The architectural choices, craftsmanship and stellar application of the panels have earned the IDSDC an ATAS Project of the Year Award as an outstanding project.

The International Dark Sky Discovery Center (IDSDC) in Fountain Hills, Arizona, is visionary in its ideas, planning and execution. The center seeks to enthusiastically offer a one-of-a-kind experience to the Greater Phoenix area as a science center and observatory equally dedicated to education as it is to preservation. The idea for the IDSDC began in 2019, born from a passionate community of astronomers and non-astronomers alike. The IDSDC built up momentum, becoming a non-profit organization in 2020 with ambitious visions of what it would look like and eventually become.

Preliminary designs for the International Dark Sky Discovery Center always featured two distinct domes — a dome to house the observatory’s telescope, which is the largest in the Greater Phoenix area and a dome over the building’s hyperspace planetarium. The planetarium dome is the largest dome on the structure, sitting atop a theater with cutting-edge projection technology that projects images of the solar system in immersive detail. With curved rows and 3D capabilities, the hyperspace planetarium envelops audiences in outer space, able to journey throughout it and experience the solar system beyond what we can see on Earth. But it won’t only project solar images, it’ll be capable of a range of projections, from underwater explorations to human anatomy and more. Originally called the Hyperspace Planetarium in development plans because of its ability to hyper-realistically transport the audience into the solar system and other environments, the planetarium is recognized as the Craig and Ruth Gimbel Planetarium in honor of a significant seven-figure contribution the pair made when the discovery center was a mere concept on paper. For the project to evolve, the International Dark Sky Discovery Center has relied on the generosity and enthusiasm of its community.

Facilitating the project’s creation is the passion of a local and global community. The project’s location, Fountain Hills, Arizona, is instrumental to the center’s purpose. In 2018, Fountain Hills earned status as an International Dark Sky Community, the world’s 17th. The title is given by DarkSky International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to nocturnal conservation and reducing light pollution. DarkSky certifies locations through its International Dark Sky Places (IDSP) program, a certification given to areas that align themselves with DarkSky’s mission of preserving and protecting natural night skies through education and legislation. The IDSDC’s mission and values mirror the efforts of DarkSky and honor its city’s DarkSky status.

“Educating people about the wonders of the night sky and the importance of preserving dark skies is a goal we share with the International Dark Sky Discovery Center,” says Ruskin Hartley, the executive director of DarkSky International, as shared on the IDSDC’s website.

The efforts of the center extend beyond astronomy interests, equally attentive to the interconnectedness of the universe and how it impacts the well-being of animals, plants and humans. The hybrid focus of ecological preservation and astronomy, including a telescope to witness the cosmos, makes IDSDC a one-of-a-kind facility globally, a fact proudly shared on the IDSDC website.

The IDSDC is equally committed to educating and inspiring future generations of scientists with four pillars to help them achieve their mission: education, research, dark sky preservation and astrotourism. The center’s design considered these main focuses when planning its experiences and designing a structure that would accommodate all the elements each experience would include. In an effort to achieve its mission, the center lauds several attractions such as the Dark Sky Observatory, the Craig and Ruth Gimbel Planetarium, an Inspiration Theater, Night Sky Exhibit Hall and the Einstein Exploration Station. Across the attractions are interactive, creative and luminary science-based educational experiences that seek to foster the minds of the future from enthusiasts, K-12 students, undergrad and post-grad scholars and tourists. With such a variety of attractions to enjoy at the IDSDC, the exterior necessitated a design to be aesthetically pleasing and modern, yet functional for all the attractions’ needs.

Peeking out from the building’s silhouette are the two distinct domes of the observatory and planetarium, becoming so iconic to the structure that they’ve become identifying features of the facility as part of the IDSDC logo. The larger dome of the structure is the Craig and Ruth Gimbel Planetarium dome, a robust dome that serves as an accent of the building. It protrudes over the center’s parapet roofs as an attention-grabber and statement maker, slightly nestled into the horizontal datum of the roofscape. An architectural accent of this stature required capable yet striking metal panels to do the envisioned design justice.

The planetarium dome is 39 feet in diameter and tilted forward 20 degrees, and the tilt is integral to the desired projection experience of hyper-realistic space viewing of our solar system. The dome was constructed off-site, brought to the location and then lifted on a 500-ton crane for the installation. The exterior metal panels adorning the planetarium dome required meticulous fabrication to ensure proper fit. Comprising the exterior finish of the roof’s dome are custom curved .040 aluminum ATAS panels in a custom color named Kameleon Rose Dust. Specific dimensions accounting for unique panel widths and curves, with special lengths to accommodate the tilt, made the project highly complex to fabricate and install, requiring precise coordination between the dome’s geometry and the ATAS panels. It likewise required excellent communication across the architect, contractor, distributor and manufacturer. Collaborative effort and expertise from all partners involved in the project resulted in the gleaming planetarium dome. ATAS provided technical guidance and quality oversight for the dome, working closely with global roofing’s installation team and McCarthy Building Companies’ quality-control team to help ensure the panels met the project’s needs. Together, the completion of the dome and achievement of desired aesthetics were possible.

The dome’s peak is the highest part of the structure, closest to the sun and catching a lot of natural sunlight. Unique about the dome’s shape is that it reflects light in different directions. Adding to the grandiosity of the structure is how the natural environment interacts with the custom-colored ATAS panels; sunlight and time of day seemingly changing the color of the panels, living up to the chameleon allusion in the custom color’s name. The panels appear most of the time to be colored copper or rose gold, an Arizona desert-inspired color. However, the longer you look at them and as the position of the sun changes overhead, nebula-like iridescent shades emerge, drawing out hues of purple and green. The panels even have a sheen that glitters faintly like stars in the sky depending on how light reflects. A good panel system meets the basic needs of a project, but truly exceptional panel systems contribute to an overall vision and philosophy of a structure — much like the details of the dome that mimic elements of outer space, exactly what visitors of the center will come to interact with.

