<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
<title>RoofersCoffeeShop</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/</link>
<description>Roofing Forum, Classifieds, Galleries and More!</description>
<language>en-us</language><item>
<title>National Roofing Contractors Association continues to elevate</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/national-roofing-contractors-association-continues-to-elevate</link>
<description>national-roofing-contractors-association-continues-to-elevate</description>
<pubDate>Mon, 21 Jul 2025 15:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2025/07/nrca-nrca-continues-to-elevate-3.png'
            alt='Collage of NRCA mid-year meeting'
            title='Collage of NRCA mid-year meeting'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Heidi J. Ellsworth.</p>

<h2>The mid-year meetings of the NRCA provide solutions and direction for the industry.</h2>

<p>The <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca">National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)</a> continues to lead the way in bringing the roofing industry together. During its 2025 Midyear Meetings, the NRCA welcomed roofing professionals from across the country and around the globe to collaborate on the most pressing issues facing the industry today. Each year, these meetings serve as a platform for discussion, problem solving and innovation as the NRCA works to protect, promote and advance the roofing industry, specifically the individuals who make roofing their career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the most urgent and emotional topics discussed was immigration. Still a complex and deeply personal issue for many contractors and workers, members shared firsthand accounts of job site shutdowns and company-wide meetings being canceled due to fears surrounding the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity. The NRCA&rsquo;s Hispanic Outreach Task Team is working diligently to equip the industry with resources, including bilingual materials that explain workers&rsquo; rights during ICE audits and raids. The team&rsquo;s efforts are focused on education, transparency and protecting the workforce that is vital to the success of the industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Workforce development also remained front and center, especially through the NRCA&rsquo;s Career and Technical Education (CTE) initiative. The commercial roofing competition at SkillsUSA has gained significant momentum, and the committee is now focused on expanding state-level competitions nationwide ahead of the 2026 national event. The initiative aims to expose more students to career opportunities in roofing while encouraging contractors and associations to get involved at the local level. This effort is a long-term investment in the future of the industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Advocacy continues to be a core pillar of the NRCA&rsquo;s mission. Updates were provided on recent legislative activity, including the extension of key tax provisions that benefit small businesses and contractors. While several wins were reported in the passage of the recent reconciliation legislation, there was also disappointment as long supported sustainable energy incentives were eliminated, which had supported sectors of the roofing industry. Continued uncertainty due to new tariffs remains an unresolved issue, with ongoing discussions and policy shifts still unfolding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the next priorities being workforce development and immigration reform, the Government Relations Committee considered new versions of proposals they have supported in the past. Both the Dignity Act and the Stronger Workforce for America Act have been reintroduced and are currently under consideration by the committee as they review the updates and changes from previous editions. The NRCA&rsquo;s Washington D.C. team remains highly active, advocating for fair policies and keeping members informed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to national efforts like <a href="https://www.nrca.net/advocacy/roofing-day">Roofing Day</a> in Washington, D.C., the NRCA Government Affairs Committee is encouraging and supporting states to host their own Roofing Days. States such as Montana, California and Florida have already led the way with successful events, creating strong platforms for local advocacy and industry awareness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>How roofing contractors can communicate with building owners, architects, consultants and policy makers about sustainability was discussed at the Sustainability Committee. This group met to discuss how NRCA can support and prepare contractors to discuss these important issues with their customers, helping them decide which options are right for their situation and climate. While also trying to help contractors be a stakeholder in policy conversations as these important issues come to their state, county or city so that the contractor can be a voice at that table to help set the path forward with a view of what is possible and sustainable. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Many committee meetings occurred throughout the week &mdash; such as Technical Operations, <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca-pro-certification">ProCertification</a> and other strategic initiatives along with a focus on global relations and events. The work being done within these committees is essential to the continued growth and professionalism of the industry. Whether it&#39;s developing certification programs, improving safety standards or tackling code changes, NRCA committees are at the heart of industry progress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re passionate about shaping the future of roofing, now is the time to get involved. Membership in the NRCA opens the door to these impactful conversations and initiatives. Joining a committee is more than volunteering &mdash; it&rsquo;s contributing to a better, stronger industry for generations to come. &nbsp;The Coffee Shops&trade; are proud to be a One Voice member and part of these ongoing conversations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Photo credit: Heidi J. Ellsworth</em></p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>Jim Barr Receives Prestigious NRCA J.A. Piper Award</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/jim-barr-receives-prestigious-nrca-ja-piper-award</link>
<description>jim-barr-receives-prestigious-nrca-ja-piper-award</description>
<pubDate>Fri, 09 Feb 2024 10:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2024/02/nrca-jim-barr-receives-j-a-piper-award.jpg'
            alt='NRCA Jim Barr receives J.A. Piper Award'
            title='NRCA Jim Barr receives J.A. Piper Award'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>This award recognizes&nbsp;professionals who devote outstanding service to the roofing industry.</h2>

