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Invest in your future with these professional training programs

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 17:00:00 PDT

By The Coffee Shops®.

New roofing sustainability course helps contractors prepare for an evolving industry

As building performance expectations continue to change, roofing contractors are being asked to do more than install quality roof systems.To help roofing professionals stay ahead of these trends, the Roofing Alliance–Clemson University Professional Training Program has introduced a new course focused on one of the industry's fastest-growing areas: sustainability and resiliency.

The fully online, self-paced program now offers four roofing-specific courses designed to help professionals expand their knowledge and strengthen their careers. For a limited time, participants can save $300 per course using promotional code 85XNX8.

A timely focus on sustainability and resiliency

The new roofing sustainability and resiliency course gives contractors practical knowledge about sustainable roofing practices, resilient building design and the trends influencing today's construction market. As building owners look for roofing systems that can reduce environmental impact and better withstand severe weather events, understanding these concepts can help contractors have more informed conversations with customers and identify new business opportunities.

Training that fits the roofing industry

Rather than focusing solely on technical specifications, the course provides a broader perspective on how sustainability and resiliency are shaping project requirements, building performance goals and future industry growth. For contractors looking to differentiate themselves in a competitive market, that knowledge can be a valuable asset.

Additionally, one of the biggest advantages of the Roofing Alliance–Clemson University Professional Training Program is its flexibility. Because the courses are fully online and self-paced, participants can learn on their own schedules without disrupting project timelines or business operations.

Whether you're onboarding new employees, preparing team members for leadership roles or investing in your own professional growth, the program offers industry-specific instruction that can be applied directly to real-world roofing challenges.

Four courses built for roofing professionals

In addition to the new sustainability course, the program includes three other professional development opportunities covering key aspects of the roofing industry.

Roofing fundamentals introduces participants to roofing materials, installation methods, safety practices and structural concepts, making it an effective resource for new employees entering the industry.
Roofing management focuses on project planning, crew leadership, quality control and jobsite operations, helping professionals strengthen their management capabilities.
Roofing business and leadership explores the business side of roofing, including financial strategy, marketing, leadership development and company culture.

Together, these courses provide a well-rounded education that supports professionals at every stage of their careers, from field personnel to company leadership.

Enroll today

The roofing industry continues to evolve, and contractors who stay informed about emerging trends will be better positioned to compete and grow. The new roofing sustainability and resiliency course provides an opportunity to gain insight into a rapidly expanding area of roofing while building knowledge that can benefit both your projects and your business.

With $300 off each course using promotional code 85XNX8, now is an excellent time to explore the program and invest in your team's future success.

Roofing industry rallies to restore camp cabins

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 05:00:00 PDT

By Alex Tolle.

When a Southern California camp serving children with cancer needed some help, nearly 70 roofing professionals joined forces to deliver five brand new cabin roofs.

On August 18, 2026, roofing professionals gathered at Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times in Southern California to install new roofs on five of the camp’s 14 cabins. The work was made possible by volunteers who contributed their time and professional expertise, along with companies that provided the labor and materials needed to complete the installations. Participating companies included Antis Roofing and Waterproofing, Gabella Construction, GAF, Howard and Sons Inc., QXO and Shell Roofing Solutions.

About the camp

The project helped protect a place where children with cancer can step away from hospitals and treatments and spend time simply enjoying being kids. As described on their website:

Camp programs provide children with cancer and families the opportunity to pause, connect with others who are facing similar challenges, and renew a sense of hope. We help youth build courage and independence, and experience a sense of belonging in a healing, medically safe environment. Learn which program is right for you.

About the project

Together, the participating professionals addressed more than one-third of the camp’s cabins in a single day. Their contributions supported the camp’s ability to continue providing children with a special place to get away from the medical environments that are often part of their daily lives.

The project continued the longstanding partnership between Ronald McDonald House and the Roofing Alliance. Since 2017, Roofing Alliance and National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) members have donated millions of dollars in roofing materials and labor to assist Ronald McDonald House programs across the country.

Reflecting and looking forward

For contractors, manufacturers, distributors and other roofing professionals, efforts like this show how industry knowledge can serve communities beyond the jobsite. Every volunteer and participating company played a role in protecting the facilities that help make the camp experience possible.

This day of service represented the roofing industry at its best: Professionals coming together, sharing their talents and making a meaningful difference for children and their families.

Learn more about how the Roofing Alliance and NRCA members support Ronald McDonald House programs through donated roofing materials and labor.

