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<channel>
<title>RoofersCoffeeShop</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/</link>
<description>Roofing Forum, Classifieds, Galleries and More!</description>
<language>en-us</language><item>
<title>Beyond the roof: Taking care of families in need</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/beyond-the-roof-taking-care-of-families-in-need</link>
<description>beyond-the-roof-taking-care-of-families-in-need</description>
<pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 06:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/04/contractor-outlook-beyond-the-roof-taking-care-of-families-in-need.png'
            alt='Beyond the roof: Taking care of families in need'
            title='Beyond the roof: Taking care of families in need'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Emma Peterson.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Learn about the partnership between the Roofing Alliance and Ronald McDonald House.&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In 2017, Charles Antis of <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/kpost-roofing-waterproofing">KPost Roofing and Waterproofing</a> stood up in a <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/roofing-alliance">Roofing Alliance</a> meeting and suggested a nationwide project where roofers could adopt Ronald McDonald House programs. Our very own Heidi J. Ellsworth was there that day and has seen how that idea has grown over the last decade. To talk about this initiative, she hosted <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/katie-fitzgerald">Katie Fitzgerald</a>, president and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Global, for <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/podcast/ronald-mcdonald-house">an episode of Contractor Outlook</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ronald McDonald House dates back to the 1970s when a renowned pediatric oncologist named Dr. Audrey Evans realized that many of the families of her patients at the Children&#39;s Hospital of Philadelphia had nowhere to stay during treatment. For families who traveled especially far for their child&rsquo;s treatment, some would even sleep in waiting room chairs or on hospital floors, just to be close&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In partnership with McDonald&rsquo;s and the Philadelphia Eagles, she opened the first Ronald McDonald House, which provided families with free housing so they could be close to their children and the life-saving treatment they needed. Today, there are over 400 Housesin 60countries and regions.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The growth was incredible, but with that growth came support needs. Katie explained:&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote>
<p>In the United States alone, our 165 standalone Houses, which are safe havens of comprehensive support for families with social services, emotional support, meals, transportation, art therapy and even schooling, take up around six million square feet of physical infrastructure. That&rsquo;s a lot to take care of and honestly, our organization is very lean. Our Houses need help with the day-to-day operations, let alone the bigger maintenance tasks.&nbsp;</p>
</blockquote>

<p>It&#39;s that need that Charles&rsquo; idea aimed to fill, and the best part is it worked! Heidi shared some of her first-hand experience of what the mobilization looked like after Charles&rsquo; presentation to the Roofing Alliance in 2017, saying, &ldquo;Contractors were calling contractors across the country. Someone from Philadelphia was calling someone in Oregon or Washington or wherever it may be and saying, &lsquo;Hey, we&#39;re doing this here. You guys really should think about this.&rsquo; And it was because they shared their stories of supporting Ronald McDonald House and how powerful it was that a lot of people were able to get involved, adopt and be a part of this big program.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>For Katie and broader Ronald McDonald House System, that mobilization was game changing. She explained, &ldquo;I think since that time, there&#39;s been over $3 million of support for everything from maintenance to full-on roof replacement. The partnership is saving our nonprofit partners who perform this work tremendous amounts of money that they can put into the family instead. It&rsquo;s been amazing... And one of the best parts is just seeing roofers all over the country fall in love with our mission and go beyond the roof to help. I know roofers around the country have been involved in other sorts of activities to take care of the houses beyond the roofs &mdash; fundraising, volunteering, collecting holiday gifts and more! They&rsquo;re really connected with this mission so beautifully and we need the help.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/podcast/ronald-mcdonald-house">Listen to the newscast</a> or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTRlB8gy5c8&amp;feature=youtu.be">Watch the whole episode</a> for more about how contractors all over are supporting Ronald McDonald House&rsquo;s incredible mission.&nbsp;</strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>Roofing Alliance student voices from the 2026 competition highlight what the next generation wants from the roofing industry</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/roofing-alliance-student-voices-from-the-2026-competition-highlight-what-the-next-generation-wants-from-the-roofing-industry</link>
<description>roofing-alliance-student-voices-from-the-2026-competition-highlight-what-the-next-generation-wants-from-the-roofing-industry</description>
<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 03:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/04/hje-article-roofing-alliance-student-voices-from-the-2026-competition-highlight-what-the-next-generation-wants-from-the-roofing-industry.png'
            alt='Roofing Alliance student voices from the 2026 competition highlight what the next generation wants from the roofing industry'
            title='Roofing Alliance student voices from the 2026 competition highlight what the next generation wants from the roofing industry'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Heidi J. Ellsworth, The Coffee Shops.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>From culture to career growth, students share what matters most as they prepare to enter the roofing workforce.&nbsp;</h2>

