By Heidi J. Ellsworth, The Coffee Shops. 

From culture to career growth, students share what matters most as they prepare to enter the roofing workforce. 

At the International Roofing Expo (IRE), the Roofing Alliance Student Competition showcased more than the technical skills of construction management students. It provided a powerful look into the mindset of the next generation entering the roofing industry. 

Through a series of interviews conducted by RoofersCoffeeShop with teams from Bradley University, the University of Florida, Auburn University, Colorado State University and Clemson University, a clear and consistent message emerged about what these future professionals are looking for as they begin their careers: Company culture.  

Students consistently emphasized the importance of working in an environment built on respect, collaboration and connection. They are not simply looking for a job. They are looking for a workplace where they feel valued, supported and part of a team. Many described wanting to work for companies where leadership is approachable and where success is shared, not dictated by hierarchy. 

That emphasis on culture naturally extends to relationships. Students spoke about the importance of camaraderie, open communication and trust among coworkers and leadership. In an industry known for its fast pace and demanding schedules, having a strong team environment is not just a benefit, it is essential. 

Work-life balance also emerged as a key priority. While these students understand the commitment required in construction, they are looking for flexibility and employers who respect their time. They recognize that balance leads to better performance and long-term career satisfaction. 

Opportunities for growth and advancement are equally important. Students want to join organizations that invest in their development, offer mentorship and provide clear pathways for career progression. They are eager to learn, take on responsibilityand build their careers, but they expect support and guidance along the way. 

Many also expressed a desire to stay engaged and challenged in their roles. They are drawn to dynamic environments where they can contribute across multiple aspects of a project, gaining hands-on experience and diversifying their skill sets. 

Representation and inclusion were also part of the conversation, particularly among women entering construction. Feeling supported, represented and included in the workplace is an important factor as they evaluate potential employers and long-term career paths.  Students are looking for companies that care about their people, their projects and their impact. Whether through safety, innovation or community involvement, they want to be part of organizations that stand for something meaningful. 

Perhaps most encouraging for the industry is the growing enthusiasm for roofing itself. Many students entered the competition with limited exposure to roofing, but through hands-on experience, mentorship and engagement at IRE, they developed a more genuine interest in pursuing careers in the field. 

The Roofing Alliance Student Competition continues to play a vital role in building a strong and motivated workforce for the future. 

To hear directly from these students, watch the interviews: 

• Bradley University: www.youtube.com/live/xfZ_pOO1UYk 
• University of Florida: www.youtube.com/live/SIEy9ofUUuo 
• Auburn University: www.youtube.com/live/E2nYV7TRhAY 
• Colorado State University: www.youtube.com/live/aSD9TeF-b94 
• Clemson University: www.youtube.com/live/RV1wsnO5qyk 

To learn more about the Roofing Alliance and its workforce development initiatives, visit roofingalliance.net. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Join RCMA this October in Atlanta for the 2026 Fall Meeting.

At The Coffee Shops™, we are committed to sharing timely industry information while supporting the associations that move roofing forward. Organizations like the Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) play a vital role in advancing education, advocacy and innovation, and we are proud to help promote their work and encourage membership across the industry. 

That momentum is clear in 2026. Under the leadership of President Josh Poole, RCMA continues to expand its impact through growing contractor engagement, strong technical initiatives and new leadership guiding the association forward. 

RCMA recently welcomed new board leadership, including George Daisey of Dow Chemical Company as supplier vice president, along with Brent Crenshaw of EPS Materials and Jayne Rollason of Polyglass USA, Inc. as directors. Their experience and commitment reflect the strength of leadership shaping the future of roof coatings. 

A key focus continues to be RCMA’s growing Contractor Membership, bringing applicators into the conversation around codes, standards and best practices. This inclusion ensures that real-world insights are helping guide the industry while giving contractors access to technical resources, education and valuable industry connections. 

