that specifications are a key part of the company’s presence, particularly when architects and consultants are involved early in the project. Although FlashCo products are often installed near the end of a job, he said being part of the conversation from the beginning helps ensure those details are addressed before they affect the project's timeline. 

FlashCo has also made updates to its edge metal offerings. “We totally revamped our edge metal, ES1 especially,” Rob said. The company has added new website information with specifications and related resources for edge metal use on projects. He also shared that FlashCo is working on new products for data centers, including a waterproofing-focused solution for managing cables. 

Watch the full interview to learn more about FlashCo’s flashing, vents, drains, edge metal and custom roofing accessories!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

This upcoming webinar promisese to share insightful and impactful career lessons with the next generation.

Recently, the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) Emerging Professionals Committee has been hosting a series, Blueprints of an Enclosure Career, that gives a stage to industry veterans to share their experiences and advice for other professionals. With more than 150 registrants attending recent Blueprints webinars, the series has established itself as a valuable resource for professional development and career exploration.

Why is this series so valuable? The opportunity to hear firsthand from respected industry leaders about their career paths, lessons learned from industry leadership, the importance of volunteering and practical advice for those building careers is not only helpful for existing professionals but also a great way to engage newcomers. 

And at a time when the industry is working hard to cultivate future leaders, these conversations can be game changers. For example, IIBEC reports that after a recent session in the series, an engineer who was not yet a member reached out to learn more about entering the profession, available training opportunities and ways to become more involved in the industry. This is just one example of how career-focused discussions can connect experienced professionals with those seeking new opportunities and a clearer career path.

Whether you are exploring the profession for the first time or looking to take the next step in your career, make sure to register for the next webinar in this series. The webinar, which will take place on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. E.T., will feature industry leader and legend Scott Hinesley as he shares the experiences, lessons and insights that have shaped his career. As chief growth officer for REI Engineers Inc., Scott Hinesley has spent more than 25 years helping shape the building enclosure profession. His influence extends far beyond his day-to-day responsibilities, with a long history of volunteer leadership within IIBEC. Over the years, he has served as IIBEC president, region director and Carolinas Chapter president. Today, he continues his commitment to the organization as chair of the IIBEC Nominating Committee and a member of the IIBEC Education Committee.

The upcoming webinar offers a powerful opportunity to hear directly from a leader who has successfully navigated decades of industry change. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions about the years of dedication, continuous learning and willingness to serve both the industry and its professionals that have defined Scott's professional journey as there will be time for a live conversation. 

Interested in learning from one of the building enclosure industry's most respected leaders? Register through IIBEC and discover how leadership, service and continuous learning can help shape a successful career in the industry. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how rooftop attachment systems are evolving to address safety, code requirements and long-term performance across commercial roofing systems. 

At the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) 2026 show, a clear shift took shape in how roofing professionals are defining performance. Installation quality remains essential, but the conversation is moving beyond the membrane to focus on what happens after the roof is complete. Specifically, how rooftop systems and equipment are secured over time. That shift was at the center of this sound stage interview from The Coffee Shops™, where Megan Ellsworth spoke with Scott Carpenter of Anchor Products. Their discussion centered around a growing industry reality: long-term roof performance is increasingly determined by the stability of everything mounted on the system, not just the system itself. 

“We've gotten really, really, really good at putting roofs on,” Scott said. “It's all those things that bounce across a roof in a wind or seismic event that gets us in trouble.” As severe weather events continue to intensify, rooftop materials and equipment are being exposed to greater forces. Scott pointed to recent storm footage showing large insulation bundles lifted and displaced, illustrating how quickly unsecured components can become a source of damage. When that movement occurs, the impact extends beyond isolated areas, often compromising the integrity of the entire roofing system. 

In response, contractors are expanding their focus to include a broader range of rooftop attachments. Solar arrays, windscreens, snow retention systems and electrical equipment are now part of a more comprehensive approach to roof management. What was once treated as a secondary consideration is now directly tied to operational reliability, jobsite safety, and long-term risk mitigation. At the same time, evolving building codes are reinforcing this shift, placing greater emphasis on secure attachment as a requirement rather than an option. 

This change is also influencing how projects are designed and specified. Instead of addressing rooftop attachments after installation, design professionals are integrating them into the planning phase, recognizing the liability associated with unsecured elements. Scott explained, “It is extra special to them because they're trying to figure out how they can write code into a lot of the specification because there's a liability that goes along with that.” As a result, attachment systems are moving from accessory status to a defined component of the overall roofing assembly. 

