Darrick O’Dell brings over two decades of knowledge and experience in construction litigation.

Adams & Reese announces the addition of Darrick O’Dell as counsel in the firm’s Construction Practice Group in Nashville. 

With more than two decades of trial and courtroom experience, O’Dell has built a reputation for combining deep industry knowledge with strategic, business-minded guidance that drives practical results. His practice focuses on construction litigation, large-loss property damage claims, insurance coverage disputes and general liability defense. Clients turn to O’Dell for his extensive experience and wide-ranging perspective, which allows him to anticipate risk, manage exposure and provide efficient client-focused representation.

“At Adams & Reese, we hire top-level talent whose skills and knowledge strengthen our ability to deliver outstanding results for the diverse range of clients and companies we represent,” said Gif Thornton, managing partner at Adams & Reese. "Darrick’s seasoned experience in construction law and in high-stakes litigation makes him a tremendous asset to our Construction Practice Group. We are pleased to welcome him to the team, where he will provide trusted legal guidance to our clients in Nashville, across Tennessee and beyond.” 

Prior to joining Adams & Reese, O'Dell served as primary counsel on numerous multi-million-dollar cases, representing insurance carriers, self-insured businesses and contractors in high-exposure litigation matters in both jury trials and binding arbitrations. His comprehensive construction law experience spans complex defect claims, large-loss property damage, coverage analysis and contractor liability. O’Dell also served as outside general counsel for a national roofing and remodeling contractor, overseeing contract negotiation and drafting, employment compliance and litigation management across multiple jurisdictions nationwide. 

Among his notable career achievements, O'Dell obtained the dismissal of a two-million-dollar lawsuit against a general contractor through summary judgment by invoking the workers' compensation exclusive remedy defense. He also secured complete defense judgments in two consecutive jury trials, occurring within two weeks of each other, regarding a products liability case and a commercial vehicle collision matter. Additionally, he obtained the dismissal of a five-million-dollar defamation case and, in doing so, secured a significant judgment for attorney fees under the Tennessee Public Participation Act.

"Adams & Reese shares my commitment to delivering both practical and strategic counsel to clients, and I am truly excited to join this great Nashville team," said Darrick O'Dell. "The firm's depth of resources and collaborative culture will allow me to continue providing the hands-on, client-focused representation that has been the hallmark of my practice.” 

O'Dell has lived in Nashville since 1993 and is a member of the Nashville Bar Association, the Tennessee Bar Association and the DRI Association of Lawyers Defending Businesses. He received his J.D. from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law and earned his B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. He is admitted to practice in the Tennessee State Courts and before the United States District Courts throughout Tennessee.

About Adams & Reese LLP

Adams & Reese LLP is a multidisciplinary law firm with a legacy of providing comprehensive legal services to clients across a wide range of industries. With nearly 350 attorneys and government relations advisors strategically located in 20 major cities throughout the southern and western United States, the firm serves multinational corporations, regional businesses, governmental entities, institutions and individuals in matters spanning more than 50 practice areas including corporate transactions, financial services, litigation, government relations and regulatory compliance, construction, aviation, energy, liquor and hospitality, real estate and intellectual property, among other practice areas. Founded in 1951, Adams & Reese has expanded its capabilities to meet the demands of an evolving and increasingly complex legal landscape, advising clients through challenging markets, economic cycles and landmark cases. The firm’s attorneys and government relations advisors have built a strong reputation for delivering innovative, results-driven legal counsel that is tailored to serve each client’s objectives and needs. For more information or to see a list of services, visit www.adamsandreese.com.

By Emma Peterson. 

This IIBEC education session is a great opportunity for contractors and other professionals interested in the legal landscape of construction. 

In just a couple weeks, March 12-15, 2026, over 1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other professionals working in the building envelope industry will convene in Sacramento, California for the 2026 International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) Convention and Tradeshow.  

This event is not only a great opportunity to network with your peers in the industry and explore an extensive expo hall full of the latest advancements in building science technology, but it is also an opportunity for you to learn from industry leaders in education sessions designed to help you grow professionally! One such session is the “State of the Industry: A Look at Contract Provisions and Other Emerging Trends” led by Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese. 

Trent is one of the leading construction lawyers in the field. With over 25 years of legal experience, Trent is licensed in nine different states and serves as general counsel for more than 10 trade associations and organizations, including the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Association (FRSA), Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) and Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA). 

