MetalCoffeeShop

New bilingual leadership program aims to strengthen roofing teams

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 05:00:00 PDT

By Jesse Sanchez.

This six-course initiative helps contractors develop Hispanic field leaders and improve communication, safety and retention.

The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and The GLO Group have launched the Executive Leadership Bilingual Pilot Program, a six-course initiative focused on strengthening communication between roofing executives and Hispanic field teams. The program was created to help contractors address language differences, cultural disconnects and inconsistent leadership development that can affect productivity, safety, retention and profitability. Its curriculum is intended for owners, executives, operations leaders, human resources professionals and managers responsible for leading diverse teams.

“One of the biggest misconceptions I see is that communication challenges are simply a language issue. In reality, they're a leadership issue,” said Monica Vornbrock, co-founder and chief innovation and transformation officer of The GLO Group.

Monica is co-facilitating the program with Lorna Rojas, a specialist in human resources, recruitment, Hispanic training and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety practices and Chris Navarro, NRCA’s manager of membership sales and Spanish relations.

The interactive courses will address leadership development, psychological safety, cultural trust and the use of modern tools. Topics include “Leadership in Two Languages: Elevating Hispanic Supervisors,” “Psychological Safety and Cultural Trust in Roofing Environments” and “Modern Tools, Traditional Values: AI + People-Centered Leadership.”

Participants will learn strategies for developing Hispanic supervisors, reducing communication breakdowns, improving employee retention and creating greater consistency across multilingual crews. The program also examines how people-centered leadership can support the adoption of technology, systems and artificial intelligence.

NRCA and The GLO Group will introduce the curriculum during a complimentary live webinar Thursday, August 20, at 1 p.m. CT. The session will include an overview of the six courses, introductions to the facilitators and a live question-and-answer period.

Learn more about the Executive Leadership Bilingual Pilot Program and register for the free webinar through The GLO Group!

Trade association coalition announces Q2 findings from 2026 Market Index Survey for Reroofing

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 10:00:00 PDT

A coalition of industry trade associations representing contractors, consultants and manufacturers in the U.S. and Canada has completed its Quarterly Market Index Survey for Reroofing for the second quarter of 2026.

The survey is an industrywide effort spearheaded by a coalition of trade associations, including the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, Canadian Roofing Contractors Association, Chemical Fabrics & Film Association Inc., EPDM Roofing Association, International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants, Metal Construction Association, Metal Roofing Alliance, National Roofing Contractors Association, National Women in Roofing, Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association, Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association and Single Ply Roofing Industry.

Sixty-eight percent of survey responses came from roofing contractors, and 32% of responses came from roof consultants. 44% of respondents indicated they primarily work on low-slope roof systems; 44% indicated they primarily work on a blend of low-slope and steep-slope roof systems; and 12% indicated they primarily work on steep-slope roof systems.

Participants who identify as roofing contractors were asked to report the number of squares of reroofing material installed by their companies during the second quarter of 2026 compared with the same quarter in 2025. 35% of respondents reported the volume of reroofing materials installed increased, 28% reported no change and 37% reported a decrease in materials installed year-over-year.

37% of all survey respondents indicated their customer inquiries increased. 32% of respondents reported no change in activity, and 31% indicated a decrease. Project contracts increased for 38% of respondents, 32% reported no change in activity and 30% indicated a decrease in project contracts.

Additionally, two indices offer insight regarding customer inquiries and project contracts across market segments. The indices are based on a 0 to 100 scale. A score of 50 or higher suggests expansion or optimism; a score below 50 indicates contraction or pessimism.

The customer inquiries index score for the total industry decreased to 53.5 compared with 57.1 for the first quarter of 2026. The score for the steep-slope reroofing market is 31.8, the score for the low-slope reroofing market is 60.2, and the score for the blended low- and steep-slope reroofing market is 52.4.
The project contracts index score for the total industry increased to 54.3 compared with 52.9 for the first quarter of 2026. The score for the steep-slope reroofing market is 40.9, the score for the low-slope reroofing market is 63.3, and the score for the blended low- and steep-slope reroofing market is 48.8.

As of July 2026, 30% of respondents reported no project backlogs, 32% indicated project backlogs of one to two months, and 24% indicated backlogs of three to four months. 14% of respondents reported project backlogs of five or more months.

The complete results of the Quarterly Market Index Survey for Reroofing are available to those who participate in the survey via an online dashboard that enables users to filter results by region and other metrics. Any contractor or consultant who wants to participate in the next quarter’s survey can sign up for a notification at http://bit.ly/37ank7D.

Team USA is calling: Represent American roofing on the world stage

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 06:00:00 PDT

By the National Roofing Contractor's Association.

The road to Budapest begins in Las Vegas, but the chance to represent Team USA starts today.

