Contractors gather for hands-on learning and industry connection

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Nearly 500 attendees engaged in education, networking and business growth at a regional workshop in Miami. 

At LoanDepot Park in Miami, Florida, nearly 500 contractors convened for the CertainTeed Business Builders Workshop, representing a growing industry focus on education, collaboration and long-term business development. Bringing together contractors, manufacturers and vendor partners, the event offered a concentrated, one-day opportunity to explore practical strategies for navigating an increasingly complex roofing landscape.  

Framed by a clear view of the playing field, the RoofersCoffeeShop® sound stage hosted live interviews, conversations and educational sessions throughout the day. Around it, attendees moved between classrooms and vendor areas, engaging with topics that reflected both immediate challenges and emerging trends. Sessions covered low-slope applications, insurance processes, solar integration and broader operational strategies. 

The sound stage also became a focal point for emerging business strategies, particularly in how contractors communicate with their audiences. A podcasting class hosted by the RoofersCoffeeShop® team drew standing-room-only attendance, signaling strong interest in using digital content to support growth and visibility. Attendees actively participated, submitting business cards for the opportunity to be selected as live podcast guests during the event, an approach that reinforced both engagement and real-time learning. The level of interest reflected a broader shift within the industry, where contractors are looking beyond technical execution to develop stronger branding, storytelling and customer connection. 

The ability to step away from daily operations and refocus on learning created space not only for new information, but for reflection on existing practices. As Brian Drominer from APC Roofing observed, “The classes are very informative, lots of information, a lot of takeaways. It’s very beneficial for the roofing industry for sure.”  

Equally important was the presence of vendor partners, whose participation extended the learning environment beyond the classroom. Contractors were able to engage directly with suppliers, compare solutions and evaluate tools that could be implemented immediately in the field or office.  

At the same time, the workshop functioned as a gathering place for the roofing community. Conversations between sessions revealed a shared interest in improving performance, adapting to regional conditions and strengthening business operations. The regional format of the event played a critical role in that dynamic, enabling companies to bring multiple team members and ensuring that knowledge gained at the event could be carried back and applied across entire organizations. 

As a whole, the workshop reflected a clear shift in the industry, one that prioritizes continuous learning, stronger partnerships and practical, experience-driven growth. 

Check out the full playlist to learn more about how industry events like the CertainTeed Business Builders Workshop are helping contractors strengthen skills, build connections and drive long-term growth!