RCMA is also advancing technical excellence with resources like Coatings Tech Note 6 on white roof coatings, providing practical guidance on performance, application and energy efficiency. At the same time, member companies are driving innovation across the industry, with SOPREMA USA and Fluid Applied Roofing (FAR) recognized at the 2026 International Roofing Expo (IRE) for their award-winning technologies. Collaboration remains at the core of RCMA’s success, with new members like BITEC® and AB Specialty Silicones strengthening the association’s network and expertise. 

Looking ahead, the RCMA 2026 Fall Meeting, taking place October 7–8 in Atlanta, Georgia, will bring together industry leaders, technical experts and decision-makers for two days of collaboration and forward-thinking discussion. For contractors, manufacturers and suppliers, this is the time to get involved.

Plan to attend the Fall Meeting and be part of the conversations shaping the future of roof coatings. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

From digital models to real-world execution, Auburn University students demonstrate leadership, innovation and excellence in roofing.

The Roofing Alliance 2026 Student Competition brought together top construction management programs from across the country, challenging students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world roofing scenarios. Rising to the top, Auburn University earned first place after months of preparation, a comprehensive written proposal and a strong final presentation at the International Roofing Expo (IRE).  

Representing Auburn University were Madi Goodwin, Heather Henderson, Patrick Johnson, Graham Roh (team captain) and Ashwin Varadhan (team alternate). The team was guided by faculty advisor Dr. Kenneth Sands and mentored by Paige Harvill of Nations Roof. 

The Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition is one of the industry’s premier workforce development initiatives. Each year, participating universities develop a complete bid package for a real project tied to the location of the International Roofing Expo. In 2026, the project focused on the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, requiring teams to prepare detailed estimates, logistics plans, safety protocols and deliver oral presentations to a panel of industry judges. Written proposal scores and oral presentation scores were combined to determine final rankings. 

The competition results highlighted the strength of roofing education programs nationwide, with Auburn University taking first place, the University of Florida earning second and Clemson University placing third. Individual presenter honors were awarded to Remi Nguyen of Clemson University and Sophia Petrandis of the University of Florida. 

During an interview with RoofersCoffeeShop® at the International Roofing Expo, the Auburn team shared insights into their experience, reflecting on the months of preparation that got them to the top spot and the opportunity to present on a national stage. 

Throughout the competition, the Auburn team operated as a mock roofing company, assigning leadership roles that mirrored real-world industry structure. Team members took ownership of key areas including estimating, project management, field operations and safety planning, working collaboratively to build a complete and competitive proposal. 

After months of preparation, the team described a strong sense of accomplishment following their final presentation, having successfully translated their plan into a polished delivery that earned them the number one placement. One of the most impactful aspects of the experience was visiting the project site in person. After analyzing drawings, digital models and site logistics for months, stepping onto the roof of the Cannery Casino and Hotel brought a new level of understanding. 

Students noted that transitioning from two-dimensional plans to a full-scale structure reinforced the importance of accuracy, coordination and attention to detail. Elements that had only existed on paper became tangible, giving real-world context to their logistics plans and construction strategies. 

The experience also highlighted the growing role of technology in construction. The team incorporated digital modeling into their preparation, reflecting the increasing use of advanced tools in roofing and project planning. 

While not all team members had prior roofing experience, the competition sparked a strong interest in the industry. Through hands-on learning, research and mentorship, students gained a deeper appreciation for commercial roofing and the opportunities it offers. 

Walking the expo floor further expanded that perspective. From induction welding systems and material lift equipment to emerging AI-driven solutions, the team saw firsthand how the industry continues to evolve with innovation and technology. 

As these students prepare to enter the workforce, they emphasize the importance of company culture, work-life balance and opportunities for professional growth. They seek organizations that value teamwork, invest in their people and provide meaningful career development. 

The Auburn University team’s first-place finish reflects not only technical excellence but also strong collaboration, leadership and adaptability. This team perfectly demonstrates the caliber of students entering the roofing industry and the impact of programs like the Roofing Alliance Student Competition. 