<p>At the <a href="/directory/ire" target="_blank">International Roofing Expo (IRE)</a>, the <a href="/directory/roofing-alliance" target="_blank">Roofing Alliance</a> Student Competition&nbsp;showcased&nbsp;more than the technical skills of construction management students. It provided a powerful look into the mindset of the next generation entering the roofing industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Through a series of interviews conducted by&nbsp;RoofersCoffeeShop&nbsp;with teams from Bradley University, the University of Florida, Auburn University, Colorado State University and Clemson University, a clear and consistent message&nbsp;emerged&nbsp;about what these future professionals are looking for as they begin their careers: Company culture.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Students consistently emphasized the importance of working in an environment built on respect,&nbsp;collaboration&nbsp;and connection. They are not simply looking for a job. They are looking for a workplace where they feel valued,&nbsp;supported&nbsp;and part of a team. Many described wanting to work for companies where leadership is approachable and where success is shared, not dictated by hierarchy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That emphasis on culture naturally extends to relationships. Students spoke about the importance of camaraderie, open&nbsp;communication&nbsp;and trust among coworkers and leadership. In an industry known for its fast pace and demanding schedules, having&nbsp;a strong team&nbsp;environment is not just a&nbsp;benefit,&nbsp;it is essential.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Work-life balance also&nbsp;emerged&nbsp;as a key priority. While these students understand the commitment&nbsp;required&nbsp;in construction, they are looking for flexibility and employers who respect their time. They recognize that balance leads to better performance and long-term career satisfaction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Opportunities for growth and advancement are equally important. Students want to join organizations that invest in their development, offer&nbsp;mentorship&nbsp;and provide clear pathways for career progression. They are eager to learn,&nbsp;take on&nbsp;responsibilityand build their careers, but they expect support and guidance along the way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many also expressed a desire to stay engaged and challenged in their roles.&nbsp;They are drawn to dynamic environments where they can contribute across multiple aspects of a project, gaining hands-on&nbsp;experience&nbsp;and&nbsp;diversifying&nbsp;their skill sets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Representation and inclusion were also part of the conversation, particularly among women entering construction. Feeling supported,&nbsp;represented&nbsp;and included in the workplace is&nbsp;an important factor&nbsp;as they evaluate potential employers and long-term career paths.&nbsp;&nbsp;Students are looking for companies that care about their people, their&nbsp;projects&nbsp;and their impact. Whether through safety,&nbsp;innovation&nbsp;or community involvement, they want to be part of organizations that stand for something meaningful.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Perhaps most&nbsp;encouraging for the industry is the growing enthusiasm for roofing itself. Many students entered the competition with limited exposure to roofing, but through hands-on experience,&nbsp;mentorship&nbsp;and engagement at IRE, they developed a&nbsp;more&nbsp;genuine interest in pursuing careers in the field.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Roofing Alliance Student Competition continues to play a vital role in building&nbsp;a strong and motivated workforce for the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To hear directly from these students, watch the interviews:&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Bradley University:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/xfZ_pOO1UYk" target="_blank">www.youtube.com/live/xfZ_pOO1UYk</a>&nbsp;</li>
	<li>University of Florida:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/SIEy9ofUUuo" rel="" target="_blank">www.youtube.com/live/SIEy9ofUUuo</a>&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Auburn University:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/E2nYV7TRhAY" rel="" target="_blank">www.youtube.com/live/E2nYV7TRhAY</a>&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Colorado State University:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/aSD9TeF-b94" rel="" target="_blank">www.youtube.com/live/aSD9TeF-b94</a>&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Clemson University:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/RV1wsnO5qyk" rel="" target="_blank">www.youtube.com/live/RV1wsnO5qyk</a>&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>To learn more about the Roofing Alliance and its workforce development initiatives, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.roofingalliance.net/" target="_blank">roofingalliance.net</a>.&nbsp;</strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>Roofing Alliance Student Competition team from Auburn University earns first place at International Roofing Expo</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/roofing-alliance-student-competition-team-from-auburn-university-earns-first-place-at-international-roofing-expo</link>
<description>roofing-alliance-student-competition-team-from-auburn-university-earns-first-place-at-international-roofing-expo</description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 03:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/04/roofing-alliance-student-competition-team-from-auburn-earns-first.png'
            alt='Roofing Alliance student competition team from Auburn earns first'
            title='Roofing Alliance student competition team from Auburn earns first'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Heidi J. Ellsworth.</p>

<h2>From digital models to real-world execution, Auburn University students demonstrate leadership, innovation and excellence in roofing.</h2>

<p>The <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/roofing-alliance">Roofing Alliance</a> 2026 Student Competition brought together top construction management programs from across the country, challenging students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world roofing scenarios. Rising to the top, Auburn University earned first place after months of preparation, a comprehensive written&nbsp;proposal&nbsp;and a strong final presentation at the <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/ire">International Roofing Expo (IRE)</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Representing&nbsp;Auburn University were Madi Goodwin, Heather Henderson, Patrick Johnson, Graham Roh (team captain)&nbsp;and Ashwin Varadhan (team alternate). The team was guided by faculty advisor Dr. Kenneth Sands and mentored by Paige Harvill of Nations Roof.&nbsp;<img src="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/uploads/media/2026/04/roofing-alliance-auburn-university-earns-first-at-ire-2.JPG" style="float:right; height:300px; margin-left:20px; width:400px" /></p>