<p>The <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca">National Roofing Contractors Association</a> has named Jim Barr, president of Barr Roofing Co., Abilene, Texas, recipient of its 77th annual J.A. Piper Award Feb. 7 during the NRCA 2024 Industry Awards Ceremony in Las Vegas. The J.A. Piper Award is the roofing industry&rsquo;s most prestigious honor and recognizes roofing professionals who have devoted constant outstanding service to the association and roofing industry.</p>

<p>In 1964, Barr&rsquo;s father established Barr Roofing, and three years later, Barr was working on roofs and in the sheet metal department during summer breaks from high school. He attended the University of Texas at Austin for a few years but then returned home and started working full time at his father&rsquo;s roofing company. In 1993, he became a minority shareholder in the business.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Soon after, he began volunteering with the Midwest Roofing Contractors Association and in 2001 was elected as MRCA&rsquo;s president. After his presidential term, he remained an active volunteer and continued to serve as chairman of the organization&rsquo;s Technical and Research Committee for eight years, acting as MRCA&rsquo;s representative to NRCA&rsquo;s Technical Operations Committee.</p>

<p>In 2009, Barr was elected to NRCA&rsquo;s board of directors and served on NRCA&rsquo;s Technical Operations and Manual Update committees.</p>

<p>In 2011, MRCA bestowed its highest honor on Barr &mdash; the James Q. McCawley Award, which is presented annually to an individual in recognition for outstanding service to the roofing industry. The next year, he was elected to NRCA&rsquo;s Executive Committee, where he served as a vice chairman from 2012-14. The Roofing Alliance also recruited Barr and elected him as secretary-treasurer while he served as NRCA&rsquo;s chairman of the board-elect and then NRCA&rsquo;s chairman of the board in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While serving as NRCA&rsquo;s chairman of the board, one of his priorities was to develop a qualified workforce. Barr oversaw efforts to produce a training program where field roofing workers can receive certificates of completion upon successful training in topic-specific areas; the first two modules launched under his leadership and eventually morphed into NRCA PROCertification.&reg; Additionally, as a result of his commitment and dedication to highlighting the professionalism of the roofing industry, trade schools now are implementing roofing into their curriculums.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barr also has contributed to his community and had the idea to put on a Key City Rhythm and Blues Festival while helping a roofing customer who runs the local United Way in Abilene. It became the three-day Key City Rhythm and Blues Festival, which raised $25,000 for United Way of Abilene. The next year, the festival grew and doubled its proceeds. Barr regularly helps numerous other local communities and even participated in a Dancing with the Abilene Stars, a local event where he and 11 dancers helped fundraise $300,000 for Hendrick Home for Children.</p>

<p>&ldquo;Our Piper winner possesses all the best qualities of a leader &mdash; strength, knowledge, command, thoughtfulness, generosity and class,&rdquo; said Bob Daly, president of Kaw Roofing &amp; Sheet Metal, Kansas City, Kansas, when presenting the award. &ldquo;And as a leader from Abilene, Texas, he exemplifies the Key City&rsquo;s values of respect, integrity and service above self and excellence in everything we do.&rdquo;</p>

<p>First presented in 1948, the J.A. Piper Award is named for former NRCA President Joseph A. Piper, whose extraordinary efforts kept the association alive during the Great Depression.</p>

<p><strong>About NRCA</strong></p>

<p>Since 1886, the National Roofing Contractors Association has been the home for generations of entrepreneurial craftsmen and enterprises who shelter and protect America&rsquo;s families and businesses and each other. Our vision is the recognition of our members as professionals and to unite the industry to that purpose. NRCA is one of the construction industry&rsquo;s most respected trade associations and the voice of roofing professionals and leading authority in the roofing industry for information, education, technology and advocacy. It represents all segments of the roofing industry, including contractors; manufacturers; distributors; architects; consultants; engineers; building owners; and city, state and government agencies. For information about NRCA and its services and offerings, visit <a href="https://www.nrca.net/">nrca.net</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>NRCA ProCertification® for Modified Bitumen Systems Installers has Launched</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/nrca-procertification-for-modified-bitumen-systems-installers-has-launched</link>
<description>nrca-procertification-for-modified-bitumen-systems-installers-has-launched</description>
<pubDate>Wed, 07 Jun 2023 10:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2023/06/nrca-procertification-modified-bitumen-systems-installers-pr.jpg'
            alt='nrca - ProCertification®  - Modified Bitumen Systems Installers - pr'
            title='nrca - ProCertification®  - Modified Bitumen Systems Installers - pr'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>NRCA ProCertification is NRCA&rsquo;s national certification initiative to create a competent, sustainable and high-performing roofing industry workforce.</h2>

