By Jenny Yu.  

The NRCA’s first time hosting members of SkillsUSA at the annual IRE convention sparked fruitful discussions about the future workforce of roofing. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) hosted 23 members of SkillsUSA to join in the learning and networking festivities. SkillsUSA is a partnership of educators and the trade industries aimed at building a future skilled workforce through education and competitions across the United States. 

“We’re trying to drive more traffic and interest in roofing and show what the community of the industry can offer,” Shane Muncy, NRCA director of workforce development said. Part of the IRE experience included a bingo card scavenger hunt, which took attendees to different sponsor booths; a presentation of the newly released “Thermoplastic Hands-On Training Plans” course; and a roundtable discussion that allowed for attendees to share information about how SkillsUSA works within different schools and states throughout the country. 

“There was a spark in the room during our discussions about the high school to technical college pipeline,” Tracey Scoville, board vice chair for construction education for SkillsUSA, said on the energy of the roundtable discussions. “There is a massive community ready to support our kids if we just show them how.” 

After 34 years in a classroom helping students find their footing in the trades, Tracey has had many experiences at conferences. Attending this year’s IRE as a guest of the NRCA was different. “It didn’t feel like just another meeting; it felt like a homecoming,” Tracey shared, expressing her appreciation for the fully funded opportunity. “Being heard is one thing, but being truly listened to is another, and the respect shown to my experience meant the world to me.” 

Tracey also recalled several other key moments that left a lasting impact after the conference ended, including the opportunity to speak with CEO McKay Daniels about how SkillsUSA isn’t merely “filling jobs,” but changing lives by elevating a craft she has loved for over three decades. 

Overall, the first IRE for SkillsUSA hosted by NRCA was a huge success for all parties involved. 

“The IRE experience was very uplifting and productive for our collective initiative,” Shane reflected. “A very busy and engaging three days; most definitely worth the efforts and passion of the CTE Committee.” 

Learn more about how NRCA and SkillsUSA are preparing the next generation for the future of roofing!

By Dani Sheehan. 

With this scholarship, you can take your career to the next level by gaining invaluable industry knowledge, prioritizing professional development and establishing connections that could shape your future. 

The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) is excited to offer the EmpowerAll Scholarship, giving roofing professionals an opportunity to boost their career while they attend the 2025 International Roofing Expo® (IRE) in San Antonio, Texas, Feb. 19 – 21. Whether you’re in management or work in the field, this scholarship is designed for first-time IRE attendees and offers an all-access pass to the expo as well as personal mentorship, exclusive networking opportunities and direct connections with leading manufacturers and suppliers. 

If you’re a roofing professional and have never attended IRE before, apply today! This is your chance to meet like-minded peers, attend the industry’s largest event and take advantage of expert-led educational programs. Walk away with fresh ideas and an expanded professional network to support your career growth. 

Why you should apply 

The EmpowerAll Scholarship is designed to provide a comprehensive experience at IRE 2025, where the industry comes together to share knowledge and discover innovations while building lasting relationships. If you are selected as a scholarship recipient, you’ll earn:  

• An IRE 2025 Super Pass: This gives you admission to all educational sessions, the Expo Hall and the keynote session, as well as the EmpowerAll reception and welcome party. 
• A customized show-site agenda: Maximize your experience and get the most out of the event. 
• Hotel accommodations and airfare: NRCA will pay for two nights in San Antonio on Feb. 19 and 20 and cover roundtrip airfare up to $600. 
• On-site mentoring: A member of NRCA’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee will provide guidance and support throughout the event, connecting you with industry experts and showing you the ropes of the expo. 

How to apply 

Applying for the EmpowerAll Scholarship requires your thoughtfulness by completing a short application to showcase why you should be considered. The NRCA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee will be selecting three winners based on your short responses to the following questions: 

1. How do you impact your company? 
2. What are your future goals? 
3. Why should you be considered for this scholarship? 

Applicants agree to verify their employment by a roofing contractor, attend IRE 2025 and connect with NRCA’s on-site mentor for a show floor tour. After the event, they’ll connect with NRCA’s staff to provide feedback about the experience. All applicants’ employers also must agree to provide paid time off for attending IRE 2025. 

The deadline to apply is Nov. 8! Don’t miss this chance to invest in yourself and your future.