The architectural choices, craftsmanship and stellar application of the panels have earned the IDSDC an ATAS Project of the Year Award as an outstanding project. The project won first place in the accents category for its innovative and refined use of curved metal panels. The IDSDC is not yet open to the public but continues to make great strides towards its goal of opening in early 2027. All crews involved with the development of the dome deserve recognition: designing the project is SWABACK Architects + Planners, the general contractor is McCarthy Building Companies and the planetarium dome installer was Global Roofing. Through close collaboration and careful attention to detail, the result of the dome is a finished installation that successfully contributes to the visionary design and purpose of the International Dark Sky Discovery Center. The planetarium dome is set, much like a sun rising on the horizon, as a symbol of a bright future for a new global cultural landmark in Arizona.

Learn more about the International Dark Sky Discovery Center.

Explore the history of the International Dark Sky Discovery Center with their updates.

About ATAS International, Inc.

Founded in 1963, ATAS International, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of metal roofing, wall cladding, ceilings, perimeter edge metal, and accessories. The ATAS portfolio features an expansive selection of products available in aluminum, steel, zinc, stainless steel and copper. Standard profiles include narrow and wide ribbed wall panels, corrugated styles, architectural plate systems, standing seam and batten seam roof systems, metal shingles, shakes, tiles, and more. Additional options include curved, tapered and perforated panels; concealed or exposed fasteners; smooth or embossed textures; horizontal and vertical applications; and a choice of over 40 stock colors with 70% PVDF finish.

With sustainability at the forefront of modern building design, ATAS proudly supports green building objectives with high performance solutions, such as solar-ready roof panels, insulated metal panels, cool roofing products, and solar air heating wall panels. The ATAS team consists of product and market specialists that provide a high level of support for your project, from initial discovery and design to installation. ATAS has two ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturing locations in the United States: the headquarters in Allentown, Pennsylvania and their facility in Mesa, Arizona. ATAS also has a second location in Allentown, Pennsylvania and one in University Park, Illinois. On April 1, 2025, ATAS expanded its portfolio with Metalwërks® Series of architectural plate systems, located in Elkton, Maryland.

For more information about ATAS International, please visit www.atas.com or call 610.395.8445.

Por Emma Peterson., traducido por Alberto Torres.  

METALCON celebra su 35.º aniversario con exhibiciones especiales, eventos para establecer conexiones, premios de la industria y celebraciones para toda la comunidad. 

En 2026, METALCON celebra 35 años como uno de los principales eventos para los profesionales de la construcción con metal. Este año, el evento contará con una variedad de actividades especiales para celebrar este importante aniversario y, al mismo tiempo, ayudar a los profesionales de la industria a prepararse para otros 35 años impulsando el futuro de la construcción con metal. Aquí te presentamos algunos de los eventos que podrás disfrutar este año, del 7 al 9 de octubre de 2026 en el Orange County Convention Center en Orlando, Florida. 

Steel on the Move Experience 

METALCON no es el único que celebra un aniversario este año. ¡U.S. Steel celebra 125 años de innovación en 2026! Para conmemorarlo, la compañía creó una experiencia especial llamada Steel on the Move Experience, que llegará a METALCON. 

Esta exhibición ofrece una experiencia interactiva que presenta “la historia del acero y su papel esencial en la construcción de la infraestructura, los productos y las comunidades que hacen posible nuestra vida cotidiana.” Estará ubicada en el centro del área de exhibición, facilitando que todos los asistentes puedan visitarla y explorar sus atractivas exhibiciones, contenido interactivo e historias inspiradoras. 

¡Conoce más!

Premios METALCON Top Product Awards 2026 

¡Los premios anuales de productos están de regreso por sexto año! Estos premios reconocen los productos, tecnologías y soluciones innovadoras que los expositores presentan en METALCON. ¡Y TÚ decides quién gana! 

Así que asegúrate de llenar tu formulario de votación mientras recorres el área de exhibición, que este año contará con más de 250 stands. Las votaciones cierran el 7 de octubre de 2026 a las 5 p.m. ET, y los ganadores serán anunciados durante el evento el 8 de octubre de 2026 a las 2:30 p.m. 

¡Conoce a los nominados!

Forge: Donde las mujeres de la industria del metal construyen lo que viene 

Este es el único evento de esta lista que requiere un boleto por separado, lo que significa que debes registrarte además de tu registro general para METALCON. ¡Pero vale la pena dedicarle tiempo y pagar los $35 de entrada! 

Forge se llevará a cabo un día antes del inicio oficial de METALCON y estará enfocado en las increíbles mujeres profesionales que están impulsando el futuro de la industria del metal. Desde quienes comienzan sus carreras hasta las profesionales con años de experiencia, este evento ofrece la oportunidad de compartir un espacio con mujeres que entienden exactamente lo que haces y todo el esfuerzo que te ha llevado hasta donde estás hoy. 

Los asistentes podrán disfrutar de una conferencia magistral de Rita Goodroe; un panel de discusión con Bryce Batts, Kate Glantz, Erin Hoffman y Amanda Turner; actividades para establecer conexiones y una recepción patrocinada por National Women in Roofing (NWIR). Es un evento que no te puedes perder si buscas conversaciones significativas, nuevas perspectivas sobre liderazgo y conexiones auténticas que continúen mucho después de METALCON.

