The Roofing Alliance recognized exceptional craftsmanship, leadership, and emerging talent on Wednesday evening at the National Roofing Contractors Association Industry Awards and Reception, announcing winners of the 2026 Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards, Best of the Best Award, and Construction Management Student Competition.

Most Valuable Player Awards

Six finalists earned recognition for their outstanding contributions to the roofing industry. This year's MVP winners are:

Outstanding Performance and Leadership
Ariel Lemus, Foreman, Wagner Roofing Company, Hyattsville, Md.

For over two decades, Lemus has been a cornerstone of Wagner Roofing, bringing exceptional craftsmanship, a calm leadership style, and deep respect for traditional roofing techniques to some of the region's most iconic buildings. Beyond his role as foreman, Lemus serves as a teacher, shaping the next generation of sheet metal roofers through patience, guidance, and hands-on training.

Outstanding Community Involvement
Kenny Rodriguez, Warehouse Foreman, OMG Building Products LLC, Agawam, Mass.

Rodriguez leads with skill, heart, and dedication both on the job and in his community. With 12 years at OMG Building Products, he has mentored new team members, driven operational excellence, and prioritized safety and efficiency. Outside of work, Rodriguez serves as a pastor and volunteers in his community, embodying leadership, compassion, and integrity in everything he does.

Armando Landeros Solis, Superintendent, Commercial Roofers Inc., Las Vegas

With 25 years at Commercial Roofers, Inc., Solis has grown from apprentice to one of the company's most admired superintendents. He leads with integrity, humility, and enthusiasm, supporting his crews, mentoring new workers, and always stepping up with a smile. Solis' dedication to his craft, his team, and his community truly sets him apart.

Construction Management Student Competition

Four finalist teams presented oral presentations as the final stage of the Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition. Teams submitted qualified bid packages for the Cannery Casino and Hotel, with oral presentation scores combined with written proposal scores to determine the winners.

Top Three Construction Management Schools:

1. Auburn University
2. University of Florida
3. Clemson University

Best Individual Presenters:

1. Remi Nguyen, Clemson University
2. Sophia Petrandis, University of Florida