In his IIBEC education session, which will be hosted Friday, March 13, 2026 from 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Trent will share an up-to-date overview of the industry’s legal landscape and guide attendees through an exploration of “how recent legal developments, regulatory changesand market conditions are reshaping risk allocation, project delivery and compliance strategies.” Participants will walk away with actionable strategies that equip them to:  

• Navigate contract provisions confidently: Whether it’s scope of work, indemnification, payment terms or dispute resolution provisions, Trent’s session will help attendees recognize and navigate these key elements of a contract.  
• Analyze and respond to emerging trends: You will walk away with a better understanding of current and anticipated policy trends, such as those related to labor and immigration.  
• Evaluate risk management options: Attendees of the session will learn about evolving contract language as related to risk management for owners, general contractors and subcontractors. 
• Adapt their businesses to new market realities: Ultimately, this session will give you the skills needed to adapt your business to reflect new market realities. 

Not only is this a great opportunity for you to get a better understanding of your industry and boost your career, but Trent’s session has been approved for 1.25 IIBEC CEH and 1.25 AIA LU/Elective!  

If you haven’t already, make sure you are registered to attend the 2026 IIBEC Convention and Expo! And if you’re interested in learning more about Trent’s session or any of the other education opportunities at the show, check out the full schedule online.

By Dani Sheehan. 

Tariffs remain part of the operating environment, even as the legal justification behind them evolves. What does this mean for your business? 

In a recent 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the president exceeded his authority by imposing sweeping global tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). At the time this was written, the Court found that while the law allows economic action during national emergencies, it does not explicitly authorize broad tariff programs which require Congressional approval under the Constitution. 

Shortly after the ruling, the administration clarified that tariffs were not eliminated, only the use of IEEPA for that purpose. Existing tariffs remain in place, and a new 10% global tariff was immediately announced under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.  

For the roofing industry, we want to explore how trade policy uncertainty amidst this latest ruling continues to shape pricing, contracts and planning decisions as we move through 2026. 

How this affects the roofing industry 

The Supreme Court decision narrowed the legal pathway used to justify certain tariffs, but it did not remove tariff authority altogether. We asked Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese LLP, how this might affect the industry in the coming months. He replied, sharing: 

The Supreme Court’s recent ruling was not unanticipated and impacts the current tariff structure under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Roofing contractors should recognize that the Administration will propose alternative means to support a tariff program through sections contained in the Trade Act of 1974, Trade Expansion Act of 1962 or Tariff Act of 1930. The ruling does inject uncertainty into the extent and amount of tariffs and the impact of tariffs that were already assessed under the IEEPA. Regardless, from a legal perspective, we encourage contractors to include price acceleration provisions in their contract to account for tariff activity. 

Construction is especially sensitive to trade policy because so many commonly used materials rely on imported inputs. The rising uncertainty in the wake of this ruling requires us to be cautious about assuming near-term price relief. Even if certain tariffs are refunded, the timeline is vague, and pricing rarely comes down quickly, especially once inventory, supplier contracts and freight costs are already set. 

Why this moment still matters 

While continued tariff activity may feel like more of the same, there is constructive movement for the roofing industry: 

• Trade policy is now more clearly tied to defined statutory authority, rather than emergency powers 
• That clarity can lead to more predictable decision-making over time 
• Contractors who understand where tariffs can and cannot come from are better positioned to manage risk 

What you can do 

1 – Build protection into contracts  

Proactive contract language is one of the most effective tools contractors can have. Including price escalation or acceleration clauses allow contractors to adjust pricing when material costs change due to tariffs or other external factors, helping protect margins on longer-term projects. 

2 – Continue planning for cost variability 

Tariffs are only one factor influencing roofing costs, alongside labor availability, freight, insurance and compliance requirements. Smart contractors will continue to carry contingencies in bids, lock pricing where possible and avoid over-committing on long lead-time materials without flexibility. 

3 – Communicate clearly with customers 

This ruling provides a helpful framework for customer conversations. You can explain that: 

• Pricing volatility is driven by global trade dynamics 
• Legal clarity helps planning but there is still risk 
• Your role includes managing uncertainty on behalf of your customer 

The Top Lawyers list is based on peer surveys and recognizes leading attorneys in Florida across Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties. 

Adams & Reese has 14 attorneys selected among Tampa Magazine's 2026 Top Lawyers. The Top Lawyers list is based on peer surveys and recognizes leading attorneys in Florida across Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties. Adams & Reese attorneys were honored in several practice areas, including construction, commercial litigation, corporate transactions, financial services, labor and employment and real estate law.