Roofing Alliance expands professional training program with new sustainability and resiliency course

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 06:00:00 PDT

This fully online, self-paced training course gives roofing professionals practical knowledge of sustainability and resiliency across the roofing supply chain.

The Roofing Alliance–Clemson University Professional Training Program has launched its newest course, Roofing Sustainability and Resiliency. This fully online, self-paced training course gives roofing professionals practical knowledge of sustainability and resiliency across the roofing supply chain—and participants can now earn 8 AIA Continuing Education credits.

Topics explored during this new course include:

Sustainability and resiliency
Raw material extraction and procurement
Manufacturing and production process
Distribution considerations
Roof construction and installation
Installation quality assurance and quality control
Post construction performance and maintenance
Life cycle assessment
Innovation in roofing
Market drivers, trainings and certifications
Challenges and commitment to sustainability

The new course joins three existing professional training courses:

Roofing Fundamentals
Roofing Management
Roofing Business and Leadership

Take one course or all four. Participants have 60 days to complete each course and, upon successful completion of the coursework and final examination, earn a Certificate of Completion. NRCA members save $100 per course, and Roofing Alliance members save $300 per course. Bulk pricing also is available.

To learn more about roofing sustainability and resiliency, visit here.

About The Roofing Alliance

The Roofing Alliance unites a powerful network of more than 210 forward-thinking industry leaders committed to advancing and shaping the future of the roofing industry. Through strategic investments, collaboration and industry partnerships, the Roofing Alliance funds high-impact initiatives focused on education, cutting-edge research, workforce development and philanthropic outreach that strengthens communities across the country. From supporting the next generation of roofing professionals through scholarships, university partnerships and career development programs to driving innovation through industry research its Center for Roofing Innovation and Leadership, the Roofing Alliance serves as a catalyst for long-term growth, leadership and excellence across the roofing industry. For more information, please contact Alison L. LaValley, executive director, at alavalley@nrca.net.

Roofing Alliance members and new donor partners host their third roofing celebration five new roofs donated at Camp Ronald McDonald for good times

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 12:00:00 PDT

This year, Antis Roofing, Shell Roofing, QXO, GAF, Howard and Sons and Gabella lead the charge.

August 18 marks a major roofing event for Southern California Roofing Alliance and Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times in Mountain Center, California. The event includes five live-action roof installations onsite, while mariachi music and a festive fish taco luncheon by Wahoo’s Fish Tacos take place below.

This is the third big event for the Southern California team since the first took place in 2017. The second one occurred in 2021. This year, Antis Roofing, Shell Roofing, QXO, GAF, Howard and Sons and Gabella lead the charge.

The partnership will continue its service for RMHC roofing as needs arise, adding it to other philanthropic commitments that each partner has in its own community.

Nearly a decade of providing new roofs for one of America’s most beloved charities

The Roofing Alliance was the first collaborative roof donation effort dedicated to a national nonprofit. Antis Roofing and several other Roofing Alliance members stepped up and committed to installing new roofs, or repairing existing roofs, for all 165 Ronald McDonald Houses across the US in 2017. They undertook the first collaborative roof maintenance project for RMHC in 2017, with a particular focus on Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times.

“There are partners who give, and then there are partners who continue showing up year after year,” says Fatima Djelmane Rodriguez, chief executive officer of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California. “For the third time since 2017, Antis Roofing, Shell Roofing and their material partners are investing in Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times and the families we serve. Their generosity ensures our camp remains a safe, welcoming place where children with cancer and their families can focus on what matters most; creating joyful memories, building resilience and simply being together.”

The roofing events are organized to be as celebratory as they are useful. “Returning to Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times for the third time since 2017 is what partnership and purpose look like in action,” says Charles Antis, Founder and Chief People Awakener at Antis Roofing & Waterproofing. “We’re incredibly grateful for our generous industry partners, Shell Roofing, QXO and GAF, whose continued commitment allows us to provide five new roofs so the camp can keep focusing on what matters most - the kids and families it serves!”

Alumni camper Monet will be attending the August 18 event. She started out as a camper and is now on staff as the camp’s social media manager.

Event details

Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2026

Location: Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times, 56400 Apple Canyon Rd, Mountain Center, California 92561

Schedule

8:30 am – Welcome (shirts & striped socks distributed to all guests)

9:30 am – Group photos

10:15 am – Interviews with donors, roofers and RMH staff

11:30 am – Lunch, special recognition tributes and remarks

1 pm – Camp tour

2 pm – Event ends

About Antis Roofing & Waterproofing

Founded in 1989, Antis Roofing and Waterproofing is a fully licensed, bonded and insured provider of roofing and waterproofing services for homeowner’s associations and multi-tenant housing communities in Orange, San Diego, Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Utilizing innovative technology, comprehensive photo-documentation systems and the industry’s most experienced technicians, Antis is one of the most trusted names in the roofing industry and a respected leader in community philanthropy. For more information, visit www.antisroofing.com.