Compatibility plays a critical role in that transition. Modern attachment solutions are engineered to align with existing roof membranes, allowing for integration without compromising performance. This enables manufacturers and contractors to present more unified solutions that reflect the complexity of rooftop environments. 

Together, these developments point to a broader evolution in the industry. Scott noted, “There's a need for something and it's now code as well,” reinforcing how roofing performance is no longer measured solely at installation, but across the full lifecycle of the roof and everything it supports. 

Watch the full interview to learn more about rooftop attachment systems and their role in long-term roof performance!

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn about all the events, seminars and exhibitors that will be at this year’s Western Roofing Expo. 

Navigating today’s roofing industry can be a bit of a challenge. Whether you’re facing more extreme storms in the field or juggling labor issues and material shortages in the office, it can be hard to stay up to date with the information and tools you need to succeed. Luckily, the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) hosts a two-day event designed to help professionals handle all those issues and more – Western Roofing Expo (WRE).  

This premier regional roofing and waterproofing event boasts a two-day trade show, over two dozen education seminars, multiple engaging luncheons, The Roofing Games™ shingling competition, golf and sporting clays tournaments, a live auction, product demonstrations and more! Keep reading to learn about what to expect from this year’s show, which will be held September 27-29, 2026 at the Paris Las Vegas! 

The core of the show 

The core of the show occurs on Monday (9/28) and Tuesday (9/29) with 30 seminars planned, two luncheons organized and a trade show floor that is free for contractors to attend. 

The seminars at WRE are a great way to upgrade your skills! Experts from across the industry will be teaching about everything from business management to technical developments. And if you’re a part of The Coffee Shops™ family, there will be a lot of familiar faces like Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese, Amparo Sancen from Latinos En Roofing, John Kenney from Cotney Consulting Group and our very own president, Heidi J. Ellsworth!  

As for the luncheons, WSRCA has organized two invaluable luncheons for WRE attendees. The first will be hosted on Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and is presented by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). Craig Brightup, The Brightup Group, and Chad Collins, NRCA, will take this opportunity to talk to attendees about the key developments in Washington D.C. that are impacting the roofing industry.  

The second luncheon will run at the same time (11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) on Tuesday and is sponsored by Malarkey Roofing Products. This luncheon gives attendees an opportunity to hear from the WRE 2026 keynote speaker – Shereen Thor. Shereen is a comedian turned coach who has worked with organizations like Google, Pandora, Slack, Safe Place For Youth and The Social Justice Learning Institute. Her keynote will be a great resource to professionals and business owners in all parts of their careers.  

And last but not least, the trade show floor will be open both Monday and Tuesday. This is a great opportunity to see the latest innovations and newest technology in the industry as product demos will be hosted on the hour. At that same demo stage there will also be the return of the much-anticipated Roofing Games on Tuesday!  

The trade show is a great opportunity to talk to representatives of leading companies around the industry. And the best part? The exhibit floor is FREE for contractors and roofers to attend! We’ll be in booth 12, so make sure to stop by and say hi, and we have countless industry friends who will be around the floor, such as Anchor Products (815), APOC (609), BITEC (151), Brava Roof Tile (840), Carlisle Architectural Metals (509), Drexel Metals (509), Equipter (826), Integrity Insurance & Bonding (360), Lakeside Construction Fasteners (154), New Tech Machinery (356), PABCO Roofing Products (703), Rocket Equipment (638), RoofScope (822), Sentry Building Innovations (150) and VELUX (361). 

Additional events and more 

In addition to the core two days, there are extra events both before (Sunday, 9/27) and after (Wednesday, 9/30). On Sunday, the Davis Memorial Foundation will host two tournaments, one sporting clays tournament and one golf tournament. The proceeds from these events go directly to the Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship Fund. The scholarships from this fund have helped more than 195 aspiring high school, undergraduate and graduate students pursue their dreams. These events have their own registration and their own fees. 

And on that Wednesday, the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants will host a special education day. This event runs from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and will elevate attendees’ expertise in the building enclosure industry. It features two courses, one about the fundamentals of roof assemblies and the other highlighting key updates to international codes. The registration and fees for this education day are separate from general registration. 

Get registered and reserved 

Registration for the 2026 WRE is now open! You can register online, again the show will be held at the Paris in Las Vegas, Nevada from September 27-29, 2026. Being at the Paris, there are many options for hotels nearby. WSRCA has worked specifically with the Paris Las Vegas, Planet Hollywood and Horseshoe Hotel to get discounted room blocks that start as low as $91.  