Adams & Reese Tampa Magazine's 2026 Top Lawyers honorees include:

• Richard Asfar: Appellate Practice
• Benjamin Bard: Employee Benefits (ERISA), Labor Law (Management)
• Virgil "Tray" Batcher: Litigation Construction
• Benjamin Briggs: Employment Law (Management)
• Trent Cotney: Arbitration, Construction Law
• Jacqueline Feliciano: Business Organizations Law (LLCs & Partnerships), Corporate Law
• Tiffany Love: Community Association Law
• Andrew McBride: Litigation Real Estate, Real Estate Law
• Donald A. Mihokovich: Ethics & Professional Law
• Brian Oblow: Mediation
• Eric Partlow: Commercial Litigation & Transactions (UCC Law)
• Chantal Pillay: Banking Finance Law, Litigation Banking & Finance
• Kyle Rea: Administrative & Regulatory Law
• Louis Ursini III: Banking Finance Law, Family Law (Mediation)

To view the complete list of Tampa Magazine's Top Lawyers, visit their website.

In this Coffee Conversations®, Megan Ellsworth is joined by Trent Cotney of Adams & Reese for a timely discussion on the state of the roofing industry. The conversation explores how immigration policy and economic conditions are influencing labor availability, project planning and contractor decision-making. They break down the importance of Roofing Day in Washington, D.C., and why industry advocacy matters now more than ever. Megan and Trent will also take a look at how artificial intelligence is beginning to impact roofing operations and what contractors should understand as technology continues to evolve. This conversation offers a clear look at the forces shaping roofing in 2026 and why staying informed matters now more than ever. 

Register today!

By Emma Peterson. 

Trent Cotney breaks down the legal changes and predictions from January 2026.  

Everyone is hitting the ground running this year, and that includes legal institutions and structures! It is important to make sure you are staying up to date on all the changes that are happening, which is why the Cotney Briefs are such a powerful resource. Written by Trent Cotney, a partner with Adams and Reese, the briefs cover the most important legal news contractors need to know about. For the first month of 2026, Trent covered the latest legal updates industry professionals should know about.  

1 – California contract requirements tighten 

California’s AB 1327 (Aguiar-Curry) has added a new consumer protection requirement in relation to home improvement contracts. Contractors now must include “a valid email address in the contract and allow homeowners to cancel the agreement via email.” Failure to do so can lead to issues with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). 

What this means for contractors: If you operate in the state of California, you should immediately update your contract templates to be compliant with this requirement. You should also ensure that your company’s internal processes can accept and track cancellations that are sent electronically. 

2 – Reduction of construction attorney fees in a Florida court 

The Nova Southeastern University, Inc. v. Garratt-Callahan Co. case centered on a dispute “over biological growth and performance issues in its chilled-water/ice-tank system.” When settlements were made with two out of the three defendants in the case, NSU sought to recover the construction attorney fees for all three under the argument that the claims were “inextricably intertwined.” The court only affirmed a return of 15% of the fees sought, as they determined that the claims were not “inextricably intertwined.” 

What this means for contractors: Winning your case does not guarantee the recovery of attorney fees. In this case, the court rejected the plaintiff’s request for all fees recovered due to “the claims against the settling defendants [being related to work] performed different services, at different times, under different scopes of work, and without a common core of facts.” 

3 – Defining contractual boundaries 

It is common for contractors to be asked to review design plans and offer feedback to the designer. However, this is leading to contractors “increasingly being pulled into claims alleging design defects, code violations or professional negligence based on informal input provided during the construction process.” 

What this means for contractors: To avoid any liability, it is key to include a provision in your contract that makes it clear you are not providing professional design services. Trent recommends including a statement similar to the following in your contracts to prevent such situations: 

Contractor is not a licensed architect or professional engineer and does not provide architectural or engineering services. Any plans, specifications, drawings, details, recommendations, shop drawing or suggestions provided by Contractor are offered solely for the purpose of facilitating construction and are not intended as professional design services. Responsibility for the adequacy, accuracy and code compliance of all design documents rests exclusively with the project owner and/or the owner’s licensed design professionals. Contractor shall not be responsible for errors, omissions or deficiencies in the plans, specifications or other design documents provided to Contractor. 

