The 2026 SPFA Convention & Expo will center on workforce development, certification access and jobsite-ready education as demand for qualified spray foam installers grows across residential and commercial markets. In addition to certification prep courses, ABAA training and entrepreneur-focused sessions, the event will offer recorded breakout sessions, Spanish-language programming and real-time translation tools to improve accessibility and post-show learning. Operational updates, including revised networking events, a mobile app and enhanced registration tools, position the show as both a technical training hub and a business development platform for contractors.

Roofing contractors are facing real operational disruptions as immigration enforcement uncertainty causes crews to stop reporting, delaying projects and straining builder relationships. The proposed Dignity Act would introduce a structured, renewable legal status for certain undocumented workers, aiming to stabilize the construction labor force without granting immediate amnesty. Until legislative clarity emerges, contractors must strengthen employment verification processes, monitor federal developments and factor workforce risk into bidding, scheduling and long-term planning.

During IRE 2026, Tanja Kern interviewed three state directors from SkillsUSA about the organization’s role in shaping the future of skilled trades. They explained how SkillsUSA not only provides technical training across multiple disciplines but also builds leadership skills and connects students directly with employers. Contractors were encouraged to engage with their state directors through skillsusa.org to develop a steady pipeline of future talent.

Roofing contractors and business owners are also dealing with increased demands when it comes to design specifications.

“Systems are getting so complex,” Cotney explained. “If you didn’t install something correctly, then it’s on you. But it shouldn’t be your responsibility to meet certain performance requirements.”

He said to have early conversations with customers and when it comes to the contract, push as much or all of that design responsibility to the architect, engineer or design consultant.

Check out the rest of Cotney’s legal strategies by listening to the full conversation now.

Art Unlimited CEO Anna Anderson shares practical, no-cost steps contractors can take right now to prepare their marketing for AI-driven search and the rapidly emerging “business-to-agent” economy.

As decision-makers turn to AI instead of Google, contractors must rethink their websites and trust signals to stay visible and competitive.

Immigration enforcement has shifted from a looming concern to an immediate threat for construction contractors, with I-9 audits and ICE actions already underway. In this urgent discussion, Jill Bloom and legal expert Trent Cotney stress that proactive, consistent I-9 compliance and documented good-faith efforts are now essential to avoiding serious penalties and protecting construction businesses heading into 2026.