Por Jessica Bravo. 

Las historias, entrevistas y recursos más leídos por la comunidad de roofing este mes.  

Uno de los contenidos destacados fue un episodio de La Voz de los Ruferos, en el que Alejandra Mahecha Bader, de MuleHide, comparte cómo es un día en su rutina como representante e inspectora de techos. Este rol resulta clave para asegurar que cada proyecto cumpla con los estándares establecidos por la empresa antes de poder emitir el proceso de garantías. 

Se invita a escuchar el episodio o leer el artículo para comprender la importancia de no omitir pasos durante el proceso de instalación, ya que esto puede generar problemas que no siempre son visibles de inmediato. 

Mientras trabajamos para ampliar nuestras ofertas de R-Club en español, “Capacitaciones de seguridad del R-Club Educación bilingüe que fortalece a las cuadrillas” fue uno de los artículos más leídos en el mes de marzo. Entre los puntos más relevantes se encuentran: 

• John Kenney aporta liderazgo probado en campo a la educación en seguridad  
• Por qué son importantes las capacitaciones en español  
• Por qué es importante para los contratistas  

Asimismo, se invita a quienes no forman parte del R-Club a inscribirse en esta membresía para obtener acceso a ecapacitaciones exclusivas tanto en español como en inglés. 

Por otro lado, aún existe la oportunidad de participar en una experiencia deportiva VIP y obtener herramientas de alto valor. QXO, en colaboración con los patrocinadores IKO, GAF, TAMKO, Owens Corning y TRI-BUILT, está llevando a cabo una promoción en la que 22 contratistas podrán ganar una experiencia deportiva VIP. Además, al ordenar suministros a través de una cuenta QXO, se puede participar para ganar un kit de clavadora de bobina M18 FUEL de Milwaukee. La promoción estará vigente hasta el 10 de abril. 

Otro artículo que captó la atención de los lectores destacó cómo el evento World of Concrete (WOC) 2026 reflejó la innovación y el espíritu de la industria. Este evento es evidencia de la magnitud y la energía de los oficios de la construcción que se reunieron este año. El equipo tuvo la oportunidad de asistir tanto a la International Roofing Expo (IRE) como a World of Concrete, participando en dos grandes ferias y generando múltiples conversaciones clave. 

Finalmente, el mes no estaría completo sin una destacada conversación con SRS Para Latinos, una iniciativa reconocida en la industria por su enfoque en la comunidad. Su valor radica en crear espacios para conectar, colaborar y crecer en conjunto. Como afirmó Julissa Chavez, “La unión hace la fuerza. Necesitamos unirnos para seguir creciendo y colaborar.” 

Esta conversación también resaltó el papel fundamental de la mujer en la industria. El patrocinio a Conexión Hispana representa un compromiso sólido para brindar mayor visibilidad, oportunidades y espacios de crecimiento para las mujeres dentro del sector. 

Hay mucho más para leer y escuchar en nuestro sitio web. No te pierdas los artículos más leídos de marzo y prepárate para lo que viene en abril, porque será otro mes lleno de éxitos. 

5 – Una líder reconocida en la industria 

4 – Compartiendo las historias de la industria y sintiendo el impulso 

3 – Gana en grande con el Sorteo VIP Deportivo 2026 de QXO 

2 – Capacitaciones de seguridad del R-Club: Educación bilingüe que fortalece a las cuadrillas 

1 – Todo es una cadena durante el proceso de instalación - Parte 1

The acquisition of Kodiak triples QXO’s total addressable market to over $200 billion, placing QXO in nearly every major building products category.

QXO, Inc. (NYSE: QXO) today announced it has completed its acquisition of Kodiak Building Partners (“Kodiak”) from Court Square Capital Partners for approximately $2.25 billion, expanding QXO’s addressable market to more than $200 billion.

Brad Jacobs, chairman and chief executive officer of QXO, said, “By acquiring Kodiak, we’re providing our customers with a wider range of product offerings and value-added services. In addition, we expect the deal to be highly accretive to 2026 earnings and we remain on track to achieve our goal of $50 billion in annual revenue.”

Steve Swinney, co-founder of Kodiak and leader of QXO’s new LBM division, added, “Today marks a definitive capstone for Kodiak as we join QXO and become a part of the most exciting company in building products.”

Joe Checkler, senior vice president of communications of QXO, said, "Lumber was always part of QXO’s plan, and this gives us entree into that market. Lumber is crucially important because it’s the first point of entry to most projects."

Advisors 

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and Wells Fargo acted as financial advisors to QXO, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP served as legal counsel. RBC Capital Markets and KeyBanc Capital Markets acted as financial advisors to Kodiak, and Dechert LLP served as legal counsel. 

