What first-time attendees can expect at Roofing Day

By Dani Sheehan. 

Roofing Day in D.C. isn’t about being perfect – it's about being present. It’s about learning, connecting and making sure your voice is represented. 

If you’ve never been to Roofing Day in D.C., it’s easy to feel unsure about what you’re signing up for. You might be wondering: is this for me? Will I know what to say? Does my voice really matter? 

The short answer: yes, yes and absolutely yes. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, I sat down with Duane Musser and Brad Stine of National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and Will Lorenz of General Coatings Manufacturing Corp for an inside look at the industry’s largest advocacy event of the year. Hosted by NRCA alongside industry partners, Roofing Day in D.C. brings contractors, manufacturers, distributors and service providers together in one place with one goal: making sure lawmakers understand the real-world impact of the decisions they make. 

“This is the one opportunity where our entire industry comes together, and we speak with one voice on the issues that are critical to the future prosperity of our industry,” Duane shared. If you’re thinking about attending for the first time, here’s what you can expect, and why it’s worth stepping outside your comfort zone. 

By showing up, you’re already an advocate 

One of the biggest misconceptions about Roofing Day is that you need lobbying experience or political knowledge to participate, but in reality, you just need to show up. “Last time I checked, there are no members of Congress that were roofers before they became members of Congress,” Brad emphasized. “So, I can almost guarantee you, the people that are going into these offices on our behalf or on the event's behalf, they will know more about the issue than the folks they're talking to. [You] are the experts.” 

No one understands the challenges facing the roofing industry better than the people working in it every day. Whether it’s workforce shortages or a noticeable decline in the housing supply, your perspective is exactly what lawmakers need to hear. 

Roofing Day’s agenda is designed with first-time attendees in mind. From advocacy training sessions to guided talking points, the event equips you with everything you need to feel confident walking into those conversations. 

Day one: Get comfortable, get prepared, get connected 

The event officially kicks off on the afternoon of April 14 in Washington, D.C., and the first day is all about preparation.  

You’ll attend advocacy training sessions, learn about the key issues being discussed on Capitol Hill and get a clear understanding of how meetings with legislators work. Attendees area also grouped by state, giving you time to meet your team, plan your approach and decide who will lead different parts of the conversation. “We want to educate and make everyone feel comfortable,” Brad explained. “When you’re heading to the Hill the next day, we want to inform you as much as we can.” 

Just as importantly, this is an incredible space for creating new connections. From the first evening reception to informal conversations throughout the day, Roofing Day in D.C. creates a space to network with peers from across the country. Whether you’re a contractor, manufacturer or supplier, you’ll be surrounded by people who understand your business and share your challenges. 

Day two: Take your story to Capitol Hill 

April 15 is the main event. The day starts with breakfast, a keynote speaker and issue briefings, including discussions on topics like career and technical education and housing policy, two areas that directly impact the future of the roofing workforce and market demand. Then, it’s time to head to Capitol Hill. Attendees typically participate in three to five meetings with senators, representatives or their staff.  

And if you’re nervous? That's completely normal. “Relax and enjoy it,” shared Will, who's a longtime attendee. “It’s a great, positive experience... And when you see the right opportunities, tell your story. Tell people what you know matters in your district.” That’s what these meetings come down to – sharing your experience. What’s happening in your business? What challenges are you facing? What solutions would actually make a difference? Those conversations are what shape policy. 

Another common concern for first-time attendees is walking into meetings without support. NRCA partners with Advocacy Associates to coordinate every meeting in advance, and you’ll receive a full schedule, issue briefs and talking points before you ever step into an office. “We try to pair first-time attendees with veterans,” Brad added. “We understand that people may be out of their element, and that’s absolutely fine.” 

You’re not in this alone 

At its core, Roofing Day is about making sure the industry is represented where decisions are being made. “Democracy is a participatory sport,” Duane emphasized. “We need to be seen on Capitol Hill and get our message out.” 

As Will put it, “If we’re not having a discussion about roofing needs, someone else is getting ahead of us and may close off opportunities for all of us.” 

When the industry shows up together, it makes an impact. If you’ve been on the fence about attending, consider this your sign to go for it. Register to attend Roofing Day in D.C. before April 7, 2026! And for a deeper dive into what to expect and the key issues we’ll be advocating for, be sure to listen to the full podcast episode.