Por Jessica Bravo.  

Mayo estuvo lleno con grandes historias para la comunidad de roofing. 

El verano está por llegar, pero por ahora es momento de mirar el contenido que marcó esta temporada de primavera. Mientras la industria se prepara para los meses más ocupados del roofing, mayo estuvo lleno de protección, educación continua, fútbol, ferias y el nuevo look de RoofersCoffeeShop En Español. 

Con el inicio de la temporada alta de roofing, es importante prepararse antes de comenzar cualquier proyecto. Uno de los temas más relevantes este mes fue cómo los contratistas pueden proteger a sus trabajadores ante visitas de ICE. El artículo más leído del mes, publicado por  Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW), destacó la importancia de entrenar a los equipos para actuar con seguridad y seguir protocolos claros en momentos críticos. Entre las principales recomendaciones estuvieron: 

• Prepararse con anticipación 
• Establecer protocolos claros en el sitio de trabajo 
• Conocer sus derechos 

Y hablando de RCAW, el equipo de RoofersCoffeeShop también fue parte de la feria anual de RCAW, donde hubo conexión, competencia y mucha camaradería. Para Matthew Ramirez, creador multimedia de TCS, el evento tuvo un significado muy especial, “Mi experiencia personal fue muy reconfortante porque pude ver a mi padre aceptar dos premios en nombre de la empresa para la que trabaja. Me hizo sentir orgulloso y espero con entusiasmo lo que el futuro pueda traer.” 

Pero esa no fue la única conversación importante del mes. La industria del roofing está cambiando constantemente, así lo explicó el segundo artículo más leído del mes: La educación es la clave para escalar en la industria de roofing. En este contenido, Jaqueline y Diana compartieron que, “De haber tenido acceso antes a este tipo de herramientas y recursos, habrían evitado muchos obstáculos y desafíos dentro de la industria.” El episodio especial de Coffee Conversations destacó la importancia de la educación continua para dueños de negocio y profesionales que buscan crecer dentro del roofing. 

Y claro, ningún verano está completo sin un poco de comunidad y fútbol. Pronto se arranca la gira XTV Soccer 2026 de SRS Para Latinos. El evento invita a aficionados de todos los niveles, desde los más apasionados hasta quienes apenas comienzan, a ponerse los colores de su equipo, reunirse y disfrutar de buena comida, bebidas y el torneo más importante del año. 

Todos estos artículos y mucho más ya están disponibles en la página con el nuevo look de RCS En Español. Con un updated look y aún más recursos para la industria, es.rooferscoffeeshop.com continúa creciendo como el espacio donde se conecta la comunidad de roofing. La comunidad seguirá creciendo, al igual que las oportunidades, herramientas y recursos disponibles para la industria.  

Por ahora, solo queda disfrutar del nuevo look y de todo lo que viene para RoofersCoffeeShop En Español. 

¡Lee los artículos más leídos de mayo! 

5 – Cómo los contratistas pueden proteger a sus trabajadores ante visitas de ICE

4 – La educación es la clave para escalar en la industria de roofing

3 – ¡Es tiempo del verano de fútbol!

2 – Conexión, competencia y camaradería: Dentro de la feria anual de RCAW

1 – RoofersCoffeeShop En Español tiene un nuevo look

By Jenny Yu.  

RCMA’s contractor program helps contractors grow their roof coating businesses through education, networking and advocacy. 

When Cody Wilson, president of Unicote Industrial Roofing Corporation, learned of the Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA)’s new contractor membership program at the end of 2025, he was eager to join. “We were pretty excited about it, so we jumped on right away,” Cody shared.  

Based out of Bradenton, Florida, Unicote is a foam and coatings contractor that serves the Southeast United States. Cody discussed his initial experience with RCMA a few years ago when the association lobbied to protect contractors in response to insurance regulatory issues. “It was pretty detrimental to us because it affected not only roof coatings but foam as well; that’s our entire business in the state of Florida,” Cody said.  