Taking the helm

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 13:00:00 PDT

By Emma Peterson.

Sherri Miles’ journey to leadership and her new role as the Roofing Alliance’s president.

Recently, we had Sherri Miles of Miles Roofing on an episode of Roofing Road Trips® to talk about her roofing career. Her journey to becoming a contractor started even before she was born, as she’s a fourth-generation roofer. She recalled, “My company was started in 1910 by my great-grandfather, who was a tinner. We've been here in Chesapeake for 116 years now and still get calls from people who we put their roof on five or six decades ago.”

Over the course of Sherri’s roofing career, she has not only worked her way up to taking the helm as president of the family business, but also taking the helm of Roofing Alliance, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)’s charitable arm. As Sherri described it, “The Roofing Alliance is a foundation for the roofing industry as a whole. We're based on four pillars – supporting philanthropy, innovating with sustainability, developing the workforce and revolutionizing roofing technology.”

Taking on the role of president is a huge undertaking, but one that Sherri is excited for. She shared, “I'm so proud and happy to be president during this really cool time. We’re 30 years young this year and everyone working at the Alliance is excited to build on that legacy.” And that legacy is especially important to Sherri, as she explained, “My dad, Dudley, was a former NRCA president in the early nineties and he was going around with Bill Good and Melvin Krueger to raise funds and to this day he still remains involved with whatever he can do with the Alliance...So taking on this role is really amazing.”

Want to learn more about Sherri, her journey and her plans as the Roofing Alliance’s newest president? Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording.

13 is the lucky number!

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 13:00:00 PDT

By The Coffee Shops®.

The Melvin Kruger Scholarship Program awarded 13 new and renewal scholarships to students for the 2026-27 year.

The Roofing Alliance, a powerful network of more than 210 forward-thinking industry leaders committed to advancing and shaping the future of the roofing industry, is proud to be supporting the next generation of construction and roofing industry professionals through the 2026-27 Melvin Kruger Scholarship Award!

This program offers three scholarship opportunities and is open to employees of roofing industry companies, their spouses and dependent children. It is also open to undergraduate-level construction management students and students enrolled in career and technical education programs or schools, regardless of industry affiliation.

The entire goal of it is to support young people pursuing construction management, architecture, engineering, business and related studies. As Roofing Alliance Executive Director Alison LaValley put it, “Scholarships are one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in the future of our industry. By supporting students pursuing careers in construction management and related fields, we're not only helping them achieve their educational goals — we're strengthening the workforce and ensuring the roofing industry has the talented leaders it needs for tomorrow.”

For the 2026-27 program year, the Roofing Alliance awarded a total of $59,000 spread among 13 new Melvin Kruger Endowed Scholarship recipients! These recipients were Garrett Beckstead (Louisiana State University), Nasheed Benjamin (Tuskegee University), Jaleni Diaz De Leon (Colorado State University), Carter Dominique (Ohio State University), Tanner Gawith (Tuskegee University), Sascha Oliveira (Penn State York), Rylee Raukits (University of Florida), Yahir Reyes-Morga (Forsyth Technical Community College), Alessandro Rignanese (Florida International University), Ashwin Varadhan (Auburn University), Norman Warcholik (Arizona State University), Austin Ziringer (Columbus State Community Colleg) and Kyle Ziringer (Ohio State University).

An additional $55,000 was awarded to 12 students through renewal scholarships. All of this brings the total number of students and awarded funds in the Melvin Kruger Endowed Scholarship program to 186 students and $1,366,500.

The Roofing Alliance announces 2026-2027 Melvin Kruger Scholarship recipients

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 20:00:00 PDT

The Roofing Alliance approved thirteen new Melvin Kruger Endowed Scholarship recipients.

The Scholarship program offers three scholarship opportunities, and all categories are open to employees of roofing industry companies, their spouses and dependent children. It is also open to construction management students enrolled in undergraduate level or students enrolled in CTE programs or schools, regardless of industry affiliation.