Conoce más.

Oktoberfest 

METALCON se trata de reunir aprendizaje, diversión y comunidad, y pocas actividades representan mejor esa combinación que su experiencia Oktoberfest. La celebración comienza oficialmente el miércoles 7 de octubre en The Backyard, con un reto en un simulador de golf patrocinado por HELIX Metalforming y John Stortz & Son. El resto de las actividades se llevarán a cabo en diferentes stands de los expositores por toda el área de exhibición. 

¡Consulta el programa!

Networking rápido 

Con tantas sesiones educativas y actividades, puede ser difícil encontrar tiempo para establecer nuevas conexiones de manera espontánea. Por eso, METALCON ha organizado un evento de networking rápido para la noche del miércoles 7 de octubre. Esta es una gran oportunidad para “conocer contratistas, fabricantes, arquitectos, especialistas en fabricación, proveedores y líderes de la industria mediante conversaciones breves y estructuradas, diseñadas para generar relaciones profesionales y oportunidades de negocio.” 

Cada ronda durará solo unos minutos, así que asegúrate de llevar tus tarjetas de presentación y tener preparada una buena presentación breve sobre quién eres y lo que haces. 

Celebración del 35.º aniversario de METALCON 

Y por último, pero definitivamente no menos importante, METALCON realizará una celebración especial por su 35.º aniversario el miércoles, justo después del evento de networking rápido. 

Esta fiesta celebra a la comunidad que ha crecido alrededor de METALCON desde su primer encuentro en 1991. También reconocerá a las 10 empresas especiales de Legacy 10, que han participado en todas las ediciones de METALCON. Estas empresas incluyen: 

1. AkzoNobel: Ha sido un expositor de confianza de METALCON desde el principio, presentando sus avanzadas pinturas y recubrimientos a los asistentes del evento. 
2. ATAS International: Durante más de 60 años, ATAS International ha fabricado sistemas metálicos de alto rendimiento para techos, muros, plafones y perímetros, y durante más de la mitad de ese tiempo ha apoyado a METALCON. 
3. Atlas Bolt & Screw: El equipo de Atlas describe METALCON como “mucho más que una feria comercial” y ha demostrado su compromiso con la creación de relaciones duraderas con contratistas, fabricantes y socios de la industria al participar en cada edición. 
4. AZZ Precoat Metals: Como uno de los principales proveedores de soluciones de recubrimiento de bobinas en Norteamérica, AZZ se ha reunido con sus clientes año tras año en METALCON. 
5. Englert: Durante 35 años, para ser exactos, Englert ha utilizado METALCON como una oportunidad para conectarse con arquitectos, contratistas y tomadores de decisiones que utilizan sus sistemas de techos metálicos, canaletas y productos para el manejo del agua de lluvia. 
6. Metal Construction News: Como una publicación líder de la industria, su equipo ha estado presente en cada edición de METALCON brindando apoyo de medios y cobertura. 
7. McElroy Metal: Como fabricante de productos especializados para la construcción con metal, tiene sentido que McElroy Metal haya participado en cada una de las ediciones de METALCON dedicadas a esta industria. 
8. Metal Rollforming Systems: Cuando se les preguntó por qué su equipo ha considerado una prioridad asistir a METALCON durante los últimos 35 años, respondieron de manera sencilla: “Estas conexiones nos permiten mantenernos al día con las tendencias del mercado.”
9. PPG: Durante décadas, PPG ha estado frente a sus clientes y detrás de escena apoyando a METALCON mediante iniciativas como el Design District. 
10. Roof Hugger: Roof Hugger ha estado presente desde el inicio de METALCON. Su compromiso a lo largo de los años representa el espíritu de colaboración que caracteriza al evento. 

En general, esta celebración es una de las actividades que no te puedes perder en METALCON 2026. Contará con comida, bebidas, entretenimiento y muchas oportunidades para convivir con la comunidad de la industria. 

Obtén tus boletos hoy 

No pierdas la oportunidad de participar en estos increíbles eventos, además de recorrer la extensa área de exhibición y aprovechar el programa educativo de METALCON. El evento se llevará a cabo del 7 al 9 de octubre de 2026 en el Orange County Convention Center en Orlando, Florida. Todos los eventos mencionados anteriormente están incluidos con tu registro, excepto Forge, que requiere un boleto adicional. Se recomienda registrarse con anticipación. 

¡Regístrate hoy para METALCON y utiliza el código 30MCS para recibir $30 de descuento en tu pase!

By Emma Peterson. 

METALCON is celebrating its 35th anniversary with special exhibits, networking events, industry awards and community celebrations!  

2026 marks 35 years of METALCON – the leading event for metal construction professionals. And this year’s show has a variety of special events planned to both celebrate this milestone and help professionals across the industry prepare for another 35 years of shaping the metal industry’s future. Here’s a shortlist of the events to expect from this year’s show, which is planned for October 7-9, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida!  

Steel on the Move Experience 

METALCON isn’t the only one celebrating an anniversary this year, U.S. Steel is celebrating 125 years of innovation in 2026! And to honor it, they have created a special Steel on the Move Experience that is coming to the METALCON show.  

This exhibit is an immersive experience that showcases “the story of steel and its essential role in building the infrastructure, products and communities that power everyday life.” It will be located at the center of the exhibit hall, making it easy for all attendees to stop by and explore the engaging displays, interactive content and inspiring stories.  