After witnessing this advocacy work firsthand, Cody knew he wanted Unicote to be part of RCMA’s contractor program. “It’s a great opportunity for contractors to meet other contractors across the country, pick their brains or even assist people who are new to roof coatings,” Cody said, adding the benefits to manufacturers as well. “A lot of manufacturers are striving to create new technologies and applications, styles that haven’t been tapped into yet. It's great to meet with the manufacturers themselves and see the new products they're offering.” 

On top of providing networking opportunities for contractors, manufacturers and suppliers, RCMA offers education to those new to roof coatings. “The roofing industry sometimes has a stigma, especially with older companies that have been doing ‘traditional roofing’ forever,” Cody stated. “Getting them to see the benefits of roof coatings and become more of a proponent for it is something we strive for. I would urge any contractor in the roofing industry to join RCMA.” 

Finally, Cody noted the impactful advocacy work RCMA is currently doing to address issues affecting Mississippi contractors. “It's great to have a partner like RCMA who's proactive and involved in the legal and state side of things,” Cody expressed. “They’re paying attention to what’s going on and protecting us contractors. A big thank you to RCMA for that work.” 

Learn more about RCMA’s contractor program and the work the association is doing to protect contractors across the United States.

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn about how PABCO’s Cascade product line unites design and performance in one stunning shingle.  

While at the 2026 Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) show, we caught up with Lori Jerome, the marketing manager at PABCO Roofing Products, for a quick interview. Headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, PABCO is known for their high-quality shingle products. In fact, one of those shingles was on display at the show – their Cascade shingle. Lori shared a bit about the display, saying, “It shows the recent Edgewood Lake Tahoe project that used Cascade shingles. It’s really beautiful. You can find videos of it on our website, pabcoroofing.com.” 

The video is well-worth a watch, full of drone footage that showcases the unique and powerful beauty of the diamond-shaped Cascade shingle. And these signature cut shingles are not only good looking, but they are also high-performance with features such as:  

• Fire resistance: Cascade shingles have been tested to meet the UL790 Class A Fire Resistance Standard. This is the highest fire test classification for roofing and indicates Cascade shingles’ ability to withstand severe exposure from fires originating outside of the building envelope.  
• Warranty: PABCO also provides a Limited Lifetime warranty for the Cascade shingles. This warranty not only protects the homeowner’s investment; it creates a clear record of roof history, making future service, documentation and ownership transfers easier.   
• Low maintenance: And last but not least, Cascade shingles feature Algae Defender® technology. This is ideal for wet climates, like that in PABCO’s hometown of Tacoma, where dampness and humidity can facilitate algae growth. Algae Defender also helps against moss and lichen.  

Overall, these shingles are a great example of how the products coming out of PABCO raise the standard of roofing. Like Lori said, “Being at this show is great because everyone is truly there to help each other and continue to raise the standards of the industry and the professionalism of roofing on a whole, we’re glad to be a part of it.”  

Watch the full interview with Lori!

Por The Coffee Shops, traducido por Alberto Torres. 

Contratistas, fabricantes y proveedores de servicios llegaron listos para aprender, competir y conectar, y la feria anual de RCAW cumplió con las expectativas. 

Entre ráfagas de nieve, competencias de colocación de shingles y entrevistas, la feria anual organizada por la Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) en el Muckleshoot Casino ofreció lo que muchos asistentes describieron como uno de sus eventos más exitosos hasta la fecha. Contratistas, fabricantes y proveedores de servicios llegaron preparados para aprender y conversar. 

El evento comenzó con un programa nocturno dedicado a celebrar el oficio. Una conferencia motivacional destacó temas como la generosidad, tomar riesgos y retribuir a la comunidad, seguida de una ceremonia de premios que reconoció proyectos sobresalientes de contratistas de Washington. Lauren White, editora en jefe de The Coffee Shops (TCS), describió la noche como inspiradora y significativa, resaltando la calidad artesanal y el compromiso dentro del estado. 

Para Matthew Ramirez, creador multimedia de TCS, el evento destacó tanto por su energía como por su significado personal. “Mi experiencia personal fue muy reconfortante porque pude ver a mi padre aceptar dos premios en nombre de la empresa para la que trabaja. Me hizo sentir orgulloso y espero con entusiasmo lo que el futuro pueda traer.” 