<p>The National Roofing Contractors Association has announced experienced installers who demonstrate substantial skills and knowledge of torch-applied modified bitumen roof system installation can apply to become NRCA ProCertified<sup>&reg;</sup>&nbsp;Modified Bitumen Systems Installers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NRCA ProCertification is NRCA&rsquo;s national certification initiative to create a competent, sustainable and high-performing roofing industry workforce. Certifications now available include NRCA ProCertified Architectural Metal Flashings and Accessories Installer, NRCA ProCertified Asphalt Shingle Systems Installer, NRCA ProCertified Clay and Concrete Tile Systems Installer, NRCA ProCertified EPDM Systems Installer, NRCA ProCertified Metal Panel Roof Systems Installer, NRCA ProCertified Metal Shingle Systems Installer, NRCA ProCertified Modified Bitumen Systems Installer, NRCA ProCertified Slate Systems Installer, NRCA ProCertified Thermoplastic Systems Installer and NRCA ProCertified Roofing Foreman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A roofing contractor&rsquo;s certified workforce strengthens customer and supplier confidence; increases productivity; improves installation consistency and safety; enhances the company&rsquo;s reputation and position in local markets; and increases profitability. Additional information about NRCA ProCertification is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://nrca.net/procertification" target="_blank">nrca.net/procertification.</a></p>

<p><strong>About NRCA</strong></p>

<p>Since 1886, the National Roofing Contractors Association has been the home for generations of entrepreneurial craftsmen and enterprises who shelter and protect America&rsquo;s families and businesses and each other. Our vision is the recognition of our members as professionals and to unite the industry to that purpose. NRCA is one of the construction industry&rsquo;s most respected trade associations and the voice of roofing professionals and leading authority in the roofing industry for information, education, technology and advocacy. It represents all segments of the roofing industry, including contractors; manufacturers; distributors; architects; consultants; engineers; building owners; and city, state and government agencies. For information about NRCA and its services and offerings, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://nrca.net" target="_blank">nrca.net.</a></p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>Top January Stories: New Shingle Colors, Ladder Safety Month and Expanded Warranty Coverage</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/top-january-stories-new-shingle-colors-ladder-safety-month-and-expanded-warranty-coverage</link>
<description>top-january-stories-new-shingle-colors-ladder-safety-month-and-expanded-warranty-coverage</description>
<pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2023 12:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2023/03/rcs-top-january-2023.png'
            alt='RCS Top January 2023'
            title='RCS Top January 2023'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Evelyn Witterholt.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Here&rsquo;s what&rsquo;s been trending on RoofersCoffeeShop&reg;(RCS) this past month.&nbsp;</h2>

<p>To start the year off right, many companies are looking to incorporate more safety practices into their business. That&rsquo;s why one of our top articles this past month was about the upcoming National Ladder Safety Month in March. The article listed below details why ladder safety should be at the forefront of roofers&#39; minds and where companies can get safety training.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The asphalt roofing industry is still going strong as evidenced by some of our top articles pertaining to the popular roofing material. Three of our top five most viewed articles were related to the subject of asphalt roofing, including articles on industry trends and new gray shingles from different companies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Our number-one viewed article of the month was a press release from <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/owens-corning" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Owens Corning</a> about their new expanded warranty coverage. The press release dives into their new extended algae resistance warranty coverage which is now for 25 years (previously it was 10 years). This new warranty is currently available as of January 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here are the top 10 articles of January 2023:&nbsp;</p>

<p>Honorable Mention (#6-#10):&nbsp;</p>

<p>10- <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/the-heart-of-the-roofing-industry-roofing-alliance" target="_blank">The Heart of the Roofing Industry &ndash; Roofing Alliance</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>9- <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/national-ladder-safety-month-the-perfect-time-to-step-up-employee-training" target="_blank">National Ladder Safety Month: The Perfect Time to &ldquo;Step Up&rdquo; Employee Training</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>8- <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/a-net-zero-home-in-new-jersey" target="_blank">A Net Zero Home in New Jersey</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>7- <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/procertification-workers-are-getting-the-job-done" target="_blank">ProCertification&reg; Workers are Getting the Job Done!</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>6- <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/most-read-stories-of-2022" target="_blank">Most-read Stories of 2022</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read the Top 5 articles:&nbsp;</p>