The Roofing Alliance approved thirteen new Melvin Kruger Endowed Scholarship recipients, including:

Garrett Beckstead, studying Construction Management, Louisiana State University
Nasheed Benjamin, studying Construction Science Management, Tuskegee University
Jaleni Diaz De Leon, studying Construction Science Management, Colorado State University
Carter Dominique, studying Construction Management, Ohio State University
Tanner Gawith, studying Construction Science Management, Tuskegee University
Sascha Oliveira, studying Sports Management, Penn State York
Rylee Raukits, studying Construction Management, University of Florida
Yahir Reyes-Morga, studying Architectural Technology – 3D Scanning & Building Information Modeling, Forsyth Technical Community College
Alessandro Rignanese, studying Construction Management, Florida International University
Ashwin Varadhan, studying Architecture, Auburn University
Norman Warcholik, studying Business Management, Arizona State University
Austin Ziringer, studying Civil Engineering, Columbus State Community College
Kyle Ziringer, studying Construction Systems Management and Business Administration, Ohio State University

“Scholarships are one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in the future of our industry. By supporting students pursuing careers in construction management and related fields, we're not only helping them achieve their educational goals, we're strengthening the workforce and ensuring the roofing industry has the talented leaders it needs for tomorrow,” said Roofing Alliance Executive Director, Alison LaValley.

A total of $59,000 was awarded for new scholarships with an additional $55,000 for 12 renewal scholarships. To date, a total of 186 students have received $1,366,500 in scholarship awards.

Details for the 2027-28 Melvin Kruger Scholarship program and the application guidelines will be available in early October. For more information about the Melvin Kruger Scholarship Program and the Roofing Alliance, contact Alison L. LaValley, CAE, executive director, at alavalley@nrca.net or visit roofingalliance.net.

About the Roofing Alliance

The Roofing Alliance unites a powerful network of more than 210 forward-thinking industry leaders committed to advancing and shaping the future of the roofing industry. Through strategic investments, collaboration, and industry partnerships, the Roofing Alliance funds high-impact initiatives focused on education, cutting-edge research, workforce development, and philanthropic outreach that strengthens communities across the country. From supporting the next generation of roofing professionals through scholarships, university partnerships, and career development programs to driving innovation through industry research its Center for Roofing Innovation and Leadership, the Roofing Alliance serves as a catalyst for long-term growth, leadership, and excellence across the roofing industry. For more information, please contact Alison L. LaValley, Executive Director, at alavalley@nrca.net.

Why roofing contractors are making time for IKO’s Profit Power workshops

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 19:00:00 PDT

Thousands of roofing professionals have gained practical strategies, industry insights and business growth tools through IKO's Profit Power workshops

Roofing contractors from Portland, Oregon; Houston, Texas; Boston, Massachussetts; and surrounding communities joined IKO's 2026 Profit Power workshops this summer to learn proven strategies for increasing sales, improving operations, navigating industry challenges and building more profitable roofing businesses. Now in its seventh year, the Profit Power series has brought together thousands of roofing contractors through more than 40 workshops across North America.

"Roofing contractors don't need more theory, they need experienced professionals giving them tools to apply the very next day," said Jack Gottesman, marketing and brand director at IKO North America. He went on, "That's what Profit Power is all about. Whether it's winning more business, finding new revenue opportunities, building stronger teams or learning from industry leaders, contractors leave every workshop ready to put what they've learned into action."

In Portland and Boston, contractors combined business education with friendly competition during golf-themed workshops featuring expert-led sessions on sales, marketing, workforce development, leadership and roofing industry trends, followed by networking at Topgolf. Both events featured former ESPN anchor Steve Bunin and Dhaval Gajjar, director of the center for roofing innovation & leadership at Clemson University and the Roofing Alliance. Kevin Nelson, district sales manager, IKO Metals, joined the speaker lineup in Boston, while Jessica Stahl, president of Ignite Results, presented in Portland.

In Houston, the workshop took place at Constellation Field, the Astro’s AAA Affiliate, where roofing professionals traded job sites for batting practice and business strategy. The value of the event was evident when one contractor arrived directly from a roofing job — hands still covered in dirt, determined not to miss the opportunity to learn from industry experts such as Travis Jones, owner of Smart Roof & Home Performance and Mathew Mulholland, dean of the building experts Institute and founder of Listen To This Bull.

Across all three cities, contractors stayed long after the presentations ended, exchanging ideas, discussing real-world business challenges and building relationships with fellow roofing professionals and industry experts. Attendees also learned about IKO’s manufacturing excellence, vertical integration and the ROOFPRO contractor loyalty program.