Lo que sucedió después de la ceremonia de premios fue la experiencia favorita del fin de semana para Brenda Littau, gerente de cuentas de TCS. Algunas personas decidieron salir por un helado como cierre de la noche, lo que rápidamente se convirtió en un grupo mucho más grande. Como compartió Brenda: “Cuando nos sentamos y empezamos a platicar, de repente había más de 13 personas en el grupo. Y todos estaban emocionados por compartir información, conectar entre sí y construir relaciones que durarán más allá del evento. Fue una experiencia increíble.” 

La feria comercial en sí estuvo, “¡Fuera de serie!” según Amanda Fields, directora ejecutiva de RCAW. El evento tuvo una asistencia récord a pesar del clima y todos llegaron listos para aprender, hacer networking, competir y pasarla bien. Escuche a Justin Shirley, presidente de RCAW, y Amanda Fields hablar sobre su experiencia en la feria: 

Para Matthew, “Se hicieron muchas nuevas amistades y se compartieron nuevas perspectivas sobre la industria del roofing.” Cubriendo el evento detrás de la cámara, pasó tiempo interactuando con contratistas y profesionales de la industria, obteniendo una visión de primera mano de las personas que están dando forma al roofing hoy en día. 

Asistiendo por tercer año consecutivo, Brenda describió esta edición como la más sólida hasta ahora. “El evento estuvo concurrido y tuvo una gran asistencia,” comentó. “Aunque nevó todo el día, eso no impidió que la industria se presentara.” Desde sesiones educativas hasta la competencia de instalación rápida de shingles, la energía se mantuvo alta. Pasó la mayor parte del tiempo recorriendo la feria y llevando asistentes al booth para entrevistas, conectando tanto con socios de muchos años como con nuevas caras. 

Brenda destacó la variedad de empresas presentes en esta feria regional y compartió: “Había compañías para ayudar a los contratistas a resolver reclamaciones de L&I; ayudar a sus clientes potenciales a encontrar financiamiento para generar ventas adicionales; e incluso ayudar a los contratistas a manejar proyectos donde las reclamaciones de seguros forman parte del proceso. Estos pueden ser obstáculos para los contratistas, así que es increíble poder asistir a un evento como este y simplemente hacer preguntas.” 

Asistiendo por primera vez, Lauren encontró especialmente valiosa la escala regional del evento y compartió: “Me encantan las ferias regionales porque tienes más tiempo para convivir con las personas, a diferencia de algunos eventos más grandes. Siempre es divertido ver a personas que he conocido en otros eventos y también conocer gente nueva.” Con el booth de The Coffee Shops ubicado al frente del piso de exhibición, el equipo pudo conectar con una gran variedad de asistentes y capturar una amplia gama de entrevistas. “Tuve la oportunidad de entrevistar a nuestros clientes y a otros asistentes del evento. Tuvimos conversaciones increíbles, aprendimos qué novedades tienen estas compañías y escuchamos sobre todas las grandes cosas que RCAW está haciendo y tiene preparadas,” compartió Lauren. 

Abad Zarate, de AzaPro Roofing, también compartió con nosotros y agradeció a los asistentes por estar presentes en este evento. Como director de RCAW, motivó a los asistentes diciéndoles: “Les recomiendo hacerse miembros. De verdad tenemos muchos beneficios, como marketing, ayuda legal y muchas otras cosas que ofrecemos como apoyo.” Abad destaco lo orgulloso que se siente de pertenecer a esta comunidad.  

A través de las tres perspectivas, algunos temas sobresalieron: resiliencia, comunidad y oportunidad. El diseño cuidadosamente planeado del evento fomentó el networking, mientras que las actividades sociales crearon espacios para conversaciones que fueron mucho más allá de los negocios. Ya fuera a través de entrevistas, sesiones educativas o reuniones espontáneas, los asistentes encontraron valor en cada rincón de la experiencia. Escuche el recapitulativo en vivo del evento con Brenda, Matthew y Lauren: 

Como reflexionó Matthew: “La organización del evento creada por RCAW generó un espacio muy fácil para hacer networking y conocer a otras personas… Espero ver crecer tanto a RCAW como a sus asistentes.” 

