The foundation continues to support vocational career paths through SkillsUSA grants. 

The Davis Memorial Foundation, a leading roofing industry foundation that is committed to promoting education, announced the 2025 recipients of the Davis SkillsUSA Grant: Valley Academy of Career and Technical Education in Cottonwood, Arizona, and MacArthur High School in Irving, Texas. Each school has been awarded a $2,500 grant to support student participation in SkillsUSA roofing competitions. 

The Davis SkillsUSA Grant was created to help remove financial barriers that limit student participation in hands-on trade competitions while introducing young people to rewarding, long-term careers in the roofing and construction industries. As the first roofing foundation to offer dedicated SkillsUSA grants, the Davis Memorial Foundation continues to lead the industry in workforce development initiatives. 

Valley Academy of Career and Technical Education, located in Cottonwood, Arizona, is a public charter school focused entirely on career-driven, hands-on education. While the school is not currently teaching a formal roofing curriculum, Valley Academy is highly engaged with SkillsUSA and has demonstrated strong interest in launching roofing education opportunities. The program benefits from active contractor support and industry relationships that are helping lay the groundwork for future roofing instruction. MacArthur High School in Irving, Texas offers comprehensive Career and Technical Education pathways that introduce students to construction fundamentals, jobsite safety and workforce readiness. The school has an active roofing curriculum and a well-established SkillsUSA program, making it a strong candidate for the Davis SkillsUSA Grant.  

Students supported by the Davis SkillsUSA Grant will have opportunities to participate in 2026 SkillsUSA regional and state competitions, which serve as qualifiers for national competitions. In California, regional leadership and skills contests will be held during the winter and early spring, with top competitors advancing to the California State Leadership & Skills Conference in Ontario, California in April 2026. Arizona students will compete in the Arizona SkillsUSA State Leadership & Skills Conference in Phoenix, where state champions will qualify for national competition. The culmination of the SkillsUSA competitive year is the 2026 National Leadership & Skills Conference, taking place in June 2026, where top students from across the country will compete on the national stage in more than 100 skilled and leadership event categories. 

By providing grant funding to vocational and CTE programs, the Davis Memorial Foundation enables schools to send their most talented students to local, regional, state and national SkillsUSA competitions. These experiences allow students to showcase commercial roofing skills, connect with industry professionals and gain valuable exposure to career opportunities. 

“This grant program is extremely important to the Trustees of the Davis Memorial Foundation and the membership of the Western States Roofing Contractors Association,” said Davis Memorial Foundation Chairman Chuck Chapman, president of Tecta America Arizona. “We believe supporting CTE programs and SkillsUSA competitors is critical to the future of roofing. These students represent the next generation of skilled professionals, and we are proud to help provide the funding that allows them to participate and succeed.” 

For more information about the Davis SkillsUSA Grant, eligibility requirements and the application process, please visit www.wsrca.com. 

About the Davis Memorial Foundation 

The Davis Memorial Foundation was established in honor of Larry and Mary Davis, who dedicated their lives to advancing education within the roofing industry. Tragically lost in a 1995 airplane accident, their legacy lives on through the foundation's commitment to fostering education and industry growth. The foundation continues to support future leaders by funding scholarships, grants and initiatives that promote career advancement in roofing and related trades. The Davis Memorial Foundation invites schools, industry professionals and supporters to participate in this transformative initiative to cultivate the next generation of roofing experts. Donations to the program are always encouraged. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Participation and donations at the 2025 Davis Memorial Foundation Golf & Clays Tournaments and auction make a difference. 

The countdown is on for the 2025 Davis Memorial Foundation Golf and Clays Tournaments, and your support is needed now more than ever. These two signature events raise essential funds for the Davis Memorial Foundation’s mission — awarding scholarships to the next generation of roofing professionals and their families and providing grants for SkillsUSA competitors. 