<p>The Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition is one of the industry&rsquo;s premier workforce development initiatives. Each year, participating universities develop a complete bid package for a real project tied to the location of the International Roofing Expo. In 2026, the project focused on the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, requiring teams to prepare detailed estimates,&nbsp;logistics&nbsp;plans, safety&nbsp;protocols&nbsp;and deliver oral presentations to a panel of industry judges. Written proposal scores and oral presentation scores were combined to&nbsp;determine&nbsp;final rankings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The competition results highlighted the strength of roofing education programs nationwide, with Auburn University taking first place, the University of Florida earning second and Clemson University placing third. Individual presenter honors were awarded to Remi Nguyen of Clemson University and Sophia&nbsp;Petrandis&nbsp;of the University of Florida.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During an <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/E2nYV7TRhAY?si=qNxVyreaiyNebaWi">interview with&nbsp;RoofersCoffeeShop&reg;&nbsp;at the International Roofing Expo</a>, the Auburn team shared insights into their experience, reflecting on the months of preparation&nbsp;that got them to the top spot&nbsp;and the opportunity to present on a national stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p style="text-align:center"><iframe frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/E2nYV7TRhAY?si=qNxVyreaiyNebaWi" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Throughout the competition, the Auburn team&nbsp;operated&nbsp;as a mock roofing company, assigning leadership roles that mirrored real-world industry structure. Team members took ownership of key areas including estimating, project management, field&nbsp;operations&nbsp;and safety planning, working collaboratively to build a complete and competitive proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After months of preparation, the team described&nbsp;a strong sense&nbsp;of accomplishment following their final presentation, having successfully translated&nbsp;their plan&nbsp;into a polished delivery&nbsp;that earned them the number one placement.&nbsp;One of the most impactful aspects of the experience was visiting the project site in person. After analyzing drawings, digital&nbsp;models&nbsp;and site&nbsp;logistics&nbsp;for months, stepping onto the roof of the Cannery Casino and Hotel brought a new level of understanding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Students noted that transitioning from two-dimensional plans to a full-scale structure reinforced the importance of accuracy,&nbsp;coordination&nbsp;and attention to detail. Elements that had only existed on paper became tangible, giving real-world context to their&nbsp;logistics&nbsp;plans and construction strategies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The experience also highlighted the growing role of technology in construction. The team incorporated digital modeling into their preparation, reflecting the increasing use of advanced tools in roofing and project planning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While not all team members had prior roofing experience, the competition sparked a strong interest in the industry. Through hands-on learning, research and mentorship, students gained a deeper appreciation for commercial roofing and the opportunities it offers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Walking the&nbsp;expo floor further expanded that perspective. From induction welding systems and material lift equipment to&nbsp;emerging&nbsp;AI-driven solutions, the team saw firsthand how&nbsp;the industry&nbsp;continues to evolve with innovation and technology.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As these students prepare to enter the workforce, they emphasize the importance of company culture, work-life&nbsp;balance&nbsp;and opportunities for professional growth. They&nbsp;seek&nbsp;organizations that value teamwork, invest in their&nbsp;people&nbsp;and provide meaningful career development.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/uploads/media/2026/04/roofing-alliance-auburn-university-earns-first-at-ire.jpg" style="float:left; height:300px; margin-right:20px; width:533px" />The Auburn University team&rsquo;s first-place finish reflects not only technical excellence but also strong collaboration,&nbsp;leadership&nbsp;and adaptability.&nbsp;This team perfectly&nbsp;demonstrates&nbsp;the caliber of students entering the roofing industry and the impact of programs like the Roofing Alliance Student Competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For Auburn University, the experience was more than a competition. It was a launching point into an industry defined by innovation,&nbsp;teamwork&nbsp;and long-term opportunity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>RIIG - HOOTL joins Roofing Alliance</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/riig-hootl-joins-roofing-alliance</link>
<description>riig-hootl-joins-roofing-alliance</description>
<pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 19:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/04/riig-hootl-joins-roofing-alliance-linkedin.png'
            alt='RIIG - HOOTL joins Roofing Alliance'
            title='RIIG - HOOTL joins Roofing Alliance'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>RIIG - HOOTL develops AI-driven solutions that streamline and automate critical workflows across the customer lifecycle.</h2>

<p>We&rsquo;re excited to share that <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/riig-technology" target="_blank">RIIG</a> - HOOTL is now a full member of the Roofing Alliance.</p>

<p>Joining this community marks an important step as we expand our presence in the roofing and broader field service industries. We look forward to collaborating with industry leaders, contributing to the Alliance&rsquo;s mission and gaining deeper insight into where the market is heading.</p>

<p>At RIIG, we are actively working alongside leading data providers and industry partners to develop AI-driven solutions that streamline and automate critical workflows across the customer lifecycle, including lead generation, estimation and customer interaction.</p>

