Women continue to reshape the roofing workforce

By Jesse Sanchez. 

New industry statistics reveal steady participation growth alongside expanding leadership, operational and technical opportunities among women professionals nationwide. 

According to 2026 statistics compiled for National Women in Roofing (NWIR) Days, Irena Martincevic highlights a gradual but meaningful workforce change. Women represent about 5 percent of roofing employees, totaling roughly 15,000 nationwide today. Overall employment growth added approximately 2,000 women during the past year. Industry leaders including Heidi J. Ellsworth, president of The Coffee Shops™, contributed perspective to contextualize the data. The analysis draws from national employment figures and firsthand insights shared across the industry. 

The numbers suggest roofing is quietly pulling ahead of other construction trades when it comes to gender representation. Women now account for about 11 percent of roofing machine operators, a notable contrast to HVAC, plumbing and electrical roles where female participation remains even lower. A brief spike during the pandemic in 2020 temporarily shifted the percentages before settling back near long-term norms. Still, the overall direction remains upward as workforce growth continues to bring more women into the industry each year. That steady movement reflects broader access to technical, operational and leadership roles that extend well beyond the jobsite itself. 

Addressing persistent industry challenges 

Persistent challenges remain across the industry, particularly around credibility gaps, pay inequity and limited access to mentorship networks. Many of these issues surface early in careers and can follow women as they move into leadership and technical roles. Heidi noted that structural barriers continue to shape daily experiences. “Women in roofing still face challenges such as underrepresentation in leadership and field roles, unconscious bias and the need to consistently prove credibility.” 

Those dynamics often play out in subtle but persistent ways. Anna Weissmann, community and communications manager at RoofVantage, described how assumptions can undermine expertise before conversations even begin. “There’s often an assumption that if you’re a woman, you’re less technical or less knowledgeable, regardless of your role or experience.” For many professionals, that perception creates added pressure to establish trust quickly and repeatedly. 

Experience and credentials do not always eliminate bias. Brooke Laizure, owner of Whirlwind Roofing & Construction, pointed to the disconnect between qualifications and perception. “There is a bias that we are not as qualified or smart as our male peers.” Industry leaders broadly agree that addressing these challenges requires visible leadership pathways, intentional promotion practices and equitable compensation structures. Together, those efforts play a direct role in retention, advancement and long-term workforce stability. 

Expanding opportunities and industry impact 

Opportunities for women in roofing continue to widen as the industry evolves beyond traditional jobsite roles. Leadership, operations, manufacturing, sales and research-driven positions are increasingly shaping how companies grow and compete. Rachel Narveson, founder and CEO of Proficient Construction, pointed to the relational side of the business as a key entry point for many professionals. “Many people don’t realize how relationship-driven roofing is.” 

That people-focused approach connects directly to the work’s broader purpose. Heather Estes, senior codes and regulatory compliance specialist at GAF, highlighted the real-world significance behind daily responsibilities. “Our work delivers a tangible real-world impact.” As more women step into visible roles, organizations like National Women in Roofing continue to strengthen mentorship pathways and professional networks. Together, these shifts are driving greater ownership, technical participation and community influence across roofing markets nationwide. 

Learn more about workforce trends, leadership insights and opportunities shaping women’s growing role across roofing!