As a Trustee, I am reaching out to the industry to ask for continued support of this important foundation. With your generosity, Davis has already awarded over 180 scholarships and lead the way to offering grants for the first time in 2025 for SkillsUSA competitors. To raise the important funds, we look to our industry to help with donations and engagement with golf, clays and auctions. These events are not only fun and memorable, they are critical to continuing this important work. 

You can make an immediate impact: 

• Sponsor a foursome in either the Bob Porter Golf Tournament or the Sporting Clays Tournament 
• Donate raffle prizes, gift cards, branded swag or services 
• Make a direct monetary contribution to the scholarship fund 
• Share this opportunity with your colleagues and industry partners 
• Donate to the silent and live auctions 

Bob Porter Golf Tournament 

Sunday, September 28, 2025 – 7:30 a.m. 
Revere Golf Club – Lexington Course, Henderson, Nevada

Hosted at the Revere Golf Club, this promises to be a day of fun as golfers navigate 36 holes on a championship course that features the rugged desert canyons and valleys of the Las Vegas foothills.

Register now!

Sporting Clays Tournament 

Sunday, September 28, 2025 – 9:00 a.m. 
Pro Gun Club, Boulder City, Nevada 

The Pro Gun Club offers a challenging 21-station sporting clays course. Whether you are a master shoorter looking to test you mettle or a beginner hoping for a day of fun, this event will be perfect.

Register today!

Live and silent auction 

Sunday, September 28, 2025 – 5:30 p.m.
Paris Hotel, Las Vegas, Nevada

Proceeds of this event go to the Davis Memorial Foundation. You can help us meet our goal of 15 scholarships of $5,000 each (totaling $75,000 in scholarships) by donating or bidding.

Donate an item or view the items already in the auction.

Thank you in advance

Donors will be recognized on event signage and the Davis Memorial Foundation website. Raffle items and swag are a great way to showcase your brand while giving back to the industry. 

If you’ve already signed up, thank you. If not, don’t wait. Now is the time to get involved, support education and join your roofing peers in making a lasting impact. Let’s keep building the future of roofing together.

By Jenny Yu.  

Don’t miss these exciting events at the Western Roofing Expo (WRE) this September. 

The Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) is hosting their annual expo September 28-30, 2025, in Vegas. Since 1974, WSRCA has served the western roofing and waterproofing industries with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed, exemplified by their Western Roofing Expo (WRE). This year, the expo includes 28 educational seminars, a two-day trade show, keynote luncheons, live product demonstrations and ample opportunities for peer-to-peer networking.   

It’s not all learning and no play though. WSRCA teamed up with several friends of The Coffee Shops™ to host opportunities for interactive entertainment you can’t miss. Plan for these six events and enjoy a fun-filled WRE experience!  

1 - Davis Memorial Foundation: Bob Porter Golf Tournament    

• Sponsored by: QXO  
• When: Sunday, September 28 at 7:30 a.m. (bus departs at 6:15 a.m.) 
• Where: Revere Golf Club, Lexington Course 
• What to expect: Enjoy some friendly competition on this 7,143-yard, par-72 course that overlooks the Vegas skyline and mountain landscapes. All proceeds benefit the Davis Memorial Foundations’s Scholarship Fund which provides financial assistance to students pursuing careers in the roofing industry. 
• Register here as an individual player, twosome, foursome and/or sponsor. 

2 - Davis Memorial Foundation: Sporting Clays Tournament   

• Sponsored by: QXO 
• When: Sunday, September 28 at 9:00 a.m. (bus departs at 7:30 a.m.) 
• Where: Pro Gun Club, Sporting Clays Course 
• What to expect: Beginners and experienced shooters won’t get bored at this 21-station sporting clays course overlooking El Dorado Valley and Boulder City.  All proceeds from this tournament also benefit the Davis Memorial Foundations’s Scholarship Fund. 
• Register here as an individual player, twosome, foursome and/or sponsor. 