About QXO

QXO is the fastest-growing publicly traded distributor of building products in North America. The company is executing its strategy to become the tech-enabled leader in the $800 billion building products distribution industry and generate outsized value for its shareholders. QXO expects to achieve its target of $50 billion in annual revenues within the next decade through accretive acquisitions and organic growth. Visit QXO.com for more information.

About Court Square Capital Partners

Court Square is a middle market private equity firm with over 40 years’ experience. Since 1979, Court Square has completed over 245 platform investments and is focused on helping Founders, Families and Manager-owners to develop their companies into leaders in their respective markets. Court Square invests in companies that have compelling growth potential in the industrial, business services, healthcare, and tech and telecom sectors. As of December 31, 2025, Court Square has $10.1 billion of assets under management and is based in New York, New York. For more information, please visit www.courtsquare.com.

Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements

This communication contains forward-looking statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about beliefs, expectations, targets or goals, the anticipated benefits of the acquisition and expected future financial position and results of operations, are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on plans, estimates, expectations and/or goals at the time the statements are made, and readers should not place undue reliance on them. In some cases, readers can identify forward-looking statements by the use of forward-looking terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “opportunity,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “target,” “goal” or “continue,” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terms. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described herein include, among others: (i) the risk that the anticipated benefits of the acquisition may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected; (ii) the effect of the acquisition on QXO’s business relationships with employees, customers or suppliers, operating results and business generally; (iii) unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the acquisition; (iv) potential litigation and/or regulatory action relating to the acquisition; (v) the impact of legislative, regulatory, economic, competitive and technological changes; (vi) unknown liabilities and uncertainties regarding general economic, business, competitive, legal, regulatory, tax and geopolitical conditions; and (vii) the risks and uncertainties set forth in QXO’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including each company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025.

Forward-looking statements should not be relied on as predictions of future events, and these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. Forward-looking statements herein speak only as of the date each statement is made. QXO does not undertake any obligation to update any of these statements in light of new information or future events, except to the extent required by applicable law. 

By Emma Peterson. 

How recognition and community are empowering women in the roofing industry. 

In a recent episode of Coffee Conversations®, Heidi J. Ellsworth sat down with Christine Mockenhaupt, current chairwoman of National Women in Roofing (NWIR) and director of FP&A at Atlas Roofing Corporation; Jennifer Stone, one of the co-founders of NWIR and the current national account director at Tremco Roofing; and Michelle Ly, co-founder of Hall Roofing & Construction and other businesses in Round Rock, Texas. For this webinar, the panel discussed the importance of mentors and advocates for women in the roofing industry.  

You might recognize Michelle’s name from 2023, when QXO (which was Beacon at the time) chose her as their Female Roofing Professional of the Year. Looking back on it now, Michelle still struggles to believe that QXO gave her that spotlight, sharing, “When QXO told me I was a finalist, I was like, ‘Are you sure? I'm just Michelle from Round Rock.’ And they were just like, ‘Yes, you. People told us about everything you've done in the community, the impact you've made in roofing and how you've changed the way of how people think – you're someone who can make a difference.’” And make a difference is exactly what Michelle did when she won that year, starting with using the cash prize to reroof the River City Youth Foundation. 

Michelle’s story is just one example of how uplifting women in the roofing industry through awards and advocacy can lead to powerful and positive change. Christine shared, “These awards, like the Female Roofing Professional of the Year, really uplift women, both as roofers and as individuals. And at their core, they build a community by recognizing that, yes, we’re all roofers, but we’re also women who need support and relationships from each other.”  

QXO’s work with the Female Roofing Professional of the Year is a great example of how advocacy creates spaces where women can grow together. Just in the last decade, Jennifer has seen the powerful impact of this, adding, “20 years ago, there was not a tremendous amount of books or even visibility on female leadership...Today, we have companies like QXO highlighting female leaders and organizations like NWIR that have full resource libraries to help women learn how to lead. It’s huge.”  

Listen to the podcast or Watch the recording to hear more from these incredible women! And if you’re interested in the 2026 QXO Female Roofing Professional of the Year Award, nominations are open until April 6, 2026!

By Emma Peterson. 

QXO’s annual North American Female Roofing Professional of the Year contest is accepting nominations!  

Across the roofing industry, there are countless incredible women paving the way forward to a more inclusive and stronger industry through their leadership and professionalism. QXO wants to celebrate these women for the outstanding contributions, hence their annual North American Female Roofing Professional of the Year campaign!

Now in its sixth year, the program is accepting nominations through April 6, 2026! If you know an amazing woman in the roofing industry, whether they're a roof installer, an office manager, a siding professional, a marketing officer, an owner, an accountant or in another role, that goes above and beyond for her community, QXO wants to hear about them!  