For Auburn University, the experience was more than a competition. It was a launching point into an industry defined by innovation, teamwork and long-term opportunity. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth 

From competition stage to career path, Clemson students showcase teamwork, innovation and the future of roofing. 

The Roofing Alliance 2026 Student Competition, once again, brought together some of the brightest emerging talents in the construction industry. The team from Clemson University stood out with a strong, collaborative performance that reflected months of dedication and preparation.  

Representing Clemson University were Remi Nguyen (team captain), Drake Hamlin, Ben Reynolds, Grant Thomas and Sean Linnane (team alternate), under the guidance of faculty advisor Dr. Dhaval Gajjar and industry mentor Will Fort of  Aqua Seal Manufacturing & Roofing Inc.  

Clemson University earned an impressive third-place finish in the national competition, following first-place Auburn University and second-place University of Florida. Adding to the team’s success, Remi Nguyen was recognized as the top individual presenter in the competition, highlighting both individual excellence and the strength of Clemson’s program.  

The Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition is one of the industry’s premier workforce development initiatives. Each year, universities are challenged to develop a comprehensive bid proposal for a real-world roofing project tied to the location of the International Roofing Expo. For 2026 the project focused on the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, where teams were required to submit a detailed bid package and present their solutions to a panel of industry judges.  

During an interview with RoofersCoffeeShop at the International Roofing Expo, the Clemson team shared insights into their experience, from months of preparation to presenting on a national stage. 

For the Clemson team, the competition represented the culmination of extensive effort, teamwork and problem-solving. From early planning stages to final presentation, the students worked through the same processes used by professional contractors, including estimating, scheduling, safety planning and project management. 

When the final presentation wrapped, the feeling was both relief and pride. The experience left a lasting impression, not only because of the work involved but also because of the opportunity to collaborate closely and perform on a national stage. 

One of the most impactful aspects of the competition was the opportunity to visit the project site in person. After months of studying plans, touring the roofing location provided a new level of understanding. 

Students noted that being on site added perspective that simply cannot be gained from drawings alone. Details related to layout, access and conditions became clearer, reinforcing how important field experience is in roofing. For one team member with prior roofing experience, the visit confirmed what many contractors already know. Seeing the project firsthand changes how you approach planning and execution. 

“It gives you a whole other aspect of what you’re looking at,” says team member Drake Hamlin. 

Like many student teams, Clemson participants were also struck by the scale and innovation on display at the International Roofing Expo. For students with limited prior exposure to roofing, the breadth of technology and specialization within the industry was eye-opening. From materials and equipment to advanced systems and processes, the expo demonstrated just how dynamic and evolving the roofing sector has become. 

“Walking around and seeing how different people do different things is really interesting,” team member Sean Linnane notes. 

The experience helped broaden the team’s understanding of potential career paths and highlighted the many opportunities available within the roofing industry. As these students prepare to enter the workforce, many are already considering careers in roofing, thanks in part to their experience in the competition. When discussing what matters most in an employer, one theme stood out above all others: company culture. 

Students emphasized the importance of working for organizations where respect, collaboration and teamwork are prioritized at every level. “Having that culture and knowing that you’re part of a team is really something I look for,” team member Ben Reynolds explains.   

This perspective reflects a broader shift among emerging professionals, who value not only career growth but also a positive and inclusive work environment. 

Clemson University’s continued involvement in the Roofing Alliance Student Competition highlights the strength of its program and its commitment to preparing students for industry success. With a top three national placement and recognition for the competition’s best individual presenter, Clemson is helping set the standard for roofing education and leadership development. 

The Roofing Alliance Student Competition remains one of the most powerful ways to connect students with the industry, offering real-world experience, mentorship and exposure to national events like the International Roofing Expo. For the Clemson team, the experience was more than a competition. It was a gateway into an industry filled with innovation, opportunity and long-term career potential. 