3 - Davis Memorial Foundation: Welcome Event & Auction 

• Sponsored by: GAF 
• When: Sunday, September 28 from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 
• Where: Paris Las Vegas 
• What to expect: Start the evening with good food, hosted bars and an exciting auction featuring incredible items including vacation, roofing materials, golf clubs, jewelry and more! All proceeds benefit the Davis Memorial Foundations’s Scholarship Fund. 
• Entry fees: $50 for all exhibitors and WSRCA members, $90 for non-members 
• Badge required for entry 

4 - Table Talks Breakfast with National Women in Roofing (NWIR)   

• Sponsored by: NWIR 
• When: Monday, September 29, from 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. 
• Where: Paris Las Vegas 
• What to expect: Meet fellow members and enjoy interactive conversations on a variety of topics that impact women in the roofing industry. 
• Register here. 

5 - Roofer’s Feud Game Show   

• Sponsored by: CertainTeed LLC 
• When: Tuesday, September 30, from 3:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. 
• Where: Paris Las Vegas 
• What to expect: Guess the top 100 responses to questions on all aspects of roofing, hosted by RoofersCoffeeShop® Influencer Trent Cotney of Adams & Reese. 

6 - The Roofing Games™ – Shingling Competition  

• Sponsored by: Malarkey Roofing Products 
• When: Tuesday, September 30, from 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. 
• Where: Paris Las Vegas 
• What to expect: Roofers will go head-to-head on this thrilling steep-slope nailing competition judged on speed, accuracy, aesthetics and workmanship. 

Register to WRE 2025 or enter for the chance to win a ticket before August 18, 2025!

This year’s recipients reflect the values the Foundation was built upon — academic excellence, financial need, personal resilience and a connection to the roofing industry.

The Davis Memorial Foundation proudly announces its 2025 scholarship recipients, awarding $75,000 to 15 outstanding students pursuing higher education. Now in its 29th year, the Foundation has awarded more than $875,000 in scholarships to over 195 students since its inception in 1997. Each scholarship honors the memory of Larry and Mary Davis, who dedicated their lives to the roofing industry and the support of its future generations.

This year’s recipients reflect the values the Foundation was built upon — academic excellence, financial need, personal resilience and a connection to the roofing industry. Their heartfelt words underscore the impact of the Foundation’s work. 

"I’m truly grateful and humbled to be chosen for this scholarship. This support means more than just financial help — it gives me the confidence to keep pushing forward with my MBA. Thank you!"

Brayden Tambone said, “Thank you so much for this opportunity. I’m grateful for your support and for believing in me and my academic journey. This not only helps financially but continues to give me motivation to keep pushing forward. Thanks to everyone who’s helped me get here, especially my Dad, who’s always been my biggest supporter. Again, your generosity truly makes a difference in my education and my future.”

Brendan Jorenby added, “I’m incredibly grateful to the Davis Memorial Foundation for this generous scholarship. This award will help me pursue my college education and inspires me to continue working hard and giving back to the community. Thank you for supporting students connected to the roofing industry!”

Colter Wilson noted, “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for being selected as a recipient of The Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship. This generous support means so much to me and will help me continue pursuing my academic and personal endeavors without added financial stress. Thank you for believing in my potential and investing in my future. I am honored to be chosen and will work hard to make the most of this opportunity.”

“This scholarship is a huge honor,” said Cooper Sanchez. “I am so grateful to be awarded this scholarship and am so excited for the opportunities that are possible because of this award.”

Elliot Hanson said, “I’m honored to receive the Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship. It truly means a lot for my family and will help me focus on my passion for the environment.”

Jasmine Serratos-Esparaza expressed, “As a proud first-generation college student, I’m incredibly grateful to the generous donors, my loving family and especially my hardworking father, whose strength and sacrifice inspire me every day. This scholarship is a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much more I’m determined to achieve for all of us. Gracias por creer en mí.”

Martin Campa shared, “Thank you so much for awarding me the Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship. I’m very grateful for your support, it means a lot to me and will help me continue my education with less financial stress. I truly appreciate this opportunity.”