Si el evento de este año sirve de referencia, ese crecimiento ya está en marcha. 

¡Vea todas las entrevistas de la feria regional de RCAW aquí!

By The Coffee Shops. 

Contractors, manufacturers and service providers came ready to learn, compete and connect, and RCAW’s annual trade show delivered. 

Amidst snow flurries, shingle competitions and interviews, the annual trade show hosted by the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) at the Muckleshoot Casino delivered what many attendees described as one of its most successful events to date. Contractors, manufacturers and service providers showed up ready to learn and converse. 

The event kicked off with an evening program dedicated to celebrating the trade. A motivational keynote underscored themes of generosity, risk-taking and giving back, followed by an awards ceremony showcasing standout projects from Washington contractors. Lauren White, editor in chief for The Coffee Shops (TCS), described the night as both inspiring and grounding, emphasizing the craftsmanship and commitment within the state. 

For Matthew Ramirez, TCS multimedia content creator, the event stood out for both its energy and personal significance. “My personal experience was comforting as I got to witness my father accept two awards on behalf of the company he works for. It made me proud and I look forward to what the future may hold.” 

What happened after the awards ceremony was TCS Account Manager Brenda Littau’s, favorite experience of the weekend. A few people had decided to get an ice cream nightcap, which quickly turned into a larger group. As Brenda shared, “When we sat down and started talking, all of a sudden there were 13+ people in this group. And everyone was excited to share information, connect with each other and build relationships that will last beyond the event. It was an amazing experience.” 

The tradeshow itself was, “Off the hook!” according to Amanda Fields, RCAW executive director. The show had record attendance, despite the weather, and everyone came ready to learn, to network, to compete and to have a good time! Hear from Justin Shirley, RCAW president, and Amanda Fields about their show experience: 

For Matthew, “Lots of new friends were made and new insights on the roofing industry were shared.” Covering the show from behind the camera, he spent time interacting with contractors and industry professionals, gaining a firsthand look at the people helping shape roofing today.  

Attending for her third year, Brenda described the show as the strongest yet. “The event was strong with great attendance,” she said. “Although it snowed all day, it didn't stop the industry from showing up.” From educational sessions to the fastest shingle competition, the energy remained high. She spent most of the time walking around the show and bringing attendees to the booth for interviews, connecting with both longtime partners and new faces.  

Brenda noted the variety of companies that were present at the regional show, sharing, “There were companies to help contractors navigate L&I claims; help their potential customers find financing to capture additional sales; and even to help contractors manage projects where insurance claims are a piece of the puzzle. These can be hurdles to contractors, so it is pretty amazing to be able to go to an event like this and just ask questions.” 

Attending for the first time, Lauren found the regional scale of the show especially valuable, sharing, “I love regional shows because you get more time to visit with people as opposed to some of the bigger shows. It's always fun to see people I've met from different events and get to know other people as well.” With The Coffee Shops' booth positioned at the front of the show floor, the team was able to connect with a variety of attendees and capture a wide range of interviews. “I had the chance to interview our customers and other attendees of the show. We had some great conversations, learned what's new with these companies and heard about all the great things RCAW is doing and has coming up,” Lauren shared. 

Across all three perspectives, a few themes stood out: resilience, community and opportunity. The thoughtfully designed layout encouraged networking, while hospitality events created space for conversations that extended well beyond business. Whether through interviews, educational sessions or spontaneous gatherings, attendees found value in every corner of the experience. Hear the live recap of the show from Brenda, Matthew and Lauren: 

As Matthew reflected, “The layout that was created by RCAW harbored an easy space to network and get to know others… I look forward to seeing RCAW grow as well as their attendees.” 

If this year’s event is any indication, that growth is already well underway. 

Check out all of the interviews from the RCAW Regional Tradeshow here!

By Emma Peterson. 

Exploring Valentine Roofing’s award‑winning reroof of a historic Tacoma home. 

In Tacoma, Washington, there is a neighborhood featuring shady trees, manicured lawns and historic homes called North End. One such home on this street is a stunning historic 1889 Victorian which was recently reroofed by local roofing company Valentine Roofing. – This is the project that won Valentine their second Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) Excellence in Roofing Award in two years!  

