b'INDUSTRY NEWS Continued from page 21graduates rooted in strong construction managementstudents gain confidence, industry connections and fundamentals, hands-on learning and problem-solving.a clearer understanding of the roofing professions Their programs emphasize real-world application,opportunities. making them ideal fits for the Roofing Alliance StudentThe student competition is one of the highlights of our Competition.year, said Alison L. LaValley, Executive Director of the These regions also represent major roofing andRoofing Alliance. We are continually inspired by the construction markets, from the booming growth of Texasenergy, innovation and dedication these teams bring to to the industrial and commercial demand across thethe future of roofing. Midwest. Students from these programs graduate readyNow is the time for Midwestern and Texas supporters to to solve the challenges of large-scale projects, extremestep forward. Attend the finals. Cheer on your regional weather conditions and rapid development.teams. Connect with students. Become a mentor. Help The 2026 competition provides the perfect platform forshow the industry the strength, talent and leadership these schools to continue raising the bar.coming out of the nations 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 risingand Finalist Bradley University, Peoria, Ill. Midwestern and Texas schools are ready to lead the way 2026 Participating Universities Include:in 2026.Bradley University, Peoria, Ill.Illinois State University, NormalTexas A&M University, College StationAuburn University, Auburn, Ala.SUBSCRIBE TODAY TO California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoClemson University, Clemson, S.C.Colorado State University, Fort CollinsFlorida Gulf Coast University, Fort MyersLouisiana State University, Baton RougeTuskegee University, Tuskegee, Ala.University of Florida, GainesvilleUniversity 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 2026CONTENT IS KINGWith Texas A&M coming off a championship win and Midwestern programs like Bradley and Illinois State demonstrating strong momentum, the 2026 competitionDont miss any of our GREAT CONTENT!is shaping up to be a powerful showcase for these eMagazineeNewsletterPodcastsregions. Faculty, industry partners, alumni and construction Webinars LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebookprofessionals are encouraged to attend the final presentations at the International Roofing Expo. Supporting these teams strengthens the programs thatRoofingContractor.comcontinue to feed the industrys workforce. It also helps 22 www.mrca.orgMidwest Roofer'