To watch the full interview, visit: https://www.youtube.com/live/RV1wsnO5qyk.  To learn more about the Roofing Alliance, the Student Competition and its workforce development initiatives, visit roofingalliance.net. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Roofing professionals assemble nearly 700 snack packs for Tucson-area students. 

Community service continues to define the culture of the roofing industry and members of the Single Ply Roofing Industry (SPRI) demonstrated that commitment during this year’s annual meeting! Held February 13–15, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona, this meeting brought leading manufacturers and suppliers of single ply roofing systems together with the purpose of advancing technical standards, research and education across the commercial roofing industry. 

For the second consecutive year, the service project was sponsored by Tyelus, a strategic process architect firm that helps construction and manufacturing companies align people, process and technology to build scalable and sustainable growth. In partnership with JustServe, a national nonprofit that connects volunteers with meaningful community opportunities, SPRI organized a hands-on event assembling food care packages for children in a local school within the Marana Unified School District. 

Lynsey Hull and Ashley Thompsen of Tyelus worked alongside Joel and Calli Stanley of Anchor Products, a leading manufacturer of engineered roof attachment systems and components for commercial roofing, to coordinate the effort. Their collaboration ensured the project was organized and efficient while creating an experience that was impactful not only for the children it served but also for the SPRI members who participatedin assembling the food packs. 

JustServe’s model makes volunteer engagement simple and accessible for associations and industry groups, allowing participants to focus on the purpose behind the project. During the event, SPRI members assembled nearly 700 packs filled with quick meals, snack bars, fruit and other nutritious items. These packs will be distributed to children facing food insecurity in the Marana Unified School District, helping bridge meal gaps outside regular school hours. 

Calli Stanley shared during the event that showing up for the communities that host industry meetings is an important part of leadership. The spirit of teamwork and generosity was evident as members worked side by side, reinforcing the roofing industry’s strong culture of service. She emphasized why Tyelus continues to support the initiative:  

Community giving is not an add-on to what we do; it is a responsibility. When our industry gathers, we have an opportunity to leave a positive mark beyond business. Supporting projects like this allows us to invest directly in the communities that support us. When I heard that our donation would cover the kids for the rest of the school year plus some extra it was truly amazing to me. 

The service project was a powerful reminder that while innovation, education and advocacy are central to SPRI’s mission, giving back remains equally important. By combining collaboration with compassion, SPRI members once again proved that roofing is about more than roofing, it is about people. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Every swing, every putt and every sponsorship helps strengthen the future of the profession.

Spring in Northern California sets the perfect stage for a day on the links, and the 2026 RCI-IIBEC Foundations' Golf Outing is shaping up to be a standout event. Registration is now open for Thursday, March 12 at the Haggin Oaks Alister MacKenzie Course in Sacramento, California, and golfers are encouraged to secure their spot early as the field is limited to just 144 players.

Hosted by the RCI-IIBEC Foundation and RCI Foundation Canada, this annual outing brings together building enclosure professionals, manufacturers, consultants and friends of the industry for a day that blends great golf with meaningful impact. With the generous support of event sponsors SOPREMA and Performance Roof Systems the outing will once again raise critical funds for the next generation of industry leaders.

Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Joe Hale Student Sponsorship Fund along with the Lyons and Newlan academic scholarship funds. These programs play a vital role in supporting students pursuing education and careers in building enclosure science, roofing, waterproofing and related disciplines.

The venue itself is a highlight. Designed by the legendary Alister MacKenzie the Haggin Oaks course is known for its flowing layout, strategic shot values and timeless design philosophy. MacKenzie believed golf should be enjoyable for players of all skill levels, while still rewarding, thoughtful, shot making and smart positioning. His designs are famous for balancing challenge and playability, and Haggin Oaks delivers exactly that experience. Golfers can expect approachable holes, subtle risk and reward decisions, and just enough unpredictability to keep the round exciting from the first tee to the final green.

