Building connections, one invitation at a time

By Christine Mockenhaupt, National Women in Roofing. 

Help empower women by introducing them to the National Women in Roofing community.  

National Women in Roofing (NWIR) was started to be a place for women in the industry to learn, grow and take up space together. And to keep growing this space, we need to build each other up – something that begins with simply inviting new people into the fold. 

One of the things I’ve learned, both in my own journey and in watching so many women within NWIR, is that most people don’t hesitate because they lack ability. They hesitate because they’re unsure they’re needed. How many times have you said, “I didn’t think I was ready,” “I didn’t know anyone thought of me” or “I wasn’t sure I had anything to offer.” 

But readiness rarely comes first. More often, confidence grows after someone reaches out and says, “We’d love to have you involved.” 

That moment matters because being asked tells someone that they were noticed. It signals trust. It communicates value. Sometimes, it becomes the turning point in someone’s willingness to step forward.  As we continue leaning into Connection with Purpose, I want us to think intentionally about the role of invitation within National Women in Roofing. You can't always assume people are aware of the opportunities that we have to offer. 

If you’ve been involved for a while, consider this: 

• Who have you noticed showing up consistently? 
• Who brings thoughtful ideas but hasn’t yet stepped into a role? 
• Who might just need a nudge to believe they belong here? 

Connection with purpose isn’t passive. It requires action by all of us and sometimes that action is simply extending an invitation. You don’t have to wait for a formal opening or the perfect moment. A phone call. A message. A conversation at a meeting. These are often the beginning of something meaningful. 

And if you’re on the receiving end of that invitation this year, I encourage you to pause before saying no. Growth rarely feels comfortable at first, but it is almost always worth it and it's why I'm here today, because someone asked me. 

If you’re willing, take one step this month: 

Invite someone. 

And once you do, message me. Tell me who you invited or how you stepped into something new. Or if you know of someone that would be a great fit, but don't know exactly what to ask them, let's figure that out together!  Each month, I’ll be asking you to reach out and share one small action you’ve taken toward connection. Not for tracking, but for encouragement and to keep our conversations going. I would love to celebrate those moments with you and help keep us accountable in simple, meaningful ways. 

Let’s keep building connections, one invitation at a time.