4 – An expanding global market 

As Venezuela and Cuba re-engage with the global market, opportunities for international work will begin to appear. Trent predicts that there will be two waves to the work that will emerge:  

1. Pre-existing structural repair: The first wave will likely prioritize repairing what is already there. He shared, “Decades of deferred maintenance have taken a toll on housing stock, industrial facilities, ports, hospitals, schools and energy-adjacent infrastructure. Roofs leak. Mechanical systems fail. Water intrusion and corrosion are widespread.” 
2. Foreign-backed projects: The next wave will be more focused on new construction. Trent predicted, “Early capital is more likely to flow through joint ventures, multinational developers, NGOs, energy companies or government-adjacent entities operating with foreign financing.” 

What this means for contractors: The markets in Venezuela and Cuba are long-term opportunities for contractors who position themselves correctly today. Right now, the focus for contractors should be on relationship-building and preparation for operation in imperfect conditions (remote sites, supply struggles, evolving regulations, etc.). 

Read the entire brief from January and more online.

Record-breaking exhibitor numbers, expanded programming to compliment growing verticals and innovation define the 2026 event.

The International Roofing Expo, (IRE) the leading destination for residential and commercial roofing and exteriors professionals, concluded its largest edition to date. Thousands of craftsmen gathered for three days of product discovery, access to the newest technological advancements and design innovations, solidifying the event’s position as the ultimate hub for advancing the roofing and exteriors industry.

A record-breaking year for IRE

The 2026 edition of IRE set a new benchmark as the largest show in the event’s history, spanning more than 230,000 net square feet and featuring 700+ exhibitors. The event attracted a strong international audience, with attendees from Canada, Mexico, China, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Colombia and beyond, eager to gain insights into the North American roofing market, which holds a major share of global revenue.

Innovative exhibitors and first-time features

This year’s event welcomed over 180 new exhibiting companies, introducing groundbreaking products and solutions to meet the growing demand for roofing materials. The debut of the First Look Area showcased a curated selection of startups and emerging companies, including RAM Companies, Cool Roof Distribution, Roofs In A Box, Zuper and more. Returning industry leaders such as ABC Supply, GAF, QXO, Atlas Roofing Corporation, Owens Corning, SRS Distribution and Polyglass USA Inc. reaffirmed their commitment to innovation and excellence.

Empowering professionals through education

IRE 2026 delivered a robust educational program with over 165 sessions including conference, expo hall education and hands-on demonstrations, covering critical topics such as workplace safety, financial management, legal and regulatory compliance, leadership, business strategies, sales and service techniques, technical skills and sustainability. These sessions provided actionable insights to empower attendees with the tools needed for personal and professional growth.

The General Session panel brought together industry leaders from Roofing Contractor, BNP Media, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and Adams and Reese LLP. Panelists including NRCA leadership and renowned legal expert Trent Cotney discussed the state of the roofing industry, offering perspectives on current challenges, future opportunities and the evolving market landscape.

Strengthening the roofing community

IRE continues to champion initiatives that foster inclusivity and community engagement within the roofing industry: The Hispanic Contractors Program, providing networking and educational opportunities to empower Hispanic professionals in the sector. Roofers in Recovery returned for its second year, contributing vital mental health resources and support to industry professionals. The 17th annual Community Service Day, sponsored by Sika, Atlas, Roofing Contractor, Centimark, Reliable Onsite Services, Western Elite, Farrell Roofing and in partnership with Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada, saw volunteers repair homes for local residents, with materials generously donated by GAF.

“This year’s International Roofing Expo was a testament to the strength and growth of the roofing and home improvement industry,” says Rich Russo, show director, International Roofing Expo. “With record-breaking exhibitor participation, new initiatives and a strong presence of decision-makers, IRE 2026 proved to be the centerpiece of the innovation and collaboration that drive this industry forward.”

Expanding the exteriors segment

The Pro Contractors Pavilion returned as a key feature on the show floor, serving as a dedicated space for collaboration between home improvement professionals and roofing contractors. This expansion fostered new business opportunities and strengthened industry partnerships.

“If you are in the roofing industry, IRE is a great place to make connections, meet new people and learn about new products. If you [have] a business and want to understand what your market is doing, it is a great place to check...out [the landscape], check out what your competition is up to and learn more,” remarks Danielle Wells, president, Progressive Materials.

Looking ahead to 2027

The International Roofing Expo will return to Las Vegas, February 16-18, 2027, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. For updates and information on next year’s event, visit www.theroofingexpo.com.