To learn more about this project and the win, we spoke with the Valentine team for a short interview. Jenna Esteves, one of their project coordinators, opened the conversation by sharing a bit about the house.

She shared, “This home stayed with the original family who built the home. It was originally the home of a husband, his wife and their daughter until 2006 when the daughter, at that point in her 90s, sold it to the current owners, Todd and Kim. They did a ton of refurbishing on it, making sure to preserve the historical look. That preservation of history is so important to Todd and Kim, they even have like artifacts from the original family displayed in the house.” 

Where Valentine came into the picture was when the current owners began looking for a team who could reroof the home for them without losing the historical charm they loved so much. However, that was far from a simple task, as that same charm created unique challenges when it came to the roof. Rochelle Robles, the project engineer on this reroof, shared some insight into these challenges:  

For starters, as a traditional Victorian home, there’s a turret. And then there's a bisected roof line on that turret. Below the turret is the upper level, and then there’s a floating skirt before you get to the lower level. There was also the curvature of the roof line, the fact that the home was such a high 12/12 pitch, the cap metal details and the built-in gutters to account for. So, it was a very difficult project both in terms of technicality and in terms of keeping our team safe as they worked. 

While that was a lot to navigate, the Valentine team rose to the occasion, hand-cutting shingles and custom fabricating metal on-site for the project. LeeAnn Stevens, Valentine’s operations manager, shared her thoughts on the crew’s incredible work, saying, “Every member of the team, from the estimators who worked with the Todd and Kim to figure out the vision to the production team coordinating all the moving parts and of course the crew, shoutout to the foreman Elmer, on the roof, really just put their heart into it. We’re so proud of how everyone showed up and made sure every detail was cared for.” 

And getting all that effort recognized with an RCAW Excellence in Roofing Award was just icing on the cake for a project well done!  As Valentine CEO Steven Heller put it, “Winning this award for the second year in a row is a tremendous honor for our team. This project reflects the level of care, craftsmanship, and coordination our team brings to every home. Protecting a historic property like this requires precision at every stage, and we are incredibly proud of the finished result.” 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Field-based education helps contractors improve accuracy, efficiency and overall system understanding. 

As labor shortages persist and roofing systems grow more complex, contractors are placing greater value on training that delivers accurate, efficient results. At the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) regional trade show, VELUX® represented that shift, demonstrating how hands-on education is equipping crews with the skills and confidence needed to execute skylight installations more effectively. In an interview with Cullen Daniels, a mobile installation trainer for VELUX, he shared how his work centers on bringing training directly to contractors, roofers and remodelers throughout the Pacific Northwest. Cullen noted, “We’re trying to instill confidence in our pro partners by showing them how to install a skylight confidently, quickly and efficiently.” 

That focus on confidence is reinforced through the structure of the program itself. Rather than relying on passive instruction, VELUX delivers training through a mobile setup that enables full-scale, hands-on installation. Participants work on mounted roof sections, practicing deck-mounted and curb-mounted skylight installs alongside sun tunnel systems. Along the way, they learn how to identify existing systems, take accurate measurements and understand the components that influence long-term performance. 

This approach reflects a broader movement within the trades toward experiential learning. As Cullen explained, “We’re actually able to do a full hands-on install, mount products, deck metal products, as well as our sun tunnels.” This gives contractors the opportunity to work through real installation scenarios in a controlled setting. That structure reduces uncertainty and helps prevent costly mistakes in the field while reinforcing proper technique. The result is a clearer understanding of both process and product, which translates directly to more consistent outcomes on the jobsite. 

Training also extends beyond installation. Early portions of the sessions focus on system-level knowledge and how to communicate that value to homeowners. By connecting technical understanding with customer conversations, contractors are better positioned to present solutions with clarity and credibility. 

The trade show environment further reinforces that development. As Cullen shared, “Relationships are really important, especially in this business,” highlighting how events like RCAW create space for contractors to exchange ideas, evaluate new products and learn from peers facing similar challenges. 

That exchange continues to influence product innovation. VELUX recently introduced a black frame curb-mounted skylight, responding to increased demand for darker exterior accents that align with modern residential design trends. 