<p>5- <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/iko-introduces-summit-grey-a-new-color-in-its-line-of-performance-shingles" target="_blank">IKO Introduces Summit Grey &mdash; a New Color in its Line of Performance Shingles</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>4- <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/ftc-proposes-rule-to-ban-noncompete-contracts" target="_blank">FTC Proposes Rule to Ban Noncompete Contracts</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>3- <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/exterior-home-trends-2023-gray-is-the-new-black-in-roofing" target="_blank">Exterior Home Trends 2023: Gray is the New Black in Roofing</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>2- <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/arma-releases-2022-q4-report-on-asphalt-roofing-product-shipments" target="_blank">ARMA Releases 2022 Q4 Report on Asphalt Roofing Product Shipments</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>1- <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/owens-corning-expands-algae-resistance-warranty-coverage" target="_blank">Owens Corning Expands Algae Resistance Warranty Coverage</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Stay up to date with the latest roofing industry news when you <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/sign-up" target="_blank">sign up for the Coffee Shop eNews.</a>&nbsp;</em></p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>Making ProCertification® Accessible For All!</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/making-procertification-accessible-for-all</link>
<description>making-procertification-accessible-for-all</description>
<pubDate>Thu, 02 Feb 2023 15:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2023/01/nrca-procertified.png'
            alt='NRCA PROCertified'
            title='NRCA PROCertified'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Evelyn Witterholt.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>By hosting ProCertification events at their facilities, IB Roof Systems is making roofers&rsquo; dreams of becoming ProCertified a reality.&nbsp;</h2>

<p>For roofers who are looking for a way to set themselves apart from their competitors, consider becoming ProCertified! Through the <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca" target="_blank">National Roofing Contractors Association</a> (NRCA) <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca-pro-certification" target="_blank">ProCertification Program</a>, roofing workers can expand their skillset by learning the ins and outs of specific roof system installations, including metal, asphalt and tile. Although there are assessments within the program that can be done online, each certification requires a hands-on performance exam afterwards.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/podcast/jason-stanley-procertification-is-easier-than-ever" target="_blank">In a recent podcast</a>, CEO of <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/ib-roof-systems" target="_blank">IB Roof Systems</a>, Jason Stanley, spoke with us about how their company has been making the ProCertification program more accessible to the industry. He describes the program as one of the greatest things the association has ever done, as it has created a universal standard for roof installations. However, the program first launched around the time of COVID, making it harder for contractors to get certified.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That&rsquo;s why this last year, IB Roof Systems has hosted a few ProCertification events at their facilities in Texas. At the time of recording the podcast, Jason says that their first kick-off event was a success. &ldquo;It was great to see so many people in attendance,&rdquo; Jason said. &ldquo;And then we took commitments from those people that attended the event to do the first-ever large-scale ProCertification.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The company&rsquo;s future plans for events were to get 32 people ProCertified in one day, which he hopes would set a good example for other companies to hold their own events. Jason believes that by becoming ProCertified, members of the roofing industry will gain a sense of pride in what they do. He also believes that his company and other companies will soon be requiring some of their crew members to hold a ProCertification of some kind.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;I think ProCertification will gain greater adoption when the individual sees the value in the card,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;When this becomes an industry pride thing, and people want to have their credentials and they understand that I need this card to go to work&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca-pro-certification" target="_blank">Learn more about NRCA ProCertification</a> in their RoofersCoffeeShop&reg; Directory or visit <a href="http://www.nrca.net/procertification" target="_blank">nrca.net/procertification</a>.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/podcast/jason-stanley-procertification-is-easier-than-ever" target="_blank">Listen to the entire podcast</a> to learn about the importance of becoming ProCertified.</p>