Nominating someone is as simple as four steps:  

1. Send a photo: Share a photo or two of the incredible professional you are nominating. 
2. Share their story: In 500 words or less, tell QXO about why you are nominating this person. Consider talking about adversity she has overcome, or how she goes above and beyond on the job.  
3. Hit the submit button: Make sure you get your submission in between March 9, 2026 - April 6, 2026!  
4. Vote, vote, vote: Cast your vote for the story that inspires you the most and help QXO find their 2026 Female Roofing Professional of the Year!  

The winner of this contest will receive $10,000 (USD) as well as tickets, airfare and accommodation to the National Women In Roofing Days 2027 and the 2027 International Roofing Expo. There will also be $1,000 (USD) given to the four (4) runners up. Finalists will be selected by a panel and public voting opens up in May 2026. The winner and the runners up will be announced June 3, 2026. 

Overall, this is a great opportunity to celebrate the incredible women that “build by example” and make our industry better. As QXO’s Josephine Berisha (their chief human resources officer), put it, “At QXO, we’re proud to celebrate women who master their craft and inspire the next generation to reach even higher.” 

Nominate a friend, colleague, relative or role model today!

Por Jessica Bravo.  

Sexta campaña anual de Mujeres en Roofing de QXO: esto es lo que necesitas saber. 

¡Que vivan las mujeres! Tienes desde el 9 de marzo hasta el 6 de abril de 2026 para nominar a mujeres para el premio Female Roofing Professional of the Year de QXO. 

La ganadora no solo recibirá un gran premio de $10,000, también obtendrá boletos, vuelos y hospedaje para asistir a NWIR Days 2027 y a International Roofing Expo 2027. 

Además, cuatro finalistas recibirán $1,000 cada una, que podrán usar para impulsar su desarrollo profesional. 

QXO está poniendo en el centro de atención a las mujeres trabajadoras que forman parte de la industria del roofing. Para esta competencia, QXO invita al público a nominar a una mujer que haya enfrentado adversidades o que haya hecho un esfuerzo extraordinario por un cliente, compañera de trabajo o su comunidad. 

Fechas importantes 

• Nominaciones: 9 de marzo – 6 de abril 
• Selección de finalistas: 7 de abril – 4 de mayo 
• Votación del público: 12 de mayo – 22 de mayo 
• Anuncio de ganadora y finalistas: próximamente 

Participar es muy fácil 

1 – Toma una foto 

2 – Cuéntanos por qué la nominas 

3 – Envía tu nominación 

4 – Vota por tu favorita 

¿Quién puede ser nominada? 

Se aceptan mujeres de todo tipo de puestos dentro de la industria, incluyendo: 

• Instaladoras de techos 
• Gerentes de oficina 
• Gerentes de proyecto 
• Profesionales de siding 
• Personal de nómina 
• Especialistas en marketing digital 
• Dueñas de empresa 
• Profesionales de contabilidad 

Requisitos de elegibilidad 

Las mujeres nominadas deben: 

• Ser residentes legales de una provincia o territorio de Canadá, de cualquiera de los 50 estados de Estados Unidos o del Distrito de Columbia. 
• Haber alcanzado la mayoría de edad en su lugar de residencia al momento de la nominación. 
• Identificarse como mujer. 
• Estar empleadas en la industria del roofing residencial o comercial al momento de la nominación, ya sea trabajando para un fabricante de materiales de roofing o para un contratista. 

Consulta las reglas completas para más detalles.

¿Tienes a alguien en mente? Envía tu nominación hoy mismo.

Donde la comunidad, la confianza y la conexión fueron protagonistas 

Desde momentos de crecimiento personal hasta poderosos recordatorios de por qué las relaciones importan, nuestro equipo vivió IRE como una celebración del progreso, tanto individual como colectivo. 

Las ferias del roofing a menudo se miden por los pies cuadrados, los números de asistencia y los nuevos lanzamientos de productos. Pero para el equipo de The Coffee Shops™, la International Roofing Expo (IRE) nos recordó que el corazón de esta industria siempre ha sido su gente. 

Aquí está IRE 2026, contada a través de las voces de nuestro equipo. 

Crecer en nuevos roles y con nueva confianza 

Jessica Bravo, nuestra coordinadora del programa En Español, reflexionó sobre cuánto puede cambiar en solo un año cuando la oportunidad se encuentra con el valor: 

IRE 2026 fue inolvidable. Para mí, fue una oportunidad para salir de mi zona de confort. El año pasado yo estaba detrás de la cámara; este año, fui yo quien hizo las entrevistas. Significa mucho reflexionar sobre dónde estoy ahora comparado con dónde estaba hace un año. 