Not sure if you can make the registration fee work in your budget? RoofersCoffeeShop® is partnering with Western Colloid to send five professionals to the show for free! By entering our contest, you get the chance to win an all-inclusive pass to the show, which gives you access to the trade show, annual luncheon, en Español content, educational sessions and the legislative luncheon.  

Learn more about the 2026 WRE show!

The survey is an industrywide effort to collect information about the reroofing market spearheaded by a coalition of trade associations.

The National Roofing Contractors Association encourages roofing professionals to join industry trade associations representing contractors, consultants and manufacturers in the U.S. and Canada in taking part in the latest Quarterly Market Index Survey for Reroofing to evaluate business conditions during the second quarter of 2026.

For more than two years, the survey has taken the pulse of the reroofing industry and continues to serve as a regular barometer of the industry’s business conditions. By asking a handful of business questions and measuring responses across several demographics, the survey helps give an indication of the reroofing market’s strength and trajectory. Your response provides valuable insight.

The results of the Quarterly Market Index Survey for Reroofing are made available to all survey participants via an online dashboard that enables users to filter results by region and other metrics.

For the previous survey that measured business activity during the first quarter of 2026, 70% of responses came from roofing contractors and 30% came from roof consultants. 

The survey is an industrywide effort to collect information about the reroofing market spearheaded by a coalition of trade associations, including the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, Canadian Roofing Contractors Association, Chemical Fabrics & Film Association Inc., EPDM Roofing Association, International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants, Metal Construction Association, Metal Roofing Alliance, National Roofing Contractors Association, National Women in Roofing, Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association, Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association and Single Ply Roofing Industry.

The Quarterly Market Index Survey for Reroofing is available at https://bit.ly/RoofingSurvey. 

Survey responses may be submitted through July 20.

About NRCA

Since 1886, the National Roofing Contractors Association has been the home for generations of entrepreneurial craftsmen and enterprises who shelter and protect America’s families and businesses and each other. Our vision is the recognition of our members as professionals and to unite the industry to that purpose. NRCA is one of the construction industry’s most respected trade associations and the voice of roofing professionals and leading authority in the roofing industry for information, education, technology and advocacy. It represents all segments of the roofing industry, including contractors; manufacturers; distributors; architects; consultants; engineers; building owners; and city, state and government agencies. For information about NRCA and its services and offerings, visit nrca.net.

By Rick Gardner, IIBEC.  

RCI‑IIBEC Foundation launches a study to quantify the economic impact of IIBEC consultants. 

As building envelopes grow more complex in pursuit of energy and operational efficiency, consultants and contractors have begun collaborating more frequently on projects. This collaboration has helped roofing, waterproofing, exterior wall and related enclosure assembly projects operate more smoothly across the material selection and specifying processes. 

While these improved processes have been experienced on jobsites across the country, the exact economic impact of consultants on these projects has not been documented or measured. To fill this gap, the RCI-IIBEC Foundation, in collaboration with the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC), will be conducting a comprehensive research study about the impact of IIBEC consultant members. 

This study aims to quantify and communicate the economic influence of consultants on building enclosure projects through data. Ultimately, it will not only give insight into how consultants can improve product selection and purchasing processes, but how they affect market outcomes.  

“The study will serve to document the broader economic impact of our consultant community, enhance IIBEC’s value proposition, and strengthen engagement strategies throughout the industry,” said Brian Pallasch, executive vice president and CEO of IIBEC. “IIBEC is grateful that this research is moving forward with the support of the RCI-IIBEC Foundation.” 

Dave Hawn, chair of the RCI-IIBEC Foundation, emphasized the alignment with the foundation’s mission: 

Funding this study directly supports the foundation’s commitment to advancing the building enclosure profession through research, education and meaningful collaboration. By generating critical data on the influence of consultant members, the results will inform education initiatives, strengthen industry partnerships and highlight the value of unbiased consulting. This investment advances the profession through research-driven insight and broader recognition of IIBEC’s impact. 

Deliverables for the project will include: 

• A comprehensive written report with supporting data 
• A one-page infographic summary for outreach and sponsorship initiatives 
• A live presentation briefing of key findings for IIBEC members and foundation donors 

Funding for this initiative was made possible through the foundation’s general fund for research and education. The project is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026. 

For donors and industry partners, this study represents more than research. It is a strategic investment in documenting the profession’s influence, strengthening IIBEC’s market position and reinforcing the value consultants bring to the building enclosure industry. 

