Bigger and better than last year: IRE and the Gator’s success in the student competition

By Dani Sheehan. 

Hear from the University of Florida as they take home first place in the 2024 Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition during IRE. 

After taking second place in the 2023 competition, University of Florida returned better than ever in the 2024 Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition. This was the Roofing Alliance’s tenth anniversary competition at the International Roofing Expo (IRE) in Las Vegas, Nevada. Five finalist teams presented their bid package proposals on the Formula 1™ Paddock Building. Heidi J. Ellsworth caught up with the team from University of Florida for a live interview sponsored by SRS Distribution to see how the presentation went. 

Team captain Nick Hanson, who also won the best individual presenter award, shared his thoughts after their presentation: “It was great. I think we put a project together that we’re proud of as a team and I think we peaked at the right time and did our best work this morning, so I’m proud of what we accomplished.” 

The Formula 1 Paddock Building was a particularly challenging project in the roof's shape and the single ply roofing system. Nick explained, “That was something none of us really had a whole lot of experience with. The second thing would be how we were going to labor load the job and address the schedule. It was a very quick turnaround to get it ready in time for the F1 race.” 

This is Nick’s second year attending IRE and competing in the student competition. Studying construction management roofing is a small part of what they learn. When asked if they would consider roofing as a career choice, he sums it up for the team: “The roof is the most basic part of the envelope for shelter, so we understand the importance of it... It’s a rewarding profession I think, because everybody needs a roof.” 

When looking at prospective employers in the roofing industry, the team agrees that growth and professional development are huge assets. Team member Will Eison wants to see that growth in the community as well. He shares, “I’m looking somewhere that is community and relationship driven. Somewhere that has a good emphasis on relationships, not only within the company structure from top to bottom, but also with the trades, subcontractors, architects and anyone involved [in each project]. 

Watch the full interview below to hear more about their experience and see how this student competition showcases the next generation of leaders in tomorrow’s roofing solutions.