Me encanta IRE porque crea un espacio para conectar con la comunidad hispanohablante y tener interacción directa con los contratistas. Es un ambiente increíble para conectar, establecer relaciones y aprender. 

Alberto y yo tuvimos la oportunidad de recorrer el piso de exhibición y conectar con muchos de nuestros socios, incluidos QXO, MuleHide, TAMKO® y SRS Distribution. También conectamos con los socios, proveedores, embajadores y ganadores de premios de SRS Para Latinos.

¡Estén atentos para todas las entrevistas En Español que vienen pronto!

Alberto Torres, coordinador de contenido en español y el miembro más nuevo del equipo, comparte el mismo sentimiento de crecimiento al vivir IRE desde una perspectiva completamente diferente este año. 

En años anteriores asistí como invitado, pero esta vez estuve trabajando en el evento. 

Como IRE es el evento más grande de la industria de techos, al principio se sintió un poco intimidante. Pero una vez que llegué, todo comenzó a fluir. Me encontré con Jessica en el lounge de SRS Para Latinos, y la confianza que ella tenía en mí era mayor que la que yo tenía en mí mismo. Me entregó la cámara y me dijo que comenzara a grabar como si fuera lo más natural del mundo. Yo era el nuevo integrante del equipo, rodeado de tantos profesionales hispanos — personas que han construido carreras sólidas en la industria — esperando para ver a otros líderes recibir sus reconocimientos. Y honestamente, sabes lo intimidante que eso puede ser. Pero respiré profundo y comencé a grabar. 

El evento fue increíble, y no podría haberlo logrado sin el apoyo y el ánimo de mis compañeros en RoofersCoffeeShop®. Lo que más me impactó no fue el tamaño del piso de exhibición, sino el sentido de comunidad. IRE realmente se siente como más que un evento: se siente como una reunión familiar. Tanto dentro del centro de convenciones como afuera, la gente estaba genuinamente feliz de verse, conectar y pasar tiempo juntos. 

Esta experiencia me recordó que la industria del techado está construida sobre relaciones, y que todos tenemos un lugar para crecer, contribuir y ser vistos. 

Celebrando logros y creando espacios de inclusión  

El evento de este año marcó un logro importante para los NWIR Days de National Women in Roofing’s que precedieron a IRE. Megan Ellsworth, nuestra directora de multimedia, capturó el peso emocional del momento:

Lo más destacado para mí durante la semana de IRE fueron los National Women in Roofing Days. Celebramos los 10 años de la asociación, y fueron dos días emocionantes y profundamente significativos llenos de conexión, aprendizaje y crecimiento. Algunas de mis sesiones favoritas fueron la clase con temática de Survivor sobre resiliencia, la clase de Mandy McIntyre sobre confianza y el discurso principal de las fundadoras por la mañana. 

Haber visto la creación de NWIR desde que tenía 17 años hasta ahora ha sido un honor y un privilegio. Ver a mi mamá, Heidi J. Ellsworth, y a las otras tres mujeres fundadoras hablar sobre las luchas, alegrías y triunfos de iniciar NWIR fue conmovedor y demuestra no solo lo lejos que han llegado, sino también lo que aún falta por avanzar. 

Las relaciones son la base de la industria 

Una y otra vez, nuestro equipo llegó a la misma conclusión: IRE se mueve gracias a las relaciones. 

Dani Sheehan, estratega de contenido para The Coffee Shops, explicó: 

Pasé los tres días recorriendo el piso de exhibición con Camden durante las entrevistas, y fue un recordatorio poderoso del impacto que tiene esta industria. Estar allí hizo posible no solo ver el evento, sino realmente experimentarlo: escuchando las diferentes historias de nuestros socios y conociendo aspectos de sus negocios que no siempre vemos. 

Encontrarse con rostros conocidos del año pasado, reconectar con amigos y pasar tiempo con socios como CertainTeed fue sin duda uno de los puntos más altos de la semana. Fue positivo, energizante y genuinamente divertido.

James Ellsworth, nuestro CFO, sintió que ese sentido de comunidad se manifestó en formas sorprendentes: 

Fue una semana muy buena y positiva. El escenario de grabación en IRE hizo 89 entrevistas en tres días, y Karen manejó la mayor parte. Tuvimos expertos de toda la industria queriendo participar. La sala de espera para invitados que teníamos fue todo un punto de encuentro. Todos querían convivir y relajarse ahí. Y fue muy divertido esta mañana ver a Alberto y Jessica entregar nuestras mochilas. Hasta los niños pequeños las estaban usando, lo cual fue adorable. The Coffee Shops estuvo en todas partes. Fue una semana increíble, muy ocupada y exitosa. 