<p><strong>About Evelyn&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Evelyn works as a writer for RoofersCoffeeShop, MetalCoffeeShop and AskARoofer. When she isn&rsquo;t writing about roofing, she&rsquo;s either at the gym lifting weights or curled up on the couch watching a movie.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Photo credit: <a href="https://www.nrca.net/RoofingNews/take-advantage-of-free-nrca-procertification-performance-exams-.12-15-2022.10990/Details/Story" target="_blank">NRCA</a></em></p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>ProCertification® Workers are Getting the Job Done!</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/procertification-workers-are-getting-the-job-done</link>
<description>procertification-workers-are-getting-the-job-done</description>
<pubDate>Wed, 04 Jan 2023 18:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2023/01/nrca-procertification-photo-contest.jpg'
            alt='NRCA ProCertification Photo Contest'
            title='NRCA ProCertification Photo Contest'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Cass Jacoby.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2>The ProCertification work force is growing more and more every year, enter a photo of your team&nbsp; either earning their certification or hard at work if they already have it for a chance to win!&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca" target="_blank">National Roofing Contractors Association</a> (NRCA) has always been a proponent of educating roofers. They believe that through education, roofers can increase their professionalism by learning and applying valuable skills. NRCA built the <a href="https://www.nrca.net/procertification" target="_blank">ProCertification&reg;</a> program for qualified roofing workers to become nationally certified in specific roof system designations, to create a career path for field workers and to elevate the industry to be on par with other trades.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Today, ProCertification is actively leading the industry towards a more competent and sustainable workforce, built up of experienced workers who regularly demonstrate substantial roofing knowledge and skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>On top of creating clear career pathways for roofing professionals, ProCertification is a huge part of building a solution to the current workforce shortage, increase customer confidence in workers and, ultimately, provide the roofing industry with the kind of national certifications other trade professions currently offer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>RoofersCoffeeShop&reg; wants to showcase the many roofers embracing this new wave of professionalism being heralded in by this program and the many workers who are actively helping elevate our industry. You can see in our <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/gallery/nrca-procertification-photo-contest-2" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">photo contest gallery</a> the many roofing contractors who are embracing a higher standard for the industry and committed to growing their knowledge.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/rcs/nrca-procertification-photo-contest" target="_blank">Fill out this form to enter</a> and submit photos of your team either earning their ProCertification or if they already have it, send us a photo of them hard at work. Everyone who submits a photo will be entered into a drawing and three lucky winners will be chosen to receive an RCS Box of Love. The winning photos will be featured in our Week in Roofing eNews, shared on social media and added to our photo gallery!&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>And if you haven&rsquo;t already, check out our other <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/roofing-galleries" target="_blank">photo galleries,</a> which showcase and celebrate all aspects of the industry! We&rsquo;d love to add your pictures to our growing collection!&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca" target="_blank">Learn more about NRCA</a> in their RoofersCoffeeShop&reg; Directory or visit <a href="http://www.nrca.net/" target="_blank">www.nrca.net</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>New Certification Program Changes Everything</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/new-certification-program-changes-everything</link>
<description>new-certification-program-changes-everything</description>
<pubDate>Sun, 11 Dec 2022 15:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2022/11/nrca-procertification-program.jpg'
            alt='NRCA ProCertification Program'
            title='NRCA ProCertification Program'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Alec Doniger.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>ProCertification&reg;, a new program that allows roofing professionals to get certified in their trade, excites the industry nationwide.&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/podcast/jason-stanley-procertification-is-easier-than-ever" target="_blank">Season 4, Episode 51</a> of Roofing Road Trips, Heidi discusses an exciting industry-wide addition to the roofing industry with Jason Stanley. Jason is the CEO of <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/ib-roof-systems">IB Roof Systems</a>, a company that manufactures PVC single-ply membrane. Today, though, he isn&rsquo;t promoting his own company. He&rsquo;s promoting <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca-pro-certification" target="_blank">ProCertification</a>, a new industry-standard test to ensure roofers are certified.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;I would suggest that this is the single greatest thing they have ever done for the roofing industry in the last decade,&rdquo; says Jason. &ldquo;We are way, way behind in attracting people to the roofing industry.&rdquo; He believes that ProCertification is the best way to reverse this trend.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;[ProCertification] is truly just a godsend for the roofing industry during this time &ndash; to provide accreditation and credentials for those that want to demonstrate that they know what they&rsquo;re doing.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>This new program isn&rsquo;t new, however. Jason explains that the ProCertification program was launched during the middle of COVID. The pandemic didn&rsquo;t allow for it to gain traction. Thus, the NRCA has only recently started promoting it again, and the results are looking promising.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;This is not to compete with the training that&#39;s out there today,&rdquo; assures Jason. &ldquo;But this is the capstone to those training programs that we can use universally across the country that signifies or demonstrates that you have competency.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>A roofer may have attended a rigorous trade program or learned the trade at home. It doesn&rsquo;t matter. If you pass the assessment, you are certified and recognized for your specialized skill. Getting certified isn&rsquo;t a hassle, either. Anyone with internet access can complete the written portion of the assessment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Towards the end of the interview, Heidi asks Jason what his &ldquo;why&rdquo; is. Why should roofers go through ProCertification? Why is this the most exciting thing the roofing industry has seen for a decade? His answer is simple. Safety. Employees getting injured on-site because of insufficient training, can significantly hurt a company. Jason is look forward to having peace of mind about the safety of his employees and his company.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca-pro-certification" target="_blank">Learn more about NRCA ProCertification</a> in their RoofersCoffeeShop&reg; Directory or visit <a href="http://www.nrca.net/procertification" target="_blank">nrca.net/procertification</a>.</strong></p>

<p><a href="http://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/podcast/jason-stanley-procertification-is-easier-than-ever">Listen to the podcast </a>to learn more about ProCertification.</p>

