Virginia's roofing association drives industry standards forward

By Adam Cabrera. 

VARP leads innovation and supports an industry through government affairs advocacy and workforce development. 

The Virginia Association of Roofing Professionals (VARP) is integral to the state's roofing community and works to support the industry through innovation and advocacy. In a recent Roofing Road Trips® episode, host Heidi J. Ellsworth interviewed Heather Greenwell, VARP's executive director, and Rick Heath, a representative for Carlisle Roofing and an active member of VARP. Together they shared their thoughts about this year's 56th Annual Summer Convention and the broader impact of VARP on the industry as a whole. 

The Annual Summer Convention, as Heather explained, “Is a chance for the roofing professionals, contractors, suppliers and consultants to come together once a year." It's a special event that provides a platform for the industry to both celebrate recent achievements and discuss collective issues.  

Rick, who has been with the association for nearly two decades, reiterated this sentiment. "It's a time to get together as a roofing community," he said, emphasizing the relaxed, informal nature of the event that makes it easier "to have a conversation over a cold beer rather than sitting in an office." 

However, the association's efforts extend far beyond annual conventions. Rick highlighted VARP's commitment to staying ahead of government affairs and contributing to workforce development. These efforts not only support the industry but also "help separate our accredited contractors from the two guys in a pickup truck that don't have licensing," he pointed out, underscoring the association's dedication to professionalism.  

Currently the organization is working on creating a streamlined path to solar licensing for accredited contractors looking to expand their business offerings. “Right now, you have people putting solar panels on roofs and putting holes in customers' roofs and voiding their warranty,” Heather said. “But that's what VARP's all about, is working on these common issues that benefit everyone.” With the community's involvement, the association hopes to be able to start a solar licensing program by 2024. 

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about VARP and everything they are doing to support their community and drive innovation in the industry.