The search is on for the next generation of roofing talent to represent the United States at one of the industry's most prestigious international events. Through the National Roofing Contractors Association's (NRCA) IFD Qualifying Competition, skilled young roofing professionals have the opportunity to earn a spot on Team USA and compete at the 2027 World Championship for Young Roofers in Budapest, Hungary.

For contractors, this is more than just a competition—it's a chance to showcase the talent within your company, invest in workforce development and gain national and international recognition. For roofing professionals, it's an opportunity to represent your company, your trade and your country on the world stage.

Mark your calendar

Companies interested in participating should act now, as several key deadlines are quickly approaching.

Applications for the qualifying competition must be submitted by November 20, 2026. Selected applicants will be notified by December 11, 2026, allowing teams time to prepare for the qualifying event held during the International Roofing Expo in Las Vegas on February 16-17, 2027.

The teams selected from the qualifying competition will spend the following months training and preparing before traveling to Budapest, Hungary, in November 2027 to compete against the best young roofing professionals from around the globe.

Represent the best of American roofing

NRCA is seeking teams in four competition disciplines:

Low-slope roofing
Metal roofing
Slate and tile roofing
Façade systems

Each Team USA entry consists of two competitors and one coach or mentor. Competitors must be employed by an NRCA member company, be 28 years old or younger as of Dec. 31, 2027 and possess the skills and experience necessary to compete at a high level.

The competition is designed to highlight the craftsmanship, technical expertise and professionalism that define the roofing industry. It's also an opportunity to demonstrate that American roofing talent can compete with the best in the world.

A once-in-a-career opportunity

Team USA first participated in the World Championship in 2024, and the experience left a lasting impact on competitors, coaches and industry leaders alike. Participants gained international exposure, expanded their understanding of the trade and returned with new ideas and a broader perspective on roofing excellence.

Now, NRCA is looking to build on that momentum by identifying the industry's top young talent and assembling teams capable of competing for a world championship. ,

The time to apply is now

Contractors across the country are encouraged to identify their most skilled young employees and submit an application before the Nov. 20 deadline. Whether your company's strengths are in low-slope roofing, metal, slate and tile or façade work, this is an opportunity to put those skills on display in front of the global roofing community.

The road to Budapest begins in Las Vegas, but the chance to represent Team USA starts today. If you have talented team members ready to prove themselves among the world's best, now is the time to step forward, apply and showcase the future of American roofing.

Application Deadline: Nov. 20, 2026. Don't miss your chance to represent Team USA and compete on the world's biggest roofing stage.

Why Pride and inclusion matter in roofing

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 06:00:00 PDT

By Emma Peterson.

Industry leaders explain why creating a culture of belonging benefits employees, companies and the future of roofing.

June was Pride Month and here at The Coffee Shops™ we celebrated with a special Pride Month Coffee Conversations all about how roofing companies can create inclusive environments within their businesses and the industry overall. The episode was hosted by Heidi and Megan Ellsworth and featured Tremco’s Elise Vue and Maureen Greeves alongside National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)’s Amy Staska.

The episode opened with a discussion of what Pride means. Elise, who has been a part of the industry for a decade now, explained her perspective, saying, “Pride Month, for me personally, has meant an opportunity to not only share my story, but also ask friends and colleagues about themselves and to celebrate the different journeys that brought people to our industry and community.”

And by being welcoming and opening to those different journeys through conversations, events and other support programs, we can build a stronger industry through inclusion. Amy, who first started at NRCA in 1997, has seen the importance of inclusion firsthand, explaining:

Being welcoming and accepting is powerful just because it is the right thing to do. But it is also important for any industry that needs people badly. I used to talk to contractors about women in the industry, and they’d be talking about how desperate they were for talent but they also weren’t helping make 50% of the population feel welcome working here. And with the LGBTQ+ community, you have a similar thing. There are a whole bunch of people out there and we can bring them into our industry if we create places where people are not only comfortable to work at but feel like they are embraced.

Maureen, a 17-year industry veteran, added to Amy’s point, “We're all starving to get people into our industry and keep them here. And the best way to retain anyone is to make them feel safe, comfortable and valued. So, when we talk about pride and inclusion and why it matters, it’s not just the right thing to do, it’s directly tied to the growth and success of our entire industry. Because when you have happy, thriving and engaged people, profits and production are going to go up.”

Want to learn more about building a more inclusive and thriving industry? Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording.

NRCA Gold Circle Awards: Why recognition matters more than ever in the age of AI

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 06:00:00 PDT

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Industry recognition creates credibility, strengthens marketing efforts and helps contractors stand out in a world where customers and AI tools are constantly searching for proof of expertise.