<p><strong>About Alec&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Alec is a reporter for RoofersCoffeeShop, MetalCoffeeShop and AskARoofer. When he isn&rsquo;t investigating the state of the roofing industry, you might find him playing drums with his bands in Denver.     &nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>NRCA Announces Vice President of Certifications John Schehl’s Retirement</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/nrca-announces-vice-president-of-certifications-john-schehls-retirement</link>
<description>nrca-announces-vice-president-of-certifications-john-schehls-retirement</description>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Oct 2022 12:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2022/10/nrca-john-schehl-retirement-600x300.png'
            alt='NRCA John Schehl retirement'
            title='NRCA John Schehl retirement'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>The National Roofing Contractors Association has announced the retirement of John Schehl, NRCA&rsquo;s vice president of certifications.</h2>

<p>Schehl began his employment at NRCA in September 1997 as director of training. For more than two decades, he helped develop high-impact training, education and professional credentialing programs and services to benefit the roofing industry. He also was instrumental in the development and launch of NRCA ProCertification,&reg;&nbsp;NRCA&rsquo;s national certification initiative. Schehl is a Certified Association Executive, Registered Roof Consultant, Certified Accreditation and Certification Professional, Certified Credentialing Professional and authorized Occupational Safety and Health Administration Outreach Trainer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;John&rsquo;s dedication to the roofing industry and NRCA spans decades,&rdquo; says McKay Daniels, NRCA&rsquo;s CEO. &ldquo;Whether instituting new domestic and international education programs or spearheading the largest professional development initiative the industry has ever seen, critical initiatives wouldn&rsquo;t have been possible without John driving them. He&rsquo;s been a tremendous asset to the association and the industry.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Schehl has been active in the roofing industry for 50 years. He started his career working for NRCA member Monarch Roofing, Blue Island, Illinois, from July 1972 through February 1994 before serving as project manager and salesman at NRCA member Clark Roofing Co., Broadview, Illinois.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition, Schehl served on the American Society of Association Executives&rsquo; International Section Council; the board of directors for the Certification Network Group; and the Certification and Accreditation Governance Committee of the International Society for Performance Improvement. He is a past chairman of the Workforce Safety and Development Committee of the Solar Energy Industries Association and the Association Forum&rsquo;s Certification Shared Interest Group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Schehl now looks forward to spending time with his wife of 19 years, Jeanne; three children and two stepchildren; and nine grandchildren. He plans to continue playing competitive pickleball, backpacking, boating and fishing, as well as managing the Turtle Lake Tap and Grill in Delavan, Wisconsin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jared Ribble, formerly director of NRCA&rsquo;s Qualified Trainer and ProCertification programs, will succeed Schehl as vice president of certifications November&nbsp;14. Ribble has served NRCA for four years, designing and implementing the Qualified Trainer program and conferences and helping develop NRCA ProCertification.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>About NRCA</strong></p>

<p>Since 1886, the National Roofing Contractors Association has been the home for generations of entrepreneurial craftsmen and enterprises who shelter and protect America&rsquo;s families and businesses and each other. Our vision is the recognition of our members as professionals and to unite the industry to that purpose. NRCA is one of the construction industry&rsquo;s most respected trade associations and the voice of roofing professionals and leading authority in the roofing industry for information, education, technology and advocacy. It represents all segments of the roofing industry, including contractors; manufacturers; distributors; architects; consultants; engineers; building owners; and city, state and government agencies. For information about NRCA and its services and offerings, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://nrca.net">nrca.net</a>.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>METALCON Announces Show Highlights and Educational Programming for Indy</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/metalcon-announces-show-highlights-and-educational-programming-for-indy</link>
<description>metalcon-announces-show-highlights-and-educational-programming-for-indy</description>
<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jul 2022 14:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2022/07/metalcon-exhibits-and-events-600x300.jpg'
            alt='METALCON exhibits and events'
            title='METALCON exhibits and events'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>Learn all about the keynote speakers, workshops, product demonstrations and more at this year&#39;s METALCON.</h2>