Maura Mulligan stated, “I am incredibly honored to receive the Davis Memorial Foundation’s Scholarship Award. Thank you for this opportunity — I hope it supports my continued education and my efforts to help make our communities a better place.”

"Thank you very much for the support and aid in my college career, I am thankful that you have given me the chance to further make something of myself!"

Owen Schnabel said, “I am truly honored to receive the Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship. This generous support will have a lasting impact on my education and it inspires me to continue striving for excellence. I am grateful for the Foundation’s investment in my future, and I look forward to using this opportunity to make a positive impact in my field and beyond.”

“Thank you to the Davis Memorial scholarship committee. Receiving this scholarship means so much to my family and I as well as my pursuit for higher education at Cal Poly."

Savannah Lopez shared, “What began as a simple curiosity became a journey I am deeply grateful for.”

Sydney Winkle reflected, “Thank you to the Davis Memorial Foundation for this incredible opportunity. I am beyond grateful to be awarded this scholarship and it will provide tremendous support through nursing school. Growing up with my family in the roofing business, my dad has been a huge inspiration to me from his work ethic and dedication to his profession. I have learned many valuable lessons from the roofing industry that I can apply toward my future career in nursing.”

Victoria Mejia concluded, “I'm honored to receive this scholarship and grateful to this organization, whose values in education provide opportunities for those of us who need them. As a mother, I am excited to show my children that it is never too late to chase your dreams and achieve them. I am inspired by the generosity of the Davis Memorial Foundation and hope to one day pay it forward to someone who shares my enthusiasm and passion for education.”

The Davis Memorial Foundation continues to uphold its mission of supporting the next generation of professionals with the help of generous sponsors and fundraising events. Congratulations to the 2025 recipients for their hard work, passion and dedication.

Foundation adds SkillsUSA grants to promote the future of the roofing industry.

The Davis Memorial Foundation is proud to announce the inaugural recipients of the Davis SkillsUSA Grant as Mesa High School, sponsored by Tecta America Arizona, and Santa Clara High School, led by Mitch Posey, a dedicated instructor of Construction 1 and 2 classes at the school. Both received $2,500 grants to be used for participation in SkillsUSA roofing competitions. As the first foundation in roofing to award these grants, it marks a significant milestone in advancing roofing industry engagement through SkillsUSA, a nationwide program designed to foster career readiness and technical skills among students pursuing trades and crafts.

The roofing industry, led by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), has taken a critical step forward by joining the SkillsUSA competition as a sponsor and hosting the commercial roofing national competition. The goal of this initiative is to introduce roofing skills to a new generation of construction professionals. By facilitating student participation in SkillsUSA's national competition, the Davis Memorial Foundation aims to help ensure that the roofing trade remains vibrant and competitive by supporting vocational schools with grants to attend SkillsUSA roofing competitions. The foundation’s grants enable vocational schools to send their most talented students to local, regional and national roofing competitions, providing them with unparalleled opportunities to showcase their commercial roofing skills on a national stage.

“This new grant is very important to the Trustees of the Davis Memorial Foundation and the overall membership of Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA). We are the first to provide this type of grant and we believe it is critical to help the schools and students with funding,” stated Davis Foundation Chairman and President of Tecta America Arizona Chuck Chapman. “It is also an honor to be associated with Mesa High School who Tecta supports in their efforts to train and prepare students for careers in the trades and specifically supporting their efforts to compete in the commercial roofing competitions at all levels with SkillsUSA. This is the future of our industry, and it is exciting to expand our philanthropic giving to these programs.”

The Davis Memorial Foundation is committed to expanding its support to high schools and vocational institutions, encouraging more students to pursue careers in roofing. By supporting roofing skills within the SkillsUSA competition, the foundation helps ensure the future of this vital industry while providing students with meaningful career pathways.

For more information about the Davis SkillsUSA Grant, eligibility and the application process, please visit wsrca.com/mpage/home.