Every day, roofing contractors complete exceptional projects, solve complex building challenges and develop innovative solutions for their customers. They invest in skilled craftsmanship, advanced technologies and highly trained teams to deliver results that protect buildings and communities. Unfortunately, many of those accomplishments remain known only to the people directly involved, limiting opportunities to build awareness and showcase expertise.

That is why applying for industry awards is one of the smartest marketing investments a contractor can make. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) is currently accepting nominations for its Gold Circle Awards, which recognize outstanding roofing-related projects and services completed between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2025. Contractors can be recognized in four categories:

Outstanding workmanship
Innovative solutions
Artisan workmanship
Wall panels and facades

Entering any of these categories is a huge opportunity for roofing professionals — and not just for the chance to win an exciting award. The application process for this contest is an often overlooked part of the award process, but it is very valuable for contractors.

Preparing a nomination requires contractors to document what made a project successful, gather photography, organize project details and tell the story behind the work. In many cases, that information becomes some of the most valuable marketing content a company will create all year. What starts as an award submission can quickly become:

Case studies that demonstrate expertise.
Photo catalogs that support sales efforts and marketing campaigns.
Newsletter stories that help customers understand how a contractor solves problems and delivers value.
Material for customer presentations and social media posts.

Ultimately, every nomination creates an opportunity to tell a story that reinforces a company's reputation and differentiates it from competitors in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

That visibility has become even more important as artificial intelligence changes how customers search for information. Today’s customers frequently use search engines and AI-powered tools to research contractors before making buying decisions. These systems look for evidence of expertise, credibility and trust.

Award nominations and recognition contribute directly to that visibility. Every published project profile, news announcement or industry article creates another piece of content that customers and AI tools can discover. Contractors who consistently share accomplishments, publish project profiles and promote industry recognition create a stronger digital footprint that helps them stand out online and increases the likelihood that prospective customers will encounter their expertise during the research process.

In many ways, recognition has become one of the most powerful forms of third-party validation available. And by leveraging it properly, contractors can create future opportunities for themselves, whether that's drawing in a new client through marketing efforts or improving company culture through recognition of hard work and talent. The NRCA Gold Circle Awards provides an outstanding opportunity to do this, to celebrate excellence and create content that supports business growth long after the awards presentation is over.

If you know an NRCA member who completed an exceptional roofing project or service between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2025, consider submitting a nomination before the September 18 deadline. Past Gold Circle winners can be found on RoofersCoffeeShop, offering strong examples of how award-winning projects can build visibility, strengthen credibility and showcase expertise for years to come.

In memoriam of Cheryl Ambrose

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 16:00:00 PDT

By The Coffee Shops™.

Remembering Cheryl’s legacy as a roofing industry champion.

The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) just released news of the passing of Cheryl Ambrose, who served as their vice president of enterprise risk management. Cheryl passed away July 15 and her loss has left the industry mourning a dedicated leader and advocate whose work helped make jobsites safer and strengthened the organizations she served for decades.

As we mourn Cheryl, we wanted to take a moment to highlight the incredible work she championed. The roofing industry faces unique challenges when it comes to workplace safety, and Cheryl was a driving force behind efforts to educate contractors, improve safety awareness and reduce risks on jobsites. Throughout her career, she was known for her unwavering commitment to worker health, safety and risk management.

At NRCA, she played a critical role in advancing safety initiatives and outreach efforts that benefited roofing professionals across the country. Her colleagues remember how her dedication extended far beyond her title, highlighting the tremendous and unwavering commitment she demonstrated toward the health and welfare of the industry’s workforce.

Her influence reached well beyond roofing. According to NRCA, Cheryl’s decades of service benefited multiple industries and helped improve the lives of countless workers and families. That legacy serves as a reminder of how one person’s passion and dedication can create lasting change for an entire profession.

In an industry built on hard work and teamwork, Cheryl leaves behind a legacy defined by service, compassion and a relentless focus on safety. Her contributions have helped shape a stronger roofing industry, and her impact will not be forgotten by the many professionals whose lives and careers were touched by her work.

As roofing professionals reflect on Cheryl's contributions, her work stands as an example of the importance of leadership, service and a commitment to protecting others. While she will be greatly missed, the programs she helped build and the people she inspired will continue to make a difference throughout the industry for years to come.

Read her full obituray.

In loving memory of Cheryl Ambrose

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:00:00 PDT

She recently retired in June 2026, concluding a distinguished career devoted to construction safety and risk management.

Cheryl Merryman Ambrose, 63, of Reedville, Virginia, passed away on July 15, 2026, at Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center in Mechanicsville, Virginia, following a short illness.

Born on August 23, 1962, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Cheryl was the daughter of Donald Wilson Merryman and Patsy Marie (Miller) Merryman. She was a 1980 graduate of North Harford High School in Pylesville, Maryland. She later earned a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Safety and Health from Columbia Southern University, graduating magna cum laude in 2015. Throughout her career, she also earned multiple certifications in construction and occupational safety.