<p>To further support this effort, we are proud to welcome two new board advisors:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Steve Little</strong> &ndash; head coach at KPost Company | Building Envelope Contractor and CEO of National Roofing Partners.</li>
	<li><strong>Reed Gooding</strong> &ndash; CEO at GSM Roofing.</li>
</ul>

<p>Their industry experience and leadership ensure our solutions remain grounded in real-world operational needs while accelerating adoption across the sector.</p>

<p>We believe the next wave of innovation in roofing will be driven by intelligent automation, better data utilization and seamless system integration, and we&rsquo;re excited to help shape that future alongside the Alliance and its members.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.riigtech.com/">Visit www.riigtech.com for more information.</a></strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title>University of Florida student team earns second place at Roofing Alliance Student Competition</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/university-of-florida-team-earns-second-place-at-roofing-alliance-student-competition</link>
<description>university-of-florida-team-earns-second-place-at-roofing-alliance-student-competition</description>
<pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 03:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/04/roofing-alliance-university-of-florida-team-earns-second-place-at-roofing-alliance-student-competition-drakeheidi.png'
            alt='Roofing Alliance University of Florida Team earns second place at Roofing Alliance Student Competition'
            title='Roofing Alliance University of Florida Team earns second place at Roofing Alliance Student Competition'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Heidi J. Ellsworth.</p>

<h2>From classroom concepts to real-world execution, University of Florida students demonstrate excellence in roofing and construction management.&nbsp;</h2>

<p><img src="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/uploads/media/2026/04/roofing-alliance-univ-of-florida-team.JPG" style="float:right; height:400px; margin-left:20px; width:300px" />The <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/roofing-alliance" target="_blank">Roofing Alliance</a> 2026 Student Competition brought together leading construction management programs from across the country, challenging students to solve real-world roofing scenarios while gaining invaluable industry experience. Among the top performers was the University of Florida, whose team earned an impressive second-place finish through strong collaboration, technical expertise and months of dedicated preparation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Representing the University of Florida were Nicholas Fredette (team alternate), Tyler Isaacson, Sophia Petrandis, Rylee Rauktis (team captain) and Christian Walker. The team was guided by faculty advisor Professor Jim Sullivan and mentored by a former student competition competitor, Caleb Stauss of Big D Roofing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition is one of the industry&rsquo;s premier workforce development initiatives. Each year, participating universities develop a comprehensive bid proposal for a real project tied to the location of the <a href="http://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/ire" target="_blank">International Roofing Expo</a>. In 2026, that project focused on the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, where teams prepared detailed estimates, logistics plans, safety protocols and delivered oral presentations to a panel of industry judges. Written proposals and oral presentation scores were combined to determine final rankings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The competition results highlighted the strength of roofing education programs nationwide, with Auburn University taking first place, the University of Florida earning second and Clemson University placing third. In addition to the team&rsquo;s success, Sophia Petrandis was recognized as one of the competition&rsquo;s top individual presenters, placing second in the category, highlighting the depth of talent within the Florida program.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During an interview with RoofersCoffeeShop&reg; at the International Roofing Expo, the University of Florida team shared insights into their experience, from months of preparation to presenting on a national stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p style="text-align:center"><iframe frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SIEy9ofUUuo?si=UsqFug9UvuCxNfDX" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Throughout the competition, the University of Florida team operated as a mock roofing company, assigning leadership roles and collaborating across disciplines. From estimating and logistics to safety planning and quality control, each team member contributed to building a comprehensive and competitive bid package.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/uploads/media/2026/04/roofing-alliance-univ-of-florida-1.JPG" style="float:left; height:300px; margin-right:20px; width:400px" />One of the most impactful elements of the experience was visiting the project site in person. After months of reviewing drawings, walking the roof of the Cannery Casino and Hotel brought a new level of understanding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Students noted that the scale of the building was significantly different than anticipated. Elevations estimated from plans appeared much larger in person, and details that seemed straightforward on paper required deeper consideration in the field. The experience reinforced the importance of understanding real-world conditions and how they influence project planning, material selection and installation strategies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The opportunity to explore the expo floor further expanded their understanding of the roofing industry. For many team members, the competition marked their first in-depth exposure to roofing and cemented just how diverse and innovative the industry has become.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From membranes and shingles to advanced safety systems and specialized components, the students saw firsthand how interconnected the roofing industry is and how rapidly the technology continues to evolve. The experience emphasized the importance of combining technical knowledge with leadership, communication and adaptability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As these students prepare to enter the workforce, they are focused on finding companies that align with their career values. Company culture, integrity, transparency and opportunities for growth were consistently highlighted as key factors in choosing an employer. They are seeking organizations that invest in people with a focus on long-term success.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/uploads/media/2026/04/roofing-alliance-univ-of-florida-wins.jpg" style="float:right; height:225px; margin-left:20px; width:400px" />The University of Florida team&rsquo;s performance in the Roofing Alliance Student Competition reflects not only their technical capabilities but also their commitment to excellence through education. Their second-place finish represents months of hard work, strong mentorship and the ability to perform at a high level on a national stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Roofing Alliance Student Competition continues to play a critical role in developing the next generation of roofing professionals, connecting students with contractors, manufacturers and industry leaders while providing meaningful, hands-on experience.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the University of Florida team, the experience was more than a competition. It was a gateway into an industry filled with opportunity, innovation and long-term career potential.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/SIEy9ofUUuo?si=y7qFdrhy2mfHd-qP">Watch the full interview.</a></p>

