METALCON Announces Show Highlights & Educational Programming for Atlanta

(Newton, Mass., – June 20, 2024) METALCON, announces its program line-up for this year’s annual conference and tradeshow scheduled from Wednesday, Oct. 30 to Friday, Nov. 1 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.

From intensive pre-show workshops beginning on Tuesday, Oct. 29 to 35+ free educational sessions conveniently located inside the exhibit hall to inspiring keynotes, top industry experts will share their knowledge with attendees who are eligible to earn nearly a year’s worth of continuing education credits (CEUs), including AIA learning units among others.

The only global event dedicated exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction is brought to you by 2024 sponsors: Mill Steel Company (premier level), Flack Global Metals (diamond level), CIDAN Machinery Inc., (diamond level), and others, along with long-time partner, the Metal Construction Association (MCA).

Kickstart the mornings with engaging sessions!

On Wednesday at 8.00 a.m., join others for Building Smarter: The Impact of our Changing Weather & Climate on Construction. Then on Thursday at the same time, don’t miss out on the choice between two compelling sessions: The New World of Metal: How Technology and AI Can Affect the Metal Industries or Metal Composite Material (MCM) Building Code Fire Requirements.

Keynote Speakers

Keynotes include former National Football League Most Valuable Player and Super Bowl Champion quarterback, Joe Theismann, who will present his Game Plan for Success on Wednesday, Oct. 30 at 9:00 a.m., drawing parallels between winning in football and in business.

On Thursday, Oct. 31 at the same time, Dr. Anirban Basu, Chairman & CEO of Sage Policy Group, Inc., a Baltimore-based economic and policy consulting firm, will present The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly: Financial Outlook and Trends for Metal Construction.

On the closing day of the show at 9:00 a.m., Dr. Melissa Furman will present Relevant Leadership: Navigate, Empower, Transform. Furman continues to captivate and inspire audiences, building on the phenomenal success of her 2022 session which has garnered over 41,000 views on YouTube. She will empower attendees with actionable strategies to enhance critical leadership capabilities such as self-awareness, adaptability, and trust-building.

State of the Industry

Join industry experts and leaders from the MCA for a special State of the Industry panel presentation on Wednesday at 11:45 a.m., to discuss current and future opportunities and challenges facing the metal construction industry such as recent technical developments, upcoming regulatory issues, resiliency in a turbulent building market, the superior sustainability of metal substrates and more.

Hands on Training and Demo Area

New this year – MCA’s Metal Mastery

As metal continues to gain traction in the market, it’s crucial for contractors and installers to grasp the intricacies and proper techniques for forming panels and installing metal roofing and wall systems. In a series of clinics, experts from the MCA and Metal Roofing Alliance will discuss best practices for installing metal shingles, standing-seam roofing panels, retrofit systems, and metal wall systems, and will demonstrate proper techniques for on-site rollforming and machine maintenance. Learn more here.

METALCON Training Zone

Back by popular demand and proudly sponsored by Sherwin-Williams, the METALCON Training Zone returns to offer hands-on training for roofing contractors. This dedicated area features live demonstrations and education using a variety of mock-ups and materials such as painted steel, aluminum, zinc, copper and other exotic materials. Training will emphasize precise detailing and the use of appropriate tools, equipping contractors, remodelers and other professionals to elevate their skills, ensuring the best, most efficient and cleanest work when installing various metal roof systems (conducted in English and Spanish).

For Architectural Design Professionals The Design District@METALCON

The Design District@METALCON, sponsored by PPG and produced in partnership with AEC Daily, offers an unmatched opportunity for architectural design professionals to immerse themselves in the world of metal design and construction with curated education, targeted networking, and access to innovations that can elevate their expertise and inspire their approach to the application of metal. Explore the agenda and  education sessions led by esteemed thought leaders, award-winning architects and industry experts.

More Networking Than Ever – New this year!

METALCON is introducing a variety of networking events to foster communication and collaboration among industry peers. From the lively Metal Mash Up Welcome Party and engaging speed networking to international matchmaking opportunities and insightful Metal Minds in Motion Roundtable discussions, attendees can also enjoy simulated golf sessions at The Back Yard and unwind at the 19th Hole Reception.  Metal and Mimosas will be back following the success of last year’s launch of our women’s program. These events offer abundant opportunities for participants to exchange ideas and forge valuable connections.

METALCON Top Product Awards

On Thursday at 2:30 p.m., top product award winners recognizing the most innovative products and technologies shaping the metal construction industry will be announced. There is still time to apply online.

Learning Centers

Check out METALCON’s FREE education sessions! These 60-minute sessions from 10:15 am to 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday are organized into three centers on the show floor: Best Practices, Technical Know-How and the New Building Performance Learning Center.  Attendees can earn up to 12 hours of CEUs.