About International Roofing Expo

The International Roofing Expo® is the premier event for both the commercial and residential roofing and exterior construction industries. The IRE brings the professional community together to help them stay current on trending knowledge and to see the largest selection of products and services. The event helps professionals improve their business through education, exhibitions and networking. The International Roofing Expo is owned and operated by Informa Markets. The official show sponsor is NRCA and the official show publication is Roofing Contractor. For more information, please visit www.theroofingexpo.com.

About Informa Markets

Informa Markets, a subsidiary of Informa plc (LON:INF), creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate and grow. Our portfolio comprises more than 550 international B2B events and brands in markets including Engineering, Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals, Infrastructure, Construction & Real Estate, Fashion & Apparel, Hospitality, Food & Beverage and Health & Nutrition, among others. We provide customers and partners around the globe with opportunities to engage, experience and do business through face-to-face exhibitions, specialist digital content and actionable data solutions. As the world's leading exhibitions organizer, we bring a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days of the year. For more information, visit www.informamarkets.com.

By Emma Peterson. 

We sat down with roofing industry leaders to hear their thoughts about 2025 and predictions for 2026.  

For the last Coffee Conversations® of 2025, we hosted a panel of professionals from all sides of the roofing industry to reflect on 2025 and look ahead to 2026. This powerful conversation, sponsored by SRS Distribution, is a great resource for any professional moving forward in the roofing world this year. Keep reading to hear some insights from each professional.  

Trent Cotney 

Trent is the construction team lead at Adams and Reese, as well as the general counsel for industry associations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association, Western States Roofing Contractors Association and Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association.  

When asked about the roofing industry in 2025, Trent highlighted the importance of preparation in relation to challenges like immigration and tariffs. He explained, “What you're starting to see coming out of 2025 and moving into 2026 is contractors embracing the idea that preparation is key.” Whether that looks like organizing tax forms or adding supply clauses to contracts, contractors are improving when it comes to preparation in the last year according to Trent. 

This is a testament to the resilience of roofers, which Trent sees as a key force in the new year. He explained, “There's nothing more resilient than roofing... There will always be issues, struggles and hardships, but we’ve proven this year that we can course correct as they crop up. I see nothing but positivity for 2026.” 

Elizabeth Hurst 

In her role at Sherwin-Williams, Elizabeth examines external market indicators in order to help the Sherwin-Williams sales team stay competitive. She talked about the larger economic picture of the roofing industry sharing what she saw in 2025: “There a lot of uncertainty around things like tariffs that changed the game... But in response I saw a lot of leaders in the industry fall back on the adage of control what you can control.”  

In other words, Elizabeth shared about the same resilience that Trent was talking about. She explained, “A lot of leaders were investing in a growth mindset because they trusted that it was all going to work out. Their perspective was, ‘It's going to shake out, as long as I do what I need to be doing and focus on what I need to focus on.’” And that perspective is what will carry our industry through whatever 2026 throws at us and beyond. 

Steve Little 

As for Steve, he is not only the owner/head coach of K-Post Roofing and Waterproofing, but also a founding partner of National Roofing Partners, which includes over 200 contractors across the United States.  

In both these ventures, Steve has seen firsthand how contractors have risen to the challenges that Trent, Elizabeth and Patrick mentioned. He shared an example: “It's very challenging right now, but we’re seeing a lot of contractors adapt. For example, capital projects were down. In response, a lot of contractors invested in the service side of the business with coatings and other options that extend the life of the roof.”  

Additionally, as we continue to face labor challenges, whether that comes from the pre-existing shortages or more recent immigration policy changes, Steve has seen the industry come together to adapt. He explained, “The Roofing Alliance and NRCA have really come together through SkillsUSA to introduce young people to roofing. There’s also the program at Clemson’s Center for Roofing and the Merit Shop apprenticeship will launch soon...On the immigration side, Congress is working on a Dignity Bill that would allow for a seven-year work permit, which would be huge for our economy and immigrant workers... So there’s a lot to be hopeful about in the new year.”  

Patrick Garcia 

And last but not least, Patrick is responsible for “digital engineering, AI and innovation” for both SRS and Heritage. He had similar insights to Elizabeth, sharing, “This year had a variety of challenges, from labor shortages to cost pressures, but these challenges also offered opportunities.” The main opportunity? A chance to step back and truly think about and improve the collaboration between manufacturers, distributors and contractors. 

