Roofing Alliance momentum: Building the future of roofing one milestone at a time

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.  

Celebrating momentum and building the future of roofing together. 

The Roofing Alliance continues to play a transformative role in shaping the future of the roofing industry. This fall has brought an extraordinary wave of progress as education, research, philanthropy and leadership development converge to create opportunities for today’s workforce and the next generation. As a proud Roofing Alliance member, RoofersCoffeeShop® is honored to amplify the momentum and impact of this vital work. 

One of the most historic milestones for the industry is the launch of the first-ever Minor in Roofing at Clemson University. This groundbreaking program has been seven years in the making and now stands as a defining achievement in roofing education. All four courses — Roofing Fundamentals, Roofing Management, Roofing Business Principles and Leadership and Sustainable Roofing Practices — are officially available and open to both students and industry professionals. This direct investment in workforce development offers a clear pathway for career advancement and professional growth. More information about the program can be found at www.roofingalliance.net/education/clemson-training-program. 

Research continues to be a foundational pillar of the Roofing Alliance, delivering insights that improve safety, performance and long-term planning across the supply chain. Ongoing initiatives include the Texas A&M safety study and the newly released Sustainability and Resiliency Study, which examines how sustainable practices are being implemented across manufacturing, distribution and contracting. These research efforts offer practical guidance for roofing companies committed to innovation and operational excellence. 

Philanthropy remains at the heart of the Alliance’s mission. The long-standing partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is a powerful demonstration of the industry’s deep commitment to helping families in need. Alliance members across the country continue to ensure RMHC facilities remain safe and dry for families facing medical challenges.  

The MVP Awards also continue to celebrate exceptional roofing workers whose professionalism, leadership and heart elevate the industry every day. With more than 20 nominations this year, the stories coming forward highlight the incredible talent within the roofing workforce. 

Education remains a core focus for the Alliance, with programs designed to attract, train and inspire new professionals. The Melvin Kruger Scholarship Program continues to support future leaders, while the Alliance’s growing involvement in SkillsUSA is introducing more students to roofing as a viable and rewarding career. The 2026 Student Competition is already generating excitement with twelve university teams competing for the opportunity to present as finalists at the International Roofing Expo in Las Vegas. The competition on January 21, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall, offers an incredible look at the future of roofing leadership and continues to be one of the highlights of the year. We encourage all roofing professionals to attend. 

The Center for Roofing Innovation and Leadership is also expanding its impact. This fall marked the launch of the first-ever Roofing Boot Camp, offering 50 high school students hands-on experience, mentorship and exposure to real career pathways in roofing. The Center also received formal recognition from the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, reinforcing its credibility and influence as an emerging national model for roofing education. The Center Steering Committee met on October 15 to outline priorities for 2026, including expanded research initiatives, deeper student engagement and enhanced curriculum development for high schools. 

The Roofing Alliance is doing far more than supporting important programs; it is shaping the long-term future of the industry. From education to philanthropy to groundbreaking research, its work demonstrates what is possible when an industry unites with vision and purpose. Roofing professionals across the country are feeling the impact of these efforts and embracing the opportunities they create. As an Alliance member, RoofersCoffeeShop remainscommitted to supporting and sharing this work to strengthen the roofing community we serve. We also encourage all roofing professionals and companies to consider joining the Alliance. It is one of the best ways to give back to our industry!