<p>To learn more about the Roofing Alliance, its Student Competition and workforce development initiatives shaping the future of the roofing industry, visit <a href="http://roofingalliance.net" target="_blank">roofingalliance.net</a>.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Get ready for National Roofing Week 2026!</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/get-ready-for-national-roofing-week-2026</link>
<description>get-ready-for-national-roofing-week-2026</description>
<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 03:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/04/nrca-get-ready-for-national-roofing-week-2026.png'
            alt='Get ready for National Roofing Week 2026!'
            title='Get ready for National Roofing Week 2026!'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Emma Peterson.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Celebrate your crew and share your story with NRCA this June.&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Roofing is the hidden hero in many people&rsquo;s lives; roofs protect their homes, families, businesses and possessions from the elements. To raise awareness about the significance of roofing and the important work of professionals across the roofing industry, the <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/nrca">National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)</a> will be hosting their annual National Roofing Week from June 7-13, 2026.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the week, NRCA will be sharing stories from professionals around the industry across their social media platforms. NRCA encourages members to &ldquo;<a href="https://www.nrca.net/news-events/national-roofing-week/social-media">share their stories</a> of charitable giving, crew and staff appreciation and signature roofing projects&rdquo; by using the #NationalRoofingWeek2026 tag.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another great way to show your support for this initiative is by <a href="https://industry.nrca.net/eweb/DynamicPage.aspx?webcode=NRCAStoreList&amp;site=nrca&amp;es3_key=c6a0779d-7cb9-4f69-a677-c11783f891a5">decking your crew out in National Roofing Week swag</a>! These shirts are a great way to show your roofing pride with style. You can find more <a href="https://www.nrca.net/news-events/national-roofing-week/member-resources">detailed information about participation</a> and <a href="https://www.nrca.net/news-events/national-roofing-week/member-resources">National Roofing Week assets</a> to use in your photos and videos online.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This year&rsquo;s event is sponsored by a variety of industry-leading companies, including <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/georgia-pacific">Georgia-Pacific</a>, <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/srs-distribution-inc">SRS Distribution</a>, <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/ire">International Roofing Expo</a>, Hanover Architectural Products, OMG Roofing Products, <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/roofing-alliance">Roofing Alliance</a>, <a href="https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/soprema-2">SOPREMA</a> and TuffWrap. If you need more information on National Roofing Week, contact NRCA Director of Communications Krista Berns (847-493-7531 or <a href="mailto:kberns@nrca.net">kberns@nrca.net</a>) or NRCA Social Media Manager Madison Mahoney (847-493-7548 or <a href="mailto:mmahoney@nrca.net">mmahoney@nrca.net</a>).&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.nrca.net/news-events/national-roofing-week"><strong>Join the NRCA in celebrating the essential work your crew does each day and promote the importance of hiring professionals!</strong></a></p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Roofing Alliance Student Competition Team from Clemson University Delivers Impressive Performance at the 2026 International Roofing Expo</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/roofing-alliance-student-competition-team-from-clemson-university-delivers-impressive-performance-at-the-2026-international-roofing-expo</link>
<description>roofing-alliance-student-competition-team-from-clemson-university-delivers-impressive-performance-at-the-2026-international-roofing-expo</description>
<pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 03:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/04/roofing-alliance-student-competition-team-from-clemson-university-delivers-impressive-performance-at-the-2026-international-roofing-expo.png'
            alt='Roofing Alliance Student Competition Team from Clemson University Delivers Impressive Performance at the 2026 International R'
            title='Roofing Alliance Student Competition Team from Clemson University Delivers Impressive Performance at the 2026 International R'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><p>By Heidi J. Ellsworth&nbsp;</p>