Learn more!

The 2026 METALCON Top Product Awards 

The annual product awards are back — this is its sixth year! These awards celebrate the innovative products, technologies and solutions that exhibitors at METALCON bring to the table. And the results are decided by YOU!  

So, make sure you fill out your voting form as you explore the expo floor (which will host more than 250 booths this year!). Voting ends on October 7, 2026, at 5 p.m. ET with announcements of the winners hosted at the show October 8, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. 

See the nominees!

Forge: Where women in metal shape what’s next 

This is the only event on this list that is separately ticketed (meaning you need to register for it in addition to your general METALCON registration), but it’s well worth the time and the $35 ticket!   

Hosted the day before the METALCON show kicks off, the Forge centers around the incredible female professionals who are pushing the metal industry forward. It offers everyone from emerging professionals to industry veterans a chance to sit in a room of women who understand exactly what you do and how hard you’ve worked to get where you are today. 

Attendees can look forward to a keynote from Rita Goodroe; a panel discussion featuring Bryce Batts, Kate Glantz, Erin Hoffman and Amanda Turner; networking activities and a reception sponsored by National Women in Roofing (NWIR). This is a must-attend for those looking for meaningful conversation, leadership insights and genuine connections that extend well beyond METALCON.  

Learn more.

Oktoberfest 

METALCON is all about bringing learning, fun and community together and no event is better representative of this than their Oktoberfest expo experience! The event officially kicks off on Wednesday, October 7 at The Backyard with a golf simulator challenge sponsored by HELIX Metalforming and John Stortz & Son. The rest of the celebration will happen at various exhibitor booths across the expo floor.  

See the schedule!

Speed networking 

With all the education sessions and other events happening, it can be hard to find time for spur-of-the-moment networking, which is why METALCON has set up a speed networking event for Wednesday night (10/7/2026). This is a huge opportunity to “meet contractors, manufacturers, architects, fabricators, suppliers and industry leaders through short, structured conversations designed to spark real relationships and business opportunities. 

Each round will last just a few minutes, so make sure you bring your business cards and strong elevator pitch!  

METALCON 35th anniversary bash 

And last but certainly not least, METALCON will be hosting a special 35th anniversary bash on Wednesday, right after the speed networking event!  

This party celebrates the community that has grown around METALCON since the first gathering back in 1991. It also puts the spotlight on METALCON’s special Legacy 10 companies who have been at every show! These companies include:  

1. AkzoNobel: AkzoNobel has been a trusted METALCON exhibitor since the very beginning, showcasing their advanced paints and coatings to the attendees of the show. 
2. ATAS International: For more than 60 years, ATAS International has manufactured high-performance metal roofing, wall, ceiling and perimeter systems and for over half that time they’ve been supporting METALCON. 
3. Atlas Bolt & Screw: The Atlas team describes METALCON as “more than a trade show” and have been showcasing their commitment to building lasting relationships with contractors, manufacturers and industry partners by attending every show.  
4. AZZ Precoat Metals: As one of North America's leading providers of coil coating solutions, AZZ has met their customers at METALCON year-after-year. 
5. Englert: For years (35 to be precise) Englert has used METALCON to meet the architects, contractors and decision makers who use their metal roofing, gutter systems and rainware products in the field. 
6. Metal Construction News: A leading industry publication, their team has been at every METALCON show providing media support. 
7. McElroy Metal: As a manufacturer of metal-specific products, it only makes sense the McElroy Metal has been at every one of METALCON’s metal-dedicated shows. 
8. Metal Rollforming Systems: When asked why their team has made it a priority to attend METALCON all 35 years, the Metal Rollforming Systems team put it simply, “These connections allow us to stay ahead of market trends.” 
9. PPG: PPG has been in front of customers and behind the scenes supporting METALCON through initiatives like the Design District for decades now. 
10. Roof Hugger: Since METALCON’s inception, Roof Hugger has been there. Their longstanding commitment exemplifies the collaborative spirit that defines the event. 

Overall, this bash is a must-attend of the 2026 show as it boasts a full schedule of food, drinks, entertainment and community that you won’t want to miss.  

Get your tickets today 

Don’t miss your chance to attend these incredible events, as well as explore METALCON’s extensive expo floor and education programming! The show will be hosted October 7-9, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. All events listed above are included in your registration except for the Forge, which is a separately ticketed event. Advance sign-up is encouraged.  

Register for the show today and use code 30MCS for $30 off your show pass!

By Emma Peterson. 

Mark your calendar and be part of Arizona’s premier roofing event! 

The Arizona Roofing Contractors Association (ARCA) is gearing up for their annual trade show! The ARCA show, which will be hosted September 17 – 19, 2026, at the Prescott Resort & Conference Center, anticipates to see over 250 industry professionals come together for exclusive education seminars, powerful networking opportunities and more!  

This show has something for everyone, whether you’re an owner hoping to score incredible deals at the Roofers' Auction (featuring over $40,000 in roofing materials), a contractor looking for the newest products on the market or a supplier trying to build connections with their customers.  

In addition to the business opportunities, this show offers unmatched experiences that celebrate the people who keep the roofing industry running! Some highlights include: 

• Sporting clay competition: Kick off day one (9/17) at 11 a.m. with a friendly shooting competition at Prescott Trap & Skeet. 
• Cornhole tournament: Hosted during the opening day party, this is your opportunity to have great conversations with your peers and maybe gain some bragging rights.  
• Golf excursion: Day 2 of the expo (9/18) is the day of ARCA's highly anticipated 57th Annual Golf Tournament! This is your opportunity to tee up on StoneRidge Golf Course for a day on the range with the best in the roofing business. 
• Awards banquet: And to round out the show, ARCA will be hosting their awards banquet, which celebrates the successes and skills of roofers, on the last day of the show (9/19). The event will start with a cocktail party in the ballroom foyer (5 p.m.), move into the ballroom proper for the banquet (6 p.m.) and wrap up with an after party on the Eagle's Nest & Sunset Patio (8 p.m.). 