Contando historias como servicio para la industria 

En el centro de todo estuvo un propósito compartido: contar las historias de la industria y asegurarnos de que nadie se quede fuera. Karen Edwards, COO de The Coffee Shops, dejó su huella entrevistando a contactos de la industria en el escenario: 

Estar en el escenario y entrevistar a nuestros socios, proveedores y fabricantes de todo el evento fue increíblemente gratificante. Es muy especial poder llevar un pedacito de IRE a las personas que no pueden asistir. 

Nuestro objetivo es enfocarnos en la industria: contando historias, teniendo conversaciones y compartiendo esas entrevistas — y como dice Heidi, elevando y amplificando a toda la industria. Fue una semana fabulosa. 

Lauren White, nuestra editora en jefe, lo resumió mejor al reflexionar sobre lo que significa presentarse con intención: 

Siempre es tan divertido ver los mismos rostros año tras año… poder ir al piso de exhibición y resaltar esos stands, preguntarles ‘¿Qué quieren mostrar?’ La gente apreciaba mucho que viniéramos, que mostráramos sus stands y conversáramos con ellos. 2026 es el año del crecimiento. 

IRE 2026 reforzó algo que ya sabemos pero que nunca debemos dar por sentado: esta industria está construida por personas que se muestran para apoyarse mutuamente. Ya sea tomando un nuevo rol, celebrando un logro, reconectando con viejos amigos o creando espacio para nuevas voces, IRE demostró una vez más que el techado es una comunidad unida e increíble. 

Y para nuestro equipo, fue un honor ser parte de ello. 

¡No te pierdas nuestra lista de videos en YouTube para más ideas de expertos de la industria! 

North American Female Roofing Professional of the Year Winner will receive $10,000 and tickets to 2027 NWIR Days and IRE; Four finalists will receive $1,000.

In honor of International Women’s Day, QXO, Inc. (NYSE: QXO) today announced the launch of its sixth annual North American Female Roofing Professional of the Year campaign, which invites the public to nominate exceptional women working in the roofing industry across the U.S. and Canada.

“This award reflects the dedication of all the women throughout the industry who mentor, support and lift each other up,” said Rachel Narveson of Proficient Construction, the 2025 winner. “I hope my journey inspires others to embrace leadership, challenge barriers and pursue excellence in every project they take on.”

Narveson was recognized for her professional success and unwavering commitment to championing positive social change and inspiring others.

The nomination period opens today and runs through April 6, 2026, with one grand prize winner receiving $10,000 and tickets, airfare and accommodations to the 2027 National Women in Roofing (NWIR) Days event and the 2027 International Roofing Expo. Four finalists will receive $1,000.

The program is open to female roofing professionals in operations, accounting, sales, ownership, estimating or other key roles throughout the U.S. and Canada who are driving the industry forward with their talent and leadership. Nominations can be submitted online at go.qxo.com/femaleroofpro.

A panel of judges, including QXO executives, prior winners and female industry leaders will review submissions and select five finalists. The public will then have the opportunity to vote for their favorite female roofing professional from May 12 through May 22, 2026. The grand-prize winner and runners-up will be announced June 3, 2026, with all receiving funding for professional growth and being highlighted as industry role models.

Now in its sixth year, the North American Female Roofing Professional of the Year program is a key part of QXO’s broader commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable workforce within the roofing industry. By supporting initiatives that highlight the achievements of women and underrepresented groups, the company aims to encourage diverse talent, promote professional growth and strengthen the industry as a whole.

To learn more about the Female Roofing Professional of the Year, view past winners and read the official program rules, visit go.qxo.com/femaleroofpro.

About QXO

QXO is the fastest growing publicly traded distributor of building products in North America. The company is executing its strategy to become the tech-enabled leader in the $800 billion building products distribution industry and generate outsized value for its shareholders. QXO expects to achieve its target of $50 billion in annual revenues within the next decade through accretive acquisitions and organic growth. Visit QXO.com for more information.

Por Jessica Bravo. 

¡Descubre los temas más leídos durante el mes más corto! 

Como ya se sabía, RoofersCoffeeShop y SRS Para Latinos le dieron con todo en IRE 2026. Realizaron entrevistas con lideres de la industria, con personas que inspiran, presentadores que marcan el camino, embajadoras que trabajan con pasión y socios comprometidos a impulsar al contratista latino. Dos de los artículos más leídos del mes recordaron a los lectores de RoofersCoffeeShop En Español que SRS Para Latinos creó un espacio verdaderamente acogedor, lleno de cultura y apoyo. “Educación, nuevos productos y liderazgo latino marcaron la edición de este año” y “Las voces que dieron forma a un espacio que fue más que un evento de roofing” destacan al equipo de SRS y todo lo que hicieron, desde Julissa Chavez y Stephany Hernandez hasta cada persona que desempeñó un papel en ese booth. El apoyo que me brindaron no se puede explicar, había que vivirlo. Todos los que pasaron por el booth salieron con una pieza de conocimiento que pueden aplicar a su negocio o con una nueva conexión. El primer artículo dice, “Durante la exposición, se resaltó la creciente participación de la comunidad hispana y los esfuerzos por ampliar el acceso a educación y recursos en español.” Y finalmente, no se pierdan las entrevistas en el canal de YouTube. 