For the latest Profit Power workshop schedule and updates, stay tuned to IKO's social media channels. As attendance continues to grow in new markets, the series is reinforcing its reputation as one of the industry's premier educational and networking events for roofing contractors.

About IKO ROOFPRO

IKO ROOFPRO is IKO’s contractor loyalty reward program, open to residential roofing contractors in the U.S. and Canada. The program provides IKO ROOFPRO members with access to an array of valuable benefits.

About IKO

IKO is a worldwide leader in the roofing, waterproofing and insulation industry for residential and commercial markets. A vertically integrated company, IKO operates more than 35 manufacturing plants throughout North America and Europe. IKO is a family-owned business established in 1951.

Building a culture where people know they matter

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:00:00 PDT

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Why every contractor should nominate an employee for the Roofing Alliance MVP Awards.

Every year our industry talks about labor shortages. We discuss recruiting, training, wages and benefits, all of which are incredibly important. But after sitting in the audience at the Roofing Alliance Most Valuable Player Awards during the International Roofing Expo (IRE) this past year, I was reminded that one of the most powerful tools we have for retaining great employees isn’t a new program or a bigger paycheck. It is simply making people feel valued.

As I watched the awards ceremony unfold, I found myself looking around the room as much as I watched the stage. Families were beaming with pride. Company owners were smiling ear to ear. Coworkers were cheering for one another. It wasn’t just another awards presentation. It was a celebration of the people who quietly make our industry stronger every single day.

The roofing industry has always been built on hardworking individuals who show up before sunrise, solve problems when no one else can and take pride in doing the job right. They lead crews, mentor younger workers, protect their teammates and represent their companies with professionalism. Most of them never ask for recognition. In fact, many would probably rather avoid the spotlight altogether. That is exactly why the Roofing Alliance MVP Awards are so special. They shine a light on the people who rarely seek it but deserve it more than anyone.

As contractors, we spend a great deal of time talking about company culture. We know it matters because today’s workforce has choices. Skilled employees want more than a paycheck. They want to work somewhere they feel respected, appreciated and connected to a team. They want to know that their contributions matter and that someone notices the effort they put in every day. Recognition is one of the simplest ways to build that kind of culture, yet it is often overlooked.

Watching the MVP Awards made that crystal clear. Every person recognized on that stage represented much more than individual achievement. They represented companies that took the time to tell their employees, “You matter.” That message resonates far beyond one evening at the International Roofing Expo. It comes back to the office, the warehouse and the jobsite. It becomes part of the company’s story and reinforces the kind of culture every contractor hopes to build.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was watching the team from Wagner Roofing, who sat in front of our table, celebrate as foreman Ariel Lemus was recognized for Outstanding Performance and Leadership. You could feel the pride coming from everyone who was there to support him. After more than two decades with Wagner Roofing, Ariel has become known not only for his exceptional craftsmanship but also for mentoring the next generation of sheet metal roofers. It was obvious that his company wasn’t simply celebrating an employee. It was a celebration of someone who has helped shape their culture for years.

Another inspiring story was Kenny Rodriguez, warehouse foreman for OMG Building Products, who received the Outstanding Community Involvement Award. Kenny’s leadership extends well beyond the workplace. Along with mentoring coworkers and helping drive operational excellence, he serves as a pastor and volunteers throughout his community. His story reminded everyone in the room that great employees don’t stop making a difference when they leave work each day.

The evening culminated with the announcement of the Best of the Best Award, presented to Armando Landeros Solis, superintendent for Commercial Roofers Inc. After 25 years with the company, Armando has worked his way from apprentice to one of the organization’s most respected leaders. His humility, enthusiasm, commitment to mentoring his crew and dedication to both his company and his community made him a perfect example of what the MVP program represents. Watching his coworkers celebrate his accomplishment was every bit as inspiring as seeing him accept the award.

As I left the ceremony, I couldn’t stop thinking about what those moments mean back at each of these companies. Imagine being the employee who returns home after receiving one of the roofing industry’s highest honors. Imagine the pride your coworkers feel knowing one of their own was recognized on a national stage. Those experiences strengthen culture in ways that no employee handbook or mission statement ever could.

The Roofing Alliance is now accepting nominations for its next class of Most Valuable Player Awards, and I sincerely hope contractors across the industry take advantage of the opportunity. We all have exceptional people working within our organizations whose stories deserve to be told. Think about the individual everyone depends on, the person who mentors new employees, keeps the crew motivated and quietly leads by example. Taking the time to nominate them may be one of the most meaningful investments you make in your culture all year.

Nominate someone today.