Beyond the course, the outing offers unmatched networking opportunities. Participants will spend the day alongside peers from across the industry, building relationships that extend well beyond the fairways. Whether you are reconnecting with long time colleagues or meeting new faces, the relaxed atmosphere of the golf course provides the ideal setting for meaningful conversation and collaboration.

Golfers, sponsors and supporters alike are invited to be part of this special day. Individual and team registrations are available, along with sponsorship opportunities that offer visibility while directly supporting scholarship and student sponsorship initiatives. Space is limited, and the event has a strong history of selling out, so early registration is highly recommended.

To reserve your spot and learn more visit https://birdease.com/RCIIIBECFoundationsGolf.

It is more than a round of golf. It is a chance to give back, support education and enjoy a memorable day on a classic course. The RCI-IIBEC Foundations look forward to welcoming you to Sacramento this March.

By Jenny Yu.  

Heidi J. Ellsworth has been elected as one of the new NRCA directors. 

Here at The Coffee Shops™, we are proud to share that our president and CEO, Heidi J. Ellsworth, has been elected as one of the new National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) directors. The announcement was made as part of the NRCA's 139th Annual Convention, held from January 18 to 22, 2026, in Las Vegas.  

“It is a true honor to be nominated and selected to serve on the NRCA board of directors,” Heidi shared. “What the NRCA does for the roofing industry is critical to advancing professionalism, supporting contractors and protecting the long-term strength of our trade. The association’s leadership of technical services along with their commitment to career technical education and advocacy continues to move the industry forward. I am excited to contribute at a higher level.” 

With over 30 years of service to the industry, Heidi has developed the experience, connections and leadership skills that make her an invaluable voice and advocate for the roofing community. From holding positions with Malarkey Roofing Products®, Carlisle Construction Materials and Eagleview to serving on the boards of Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA), National Women in Roofing (NWIR), METALCON and the International Roofing Expo (IRE), Heidi is more than ready to help guide NRCA through an evolving landscape. 

“Having been actively involved with NRCA for more than 20 years, I look forward to supporting not only the U.S. market but also the organization’s growing global initiatives,” Heidi said. “RoofersCoffeeShop® has a long history of supporting NRCA by amplifying its educational efforts, promoting workforce development and elevating the issues that matter most to roofing professionals.” 

NRCA’s board of directors focuses on strategy and accountability, keeping the interests of its members at the forefront of its work. Heidi will serve a three-year term from 2026 to 2029, starting June 1, alongside eleven other newly appointed board members.  

“By standing together as one voice, we can expand opportunities and build stronger businesses for our contracting community while also better serving the consumers,” Heidi expressed. “Everyone needs shelter, and I am proud to be part of an industry that provides the ultimate protection — the roof.” 

Learn more about the mission of the NRCA and its vision for the future of roofing.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

This year’s conversations reflected continued growth in roof coatings as building owners seek sustainable, cost-effective solutions and contractors look for ways to diversify their businesses.

CoatingsCoffeeShop® was proud to be a part of the Roof Coating Manufacturer Association (RCMA) 2026 meeting in Las Vegas. As an RCMA partner and sponsor, our team attended the event to connect with the industry, participate in educational sessions and continue our mission of supporting contractors through information, technology and collaboration. 

With Megan Ellsworth moderating a key panel discussion, CoatingsCoffeeShop had the opportunity to engage directly with roof coating manufacturers, material suppliers, contractors and consultants who are shaping the future of roof restoration. 

The RCMA annual meeting serves as an important gathering for the roof coating industry, providing a platform for open dialogue, education and reporting on the state of the market. The 2026 meeting was proudly sponsored by Western Colloid whose continued support helps make these important industry conversations possible. 

This year’s conversations reflected continued growth in roof coatings as building owners seek sustainable, cost-effective solutions and contractors look for ways to diversify their businesses. 

Throughout the day, attendees participated in educational sessions focused on sustainability, technology, safety and profitability. One session highlighted RCMA’s Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) initiatives and how industry-wide EPDs are helping manufacturers improve transparency and consistency while supporting long-term sustainability goals. 