IRE no solo contó con SRS, sino también con otras compañías que estuvieron impulsando al contratista latino. Hubo booths que invitaron a la comunidad y ofrecieron conexiones y recursos en español. El equipo se conectó con QXO, MuleHide y TAMKO. Con todo lo que se vio y se vivió en este IRE, no queda más que leer los artículos, ver las entrevistas y recordar un gran evento. 

Pero eso no fue todo lo que estuvo sucediendo. Es responsabilidad de RoofersCoffeeShop En Español escuchar al contratista y se compartió que muchos “buscan opciones más rápidas y confiables para la reparación de techos.” Por eso, BITEC® explica cómo “l Los productos RepairBoss de BITEC están diseñados para las realidades del trabajo en campo, donde rara vez se puede esperar a que el clima o las condiciones sean ideales” Escucha lo que tiene que decir Santiago Garces sobre la línea RepairBoss. 

Otro tema important: SRS Distribution x InstaLILY AI Innovation Summit. SRS Distribution esta impulsando el futuro de la tecnología para rooferos con un marco basado en inteligencia artificial que transforma la innovación en acción para los contratistas. Patrick Garcia, director digital de SRS, compartió que el objetivo de la empresa era crear tecnología que no solo cubriera las necesidades actuales de los clientes, sino que también los preparara para el rumbo que tomarían sus negocios en el futuro. El artículo explica cómo estos avances estan “transformando la industria.” 

Marzo ya llegó y el equipo está listo para más contenido, conversaciones y más eventos 

¡Lee los artículos más leidos de febrero! 

5 – IRE 2026 en resumen

4 – Convirtiendo la experimentación en ejecución: Dentro del manual digital de SRS

3 – Contratistas buscan opciones más rápidas y confiables para la reparación de techos

2 – Las voces que dieron forma a un espacio que fue más que un evento de roofing

1 – IRE 2026 resalta el crecimiento del talento hispano en la industria del roofing

Industry Leader of the Year, Associate of the Year and Golden Hammer Award winners honored at the 25th Annual NTRCA Rondi Perry Awards Banquet.

The North Texas Roofing Contractors Association (NTRCA) – a regional association whose mission is to serve roofing professional members promoting ethical standards, insights, innovation and education – hosted its annual NTRCA Awards Banquet on February 28, 2026, at The Statler Hotel in Dallas, marking the 25th year of celebrating the North Texas roofing community. During the event, the association announced its 2026 Board of Directors and recognized this year’s award recipients.

The winners of the annual Industry Leader of the Year and Associate of the Year were announced and honored for their significant contributions to the North Texas roofing industry. Past award recipients meet annually to select each year’s new honorees, continuing a tradition of peer recognition and industry excellence.

The Industry Leader of the Year honor, the association's most prestigious recognition, was awarded to Tina Hall, chief executive officer of Joe Hall Roofing & Contracting. The Associate of the Year honor was awarded to Karen Ensley, partner with Ensley Benitez Law PC.

In a special tribute during the evening, several board members from 25 years ago, led by then-president Sandra McGlothlin of Empire Holdings, raised a toast to the late Rondi Perry, who established the Awards Banquet to recognize and celebrate excellence in the North Texas roofing industry.

The 2026 NTRCA board members were also sworn in during the NTRCA Awards Banquet. The 2026 board members include:

• President: Chris Arrington – Arrington Roofing Co. Inc.
• Past President: Bret Foster – Bret Foster Roofing Inc.
• President-Elect: Jimmy Porch – Myriad Roofing & Waterproofing
• Treasurer: Chase Walker – GAF
• Anthony Applegate – Banner Roofing & Construction LLC
• Ida Buttarazzi-Meals – CertainTeed
• Evan Fitts – IKO
• Randy Hurtado – DT Roofing
• Travis Jones – Smart Roof Texas LLC
• Miranda Lisman – ABC supply
• Justin Minor – QXO
• Renee Urso – Roof Technology Partners
• Jeremiah Valentine – Malarkey Roofing Products
• Kirk Scott – Scott Exteriors
• Karen Ensley – Ensley Benitez Law PC
• Kristin Lonergan – Champion Commercial Insurance

Additionally, Golden Hammer Award winners were recognized. Contractor members submit top projects in a variety of residential and commercial roofing categories in the Fall. The applications are then reviewed by experts in each category who identify the top projects to receive Golden Hammer Awards.

