July 2018

28 29 vironment for metal, as people continue to rec- ognize its durability, its cost-effectiveness, and its structural integrity. The storms that we had in the southeast – there’s a lot of evidence that metal roofing is superior to the alternatives. And its age and sustainability are second to none –well slate probably lasts forever, but metal is much more cost-effective and lasts much longer than most conventional roofing systems that require a lot of maintenance and upkeep over their life – and are not recyclable.” BVM: Hasn’t metal always been used in con- struction? For example, steel has always been used to strengthen concrete, hasn’t it? Hielscher: “Metal has its places where it is much more conventionally used. Metal cladding, though, in exterior walls and roofs, is still a less than a major share, but it’s growing.We’re in- creasing our market share, sustainably, and that’s what we’re really after. Because, nothing is right for every application, but we’re more right for a lot more applications than we’re currently being used for. “One of the interesting things I’ve observed, being in the business for 25 years, and now, doing this for several years: if the entity owns the building and in- tends to own and operate the building, they’re more inclined to use a metal roof than something else, because they understand it’s going to last longer, and they’re going to be there longer. “Metal is not the least expensive way to install a building at the outset. However, its durability and its need for regular maintenance is significantly THE METAL CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION council and committee activities, and task groups to advance our causes.We’re actively involved with other trade associations, as well, when it’s appropriate for us to collabo- rate to advance advocacy of certain technical aspects of the marketplace.” BVM: What is the size of the MCA staff and what are their main priorities? Hielscher: “We have paid staff that is pro- vided by the Association Management Center (a management consultancy firm), and then we have three people, like myself, who are contracted professionals to advance the tech- nical and specific causes. Administratively, the AMC staff from Chicago handles that portion. We have an active website, email, and public relations activity, which we contract for, sep- arately. So, we are focusing our outreach and education to expanding the understanding of the cost-effectiveness and the environmen- tally sustainable attributes of metal in all of its aspects –purchasing, installing, and its ability to be almost fully recycled for re-use.” BVM: What does the landscape look like for the industry as a whole over the next several years, and how with the MCA continue to be a viable voice for your members? Hielscher: “We see it as a very positive en-