<h2>From competition stage to career path, Clemson students showcase teamwork, innovation and the future of roofing.&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Roofing Alliance 2026 Student Competition, once again, brought together some of the brightest emerging talents in the construction industry. The team from Clemson University stood out with a strong, collaborative performance that reflected months of dedication and preparation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Representing Clemson University were Remi Nguyen (team captain), Drake Hamlin, Ben Reynolds, Grant Thomas and Sean Linnane (team alternate), under the guidance of faculty advisor Dr. Dhaval Gajjar and industry mentor Will Fort of&nbsp; Aqua Seal Manufacturing &amp; Roofing Inc.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Clemson University earned an impressive third-place finish in the national competition, following first-place Auburn University and second-place University of Florida. Adding to the team&rsquo;s success, Remi Nguyen was recognized as the top individual presenter in the competition, highlighting both individual excellence and the strength of Clemson&rsquo;s program.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition is one of the industry&rsquo;s premier workforce development initiatives. Each year, universities are challenged to develop a comprehensive bid proposal for a real-world roofing project tied to the location of the International Roofing Expo. For 2026 the project focused on the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, where teams were required to submit a detailed bid package and present their solutions to a panel of industry judges.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>During an interview with RoofersCoffeeShop at the International Roofing Expo, the Clemson team shared insights into their experience, from months of preparation to presenting on a national stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the Clemson team, the competition represented the culmination of extensive effort, teamwork and problem-solving. From early planning stages to final presentation, the students worked through the same processes used by professional contractors, including estimating, scheduling, safety planning and project management.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the final presentation wrapped, the feeling was both relief and pride. The experience left a lasting impression, not only because of the work involved but also because of the opportunity to collaborate closely and perform on a national stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the most impactful aspects of the competition was the opportunity to visit the project site in person. After months of studying plans, touring the roofing location provided a new level of understanding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Students noted that being on site added perspective that simply cannot be gained from drawings alone. Details related to layout, access and conditions became clearer, reinforcing how important field experience is in roofing. For one team member with prior roofing experience, the visit confirmed what many contractors already know. Seeing the project firsthand changes how you approach planning and execution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;It gives you a whole other aspect of what you&rsquo;re looking at,&rdquo; says team member Drake Hamlin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Like many student teams, Clemson participants were also struck by the scale and innovation on display at the International Roofing Expo. For students with limited prior exposure to roofing, the breadth of technology and specialization within the industry was eye-opening. From materials and equipment to advanced systems and processes, the expo demonstrated just how dynamic and evolving the roofing sector has become.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;Walking around and seeing how different people do different things is really interesting,&rdquo; team member Sean Linnane notes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The experience helped broaden the team&rsquo;s understanding of potential career paths and highlighted the many opportunities available within the roofing industry. As these students prepare to enter the workforce, many are already considering careers in roofing, thanks in part to their experience in the competition. When discussing what matters most in an employer, one theme stood out above all others: company culture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Students emphasized the importance of working for organizations where respect, collaboration and teamwork are prioritized at every level. &ldquo;Having that culture and knowing that you&rsquo;re part of a team is really something I look for,&rdquo; team member Ben Reynolds explains.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>This perspective reflects a broader shift among emerging professionals, who value not only career growth but also a positive and inclusive work environment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Clemson University&rsquo;s continued involvement in the Roofing Alliance Student Competition highlights the strength of its program and its commitment to preparing students for industry success. With a top three national placement and recognition for the competition&rsquo;s best individual presenter, Clemson is helping set the standard for roofing education and leadership development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Roofing Alliance Student Competition remains one of the most powerful ways to connect students with the industry, offering real-world experience, mentorship and exposure to national events like the International Roofing Expo. For the Clemson team, the experience was more than a competition. It was a gateway into an industry filled with innovation, opportunity and long-term career potential.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>To watch the full interview, visit: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/RV1wsnO5qyk">https://www.youtube.com/live/RV1wsnO5qyk</a>.&nbsp; To learn more about the Roofing Alliance, the Student Competition and its workforce development initiatives, visit <a href="http://roofingalliance.net">roofingalliance.net</a>.&nbsp;</strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Capital City Roofing Licensing Platform expands into Charleston, South Carolina with Blake Grissom &amp; Revive Roofing &amp; Exteriors</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/capital-city-roofing-licensing-platform-expands-into-charleston-south-carolina-with-blake-grissom-revive-roofing-exteriors</link>
<description>capital-city-roofing-licensing-platform-expands-into-charleston-south-carolina-with-blake-grissom-revive-roofing-exteriors</description>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 13:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/03/capital-city-roofing-capital-city-roofing-licensing-platform-expands-into-charleston-sc-with-blake-grissom-revive-roofing-exteriors.png'
            alt='Capital City Roofing Licensing Platform Expands Into Charleston, SC With Blake Grissom & Revive Roofing & Exteriors'
            title='Capital City Roofing Licensing Platform Expands Into Charleston, SC With Blake Grissom & Revive Roofing & Exteriors'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>Charleston expansion pairs Golden Door-winning sales leadership with Capital City Roofing&rsquo;s growth platform, certifications and operating systems.</h2>

<p><a href="https://www.capitalcityroofing.net/" rel="external nofollow" target="_blank">Capital City Roofing</a>&nbsp;today announced its expansion into the Charleston, South Carolina market through the company&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.capitalcityroofing.net/licensing" rel="external nofollow" target="_blank">Capital City Roofing Licensing Platform</a>, launching a new market presence in partnership with Blake Grissom of Revive Roofing &amp; Exteriors in Charleston, South Carolina. Capital City Roofing already identifies Charleston as part of its South Carolina service footprint and positions the market around coastal roofing systems built for wind exposure, storm resilience and insurance-driven performance requirements.</p>