About SkillsUSA

SkillsUSA is a national organization that empowers students by providing them with leadership opportunities, technical training and career readiness in various trades and industries. The annual National Leadership & Skills Conference is a premier event for showcasing the skills and talents of students from across the country.

About the Davis Memorial Foundation

The Davis Memorial Foundation was established in honor of Larry and Mary Davis, who dedicated their lives to advancing education within the roofing industry. Tragically lost in a 1995 airplane accident, their legacy lives on through the foundation's commitment to fostering education and industry growth. The foundation continues to support future leaders by funding scholarships and initiatives that promote career advancement in roofing and related trades. The Davis Memorial Foundation invites schools, industry professionals and supporters to participate in this transformative initiative to cultivate the next generation of roofing experts. Donations to the program are always encouraged.

Davis Memorial Foundation increases scholarships, grants and announces new Board of Trustees members.

The Davis Memorial Foundation, a strong financial supporter of construction industry education since 1997, has announced its plans to expand its reach in the roofing industry. Setting the standard for other construction industry scholarships in the Western United States, these changes will help the Davis Memorial Foundation continue to increase its contributions to the roofing and construction industries.

Alongside the Western States Roofing Contractors Association's Western Roofing Expo, the Davis Memorial Foundation raised over $110,000 in funding for its scholarship program. With this amount in mind, the Board of Trustees for the Foundation has decided to increase the amount of scholarships that they are granting to students each year from ten to 15 scholarships, with each scholarship having the value of $5,000.

"Our goal is to continue to keep expanding our reach as our fundraising efforts also continue to grow," said Davis Memorial Foundation Board of Trustees member Chuck Chapman, with Tecta America, Phoenix, Arizona. Chapman stated that he believes the $5,000 scholarship is still the ideal amount to be giving out per student and that they have no plans to change the amount per scholarship when they could instead give more scholarships to more students.

The Davis Memorial Foundation has also announced that it will be providing grants to high schools that will use the funding to compete in the annual commercial roofing SkillsUSA® Conference. Eligible schools can apply to receive up to $2,500 to assist in attending the conference, with two grants being awarded to the high schools that apply.

Additionally, the Davis Memorial Foundation has changes coming to its Board of Trustees. Both Bill Baley and Dennis Ryan will be retiring from their positions as trustees at the end of 2024. Ryan and Baley have been pivotal to the Foundation's growth and development over the last few years, and the Foundation would not be where it is today without their support. Christian Madsen and Travis Nelson will be stepping up to take their places on the Board of Trustees.

These changes for the Davis Memorial Foundation will be going into effect in 2025.

About The Davis Memorial Foundation

The Davis Memorial Foundation was founded in 1997 in honor of Larry and Mary Davis, who perished in an airplane accident in 1995. Larry Davis had been an integral part of the roofing industry for many years and served on several roofing association boards, including that of the Western States Roofing Contractors Association. The Foundation was established to honor their support for industry education. The Davis Memorial Foundation awards annual scholarships to individuals who want to further their education. The Foundation gives priority to students who want to attend a trade school, or get a college or university degree that relates to the construction industry. Employees, spouses and children of roofing industry professionals are particularly encouraged to apply.

Join the Davis Memorial Foundation and support higher education through scholarships!

Your experience awaits you with this unique and exciting virtual tour of our Live Silent Auction! With over 45 items to choose from, including lifestyle, roofing and sports – you will be able to find that “IT” item – and help us meet our goal of raising $50,000 towards the Davis Memorial Foundation scholarship fund. Since it's founding in 1997, the Davis Memorial Foundation has now awarded over 180 scholarships totaling more than $800,000!

The Virtual Silent Auction opened today at 8 a.m.! You can now bid on these amazing items:

Try Burch Kira chain shoulder bag
An eclectic mix of bohemian glamour and American sportswear, the Tory Burch brand is known for effortlessly stylish, always-interesting pieces.

