MCA Enhances Focus on Industry Advocacy

by anthony_capkun_2 | 15 April 2026 1:54 pm

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MCA is proud to welcome Lee Ann Slattery of ATAS as the first female chair in the association’s history (photo below). With more than 20 years of industry experience, she is a passionate advocate for metal and for the members who power this industry.

In her inspiring remarks to the members, Lee Ann highlighted the unmatched virtues of metal cladding and encouraged members and partners alike to fuel MCA’s efforts by getting involved, sharing our message, and amplifying our collective voice, while also conveying a vision for MCA’s future.

We are collectively excited about Lee Ann’s stewardship and working with her to fulfill the association’s objectives.

We have all heard the phrase that change is the one constant we can depend on. That is certainly true with respect to the business environment in which we operate.

At the MCA Winter Meeting, keynote speaker economist Alex Chausovsky described the current environment as “changing from a state of uncertainty to a state of complexity.” In such an environment, Alex counseled manufacturers to develop multiple business strategies and to be nimble enough to modify strategy based on emerging events.

Today’s environment, with evolving geopolitical policies, requires manufacturers to employ strategies learned during COVID to ensure supply chain diversification. The fluctuating decentralized regulatory environment requires strong advocacy and continuous monitoring of both federal and state agencies. And the shifting marketplace requires that companies have access to timely and insightful data.

Today’s environment also demands an active, engaged voice to ensure the continuation of policies that directly benefit and strengthen the industry. With reduced federal government involvement and changes in administrative policy, state legislators and regulatory agencies are likely to become more active in setting regulations.

That’s why MCA’s advocacy efforts remain a top priority. From our involvement in the National Roofing Contractors Association’s (NRCA) National Roofing Day to participation in industry coalitions, MCA is closely monitoring federal and state legislative, regulatory, and code developments that impact the industry.

Whether advocating for increased funding for Pell Grants and reasonable immigration reform or communicating the need for the practical implementation of compliance requirements, MCA is working to create a business climate where members can thrive.

Providing data that helps members make informed decisions is another function of the association. The MCA Market Study provides insights into trends, influences on designers’ material use, and the historical and forecasted performance of the industry’s various sectors. Using the Census Bureau’s nine divisions, the study is being expanded to include regional breakouts of the data.

The 2026 study will also include a sentiment index reflecting participants’ overall optimism. Many of you may have been or will be asked to contribute to the study. We encourage your participation.

Beyond advocacy and data, MCA continues to invest in market growth and education. This year, we will pilot two regional conferences aimed at architects and designers, key decision-makers in material selection. The first will take place in late May in Chicago, followed by a second event in Southern California in the fourth quarter. These half-day programs will feature a keynote presentation, targeted learning sessions, and product showcases, bringing the benefits of metal directly to the design community and expanding opportunities for our members.

We are excited for METALCON, taking place October 7-9 in Orlando, Fla., which is one of the strongest metal markets in the country. The show floor is filling quickly, and an impressive lineup of speakers and educational programming is already generating buzz. Lock your calendar now so you don’t miss this event.

If you are interested in learning more about MCA and its activities, please plan to join us at our Summer Meeting on June 23-24 in Rosemont, Ill. It is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together.

Taken together—advocacy, leadership, education, and industry events—these initiatives reflect MCA’s commitment to delivering tangible value to the members. We protect your interests. We expand your markets. We elevate your voice. And we create opportunities for connection and growth. Visit www.metalconstruction.org[2] to learn more about our educational resources and member benefits.

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Jeff Henry, MBA, CAE, is the executive director of the Metal Construction Association[3], where he leads MCA’s staff in supporting industry members and elevating the use of metal in construction.

This column originally appeared in the April 2026 edition of Metal Construction News, which you can find in our Digital Edition Archive.

Source URL: https://www.metalconstructionnews.com/articles/mca-enhances-focus-on-industry-advocacy/

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