Additionally, METALCON continues to offer in-depth workshops this year on the Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of the show to provide cutting-edge education and training, which cannot be found elsewhere. For a small fee, attendees will be armed with new information, fresh ideas and strategic direction to address some of the major issues facing the construction industry today, including:

Each year, METALCON gives back to the local community where the show takes place. METALCON is proud to announce its ongoing partnership with Semper Fi & America’s Fund (The Fund), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping veterans in all branches of the military. On the closing day of the show, a check presentation ceremony will be held at The Deck at 1:00 p.m., together with local representatives of The Fund. Support Atlanta area veterans here.

Also at this time, the prestigious Metal Construction Hall of Fame Awards will honor visionary leaders in the metal construction industry. Now in its eighth year, the Hall of Fame identifies contractors, manufacturers and friends of the industry who make a difference each year.

“We eagerly anticipate our return to Atlanta, a premier destination for METALCON,” remarked Judy Geller, METALCON Vice President. “We have a host of new networking opportunities, exciting hands-on training sessions, new educational programs and exceptional keynote speakers lined up. Be sure to visit The Deck, conveniently situated near registration, to meet our team, network, or simply unwind.”

About METALCON

Established in 1991, METALCON is the only annual tradeshow and conference devoted exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction. Produced by PSMJ Resources, Inc., in partnership with the Metal Construction Association, METALCON’s success is based on a dynamic exhibit hall, extensive educational programs and interactive learning opportunities. This is the event’s seventh time in Atlanta. For more information, visit www.metalcon.com.

###

Share:

More Posts from the METALCON blog:

Beyond the Roof: The Business Case for Metal Buildings

Discover why developers are increasingly choosing metal buildings for faster construction, earlier revenue generation, lower lifecycle costs, and greater cost predictability. Learn how metal building systems can reduce risk, protect long-term asset value, and strengthen project ROI – and why METALCON is the place to evaluate the solutions shaping the future of construction.

Read More »

METALCON 2026 Puts Education and Training Front and Center

Expanded program features hands-on demos, market outlooks, Florida CE credits and a new Latino Track As METALCON marks its 35th anniversary in 2026, an expanded education and training program will give professionals from across the entire metal construction ecosystem new opportunities to build skills, improve performance and prepare for the year ahead. Taking place Oct. 7–9, in Orlando, Fla., this year’s program will emphasize practical training, market intelligence, technical education and business-focused learning. With workforce development, changing codes, economic uncertainty

Read More »

The Hidden Cost of Outdated Construction Knowledge in Metal Projects

Outdated construction knowledge can quietly drain profitability from metal construction projects through delays, rework, inefficiencies, and missed opportunities. This blog explores how evolving technologies, continuous training, and industry innovation are reshaping expectations — and why staying informed through METALCON helps contractors, fabricators, architects, and suppliers stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.

Read More »

METALCON to Feature MLB Pitcher Jim Abbott & Industry Economist Kermit Baker

At the only event where the metal construction industry comes together to make decisions, build partnerships and shape what’s next, METALCON’s keynotes will deliver timely perspectives on resilience, uncertainty and opportunity this October in Orlando. Inspirational speaker and Major League Baseball pitcher Jim Abbott will deliver “Nothing Can Stop You” on Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 9:00 a.m., followed by a meet and greet. His keynote will focus on resilience, gratitude and the ability to turn challenges into strengths. Through his

Read More »

Beyond the Roof: Rethinking the Building Envelope with IMPs

Beyond the Roof: Today’s Insulated Metal Panels are helping architects and designers tackle some of the industry’s biggest challenges — from energy efficiency and resilience to sustainability, speed of construction, and modern building envelope performance.
At METALCON, the conversation goes deeper through the Design District @ METALCON, where architects, engineers, specifiers, contractors, and manufacturers come together to explore the future of high-performance building design.

Read More »

METALCON Launches 40 Under 40 Recognition Program

Recognizing the rising leaders shaping the industry METALCON has launched its new 40 Under 40 Recognition Program, highlighting rising leaders driving the future of metal construction. Forty professionals, age 40 and under, will be honored for their work influencing projects, teams and processes – from jobsites and fabrication floors to engineering and design – at the only event where the metal construction industry comes together to make decisions, build partnerships and shape what’s next. “The program spotlights professionals who are already making an impact

Read More »

Top Metal Construction Materials for Construction Projects

From ancient tools to modern skyscrapers, metal has always played a defining role in how we build. From ancient tools to modern skyscrapers, metal has always shaped how we build. In our previous post on ancient metallurgy, we explored how early innovations still influence today’s materials — read the full blog here. Now, that evolution is accelerating. New materials, smarter systems, and advanced applications are reshaping construction at a rapid pace. Because of this, understanding the most common metals used

Read More »

Ancient Metallurgy Lessons for Modern Metal Construction 

The evolution of metalworking is a story of constant innovation — one that began thousands of years ago. Our latest blog explores how lessons from ancient metallurgy still shape modern metal construction. At METALCON, that story continues, bringing professionals together to discover the technologies and insights defining what’s next.

Read More »