<p>The Charleston expansion is designed to combine strong local market leadership with a proven growth platform built on brand infrastructure, process discipline, sales enablement, advanced technology and manufacturer-certified roofing excellence. Capital City Roofing describes its broader operating model as one built on disciplined execution, automation and scalable service systems, while BuilderLync positions itself as an all-in-one contractor operating system built to help contractors streamline sales, quoting, marketing, project flow and operations.</p>

<p>&ldquo;Expanding into Charleston is a major milestone for Capital City Roofing and for the long-term vision of our Licensing Platform,&rdquo; said Brad Strawbridge, founder and ceo of Capital City Roofing. &ldquo;Blake brings elite, Golden Door-caliber sales leadership and proven market execution. I bring the sales architecture, process development, and operating systems that allow great contractors to scale with consistency. Together, we are building a Charleston operation designed for disciplined growth, exceptional customer experience and long-term market leadership.&rdquo;</p>

<p>Grissom brings substantial sales credibility and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.capitalcityroofing.net/service-areas/south-carolina/charleston" rel="external nofollow" target="_blank">local market experience to the Charleston launch</a>. He is identified publicly as a co-founder and chief sales officer at BuilderLync, and recent podcast listings describe him as a multi-year Golden Door Award winner and founder of Revive Roofing &amp; Exteriors, with reported annual sales performance exceeding $7 million.</p>

<p>&ldquo;This partnership brings together local market knowledge, elite sales performance and a platform that is built to scale,&rdquo; said Blake Grissom. &ldquo;Charleston is a high-opportunity market, and we are entering it with the leadership, systems and execution needed to build something substantial.&rdquo; &ldquo;This strategic collaboration is ultimately meant to give Revives clients the best all around service and best in class customer experience.&rdquo; said Grissom.</p>

<p>Capital City Roofing&rsquo;s Charleston market positioning emphasizes wind-rated roofing systems, impact-resistant shingles, metal roofing and commercial roofing systems tailored to the demands of the Lowcountry climate. Across its public-facing service pages, the company also highlights broader capabilities in residential roofing, commercial roofing, multi-family roofing, storm damage response, gutters, siding and insurance claim support, aligning the Charleston launch with its larger Southeast growth strategy.</p>

<p>The expansion also reflects the strength of the Capital City Roofing brand and its professional standing in the roofing industry. Capital City Roofing is identified publicly as GAF Master Elite<sup>&reg;</sup>, GAF Certified&trade; Commercial Contractor and CertainTeed ShingleMaster&trade; PREMIER. The company also highlights memberships and affiliations with the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Roofing Alliance, Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), Atlanta Apartment Association, Georgia Apartment Association and National Apartment Association.</p>

<p>Through the Capital City Roofing Licensing Platform, the company is building a scalable expansion model by aligning with qualified operators in high-growth markets who want to grow under a differentiated brand with elite manufacturer credentials, modern operating systems and a strong customer-experience framework. With Charleston, Capital City Roofing continues to expand its footprint across the Southeast, where its public materials show active presence in Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina and Texas.</p>

<p><strong>About Capital City Roofing</strong></p>

<p>Capital City Roofing is a fast-growing roofing company headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, serving residential, commercial, multi-family and storm restoration clients across the Southeast. The company combines elite manufacturer certifications, advanced technology, strong operating systems, and a customer-first service model to deliver roofing solutions built on quality, innovation, and integrity. Through the Capital City Roofing Licensing Platform, the company partners with qualified operators to expand into new markets under a shared brand and operating standard.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Capital City Roofing joins the Roofing Alliance as esteemed Guarantor Member</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/capital-city-roofing-joins-the-roofing-alliance-as-esteemed-guarantor-member</link>
<description>capital-city-roofing-joins-the-roofing-alliance-as-esteemed-guarantor-member</description>
<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:00:00 PDT</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/03/roofing-alliance-capital-city-roofing-joins-the-roofing-alliance-as-esteemed-guarantor-member.png'
            alt='Roofing Alliance - Capital City Roofing Joins the Roofing Alliance as esteemed Guarantor Member'
            title='Roofing Alliance - Capital City Roofing Joins the Roofing Alliance as esteemed Guarantor Member'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>Roofing Alliance members play a pivotal role in shaping and driving innovative advancements in the roofing industry.</h2>

<p>The Roofing Alliance proudly welcomes Capital City Roofing, headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, as an esteemed Guarantor Member. As the 208th member to join this distinguished network, Capital City Roofing strengthens a powerful coalition of forward-thinking industry leaders committed to advancing innovation, education and the long-term success of the roofing industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;We joined the Roofing Alliance because we believe the future of the industry will be shaped by companies that collaborate, innovate and invest in the next generation of roofing professionals,&rdquo; said founder and CEO Brad Strawbridge. &ldquo;Being part of the Roofing Alliance allows us to contribute to that mission while learning from the best leaders in the industry.&rdquo;</p>