As the industry continues to evolve, the combination of hands-on training and collaborative engagement is emerging as a defining factor in how contractors adapt, improve and compete. 

Watch the full interview to learn more about how hands-on, field-based training is helping contractors improve skylight installation accuracy, efficiency and long-term performance!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how contractors are delivering high-performance roofing systems through innovation, safety and precision across complex projects. 

Roofing professionals across Washington were recognized for their craftsmanship and problem-solving at the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) Industry Insider event and Excellence in Roofing Awards, where projects were evaluated on execution, innovation and overall performance. The program demonstrated how contractors are navigating increasingly complex builds while maintaining a focus on long-term durability and system integrity. 

Across both low-slope and steep-slope categories, the projects showcased how technical expertise and planning directly impact performance. In the low-slope category, Axis Roofing and Gutter earned second place for a project that required a full system rebuild after multiple roofing layers exposed significant structural issues. Crews removed the existing assembly, completed truss repairs, replaced insulation and installed new tongue-and-groove decking before finishing with a 60-mil polyvinyl chloride (PVC) system. The result was a level, code-compliant roof designed to improve drainage and extend service life. 

First place in the low-slope category went to Tru Colors Contracting, whose multi-building development highlighted the balance between cost constraints and performance. The scope included membrane roofing, shingles and metal accents across residential and commercial structures. By integrating tapered insulation and securing approval for additional material upgrades, the contractor improved moisture control, enhanced energy performance and delivered a more durable system while remaining within budget expectations. 

Steep-slope winners reflected a different set of challenges, where material selection and installation precision were critical. Skilled Roofing earned third place for replacing cedar shake with composite Spanish tile engineered to perform in the Pacific Northwest’s moisture-heavy climate while maintaining a traditional appearance. 

Axis Roofing and Gutter also secured second place in the steep-slope category for reroofing a large, steep structure using laminated asphalt shingles. Crews implemented enhanced safety protocols, carefully staged materials and followed a phased installation approach to maintain efficiency and workmanship on extreme slopes. 

The top steep-slope honor went to Valentine Roofing for a historic restoration project on an 1889 Victorian home. Contractors worked through complex geometry, including a curved turret and built-in gutters, requiring detailed hand-cutting, custom metal fabrication and precise integration of modern materials. The finished system preserved the home’s architectural character while significantly improving weather resistance. 

Together, these projects reflect more than technical execution. They highlight the level of planning, coordination and craftsmanship required to deliver roofing systems that perform reliably and stand the test of time. 

Learn more about how award-winning roofing projects are combining innovation, safety and precision to solve complex structural challenges and deliver long-term performance!

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn, compete and connect at Washington State’s premier roofing event.  

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is hosting their annual regional tradeshow on March 13, 2026, at the Muckleshoot Casino & Resort! This one-day event (running 9 a.m.-2 p.m.) is the best roofing-specific tradeshow in Washington state, boasting national sponsors like PABCO Roofing Products!  

If you and your crew want to stay ahead of the competition this roofing season, you won’t want to miss this day of education, networking and fun!  

Learn alongside your peers 

Industry experts and leaders will be at the show sharing insights into crucial topics like safety, marketing, business growth and legal compliance. Here are some of the sessions that will be available:  

• Building your brand (9 a.m.-9:45 a.m.): This course will take attendees through strategies for strengthening their reputation and brand in the competitive roofing market. Ultimately, the skills learned here will help contractors build trust with customers, communicate their value and build long-term growth. 
• Insurance supplementing (10 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.): Taught by Stephen Rollins of Prodigy Estimating & Consulting, this session takes attendees through the best practices and common pitfalls of identifying, documenting and submitting supplements for claim payments. 
• Implementing a sales system (10 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.): Learn from Grosso University’s Wendy Harmeyer in this course all about building a strong sales system in your roofing business! Attendees will walk away with actionable steps for implementing the One Call Close Grosso Selling System in their businesses and unlocking increased close rates, improved customer trust and maximized profitability. 
• KOS vs. retro refunds (11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.): In this session, Stop Claims Corp. breaks down the two main workers’ compensation options in Washington state (kept on salary and retro refunds). Attendees will gain a better understanding of how these options operate and what to consider when choosing your business’ approach.  