Looking ahead at 2026, Patrick hopes this collaboration continues to develop and grow. He shared, “Today, we have a more connected, data-driven ecosystem across distribution contractors and manufacturers. And as we face challenges, this connection is driving deeper conversations about creating a win-win-win mindset wherein, if the manufacturers win, the distributor wins and the contractors win... If we can achieve that, we move the whole industry forward to a more connected, inclusive and resilient future.” 

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording to hear more expert insights as we move into the new year.

By Emma Peterson. 

With over 150 education sessions, it’s time to start planning! 

World of Concrete (WOC) is the place to be if you are looking to level up your knowledge about the masonry and cement industries. Whether you need business advice or specific technical training, you won’t want to miss a moment of the in-depth WOC education program. Here are some of the top sessions and educational events that we are looking forward to! 

Featured education sessions 

I-9 compliance and ICE audits: What employers need to know 

Taught by the incredible Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese, this seminar will cover the legal knowledge and tools needed to protect your business and ensure compliance with federal immigration laws. It will be hosted on Monday, January 19 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.  

Robotic and other high tolerance floors: Specifying, testing and achieving acceptable tolerances 

Looking to gain a better understanding of various high tolerance floor specifications and how to meet them? This session on Tuesday, January 20 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. taught by Jerry Holland (Structural Services Inc.) and Justin Jefferis (Structural Services Incorporated) is a must-attend. 

Manufactured stone veneer: Efficient modified mortar installations and eliminating costly mistakes 

This session, hosted on Tuesday, January 20 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., will take attendees through “assessing substrates, modified mortar options and selection and outlining the crucial steps for mixing modified mortars.” It is taught by Westlake Royal Stone Solutions’ Jeff Tew.  

Tours, luncheons and breakfasts 

Hoover Dam and Bypass Bridge tour 

Led by Rick Yelton, WOC’s editor and chair of the ACI 120-History committee, this incredible tour will take you around two of the world’s most famous concrete structures – Hoover Dam and the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Attendees will not only get to see these structures up close, but they will also get Rick’s behind-the-scenes knowledge about how they have impacted the concrete industry. There will be two tours, one on Sunday, January 18 and the other on Friday, January 23.  

Breakfast with the experts 

Hosted by Master Builders Solutions, this is your opportunity to get breakfast and pick the minds of some of the industry’s experts. With start times all three days at either 6:45 a.m. or 8:15 a.m., this is your opportunity to get your questions answered. Questions should be directed to seminars@worldofconcrete.com. 

Concrete polishing luncheon 

Presented by the Concrete Polishing Council (CPC), this interactive luncheon creates a space for you to learn directly from polishing contractors about how they have used their CPC membership to grow their businesses. The luncheon will be hosted from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20. Direct questions to seminars@WorldofConcrete.com or to Rick Yelton at 630-605-7203. 

Economic forecast breakfast with Ed Sullivan and Pierre Villere 

If there’s any takeaway from the economics of the last year, it’s that anything and everything can change. This breakfast (hosted on Wednesday, January 21 from 7:45 a.m. to 9 a.m.) is your opportunity to hear from distinguished economists Ed Sullivan and Pierre Villere about critical market projections and emerging trends to watch. 

Quality in concrete slabs luncheon 

Hosted by World of Concrete and American Society of Concrete Contractors, this luncheon gives you the opportunity to hear from a distinguished panel of concrete contractors and industry experts about their experiences producing durable concrete slabs in today’s environment. It will be hosted on January 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

3D construction printing luncheon 

And last but not least, World of Concrete will be hosting a final luncheon on Thursday, January 22 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This one will feature expert discussions of 3D construction printing in both residential and commercial marketplaces. Specific questions can be sent to seminars@WorldofConcrete.com or to Rick Yelton at 630-605-7203. 