Between all these events, make sure to take some time to catch up on some expert-lead education and explore the trade show floor! This year’s show floor will be host to a variety of industry-leading companies including SOPREMA, Eagleview, ATAS International, General Coatings, CertainTeed, Geocel, Malarkey, Polyglass, Estimating Edge and Eagle Roofing Products. The RoofersCoffeeShop® team will be there, so be sure to stop by to say hello at table 15!  

Get registered today!

We regret to announce the passing of Nel Bus, founder of ATAS International.

ATAS International, Inc. announces with deep sadness the passing of Nel Bus, who co-founded the company alongside her husband, Jacobus "Jack" P. Bus, in 1963. Nel was 95 years old, and her birthday was celebrated with a large multi-generational family gathering this summer.

Nel and Jack's entrepreneurial journey began after the couple emigrated from the Netherlands to Rochester, New York, in the 1950s. While Jack worked installing siding and trim, the couple recognized an unmet need: contractors at the time lacked the equipment to bend their own trim products on-site. Jack set out to fill that gap, and with Nel's steady support, the two built what would become Aluminum Trim And Shapes (ATAS) from the basement of their family home, where they raised their eight children.

What began as a small operation grew steadily. In 1972, the company moved into a 12,000-square-foot facility in Rochester, and by 1985, seeking a larger distribution footprint, ATAS relocated to Allentown, Pennsylvania, where it remains headquartered today. Two of Jack and Nel's sons, Dick and Jim, joined the business in management roles, helping expand ATAS' product offerings and cementing the company's reputation for quality, innovation and customer service.

Today, ATAS operates two locations in Allentown along with facilities in Mesa, Arizona; University Park, Illinois; and Elkton, Maryland. Its sister company, BRIGHTSMITH Coaters, added coil coating and post-painting facilities in Morrisville, Pennsylvania and Trenton, New Jersey, and in March 2025, ATAS expanded further with the addition of Metalwërks® Architectural Plate Systems. The company's product lines now include metal wall cladding, metal roofing, ceilings, perimeter edge metal and related accessories for commercial and residential construction, with several facilities holding ISO 9001:2015 certification.

More than six decades after its founding, ATAS remains a family run business. Dick Bus serves as president and Jim Bus as executive vice president, with a third generation, including Mark, Eric and Tony Bus, along with Tiffany Hutcheson, now active across ATAS and BRIGHTSMITH in operations and management roles.

Nel's legacy lives on in everything ATAS has become, and an ATAS product, Omawall, was named in her honor (Oma is Dutch for grandmother). She and Jack built this company on hard work, family and an unwavering commitment to quality, which are values that still guide the company today.

The new hazardous waste facility in Venice, Florida is the recipient of the Metal Architecture Design Award in the Metal Building Systems/Pre-Engineered Metal Building Systems category. ATAS provided several products that were used on this project, including Isoleren SL insulated metal wall panels, Isoleren RL insulated metal roof panels, perforated Belvedere 7.2” rib panels, and solid Metafor panels. In addition to the wall and roof panels, 4” round downspouts were also manufactured for this project. This is one of two projects utilizing ATAS products that received a Metal Architecture Design Award this year, and one of just 12 projects from across the nation to receive this year’s honors. Explore this year’s award winners in the June/July edition of Metal Architecture.

Opening in March of 2026, this new 13,500 square foot structure is part of a $7.5 million investment in its hazardous waste management program. The original structure was damaged by Hurricane Ian in 2022. The new building will serve their community with a safe solution for hazardous waste processing, rather than disposal, and provides expanded capacity, improved operations, and enhanced safety features. The drive-through drop-off process allows residents to remain in their vehicles during unloading.

According to Metal Architecture’s coverage of the award-winning project, as a permanent fixture that makes sanitation services accessible to residents of Venice, Florida, this drive-through pre-engineered metal building is an all-in-one center for delivery, sorting, recycling, transport, and storage of household hazardous waste. The use of a prefabricated system was an asset for the site’s unique considerations: a lack of onsite utilities and an impenetrable environmental liner with undocumented depths.

The materials involved support the design’s key objective: to serve as a low-maintenance, durable community facility. Installed on a prefabricated steel framing system, insulated metal wall and roofing panels account for 847 m2 (9,117 sf) of the cladding and address concerns of animal intrusion, eliminate sagging, and reduce the risk of trapping flammable vapors. The design also promotes cross-ventilation, increasing air changes and reducing vapor concentration, with 576 m2 (6,200 sf) of perforated metal wall panels.

As wind loading was a significant concern for this project, ATAS provided site-specific engineering to address those conditions. The stiffness and spanning capability of the IMPs allows greater support spacing than would have been possible with a conventional single-skin metal panels system. Also, the use of IMPs provided for a cleaner and more attractive interior appearance. The Isoleren RL roof IMPs were 2-1/2” thick with a 22-gauge Sandstone color facer, and a 24-gauge Regal White liner. The Isoleren SL wall IMPs were 2” thick with a 24-gauge Sandstone color facer, and a 24-gauge Regal White liner. Metafor panels of .040 aluminum in Sandstone were used along with .040 aluminum perforated Belvedere 7.2” Rib panels in Slate Blue. The perforated panels created a complementary aesthetic to the drive-thru feature of the building, resulting in increased air and light flow.

