By Roofing Alliance.

This new initiative offers students hands-on roofing experience, strengthening the industry’s workforce development and long-term talent pipeline.

The Roofing Alliance advanced its workforce development efforts with the launch of the Center for Roofing Innovation and Leadership’s first High School Roofing Bootcamp, funded through a DeWalt Grant, support from Baker Roofing Company in Cary, North Carolina and delivered in partnership with Clemson University. The inaugural event brought more than 60 students from three Oconee County South Carolina high schools to Seneca High School on October 16, 2025, for a full day of hands-on roofing education. 

Developed with school counselors and teachers, the program introduced students to roofing through four immersive learning stations covering hands-on application, communications and teamwork, project planning and career exploration. Students gained experience with tools and materials, learned about crew communication, walked through the planning behind a roofing project and heard directly from industry professionals about career pathways, training options and long-term earning potential. 

At the end of the day, each student received a Roofing Alliance | Clemson University certificate of completion recognizing their participation in this inaugural program. 

“The Roofing Bootcamp reflects the Center’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of roofing professionals,” said Greg Hudson, president of the Roofing Alliance. “Thanks to our partners at Clemson University, DeWalt and Baker Roofing Company, we are able to provide meaningful, hands-on experiences that open students’ eyes to the opportunities available in the roofing industry.” 

This initiative represents a meaningful step forward in the Center for Roofing Innovation and Leadership’s efforts to strengthen the industry’s education, workforce development and long-term talent pipeline. Members who would like to bring a High School Roofing Bootcamp to their own communities can reach out to Alison LaValley, Roofing Alliance executive director, at alavalley@nrca.net.