<p><a href="https://www.metalcon.com/">METALCON</a>, the only global event dedicated exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction, announces its program line-up for this year&rsquo;s annual conference and tradeshow scheduled from Wednesday, October&nbsp;12 to Friday, October&nbsp;14 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From intensive pre-show workshops beginning on Tuesday, October&nbsp;11 to 25+ free educational sessions conveniently located inside the exhibit hall to inspiring keynotes and in-depth workshops, top industry experts will share their knowledge with attendees who are eligible to earn continuing education credits (CEUs), including AIA and CSI learning units among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;We are extremely grateful to our 2022 sponsors; without them the show would not be possible: <a href="https://www.millsteel.com/">Mill Steel Company</a> (premier level), <a href="https://cidanmachinery.com/">CIDAN Machinery Inc.</a>, (platinum level), <a href="https://samco-machinery.com/about/">Samco Machinery</a>&nbsp;(gold level), <a href="https://www.sherwin-williams.com/">Sherwin-Williams</a> (silver level)&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.mac-tech.com/">Mac-Tech</a> (silver level) along with long-time partner, the Metal Construction Association (MCA),&rdquo; said METALCON Show Director, Judy Geller.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Keynote speakers for this year&rsquo;s show include Dr. Melissa Furman of <a href="https://unlockcareerpotential.com/">Career Potential</a>, a consulting, training and coaching organization, presenting <a href="https://www.metalcon.com/event/leading-for-today-and-tomorrow/">Leading for Today and Tomorrow</a> on Wednesday, October&nbsp;12&nbsp;at 10 a.m. Then, on the following day at the same time, American IndyCar Series driver, <a href="https://www.teampenske.com/drivers/index.cfm/4413/Josef_Newgarden">Josef Newgarden</a>&nbsp;will share fascinating stories on the inner workings of a professional racing program and highlight lessons learned regarding communication and teamwork on his path to the top tier of American Motorsports in his keynote, <a href="https://www.metalcon.com/event/keynote-the-road-to-success/">The Road to Success</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>A variety of special focus areas are planned, including:&nbsp;</h3>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.metalcon.com/attendees/education/#architectsexperience">The Architect&rsquo;s Experience</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Featuring a series of events over two days focused on the use of metal as a design and construction component, this &ldquo;show-within-a-show&rdquo; is for&nbsp;architects, designers, specifiers and engineers to breathe new life into projects and solve a wide variety of architectural, structural, environmental and building performance challenges ― all through the use of metal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Offering exclusive education sessions specific to design professionals, attendees will hear from respected thought leaders, award-winning architects, and industry experts, including a&nbsp;featured special keynote presentation by the &ldquo;dean of North American building science,&rdquo; <a href="https://www.buildingscience.com/users/joseph-lstiburek">Joe Lstiburek</a> of Building Science Corporation as he delves into the world of energy flow in <a href="https://www.metalcon.com/event/theres-no-such-thing-as-a-free-thermodynamic-lunch-how-changing-energy-flow-changes-everything/">There&rsquo;s No Such Thing as a Free Thermodynamic Lunch &ndash; How Changing Energy Flow Changes Everything</a>. Additionally, a special architects-only guided floor tour is planned.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>The Metal Building Marketplace&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>More and more architects and contractors are taking advantage of the benefits offered by metal buildings. This dedicated pavilion features top metal building and components manufacturers, creating a convenient hub for contractors, the design and architectural community, and others to discover the solutions these companies can provide. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.metalcon.com/attendees/show-floor/#imp">The Insulated Metal Panel Pavilion</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Back by popular demand, the MCA&rsquo;s Insulated Metal (IMP) Alliance (leading manufacturers, material suppliers, and resellers) brings together six major independent brands of leading insulated metal wall and roof panels that produce 85% to 90% of all IMPs shipped in the U.S. and Canada &mdash; all in one location. Understand why IMPs are described as &ldquo;tomorrow&rsquo;s roof panels today.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Plus, drop by the IMP&rsquo;s Education Center for IMPs - Installation and Handling Best Practices. This seminar and demo will focus on best practices and common mistakes made during unloading, storage and handling of installation of IMPs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.nrca.net/procertification">NRCA ProCertification&reg;</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Through NRCA&#39;s national certification initiative, experienced workers who demonstrate substantial roofing skills and knowledge can become certified in specific roof system installations at METALCON. Visit <a href="https://www.nrca.net">www.nrca.net</a> for more information.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.metalcon.com/attendees/education/#learningsessions">Learning Centers</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Check out METALCON&rsquo;s FREE education sessions! These 60-minute sessions from 11:30 am to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, and from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday are organized into three Learning Centers.&nbsp; Attendees can earn up to 12 hours of CEUs:&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.metalcon.com/event_listing_type/best-practices/">Best Practices</a></strong></p>

<p>Get solid, sensible advice and the tried-and-true techniques, tools and strategies you need to ensure your business&rsquo;s growth and success. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.metalcon.com/event_listing_type/technical-know-how/">Technical Knowhow</a></strong></p>