• 100% lamb leather construction
• 50% nylon, 50% polyurethane trim
• Interior slip pocket
• Top handle
• Chain accented shoulder strap
• Magnetic snap closure

Donated by: The GLO Group

$1,000 Edgewood Tahoe Gift Card
Like the great lodges of the American West, Edgewood Tahoe is a showcase of artisanship and imagination, from the most nuanced tones and textures to resplendent architectural statements. George and Tom Fazio Championship golf course is ranked in the top 100 courses nationwide and lies in the action packed South Shore of Tahoe.

Donation by: General Roofing Company

Seattle Seahawks Tickets
You pick the Seattle Seahawks Game of your choice for the club seats! Package includes 1 set of 2 Club Seat Tickets to a Seattle Seahawks Game.

Donated by: Convoy Supply

Two nights at Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach Oregon
Stephanie Inn is the home of laid-back luxury. Relax in their beachfront reading room, connect over beach walks and forest hikes, celebrate at their award-winning restaurant and indulge yourself at their spa.

Your trip includes:

• 2 nights lodging ( $1,500 maximum)
• Bottle of sparkling wine in room
• $175 dining room credit

Donated by: Dealers Supply Co.

GoPro Hero 8
Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K Ultra HD Videos, 12 MP Photos and 1080p Live Streaming Stabalization. Discover the world's most versatile action camera!

Donated by: Arizona Roofing Contractors Association (ARCA)

TUMI compact 4-wheel brief
Versatile and compact, this case makes taking your business on the road a breeze. With the option of being carried or wheeled, it gives you flexibility wherever you need to travel.

Donated by: Capitol Roofing Service

Los Angeles Football Club Tickets
The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) is a world-class football club representing Los Angeles and committed to delivering an unrivaled fan experience.

This package includes tickets for:

• Saturday, October 19, 2024 @ 6 p.m.
• 4 Seats, including an aisle seat, section 110, row T
• Parking pass
• Electronic tickets to be transferred via Ticketmaster

Donated by: Lucas Roofing Products

Other fantastic auction items include:

The live auction will be held on September 29, 2024 at the Paris Las Vegas! The virtual auction opened today at 8:00 a.m. and closes on October 1, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

The Davis Memorial Foundation is operated under the auspices of the Western States Roofing Contractors Association

Larry and Mary Davis personified the heart and spirit of the roofing industry community. Committed to supporting the professional standing of roofing contractors, Larry promoted high standards and believed that a well-educated membership was key to the industry's future success. Founder of State Roofing Company in Modesto, California, Larry served as a director on the Western States RCA Board of Directors and was active on several committees, often flying to meetings with his wife Mary in their private airplane. They perished in a plane crash in 1995 when they were returning from a committee meeting. The Foundation was created in their honor.

By Dani Sheehan. 

Each year the Davis Memorial Foundation awards scholarships to individuals who want to further their education. Applications are open for this academic school year. 

Are you a member of the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA)? Are you or a family member looking to pursue higher education? The Davis Memorial Foundation is currently accepting applications to apply for the Larry and Mary Davis Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship, established in memory of Larry and Mary Davis, aims to honor their dedication to industry education and support aspiring individuals within roofing. 

Who can apply? 

Eligibility is open to individuals who have been provisionally accepted into an undergraduate or graduate degree program for this coming school year at accredited colleges, universities or vocational education programs. Additionally, applicants need to be residents of one of the states covered in the WSRCA service area and be affiliated with the roofing industry. 

What you need to apply 

• A fully completed application which has been digitally submitted by April 26, 2024 
• A copy of all previous academic transcripts 
• A letter of recommendation from at least one non-family member 

Scholarship benefits 

For the 2024 school year, each recipient will receive $5,000 which will be disbursed directly to the recipient’s educational institution. This money can be used for tuition, books, living expenses or at the discretion of the school. Recipients of the scholarship will also receive a one-night stay during the WSRCA Annual Convention, the Western Roofing Expo, so that all awards can be formally announced and presented. 