The Golden Hammer Awards celebrate exceptional projects that exemplify craftsmanship, innovation, safety and solutions to unique logistical challenges. This year’s recipients were:

Residential Project Winners

• Infinite Roofing: The Justice Residence Project
• Infinite Roofing: The Fudge Project
• Tom Drake Roofing: The Pulp Fiction Project

Commercial Project Winners

• Anchor Roofing Systems: The DFW Area Psychiatric Hospital
• KPost Roofing & Waterproofing: The National Medal of Honor Museum
• Supreme Roofing: DFW Terminal A Roof Replacement

Residential Community Service Winners

• Brettco Roofing: St. Barbara’s Catholic Church
• PROCO Roofing: Trinity Habitat
• PROCO Roofing: Sandy Lake Project

Commercial Community Service Winner

• Paradigm Roof+Shield: Red, White and Roof Veterans Giveaway

Residential Metal Winners

• Absolute Construction: Absolute Excellence on Cedar Creek Lake
• PROCO Roofing: The Mount Gilead Project
• Scott Exteriors: The Lake Highlands Standing Seam Project

Commercial Metal Winners

• Anchor Roofing Systems: Deloitte University NW 1 Building
• Texas Roof Management: Frisco Central Fire Station
• Zenith Roofing & Waterproofing: 8080 North Central Expressway

Residential Tile Winners

• Joe Hall Roofing and Contracting: The Spanish Style Home
• Ramon Roofing: The Canterbury Project
• The Velco Group: Cressman Chateau Du Lac

Specialty Residential Winners

• Absolute Construction: 15-Year Davinci Anniversary Home
• Joe Hall Roofing and Contracting: EDCO ArrowLine Slate Estate
• Paradigm Roof+Shield: Pecan Island Brava Shake Job

Residential Innovations Winners

• Bert Roofing: Park Lane Dilbeck Cedar Roof Restoration
• D. Bassett Roofing & Renovation: The Fordyce Project
• Greenleaf Roofing: Tour 18 Estates Euroshield Hail Proof System
• Paradigm Roof+Shield: Project Solstice Savannah: A CertainTeed Solar Innovation

Commercial Innovations Winners

• Arrington Roofing Co. Inc.: St. Paul United Methodist Church
• Joe Hall Roofing & Contracting: Arborlawn United Methodist Church

The NTRCA continues to celebrate innovation and craftsmanship, setting the standard for roofing excellence across North Texas. Congratulations to all winners and honorees for their outstanding contributions to the roofing industry!

Sponsors for this year’s Annual NTRCA Awards Banquet included: SRS Building Products as lead sponsor, and specialty sponsors QXO, GAF, Supreme Roofing, RCAT, IB Roof Systems, CertainTeed, Springtree Restoration, IKO, Unity Insurance Partners, Owens Corning Sales, Empire Holdings, Polyglass USA, Boyd Shackelford Barnett & Dixon, Ensley Benitez Law PC, Roofers Going Digital, Georgia-Pacific, Malarkey Roofing Products and TAMKO Building Products.

About North Texas Roofing Contractors Association

The North Texas Roofing Contractors Association (NTRCA) is a resource for professional roofing contractors and associates working and doing business in North Texas. NTRCA also serves as a resource for individuals and businesses looking for qualified and competent roofing contractors. Roofing professionals must meet NTRCA eligibility requirements and agree to adhere to the NTRCA code of ethics to be members of the organization. NTRCA provides educational training sessions, mentoring, networking and community service opportunities for its members. For more information, please visit www.ntrca.com.

From moments of personal growth to powerful reminders of why relationships matter, our crew experienced IRE as a celebration of progress, both individually and collectively. 

Trade shows are often measured by square footage, attendance numbers and new product launches. But for The Coffee Shops™ crew, the International Roofing Expo (IRE) reminded us that the heart of this industry has always been its people. 

Here’s IRE 2026, told through the voices of our crew. 

Growing into new roles and new confidence 

Jessica Bravo, our En Español program coordinator, reflected on how much can change in just one year when opportunity meets courage: 

IRE 2026 was one for the books. For me, it was an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone. Last year, I was running the camera; this year, I was the one doing the interviews. It means a lot to reflect on where I am now compared to where I was just a year ago. 

I love IRE because it creates space to connect with the Spanish-speaking community and get real face time with contractors. It’s an incredible environment to connect, network and learn.  