<p>The Roofing Alliance has attracted some of the best and brightest roofing professionals in the industry, uniting them in a shared mission to drive the industry forward. Together, they oversee and fund innovative programs and research initiatives that shape, enhance and propel the roofing industry in four critical areas: education and training, technology, sustainability and philanthropy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;Active member engagement is the foundation of the Roofing Alliance&rsquo;s success, and our strength comes directly from the depth and dedication of our supporters,&rdquo; said executive director Alison L. LaValley. &ldquo;The roofing industry has a long-standing tradition of generosity. For professionals who want to give back while investing in the industry&rsquo;s long-term excellence, the Roofing Alliance offers a meaningful platform to collaborate, lead and make a lasting impact.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>

<p>To learn more about the Roofing Alliance, please contact Alison L. LaValley at alavalley@nrca.net or visit roofingalliance.net. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>About Capital City Roofing</strong></p>

<p>Capital City Roofing is a full-service roofing company based in Alpharetta, Georgia, specializing in residential, commercial and multi-family roofing solutions. The company combines elite manufacturer certifications with advanced technology and automation to deliver a faster, more transparent and higher-quality customer experience throughout the Southeast.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>About the Roofing Alliance</strong></p>

<p>The Roofing Alliance serves as the catalyst for industry innovation, bringing together more than 200 leaders who are dedicated to shaping roofing&rsquo;s future. With commitments exceeding $18 million, the Alliance funds essential research and training, advances education through initiatives like the roofing minor, fosters workforce development, supports scholarships and leads impactful philanthropic efforts including its partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities&reg;. For more information on becoming a Roofing Alliance member, contact Alison L. LaValley, CAE, Executive Director, at alavalley@nrca.net.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Valcourt Group joins the Roofing Alliance as Governor Member</title>
<link>https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/post/valcourt-group-joins-the-roofing-alliance-as-governor-member</link>
<description>valcourt-group-joins-the-roofing-alliance-as-governor-member</description>
<pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 PST</pubDate>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
		<img src='/uploads/media/2026/03/roofing-alliance-valcourt-group-joins-the-roofing-alliance-as-governor-member-pr-website.png'
            alt='Roofing Alliance Valcourt Group joins the Roofing Alliance as Governor Member'
            title='Roofing Alliance Valcourt Group joins the Roofing Alliance as Governor Member'
            class=''
            style=' '  loading='lazy' /><br><h2>Roofing Alliance members play a pivotal role in shaping and driving innovative advancements in the roofing industry.</h2>

<p>The Roofing Alliance is proud to welcome Valcourt Group, headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas, as its newest Governor Member. As the 207th member to join this distinguished network, Valcourt Group strengthens a powerful coalition of forward-thinking industry leaders committed to advancing innovation, education and the long-term success of the roofing industry.</p>

<p>&ldquo;Valcourt joined the Roofing Alliance to support the advancement of the commercial roofing industry through education, research and workforce development,&rdquo; said Valcourt Group President, Roofing Brynne Smith. &ldquo;We believe in investing in the future of our industry and collaborating with organizations that share our commitment to excellence and innovation.&rdquo;</p>

<p>The Roofing Alliance has attracted some of the best and brightest roofing professionals in the industry, uniting them in a shared mission to drive the industry forward. Together, they oversee and fund innovative programs and research initiatives that shape, enhance and propel the roofing industry in four critical areas: education and training, technology, sustainability and philanthropy.</p>

<p>&ldquo;Active member engagement is the foundation of the Roofing Alliance&rsquo;s success, and our strength comes directly from the depth and dedication of our supporters,&rdquo; said Executive Director Alison L. LaValley, CAE. &ldquo;The roofing industry has a long-standing tradition of generosity. For professionals who want to give back while investing in the industry&rsquo;s long-term excellence, the Roofing Alliance offers a meaningful platform to collaborate, lead and make a lasting impact.&rdquo;</p>

<p>To learn more about the Roofing Alliance, please contact Alison L. LaValley, CAE at <a href="mailto:alavalley@nrca.net">alavalley@nrca.net</a> or visit <a href="http://roofingalliance.net" target="_blank">roofingalliance.net</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>About Valcourt Group</strong></p>

<p>Valcourt Group is a national provider of building envelope services, specializing in commercial window cleaning, waterproofing, roofing and building services. With locations across the U.S., Valcourt partners with building owners to maintain and extend the life of our clients&rsquo; building and roofing assets, delivering quality craftsmanship, safety and long-term performance on every project. Learn more at <a href="http://www.valcourt.group" target="_blank">www.valcourt.group</a>.</p>

<p><strong>About the Roofing Alliance</strong></p>

<p>The Roofing Alliance serves as the catalyst for industry innovation, bringing together more than 200 leaders who are dedicated to shaping roofing&rsquo;s future. With commitments exceeding $18 million, the Alliance funds essential research and training, advances education through initiatives like the roofing minor, fosters workforce development, supports scholarships and leads impactful philanthropic efforts including its partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities&reg;.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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