The owner of this building is Sarasota County, Florida, and the architect was Seibert Architects. Magnum Builders acted as the general contractor, and Behlen Building Systems installed the ATAS products.

About ATAS

Founded in 1963, ATAS International, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of metal roofing, wall cladding, ceilings, perimeter edge metal, and accessories. The ATAS portfolio features an expansive selection of products available in aluminum, steel, zinc, stainless steel, and copper. Standard profiles include narrow and wide ribbed wall panels, corrugated styles, architectural plate systems, standing seam and batten seam roof systems, metal shingles, shakes, tiles, and more. Additional options include curved, tapered, and perforated panels; concealed or exposed fasteners; smooth or embossed textures; horizontal and vertical applications; and a choice of over 40 stock colors with 70% PVDF finish. With sustainability at the forefront of modern building design, ATAS proudly supports green building objectives with high performance solutions, such as solar-ready roof panels, insulated metal panels, cool roofing products, and solar air heating wall panels. The ATAS team consists of product and market specialists that provide a high level of support for your project, from initial discovery and design to installation.  ATAS has two ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturing locations in the United States: the headquarters in Allentown, Pensylvania, and their facility in Mesa, Arizona. ATAS also has a second location in Allentown, Pensylvania, and one in University Park, Illinois.  On April 1, 2025, ATAS expanded its portfolio with Metalwërks® Series of architectural plate systems, located in Elkton, Maryland. For more information about ATAS International, please visit www.atas.com or call 610.395.8445.   

About Metal Architecture

With more than 40 years of expertise, Metal Architecture is the leading authority on the use of metal in architectural applications and building design, educating architects, design professionals, and engineers engaged in new construction, retrofit, renovation, and modernization of buildings. To learn more, visit https://www.metalarchitecture.com/.

How ATAS products met this project's goal of preserving the existing structure's beauty while ensuring longevity.

Henry B. Plant Hall at the University of Tampa has built a legacy as an intricate, respected architectural building. Its various design elements of brick, steel, slopes, minarets and gilding construct the ornate feel that earns it a reputation of elegance and the building’s literal and culturally reverent stature.

Plant Hall is described as “the crown jewel of Tampa’s skyline” by The Chiselers on their website. The Chiselers is an organization dedicated to the preservation and maintenance of the beloved building. What started in 1959 by Sunny Delo and her friends has evolved into a cornerstone organization named The Chiselers, a name tied to the first preservation work the group did, restoring Henry B. Plant Hall’s original floor tiles by hand. Since then, the organization has tenderly cared for Plant Hall through continuous repairs, all dedicated to preserving the structure’s original aesthetic integrity, funded by grants and donation matching since 1996.

The crown, (that is, the roof) of Tampa’s “crown jewel,” had seen better days, but thanks to a grant from the State of Florida and a donation from The Chiselers, a wide-scale renovation project of the roof began in 2022. On the priority list was the Music Room’s roof, a protruding room with a unique oblong disc shape, featuring a distinct curve before rising into a dome. The Music Room’s roof is the right roof dome out of two that are on the building. Committed to keeping the structure’s sense of grandiosity and awe, the project of the Music Room’s roof required attractive and capable metal solutions found in ATAS International’s products.

Featured on Plant Hall’s Music Room are ATAS 1 ½” Field-Lok panels in 24-gauge stainless steel. Field-Lok, a single- or double-locked roof panel that creates the traditional appearance of a standing seam, was an ideal design choice to meet the preservation needs of the roof’s historical appearance. From panel profile to the metal type, deliberate attention to detail curates Plant Hall’s distinctive, Moorish exterior. Stainless steel roofing is both an aesthetic and practical choice for this project. The steel has a shiny, silver glint that matches the personality of the building, but is also ideal in places like Tampa where corrosion could be a concern. In places with year-round humidity and a risk of salt spray, such as Tampa, metal roofing is more ideal than traditional asphalt shingles. Stainless steel has excellent corrosion- and rust-resistant properties that make it a low-maintenance roofing material with a long lifespan, often outperforming the lifespans of most buildings. Qualities of stainless-steel metal roofing perfectly meet the needs of a U.S. National Historic Landmark such as Plant Hall’s Music Room, where the goal of retrofitting is to honor the architecture of an existing building, preserving its beauty while ensuring longevity.

At 4,500 square feet, the roof of Plant Hall’s Music Room is intricate. It features layers of tapered panels of various sizes and complex circumferences to accommodate the existing structures' eaves, domes and its distinctive curved protrusion. The Music Room roof has multiple hips, valleys, flashing transitions and trims that required a proven metal panel manufacturer and skilled installers. To accommodate such an ornate design, the project required meticulous measurements and precise fabrication. The ATAS 1 ½” Field-Lok panels offered precision in fabrication, meeting custom length and width needs to revitalize the Music Room’s roof, delivering on uncompromised quality and aesthetics. Concealed fastener panels such as Field-Lok have hidden clips that ensure a seamless appearance in applications. The fastener also reduces the risk of water intrusion and bolsters performance in high-wind areas. Field-Lok proved to be both an aesthetic and practical choice for Henry B. Plant Hall.

