RICOWI heads to Oak Ridge for Fall 2026 Conference

By Jesse Sanchez.

The Fall 2026 RICOWI Conference brings roofing professionals together for education, networking, meetings and tours.

RICOWI will gather industry professionals in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, November 3-4, 2026, for its Fall 2026 Conference, bringing together technical education, committee discussions, networking and an inside look at research relevant to the building and roofing industries.

Programming begins Tuesday, November 3, with three educational presentations before attendees transition into RICOWI committee meetings, the RICOWI Foundation Annual General Meeting and the RICOWI Membership Meeting. Tuesday’s sessions are open to all attendees, giving nonmembers an opportunity to learn more about the organization while connecting with industry professionals.

The educational program will explore emerging technologies and industry challenges. Presentations include “From Construction Automation to Roof Recovery: New Technologies for PostWeather Inspection and Repair” by Dr. Nolan Hayes of Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and “Waste-Derived, Halogen-Free Flame Retardants for Fire-Resilient Building Envelopes” by Dr. Mengjia Tang of ORNL. Michele Steinberg of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) will also present “Designed for Disaster? Overcoming Community Vulnerability to Wildfire.”

Following the day’s meetings, attendees can continue networking at the RICOWI Foundation Fundraiser Reception. The evening will feature food, auction items and a 50/50 raffle, with proceeds going directly to the Foundation. Separate registration is required for the fundraiser.

The conference continues Wednesday, November 4, with transportation to ORNL for a guided facility tour. Participants will gain insight into the laboratory’s research capabilities and technologies relevant to roofing and building professionals. Afternoon presentations will examine high-performance polyisocyanurate thermal insulation materials and considerations surrounding roof replacement and re-covering.

The conference will conclude Wednesday evening with an optional group dinner, giving attendees another opportunity to connect after two days of education and industry engagement. While seminar registration is closed, the event highlights RICOWI’s focus on technical learning, collaboration and research relevant to the roofing and building industries.

Learn more about the Fall 2026 RICOWI Conference and RICOWI Foundation Fundraiser!