Industry Expert Explains the Importance of Training Crews on Metal

By Alec Doniger. 

John Sheridan shares his extensive knowledge on metal roofing, noting the need for labor that the industry requires. 

Metal roofing is seeing a huge surge in popularity. Its benefits of durability and sustainability are particularly appealing in the modern market. However, this means that labor is needed to meet the demand for metal. In a recent episode of MetalCast, Heidi sits down to discuss this need with John Sheridan from Sheridan Metal Resources. With his extensive experience, John has many unique thoughts about how training for metal should be approached.  

John Sheridan has been in the metal industry for 50 years and has been training people on metal for 25 years. He has also sold tools for metal installation for contractors looking to learn. He has seen the trends of the material for over half a century. “Metal has become more accessible. While there were just a few different types of systems and manufacturers way back when there are a lot of systems out there now,” explains John. “Those systems are in a lot of different forms, and those different forms [appeal] to just about everybody in the market. From agricultural buildings to very high-end commercial projects, there's a metal to fit that requirement.” 

But the question still stands, “How do asphalt and shingle roofers get into metal?” In response to this, John advises contractors to simply “pick a system that’s popular in your area.” From there, you can find what manufacturers supply in your area, and contact that manufacturer to get more specifics about the nature of that system. From there, you can train your crew on it. 

Listen to the full podcast to learn more about training your crews on metal systems. 

Learn more about Sheridan Metal Resources in their MetalCoffeeShop® Directory or visit Sheridantools.com. 

About Alec 

Alec is a reporter for RoofersCoffeeShop, MetalCoffeeShop and AskARoofer. When he isn’t investigating the state of the roofing industry, you might find him playing drums with his bands in Denver.