Alberto and I had the chance to walk the show floor and connect with many of our partners, including QXO, MuleHide, TAMKO® and SRS Distribution. We also connected with SRS Para Latinos partners, vendors, ambassadors and award winners. 

Stay tuned for all the En Español interviews coming soon! 

Alberto Torres, our Spanish content coordinator and newest crew member, echoed Jessica’s sense of growth as he experienced IRE from a completely new perspective this year. 

In previous years, I attended as a guest, but this time, I was working the show. 

Since IRE is the biggest event in the roofing industry, it felt a little intimidating at first. But once I arrived, everything started to fall into place. I met Jessica at the SRS Para Latinos lounge, and the confidence she had in me was bigger than the confidence I had in myself. She handed me the camera and told me to start recording like it was the most natural thing in the world. I was the new guy standing in the middle of so many Hispanic professionals – people who have built strong careers in the industry – waiting to watch other leaders receive their awards. And honestly, you know how intimidating that can feel. But I took a deep breath and started recording. 

The show was incredible, and I couldn't have done it without the support and encouragement from my crew members at RoofersCoffeeShop®. What stood out the most to me wasn't just the size of the show floor, but the sense of community. IRE truly feels like more than an event – it feels like a reunion. Not only inside the convention center, but outside of it too, people were genuinely happy to see each other, connect and spend quality time together. 

This experience reminded me that the roofing industry is built on relationships, and that there's a place for all of us to grow, contribute and be seen. 

Celebrating milestones and making space for belonging 

This year’s show marked a major milestone for the National Women in Roofing’s NWIR Days that preceded IRE. Megan Ellsworth, our multimedia director, captured the emotional weight of the moment: 

The biggest highlight for me the week of IRE was National Women in Roofing Days. We celebrated 10 years of the association, and it was an emotional and deeply meaningful two days full of connection, learning and growth. Some stand out moments from the day for me were the Survivor themed class about building resiliency, Mandy McIntyre's class on confidence and the founders' keynote talk in the morning.  

Having watched the creation of NWIR from the age of 17 to now has been an honor and a privilege. Getting to see my mom, Heidi J. Ellsworth, and the other three founding women talk about the struggles, the joys and the triumphs of starting NWIR was heartwarming and shows me truly how far we have come, and also how far we have yet to go. 

Relationships are the foundation of the industry 

Again and again, our crew came back to the same realization that IRE is powered by relationships. Dani Sheehan, content strategist for The Coffee Shops elaborated: 

I spent all three days walking the show floor with Camden during interviews, and it was such a powerful reminder of the impact this industry has. Being there made it possible not just to see the show, but to truly experience it, hearing the different stories of partners we work with every day and learning sides of their businesses we don’t always get to see. 

Running into familiar faces from last year, reconnecting with friends and spending time with partners like CertainTeed was easily one of the highlights of the week. It was positive, energizing and genuinely fun. 

James Ellsworth, our CFO, felt as if that sense of connection showed up in unexpected places: 

It was quite a good, positive week. The sound stage at IRE did 89 recordings over the course of three days, and Karen took on the bulk of those. We had experts from around the industry all wanting to get in on the booth and the sound stage. The green room that we had was quite the hot spot. All the people wanted to hang out there and relax. And it was a lot of fun this morning having Alberto and Jessica hand out our backpacks. We had little kids wearing them, which was really cute. We had The Coffee Shops everywhere, and it was really quite impressive. It was a great week, very busy and very successful. 

Storytelling as a service to the industry 

At the center of it all was a shared purpose: telling the industry’s stories and making sure no one feels left out. Karen Edwards, The Coffee Shops’ COO, made her mark interviewing industry connections on the soundstage: 

Being on the sound stage and interviewing our partners, vendors and manufacturers from across the show was incredibly rewarding. It’s so cool that we’re able to bring a little piece of IRE to the people who aren’t able to attend. 

Our goal is really to focus on the industry – telling the stories, having those conversations and sharing those interviews – and as Heidi says, uplifting and amplifying the entire industry. It was a fabulous week. 

Lauren White, our editor in chief, summed it up best when she reflected on what it means to show up with intention: 

It's always so fun to see the same faces year after year… for us to be able to go on to the show floor and to highlight those booths and ask them, 'What do you want to showcase?’ people were just very appreciative of us coming to their booths, showing off their booths and chatting with them. 2026 is the year of growth. 

IRE 2026 reinforced something we already know but never want to take for granted: this industry is built on people who show up for each other. Whether it was stepping into a new role, celebrating a milestone, reconnecting with old friends or creating space for new voices, IRE proved once again that roofing is a tight-knit, incredible community. 

And for our crew, it was an honor to be part of it. 

Check out our YouTube playlist for more insights from industry experts!