Technology also played a central role in the discussions with sessions focused on roof diagnostics, measurement accuracy and tools that support smarter decision making. These conversations reinforced the importance of data and documentation in delivering successful coating projects. 

A highlight of the day was a presentation by Will Lorenz, president of General Coatings, who shared the story of using roof coatings on one of the most recognizable architectural focal points in Las Vegas. The project involved a complex sphere-shaped structure that required both spray foam and roof coatings to achieve performance, protection and long-term durability. 

Will walked attendees through the unique challenges of working on curved architecture, the importance of selecting the right materials and how application methods played a critical role in the project’s success. The presentation showcased real-world problem solving and emphasized how coatings can be used creatively and effectively on complex structures when paired with proper planning and expertise.  

Another highlight of the meeting was the panel discussion titled The Competitive Edge, moderated by Megan Ellsworth of CoatingsCoffeeShop. Panelists included Josh Poole with Tremco Construction Products Group and RCMA president, Ryan Blad with 838 Coatings, Chris Huettig with KARNAK Corporation and Cody Wilson with Unicoat Industrial Roofing Corp. 

The panel explored how coatings are helping contractors grow their businesses while providing effective solutions for building owners. Panelists shared how restoration systems extend roof life, reduce disruption and offer owners alternatives to full replacement. 

A strong theme throughout the discussion was the growing number of residential roofing contractors entering the commercial market and finding roof coatings to be a natural starting point. Coatings allow contractors to expand into commercial work without the same level of labor demands, equipment investment or jobsite disruption required for full reroofing. 

As more contractors make this transition, training was emphasized as essential. Onsite training supports proper application, improves crew confidence and ensures contractors get the most from both materials and equipment. Well-trained crews deliver better performance and stronger outcomes for customers. 

The panel also addressed how coatings create opportunities for recurring revenue through maintenance programs, helping contractors build long-term relationships with building owners while stabilizing workflow. 

Equipment selection was another key topic with discussion around spray rigs, rollers and application strategies. Contractors shared the importance of aligning equipment choices with business goals and gradually introducing spraying into operations. One of the most common contractor requests discussed was the growing need for sprayable mastics to improve efficiency and consistency. 

Labor savings were identified as one of the strongest business drivers behind coatings. Compared to full replacement, coating systems can reduce crew size, shorten project timelines and improve overall productivity. 

Panelists also emphasized the importance of evaluating roof conditions honestly before recommending a coating system. Moisture testing and clear communication with building owners are essential. Coatings are not the right solution for every roofand transparency builds long-term trust. 

Cody in particular highlighted the value of working closely with manufacturer representatives during roof walks and evaluations. When contractors and manufacturers collaborate onsite, stronger diagnostics are achieved and better recommendations can be made. This partnership ultimately leads to better outcomes for building owners. 

Manufacturers shared how they continue to support contractors through onsite assistance, evaluations and technical diagnostics. This collaborative approach ensures coating systems are installed correctly and perform as intended. 

CoatingsCoffeeShop is proud to partner with RCMA and sponsor the association as part of our commitment to advancing education, communication and connection across the roof coating industry. Events like the RCMA meeting reinforce the importance of bringing the industry together to share knowledge and support contractor success. 

As the meeting concluded, one message stood out clearly, roof coatings are not simply a product category, they are a strategic solution helping contractors grow, diversify and deliver long-term value to building owners. 

For more information about the Roof Coating Manufacturer Association visit www.roofcoatings.org and for ongoing industry news, education and contractor resources visit CoatingsCoffeeShop.com. 

All 2026-27 officers and directors will assume their roles June 1.

The National Roofing Contractors Association announced its new slate of officers during its 139th Annual Convention January 20-22 in Las Vegas.