“This architectural masterpiece was built in 1891 during a time when Henry Bradley Plant was building an empire of railroads, steamships and hotels. He built the Tampa Bay Hotel as a palace, symbolic of his empire,” The Chiselers say on their website. Palace elements of Plant’s design certainly remain, evidenced by its onion-shaped domes, cupolas and minarets topped with crescent finials, all contributing to the structure’s opulence. The hard work from all of those continually involved in the maintenance of Henry B. Plant Hall, from The Chiselers, contractors, architects and more, has paid off with award recognition.

The Henry B. Plant Hall Music Room won first place in the Commercial Roof category of ATAS’ 2025 Project of the Year Awards. The architect of the project was Rowe Architects. The panels were installed by the contractor, Quality Roofing, Inc., distributed from Spec Building Materials. The project was also featured in Florida Roofing Magazine, with Quality Roofing, Inc. being awarded a Spotlight Trophy for the Advancement of Roofing (S.T.A.R.) award for their stellar work on the project. The S.T.A.R. award, given by the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association, Inc. (FRSA), acknowledges projects that demonstrate excellence in the roofing industry, considering finished appearance, execution and technical complexity.

Many elements contribute to the everlasting beauty of Henry B. Plant Hall, one of which is a well-chosen, aesthetically pleasing, high-performing roof panel that honors the building’s legacy. ATAS’ 1 ½” Field-Lok delivers on preserving the building’s historical, architectural character through modern, metal materials, shining brightly atop the Music Room.

Learn more about 1 ½ in. Field-Lok. Learn more about The Chiselers and their preservation of Henry B. Plant Hall. Learn more about Henry B. Plant Hall from 83 Degrees Media and Shumaker Architecture.

By Emma Peterson. 

Want to show off your crew’s hard work? Enter your metal projects into ATAS International’s 2026 Project of the Year competition. 

ATAS International, a leading manufacturer of metal roofing, wall cladding, ceilings, interiors and accessories, has opened submissions to their annual project of the year contest! This competition is now in its 37th year, having started in 1989. The contest celebrates a variety of projects across seven categories, including commercial roofs, commercial walls, residential roofs, residential walls, accents, sustainable and interiors.  

ATAS’ Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Jim Bush, described the contest, sharing, “The diversity and creative application of metal panels [shown in the contest] highlights the durability, aesthetics and adaptability that metal contributes to today’s architectural design and construction. Overall, these outstanding projects [we see submitted] reflect the innovation and craftsmanship that continue to advance our industry.”  

The rules 

Projects must utilize product profiles manufactured by ATAS. Further, they must be completed “within the preceding calendar year.” Meaning, for the 2026 contest, projects from January 2025-December 2025 will be eligible.  

There is no entry fee to the contest, and you may enter as many projects as you like. Your entries must include one or more digital files showcasing your project. You are encouraged to submit multiple photos, both comprehensive and close-up. File should be in .jpg format and at least 500 kb.  

Please note: Material submitted becomes the property of ATAS and may be used for future promotional activities. 

The timeline 

Your submission must be in by November 30, 2026, to be judged in the 2026 contest. Once submissions close, a panel of judges, independent of ATAS International, Inc., will determine the winners. 

The reward 

Winning projects will get national coverage in trade publications, press releases and during ATAS’ annual awards dinner in May. This is a great way to show your crew your pride in their craftsmanship and show your potential customers the quality of your work!  

Enter your project today!

This prestigious recognition highlights ATAS International’s dedication to pushing boundaries and elevating design with metal.

ATAS International, Inc. is honored to announce that Brookley Flats in Boston, Massachusetts is the recipient of the Publisher’s Choice Award in the 2026 Metal Architecture Design Awards. Its unique cladding features dynamic-colored coatings that reflect the culture of its artist-community occupants. This prestigious recognition highlights ATAS International’s dedication to pushing boundaries and elevating design with metal.

Metal Architecture’s Publisher’s Choice Award is presented, at its discretion, to projects that demonstrably reflect key concepts presented by the magazine throughout the year. Explore this year’s award winners in the June/July edition of Metal Architecture.

Located at 10 Stonley Road, Brookley Flats in Jamaica Plain is a 45-unit, income-restricted homeownership development. The fully electric, Passive House-certified building features artist live-work studios and sits just half a mile from the Forest Hills MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) Station. Constructed through a partnership between the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Development Corporation (JPNDC), Causeway Development LLC, and JGE Architecture + Design, the 44,500-square-foot complex opened in the spring of 2026. It is considered the largest affordable homeownership development built and occupied in Boston to date, per Boston.gov.

ATAS’ .040 aluminum Rigid Wall II panels in six colors were used to create the unique design, including Black, Chocolate Brown, Redwood, Mission Red, Brite Red, and Boysenberry. The panels were installed by Longarone Exteriors and were purchased through Kamco Supply Corp. of Boston.

About ATAS International, Inc.

Founded in 1963, ATAS International, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of metal roofing, wall cladding, ceilings, perimeter edge metal, and accessories. The ATAS portfolio features an expansive selection of products available in aluminum, steel, zinc, stainless steel, and copper. Standard profiles include narrow and wide ribbed wall panels, corrugated styles, architectural plate systems, standing seam and batten seam roof systems, metal shingles, shakes, tiles, and more. Additional options include curved, tapered, and perforated panels; concealed or exposed fasteners; smooth or embossed textures; horizontal and vertical applications; and a choice of over 40 stock colors with 70% PVDF finish. With sustainability at the forefront of modern building design, ATAS proudly supports green building objectives with high performance solutions, such as solar-ready roof panels, insulated metal panels, cool roofing products, and solar air heating wall panels. The ATAS team consists of product and market specialists that provide a high level of support for your project, from initial discovery and design to installation.  ATAS has two ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturing locations in the United States: the headquarters in Allentown, Pensylvania, and their facility in Mesa, Arizona. ATAS also has a second location in Allentown, Pensylvania, and one in University Park, Illinois.  On April 1, 2025, ATAS expanded its portfolio with Metalwërks® Series of architectural plate systems, located in Elkton, Maryland. For more information about ATAS International, please visit www.atas.com or call 610.395.8445.   