Original article source: RCI-IIBEC Foundation

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Helene's career is defined by leadership and service. 

Helene Hardy Pierce has long been a respected voice, dedicated volunteer and champion for excellence in the roofing and building enclosure industries. I am honored to also call her a longtime friend. When I heard that ASTM International had presented her with the Katharine E. Morgan Women in Leadership Award, I was thrilled. The recognition honors both her professional achievements and her enduring contributions to the industry. She has given so much back, and even more, she has empowered women like me to do more in this industry. 

For those who have worked alongside Helene, the award comes as no surprise. Her career reflects a consistent commitment to advancing technical knowledge while strengthening the industry through collaboration and service. As a longtime member of IIBEC since 1993, she has played an active role in shaping conversations that influence roofing, waterproofing and building enclosure performance. 

Helene’s leadership has extended across numerous organizations and initiatives. She has been deeply involved with ASTM’s roofing and waterproofing committee, where her efforts have contributed to the development of standards that guide best practices across the industry. Her influence is also felt through her work with IIBEC, where she is recognized as a fellow and has served as a member of the Interface Editorial Board. 

Beyond her technical expertise, Helene has always been committed to sharing knowledge. Through her authored articles, mentorship and volunteer roles, she has helped elevate the next generation of professionals. Her service on the IIBEC Industry Liaison Committee and the RCI-IIBEC Foundation Board of Directors demonstrates a career rooted not just in personal success, but also in building opportunities and resources for others across the roofing and building enclosure community. She was also at the forefront of National Women in Roofing, working with the early founders to help women find their voice in the industry. 

Her contributions have been recognized before. In 2019, she received the NRCA J.A. Piper Award, the roofing industry’s most prestigious honor, recognizing professionals who have devoted constant, outstanding service to NRCA and the roofing industry. She was also the first woman to earn the honor, further underscoring the significance of her leadership and service. In 2022, she received IIBEC’s Outstanding Volunteer Award, adding to the depth of recognition and respect she has earned from her peers. But recognition has never been the goal. For Helene, the work has always been about strengthening the industry and improving the way professionals collaborate, design and build. 

The Katharine E. Morgan Women in Leadership Award carries particular significance, celebrating individuals who not only excel in their fields but also pave the way for others. Helene embodies that mission. Her career reflects how leadership, when grounded in service and expertise, can create a lasting impact well beyond individual projects or organizations. 

At RoofersCoffeeShop®, we celebrate Helene’s achievements and the example she sets for all of us. Her story is a powerful reminder that leadership is not just about reaching the top, but about lifting others along the way and shaping the future of the industry for generations to come. Thank you, Helene, for everything you have done for the industry and for helping women thrive. 

By Alex Tolle, The Coffee Shops™.

If you are looking to sharpen your skills and stay current on today’s most widely used roofing systems, there is a great opportunity coming up this summer.

The International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) is hosting the next course in its Roofing Practice Series on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. ET. This session, “Membrane Roofs–Polymeric,” is focused on helping roofing professionals better understand the materials and systems they are working with every day. If you or your team missed earlier sessions, the first two courses in the series are already available on demand, making it easy to catch up.

This course takes a practical approach to polymeric roofing systems, breaking down key components contractors regularly install and maintain. Topics include single-ply membranes, fluid-applied membranes and spray polyurethane foam roofing systems. Additionally, this course provides continuing education opportunities. It has been approved for 3.5 IIBEC continuing education hours and has been submitted for AIA continuing education credit.

For contractors working in commercial and low-slope roofing, these systems are everywhere. Having a solid understanding of how they are designed, installed, inspected and maintained can make a real difference on the job. It can help crews avoid callbacks, improve installation quality and build stronger confidence with building owners and specifiers. One of the biggest benefits of courses like this is how they connect the “why” behind the work. When your team understands how these systems perform over time, it becomes easier to make the right decisions in the field and communicate value to customers.

The course is open to a wide range of industry professionals, including contractors, consultants, architects, engineers and building owners. Registration is $295 for IIBEC members and $450 for nonmembers. Even if you cannot attend live, you can still register and watch the recording later, which is a nice option for busy schedules.

At the end of the day, staying competitive in today’s roofing market means continuing to learn. As polymeric systems continue to dominate the commercial space, investing a few hours into understanding them better can pay off long-term. Training like this is not just about education. It is about building better crews, delivering better roofs and setting your business apart.

Sign up for the session today!