Scholarship Programs Support the Future of the Industry

By Karen L. Edwards, RCS Editor.  

Consider supporting an organization that gives back to the roofing industry.  

This is the time of year that many students are receiving their acceptance letters to different colleges and trade schools. Many of them may be facing challenges securing the money for tuition – especially after the economy has been so affected by the coronavirus pandemic.  

That is why our roofing industry foundations are more important than ever. This December, your gift will be multiplied through the generosity of Trent Cotney and Cotney Construction Law.  He is matching donations to the following four industry foundations up to $2,500 total: 

• Chicago Roofing Contractors Association - CRCA Foundation 

• Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Contractors Association - FRSA Educational & Research Foundation 

• Roofing Alliance - Melvin Kruger Endowed Scholarship Program 

• Western States Roofing Contractors Association - Davis Memorial Foundation 

Tune into the December 17 Coffee Conversations at 6 am PT/ 9 am ET as Heidi and Trent discuss this giving back initiative.  

If monetary donations are not possible this year, another way to give back is through the materials you purchase and the suppliers where you purchase those materials. Many of our manufacturers and suppliers have foundations that give back to the community or provide scholarships to help support the future of the industry.  

For example, SOPREMA is a leading manufacturer of commercial roofing, waterproofing, wall protection and civil engineering solutions and they set aside $20,000 each year to award $5,000 scholarships to students pursuing careers in construction, architecture, engineering or similar fields.  Their application period is open now through March 31.   

If you are not sure how your manufacturers or distributors support the future of the industry, be sure to ask your sales representative. It’s important that the businesses that make their profits from the roofing industry give some of those dollars back to support the future of the industry and to make our communities stronger.  

Some RCS partners who have formalized giving programs include: 

• Beacon Building Products Beacon of Hope Program 

• GAF Roofs for Troops 

• Owens Corning Roof Deployment Program 

• SRS Distribution’s Raise the Roof Foundation 

As you look ahead into 2021, it's important to think about how you can make a difference for others and for our industry.  

Stay up to date with the latest roofing industry news when you sign up for the RCS Week in Roofing e-news.