www.mrca.org — Midwest Roofer 22 INDUSTRY NEWS graduates rooted in strong construction management fundamentals, hands-on learning and problem-solving. Their programs emphasize real-world application, making them ideal fits for the Roofing Alliance Student Competition. These regions also represent major roofing and construction markets, from the booming growth of Texas to the industrial and commercial demand across the Midwest. Students from these programs graduate ready to solve the challenges of large-scale projects, extreme weather conditions and rapid development. The 2026 competition provides the perfect platform for these schools to continue raising the bar. 2026 Participating Universities Include: • Bradley University, Peoria, Ill. • Illinois State University, Normal • Texas A&M University, College Station • Auburn University, Auburn, Ala. • California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo • Clemson University, Clemson, S.C. • Colorado State University, Fort Collins • Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers • Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge • Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Ala. • University of Florida, Gainesville • University of North Florida, Jacksonville Only five teams will advance as finalists for the 2026 event. A Call to the Midwest and Texas: Be There in 2026 With Texas A&M coming off a championship win and Midwestern programs like Bradley and Illinois State demonstrating strong momentum, the 2026 competition is shaping up to be a powerful showcase for these regions. Faculty, industry partners, alumni and construction professionals are encouraged to attend the final presentations at the International Roofing Expo. Supporting these teams strengthens the programs that continue to feed the industry’s workforce. It also helps students gain confidence, industry connections and a clearer understanding of the roofing profession’s opportunities. “The student competition is one of the highlights of our year,” said Alison L. LaValley, Executive Director of the Roofing Alliance. “We are continually inspired by the energy, innovation and dedication these teams bring to the future of roofing.” Now is the time for Midwestern and Texas supporters to step forward. Attend the finals. Cheer on your regional teams. Connect with students. Become a mentor. Help show the industry the strength, talent and leadership coming out of the nation’s heartland and Texas. To attend mark your calendar for the final presentations taking place during the International Roofing Expo in the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, from 8 to 11:30 a.m. PST, followed by awards at the NRCA Industry Awards and Reception that evening. The future of roofing is already rising—and Midwestern and Texas schools are ready to lead the way in 2026. Continued from page 21 Finalist Bradley University, Peoria, Ill. CONTENT IS KING Don’t miss any of our GREAT CONTENT! RoofingContractor.com · eMagazine · eNewsletter · Podcasts · Webinars · LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook SUBSCRIBE TODAY TO
View this content as a flipbook by clicking here.