And for Spanish-speaking contractors, RCAW has organized a schedule of Spanish-language sessions! These include:  

• Competent person fall protection (9 a.m. - 1 p.m.): In this Spanish-language course, Shield of Armor Safety will walk through “the proper use of personal fall arrest/restraint systems in order to safely perform work in elevated areas.” This includes standards and recommendations such as OSHA, WAC 296-880 Unified Fall Protection Standard, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). 
• Smart tax strategies (9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.): This session is designed for contractors and business owners who want to learn how to improve their financial structure. Attendees will learn practical tax strategies that will help them maximize profits and avoid costly mistakes.  
• Insurance process (11 a.m. - 1 p.m.): In this session, Amparo Sancen of Latinos En Roofing will share insights into the key steps of insurance claims and how to navigate the process more effectively. This is a great opportunity to gain a better understanding of insurance on a whole. 

Explore the expo floor 

And between your education sessions, make sure to check out the expo! This year’s show will feature more than 40 booths full of the greatest and latest in roofing products and tools. Further, RCAW is running a fun competition where exhibitors will be competing for the titles of “Most Interactive” and “Most Attended” booths! So you can look forward to fun games and activities at each booth, such as spin-the-wheel, trivia, or cornhole!  

The Coffee Shops™ crew will be there too (booth #102), so make sure to stop by and say hi! 

Join in some friendly competition 

This year’s show also sees the return of the popular Fastest Shingle Competition! Sponsored by GAF, this competition is a great showcase of the skill and workmanship of PNW contractors. Not only does a win come with bragging rights, but there are also monetary prizes ($500 – 1st place, $250 – 2nd place, $100 – 3rd place), a trophy engraving and recognition in RCAW’s social, print and digital marketing! 

Whether you’re competing or cheering someone on, you don’t want to miss out of the fun (Note: You must register ahead of time to compete).  

Don’t miss out on RCAW 2026! Register today for your chance to learn, compete and connect at Washington state’s premier roofing event!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Contractors gather for learning, networking and market insights at RCAW’s annual trade show. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth spoke with leaders from the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) about the upcoming March trade show. Amanda Fields, executive director of RCAW and Emerson Pagel, with ABC Supply and the RCAW Board of Directors, discussed the event’s special opportunities for participants to gain education and community connection.  

Amanda explained the event is centered around the association’s mission, which emphasizes providing resources, advocacy and training opportunities that help contractors build sustainable businesses across Washington state. The goal is for the trade show to be a practical forum for face-to-face learning and regional connection in a way that cannot be achieved digitally.  

Emerson emphasized how roofing is a relational industry, where success and connections are built through shared experience rather than transactions. “We're doing things that, while we're not changing the world itself, but we're changing somebody's world every day,” Emerson said. Roofing work directly affects peoples’ homes, livelihoods and trust. At the trade show, competitors, industry veterans and new contractors will have the opportunity to exchange insight shaped by decades of different experiences on the jobsite.  

The trade show itself is designed to feel immersive rather than overwhelming, bringing together roughly 45 vendors alongside a full slate of education. Sessions range from jobsite safety and workforce development to marketing strategy, brand building and insurance supplementation, reflecting the realities contractors are navigating right now. Amanda framed the programming as an extension of the association’s broader purpose. “I’m passionate about supporting our industry, building community and making sure contractors have a voice at the table,” Amanda said. That approach shows up in sessions built for both field crews and owners, including Spanish-language fall protection training and certifications that meet evolving workforce needs. By housing education, products and peer insight under one roof, the show gives contractors space to compare systems, ask questions and make informed decisions in real time. 

Networking continues beyond classrooms through evening events and informal gatherings. The Industry Insider event on March 12 includes networking, vendor setup and the Excellence in Roofing awards. The trade show follows on March 13 at Muckleshoot Casino, bringing attendees together for educational sessions and exhibits to explore. Amanda and Emerson encourage participation by showing up, engaging with peers and investing in growth.  

Listen to the podcast to learn more about the RCAW trade show and registration details!