<p>Deep dives into code compliance, fire prevention, rainscreen assembly, air flow and other topics critical to product performance, safety and your business.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.metalcon.com/event_listing_type/sustainability/">Sustainability</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Get the latest information on sustainability practices and products for metal buildings and discover new ways to deal with carbon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, METALCON continues to offer in-depth <a href="https://www.metalcon.com/attendees/education/#workshops">workshops</a> this year on the Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of the show to provide cutting-edge education and training, which cannot be found elsewhere. Attendees will be armed with new information, fresh ideas and strategic direction to address some of the major issues facing the construction industry today&mdash; skill-building, team-transforming and lifesaving workshops, including:&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Metal Roof Installation Training Certificate Program &nbsp;</li>
	<li>Rollforming for the Metal Construction Industry &nbsp;</li>
	<li>Architectural Excellence with Insulated Metal Panels&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Understanding Metal Roofing &nbsp;</li>
	<li>Life or Death Accountability: Transforming Your Team to Act as if Lives Depend on Them&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Game Plan Your Fall Plan&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<p>And in the METALCON Theater, a special <a href="https://www.metalcon.com/event/state-of-the-industry/">State of the Industry</a> panel presentation will take place on Thursday, October&nbsp;13, moderated by Paul Deffenbaugh of Modern Trade Communications.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Each year, METALCON gives back to the local community where the show takes place. METALCON is pleased to announce it is partnering with <a href="https://www.metalcon.com/about-metalcon/metalcon-gives-back/">World Central Kitchen</a> for this year&rsquo;s giving back program, which will raise money to help provide food for the hungry in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;We can&rsquo;t wait to host METALCON in Indianapolis this year,&rdquo; said Geller. &ldquo;Indianapolis is within 750 square miles of 75% of the manufacturing distribution space in the U.S. ― a central hub for contractors, architects, building owners, manufacturers and suppliers, not to mention all of the great restaurants and shopping within walking distance.&rdquo;</p>

<p><strong>About METALCON &nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>METALCON is the largest international event in the metal construction and design industry. Established in 1991, it&rsquo;s the only annual tradeshow and conference devoted exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction. Each year, contractors, architects, developers, owners, fabricators, manufacturers and suppliers attend. Industry experts from 200 leading companies exhibit the latest products, solutions and game-changing technologies while sharing their knowledge with attendees. METALCON&rsquo;S success is based on a dynamic exhibit hall, extensive educational programs and interactive learning opportunities. Produced by PSMJ Resources, Inc., in partnership with the Metal Construction Association, this is the event&rsquo;s first time in Indianapolis.&nbsp; For more information, visit <a href="https://www.metalcon.com">www.metalcon.com</a> or call 800-537-7765.</p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>Certifications Make Your Business Attractive</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/certifications-make-your-business-attractive</link>
<description>certifications-make-your-business-attractive</description>
<pubDate>Sat, 02 Jul 2022 09:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2022/06/nrca-certification-makes-your-business-attractive.jpg'
            alt='NRCA Certification Makes your Business Attractive'
            title='NRCA Certification Makes your Business Attractive'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Cass Jacoby, RCS Reporter.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Certifications are the investment in your employees both homeowners and potential job candidates are looking for.&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/podcast/jared-ribble-nrca-procertification-goes-metal" target="_blank">Episode 23, Season 4</a> of the Roofing Road Trips podcast, RCS President Heidi J. Ellsworth visits with Jared Ribble, NRCA&rsquo;s director of certification development, to talk about the association&rsquo;s new <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca-pro-certification" target="_blank">ProCertification</a>&reg; designation for metal panel roof system installers and the overall importance of metal in roofing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;ProCertification ends up being the largest, widest reaching consumer protection program,&rdquo; says Jared, explaining why certifications are so attractive to homeowners and the ROI of investing in certifications.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NRCA built ProCertification for qualified roofing workers to become nationally certified in specific roof system designations, to create a career path for field workers and to elevate the industry to be on par with other trades.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not only is getting certified a huge part of creating career pathways for workers, it is what future generations of roofers are looking for.&nbsp;&ldquo;They want training, ongoing training and certification. They want proof their experience and their skills matter,&quot; says Jared citing a 2019 study from the Roofing Alliance that asked millennials what they wanted as roofers. &ldquo;This is something that the next generation of workers want, is looking for and is even expecting.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Certifying and developing your employees is a part of building a culture. The industry is obviously focused on recruitment and obtaining the labor of skilled talent, but the thorough solution to all of these issues building a culture where investment in your employees is commonplace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;The contractors that will win the day are going to be those that have a track record of certifying their workers that will be able to funnel in the new worker from high school that have proven that they will put that high school kid on a path to professional certification,&rdquo; says Jared.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/podcast/jared-ribble-nrca-procertification-goes-metal" target="_blank">Listen to the podcast</a> for more insight about the new NRCA ProCertification for Metal Panel Roof Systems Installers and how certifying your workers can help you develop an attractive culture.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca" target="_blank">Learn more about NRCA</a> in their RoofersCoffeeShop&reg; Directory or visit <a href="http://www.nrca.net/" target="_blank">www.nrca.net</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
</item></channel></rss>