Not another meeting; instead, a homecoming

By Jenny Yu.  

The NRCA’s first time hosting members of SkillsUSA at the annual IRE convention sparked fruitful discussions about the future workforce of roofing. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) hosted 23 members of SkillsUSA to join in the learning and networking festivities. SkillsUSA is a partnership of educators and the trade industries aimed at building a future skilled workforce through education and competitions across the United States. 

“We’re trying to drive more traffic and interest in roofing and show what the community of the industry can offer,” Shane Muncy, NRCA director of workforce development said. Part of the IRE experience included a bingo card scavenger hunt, which took attendees to different sponsor booths; a presentation of the newly released “Thermoplastic Hands-On Training Plans” course; and a roundtable discussion that allowed for attendees to share information about how SkillsUSA works within different schools and states throughout the country. 

“There was a spark in the room during our discussions about the high school to technical college pipeline,” Tracey Scoville, board vice chair for construction education for SkillsUSA, said on the energy of the roundtable discussions. “There is a massive community ready to support our kids if we just show them how.” 

After 34 years in a classroom helping students find their footing in the trades, Tracey has had many experiences at conferences. Attending this year’s IRE as a guest of the NRCA was different. “It didn’t feel like just another meeting; it felt like a homecoming,” Tracey shared, expressing her appreciation for the fully funded opportunity. “Being heard is one thing, but being truly listened to is another, and the respect shown to my experience meant the world to me.” 

Tracey also recalled several other key moments that left a lasting impact after the conference ended, including the opportunity to speak with CEO McKay Daniels about how SkillsUSA isn’t merely “filling jobs,” but changing lives by elevating a craft she has loved for over three decades. 

Overall, the first IRE for SkillsUSA hosted by NRCA was a huge success for all parties involved. 

“The IRE experience was very uplifting and productive for our collective initiative,” Shane reflected. “A very busy and engaging three days; most definitely worth the efforts and passion of the CTE Committee.” 

Learn more about how NRCA and SkillsUSA are preparing the next generation for the future of roofing!