Selection of the award recipients is based on various factors including academic achievement, leadership, financial need, extracurricular activities and industry affiliations. Finalists for the scholarship may undergo a personal interview with the Board of Trustees. The scholarship will be granted without consideration of race, sex, age, religion, disability or national origin. 

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to further your education and career goals. Apply for the Larry and Mary Davis Memorial Scholarship today! The deadline for submissions is April 26, 2024.

By Dani Sheehan. 

After another season of giving, Trent Cotney shared insights on the significance of industry associations and his vision for future advancements. 

Over the last several years, RCS Influencer and partner at Adams and Reese, Trent Cotney, has made it his mission to give back to the roofing industry around the holidays by matching donations to select associations. This year, he set out to match donations made to the following organizations: Roofing Alliance, Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA), Chicago Roofing Contractors Association (CRCA) and the Davis Memorial Foundation. For the Roofing Alliance and FRSA, Trent matched his highest promised donation, and he donated $5,500 in total thanks to this generous campaign. 

Trent loves giving back to the industry that has helped him provide for his family throughout his career. He shares, “I feel like it’s an obligation for us to give back to our next generation. A lot of these charities that we’re supporting give out scholarships and the goal is to leave the world a better place than what it was when you were there.”  

The holidays may be over, but there are still ways to give back, and a great way to get involved in the industry is to join an association, whether it’s state, regional or national. As Trent explains, “Associations serve as the mouthpiece of the industry. Roofing has a variety of challenges, everything from regulatory to liability to insurance issues and it’s hard to get a lot of that stuff out to legislators or wherever it needs to go without having some sort of mouthpiece to do that.” 

Additionally, these associations help to promote and conduct research to further advance our industry. The Roofing Alliance has several ongoing projects and the FRSA Education and Research Foundation has done a variety of studies dealing with hurricane impacts and how that affects the Florida roofing industry. 

It’s an exciting time to be in the roofing industry this year. Trent talks about his anticipation for 2024: “I’m always looking at risk mitigation. What does the future look like? There’s some uncertainty there. I look out into the landscape, and I don’t know what’s over the next hill, but with that I think comes opportunity. I think roofing is on that precipice where it can take the next step. Climb that next hill and start looking into technology or sustainability and see a change in how this industry is perceived.” 

Thank you to everyone who donated this year and helped Trent give back to this incredible industry. Whether it’s donating time, money or resources, the little things throughout the year go a long way. Get involved in an association this year and see if you can feel the buzz of all the exciting possibilities in roofing too.

By Dani Sheehan. 

Support education when you give to this amazing foundation and Trent Cotney will match your donations. 

It’s that time of year again when we not only get to celebrate the generosity of the roofing industry, but we also get to spend Trent Cotney’s money! RCS Influencer and partner at Adams and Reese LLP, Trent has made it an annual tradition to give back to roofing foundations around the holidays. For all of December, your donation to one of four incredible foundations will be matched dollar for dollar by Trent, and it’s fully deductible according to tax laws. 

Trent chooses to support organizations that are helping to shape the future of the industry through research, scholarships and more. Consider donating to the Davis Memorial Foundation through the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA). Every year they award ten, five-thousand-dollar scholarships to members and their families looking to go back to school, prioritizing those attending trade schools or entering a construction field. Committed to promoting education within the construction industry, the foundation personifies the heart and spirit of the industry by preserving the memory of Larry and Mary Davis.  

Having served as a director on the WSRCA Board of Directors, Larry believed a well-educated membership was key to success and promoted the highest standards. After the couple perished in a plane crash in 1995, the foundation was formalized to continue promoting education by funding scholarships for those wanting to invest in their future. 

While the roofing community prioritizes giving back all year long, Trent loves his annual tradition because it allows him to show his appreciation for the industry that has supported him and put food on his table throughout his career. Matching up to $2,500 per foundation, you can help Trent reach his goal of donating $10,000 back to the roofing industry. 

Double your giving all month long and support the industry’s commitment to promoting education!