Interactive workshops 

Monday, January 19 

• 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Train-the-trainer: Fall protection end user 
• 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Estimating and risk management 
• 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. – Train-the-trainer: Overhead crane 

Tuesday, January 20  

• 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. – Train-the-trainer: Construction forklift 
• 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Growing from laborer to leader 
• 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. – Train-the-trainer: Mobile elevated working platforms 
• 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. – Maximum productivity: Time management, time budgeting and organizational strategies 

Wednesday, January 21 

• 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. –  From jobsite to bottom line: Using financials to improve profitability 
• 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Train-the-trainer: Rigging and signaling 
• 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. – Women at work: Tools, allies and strategies for career growth in construction 

Thursday, January 22 

• 7:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Engineering: Designing for constructability 
• 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Engineering focused full-day package 
• 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. – Engineering: Bridging the gap between the general contractor and the engineer 

Spanish and bilingual sessions 

Monday, January 19 

• 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. – PTI Spanish language level 1 unbonded pt installation certification 

Tuesday, January 20  

• 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. – PTI Spanish language level 1 unbonded pt installation certification 
• 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. – AI test drive: An interactive education session and reception 

Wednesday, January 21 

• 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. – Mejora tu liderazgo, haz tu empresa más competitiva y aumenta tu rentabilidad 
• 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. – ACI concrete flatwork associate, finisher and advanced finisher review seminar 
• 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. – From pilot to productivity: How leaders operationalize new tech 
• 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. – Fundamental principles of high-quality concrete 

Thursday, January 22 

• 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. – Sealers & Surface Protection to Ensure Proper Selection 
• 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. – ACI Concrete Flatwork Finisher Written Examination 

Conclusion 

Overall, whatever sessions you attend or speakers you listen to, you are bound to walk away from the 2026 World of Concrete show with a better understanding of the masonry and cement industry and plenty of new ideas to kick off your year with. You can check out the entire education program schedule online. Also, if you’re at the show, make sure to stop by The Coffee Shops booth in South Hall lobby during a break between sessions and say hi! 

And for those of you who haven’t already gotten tickets to WOC, The Coffee Shops is giving away three education super passes for the show! The giveaway is open until December 20, 2025, so make sure to enter for a chance to win! 

By Emma Peterson. 

What contractors need to know about 2025’s policy shifts, labor crackdowns and cost increases. 

As we come to the end of 2025, it is hard to believe how much has happened over the course of one year. From rising prices due to tariffs to drastic immigration policy changes, uncertainty has been the name of the game. To look back at the year and unpack a few highlight moments, Heidi J. Ellsworth hosted Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese for a Contractor Outlook™ episode all about navigating tariffs and labor in an uncertain market.  

Trade policy tariffs 

If you’ve been following the news at all, it’s likely you’ve seen a lot of back and forth about what items are tariffed and by how much. The one consistent we’ve seen has been a steep tariff on steel and steel-related accessories. Though other products used across the industry might not have been so directly impacted, everyone is feeling the strain. Trent explained, “We don't know the full extent of the impact of some of these tariffs as they take a while to trickle down through the economy, and they are constantly changing. So that level of uncertainty has created some issues not dissimilar to what we saw during COVID-19.”  

Labor and immigration 

As we all know, there has been a distinct uptick in immigration enforcement. Most obviously, we have seen a rise in United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity around the country. But in addition to that, the current administration has changed some immigration policies to make it harder to bring new labor into the market. Trent explained, “As an industry, we're fairly reliant on foreign labor, both as W-2 and as subcrews with 1099s. And the current administration, which has zero tolerance policies that relates to immigration, just increased H1Bs by $100,000, making it very difficult for the industry to get legal workers here to help fill our jobs.”  

The result? A shrinking labor pool in an industry that was already struggling to find labor. Trent shared his thoughts on this, explaining, "At the end of the day, a shrinking labor pool is going to raise the cost of labor. Both in vertical and horizontal construction.” 

What contractors can do 

In the face of this level of uncertainty, Trent’s advice is twofold: Prepare what you can and focus on your operations. Some proactive steps that Trent recommends include adjusting your contracts to account for possible tariff changes. He explained, “Regardless of whether you're doing residential, commercial or industrial, you want a price acceleration provision in your contract...In some recent contracts I'm working on, we had to create and draft a very specific price acceleration provision that dealt specifically with tariffs and how to track the increased cost based on U.S. website data and other things like that.” 

In terms of immigration, you should make sure all your workers’ documents are organized and up to date (if you want to learn more about preparing for immigration enforcement, check out this article). Beyond these suggestions, Trent’s main recommendation was to stay focused on your business. He shared, “Your focus should be on the basics of running your business, of really trying to make it successful. Obviously, to a certain extent, it's important to understand what's going on in the news, right? But if you get too caught up in it, you’ll feel like the sky is falling. For me, I tend to put my head down and until something pops me in the head and says, ‘hey, I got an issue here,’ then it's just business as usual.” 

Listen to the episode or Watch the recording for more legal insights from Trent.