About Metal Architecture

With more than 40 years of expertise, Metal Architecture is the leading authority on the use of metal in architectural applications and building design, educating architects, design professionals, and engineers engaged in new construction, retrofit, renovation and modernization of buildings.

Ten companies have been committed to METALCON and the industry from the beginning.

When the industry gathers in Orlando for METALCON this fall, the Legacy 10 will be honored for exhibiting at every show, dating back to 1991.

With that kind of long-term commitment comes worthy recognition. The Legacy 10 will be honored in a variety of ways leading up to and at the show, scheduled for October 7-9 at Orange County Convention Center.

AkzoNobel, ATAS International, Atlas Bolt & Screw, AZZ Precoat Metals, Englert, Metal Construction News, McElroy Metal, Metal Rollforming Systems, PPG and Roof Hugger make up the Legacy 10. To learn more about the Legacy 10 visit www.metalcon.com/legacy10.

“These companies have supported METALCON from the very beginning and, in many ways, helped build the event into what it is today,” says Judy Geller, VP trade shows, METALCON. “Their continued commitment reflects not only the value of face-to-face business, but also their investment in advancing the metal construction industry.

“There is an abundance of marketing options for the manufacturers and suppliers in our industry. So, the long-term consistent commitment to METALCON by these industry leaders makes METALCON and our industry stronger.”

“We were an early member of the Metal Construction Association, a half-owner of the tradeshow,” says Dale Nelson, president of Roof Hugger. “Tom Black set up an educational program for attendees and we were quick to volunteer to show folks it was possible to retrofit an existing metal roof.”

Roof Hugger has annually been a participant in live demonstrations at METALCON, including solar panels being installed on metal roofing.

“For a company like ATAS International, exhibiting at METALCON is important because it places us at the center of the metal construction industry’s most influential gathering,” says Lee Ann Slattery, FCSI, CDT®, CCPR, LEED AP BD+C, sales support manager at ATAS. “METALCON is recognized as the largest international event dedicated exclusively to metal construction and design, bringing together architects, contractors, distributors, fabricators, manufacturers and building owners from around the world.”

Trade shows attract decision makers and METALCON specifically welcomes these architects, specifiers, roofers and builders.

“For Atlas Bolt & Screw, METALCON has always been more than a tradeshow,” says Don Bratcher, vice president of sales for OEM, Atlas Building Products. “It’s a critical touchpoint with the people and the industries we serve. As a longtime exhibitor, we find METALCON a unique opportunity to connect face-to-face with contractors, fabricators, manufacturers and industry partners who rely on fastening solutions every day.”

METALCON attendees cover the full metal construction ecosystem: contractors, designers, fabricators, manufacturers, suppliers and professionals, the entire gamut of customers for exhibitors.

“It allows us to put the Englert brand directly in front of a highly targeted, qualified audience of architects, contractors and metal construction professionals,” says Jonathan Giacchi, B2B marketing manager, Englert. “METALCON provides a captive audience of decision makers who are actively evaluating products and solutions, making it one of the most efficient channels to build brand awareness, reinforce market positioning and influence specification and purchasing decisions.”

Trade shows provide suppliers and customers with an opportunity to shake hands and open up about business challenges.

“Our focus is on knowing what our customers need and delivering solutions as timely as possible,” says Bill Griffin, president and co-owner of Metal Rollforming Systems. “It’s important for MRS to exhibit at METALCON so we can have face-to-face conversations, allowing us to really get a deeper understanding of what our customer’s challenges and priorities are. These connections allow us to stay ahead of market trends and provide solutions for the evolving priorities of the industry.”

Exhibitors recognize the opportunity to provide hands-on product education at METALCON.

“We have a booth at METALCON because the mix of potential customers is different than other roofing trade shows,” says Charlie Smith, national recover manager at McElroy Metals. “The attendees are specifically in the metal roofing business in one way or another. Other shows include contractors who do low-slope single-ply or steep slope shingles. I like that METALCON is focused on metal roofing.”

In addition to cultivating new business, METALCON exhibitors show up to support the industry, providing attendees with the greatest selection of products and services under one roof.

“PPG and METALCON have partnered for 35 years and we are honored to be among the Legacy 10 companies that have been part of the show’s story from the beginning,” says Steve Rutkowski, senior manager-coil & appliance, PPG Industrial Coatings. “Our ongoing support and lead sponsorship of the Design District, reflect our commitment to collaboration, industry leadership and the community of manufacturers, architects and designers. We are grateful for the opportunity to showcase our products for building products and architectural products that push design and performance forward. As METALCON marks 35 years, PPG is proud to celebrate a legacy of partnership that has helped advance innovation, strengthen the industry and support people who continue to shape metal construction.”

Ten companies have been committed to METALCON and the industry from the beginning. Ten companies that have never missed a show: The Legacy 10. Their commitment has helped transform the metal construction industry over the past 35 years. They have played a significant role in advancing the performance, durability, efficiency and design possibilities of metal construction products while driving broader adoption across commercial, industrial, institutional and residential markets.

To explore each Legacy 10 company, view historical photos and learn more about their lasting impact on METALCON and the metal construction industry, visit www.metalcon.com/Legacy10.