Chad Collins, executive vice president of Roofing Corp of America, Atlanta, was elected chairman of the board, and Sherri Miles, vice president of J.D. Miles & Sons Inc., Chesapeake, Virginia, was elected chairman of the board-elect. Michelle Boykin, branch manager of Weather Shield Roofing Systems, Wyoming, Michigan; Scott Kawulok, vice president of B&M Roofing of Colorado LLC, Frederick, Colorado; and Lynn Price, president of Dryspace, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, were elected vice chairmen for two-year terms.

Additionally, the following were elected as new NRCA directors:

• Greg Arnold, president of Nations Roof of New England LLC, West Haven, Connecticut
• Matt Atkinson, director of commercial roofing and general manager for Bone Dry Roofing, North Charleston, South Carolina
• Alexandra Chacon, division manager of Construction Link Outsourcing, San Jose, Costa Rica
• Eric Dosch, vice president of Schwickert’s Tecta America LLC, Mankato, Minnesota
• Heidi J. Ellsworth, president of The Coffee Shops, Sisters, Oregon
• Bryson Galloway, vice president and general manager of Barr Roofing Co., Abilene, Texas
• Dave Hesse, executive vice president of Kalkreuth Roofing & Sheet Metal Inc., Frederick, Maryland
• Anthony Kahny, president of Deer Park Roofing LLC, Cincinnati
• Josh Kelly, senior vice president of business development for OMG Roofing Products, Agawam, Massachusetts
• Greg Malcolm, owner of Ironshore Contracting LLC, Baltimore
• Jonathan Reader, manager of R&B Roofing LLC, Garland, Texas
• Tim Stephens, vice president of operations for Architectural Sheet Metal Inc., Orlando, Florida

All 2026-27 officers and directors will assume their roles June 1.

About the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)

Since 1886, the National Roofing Contractors Association has been the home for generations of entrepreneurial craftsmen and enterprises who shelter and protect America’s families and businesses and each other. Our vision is the recognition of our members as professionals and to unite the industry to that purpose. NRCA is one of the construction industry’s most respected trade associations and the voice of roofing professionals and leading authority in the roofing industry for information, education, technology and advocacy. It represents all segments of the roofing industry, including contractors; manufacturers; distributors; architects; consultants; engineers; building owners; and city, state and government agencies. For information about NRCA and its services and offerings, visit nrca.net.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

RCAW sounds the alarm on proposed legislation impacting Washington roofing contractors 

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is raising awareness about two companion bills currently moving through the Washington State Legislature that could have serious consequences for roofing contractors across the state. 

House Bill 2191 and Senate Bill 6068 would expand wage and benefit liability within the construction industry. If passed these bills would make direct contractors and in some cases property owners jointly liable for unpaid wages and benefits owed to workers employed by subcontractors at any tier. 

In simple terms this means roofing contractors could be held financially responsible even when a subcontractor fails to properly pay their employees. 

For many contractors this represents a major shift in risk and responsibility. The proposed legislation increases legal and financial exposure for unpaid wages and benefits while adding stricter requirements for payroll compliance, recordkeeping and worker classification. It also creates additional administrative burdens that could drive up project costs and slow down job timelines. 

While limited exemptions may apply to some small residential projects the majority of commercial roofing work and larger residential projects would be affected. 

These bills are not law at this time but they are actively advancing which makes contractor involvement critical. RCAW Executive Director Amanda Fields encourages members to stay informed and engaged as the legislative session continues. RCAW is actively evaluating the impact of this legislation and advocating on behalf of Washington’s roofing industry to ensure lawmakers understand how expanded liability could affect local contractors workforce stability and overall project delivery. 

One important way contractors can make their voices heard is by participating in RCAW Olympia Hill Day on February 5 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event provides roofing professionals with the opportunity to speak directly with legislators and share real world insight into how proposed laws impact daily operations jobsite management and business sustainability. Contractors are encouraged to register online at www.rcaw.com and take an active role in protecting the future of the roofing industry in Washington. 

For more information contact Amanda Fields, executive director of the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington at director@rcaw.com.