Cheryl married her beloved husband, Jeffery Ambrose, on December 27, 1992. She recently retired in June 2026 as vice president of risk for the National Roofing Contractors Association, concluding a distinguished career devoted to construction safety and risk management.

Cheryl was greatly influenced by her maternal grandmother, Addie Blanche Miller, who taught her many of the skills that became lifelong passions, including crocheting, cooking, gardening, canning and baking. A gifted fiber artist, Cheryl was skilled in crocheting, weaving, and quilting. She generously shared her talents by gifting her beautiful handwork to others. She had meticulous attention to detail and was always learning something new.

An impeccable cook and baker, Cheryl loved sharing her culinary talents with family and friends. She often said, “No one is going hungry in my house!”

Cheryl also had a beautiful singing voice and a deep faith in Christ. She loved praising Him through song and sang in many church choirs. A tenacious researcher and avid reader, she had a special love for history and genealogy. She was also a member of the Tavern Spinners & Weavers Guild.

Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Lynnelle Patricia Merryman. She is survived by her husband, Jeffery Ambrose; her brother, Bryan Carey Merryman, and his wife, Sandra; her sister, Maury Gail (Merryman) Thackston, and her husband, Brent; her son, Derek Macomber; three grandchildren; her stepdaughter, Jolene Bastas; her stepson, Jeffrey Ambrose; and two step-granddaughters.

Graveside services will be held Saturday August 1, 2026 11 a.m. at Fawn Grove Community Church with luncheon immediately following.

Wagner-Elfner and Harkins Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc 600 Main Street, Delta Pennsylvania 17314 is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorial contributions:

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Northern Neck Heritage Arts Center P.O. Box 579 Heathsville, VA 22473 Memo: Spinners and Weavers Guild

Bigger than red and blue

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 06:00:00 PDT

By Emma Peterson.

Diving into how the NRCA advocates for the betterment of the roofing industry and our country, regardless of party lines.

The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)’s mission focuses on finding ways to support the success of roofing professionals across the United States. And one of the biggest ways they achieve this mission is by acting as a unified voice for the industry in relation to advocacy efforts. To learn more about NRCA’s advocating efforts, we brought Brad Stine (NRCA’s director of federal affairs), Duane Musser (NRCA’s vice president of government relations) and Will Lorenz (president of General Coatings) together for a Roofing Road Trips® episode.

Affordable housing

One of the examples of NRCA’s advocacy efforts is their work to make housing more affordable. Brad spoke about why this topic is so important to them, “You want to talk about timely things that are bipartisan, look no further than affordability. And of all the issues related to affordability, housing is one of the biggest ones.”

So, how is NRCA working to advocate for solutions to this bipartisan housing affordability issue? Brad explained:

There are two specific bills we are currently advocating for. The first one is the Revitalizing Downtowns And Main Streets Act (H.R. 2410). This bill aims to establish a federal tax credit to facilitate the conversion of older, underutilized commercial buildings to residential housing. And the other is the bicameral Neighborhood Homes Investment Act (H.R. 2854 and S.B. 1686). This one is a federal tax credit that incentivizes the building of new or repairing residential homes in certain rural and urban areas around the US.

Immigration and labor

Another roofing-related issue that NRCA is putting advocacy efforts behind is immigration. Duane explained, "Immigration is often a controversial topic. But the way we approach it at NRCA is centered on advocating and uplifting legal, bipartisan policies that are focused on solving very real issues – like labor shortage.”

A great example of this is the NRCA’s support of the Dignity Act, which was one of their biggest talking points at their annual advocacy day in April 2026. What is the Dignity Act? Duane explained:

The Dignity Act has support from Democrats and Republicans. It’s a piece of legislation, that deals with the many immigrants who are here with under temporary protected work status that might be at risk of losing that. This legislation works to give those individuals the opportunity to earn permanent legal status, not citizenship, that would stabilize workforces for industries like roofing.

Conclusion

Oftentimes, when we hear the term political advocacy, we think about party politics and advocacy related to getting politicians elected. But that’s not the type of advocacy NRCA participates in. As Brad, Duane and Will highlighted in this podcast, NRCA is all about advocacy that crosses party lines. Will put it best, “Government and democracy is not an exact science. It gets things right many times. And then it fails and has to reset and figure it out again. And what we are talking about today are issues that really affect a lot of people... It’s not about red or blue, it’s about growth and success and helping people.”

Want to learn more? Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording.

Keeping up with an industry that demands a lot from the people who keep it moving

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 06:00:00 PDT

By NRCA.

The NRCA shares ways roofing professionals can manage anxiety.

From changing weather and tight schedules to customer expectations, labor challenges and business pressures, roofing professionals often carry more than the work in front of them. The National Roofing Contractors Association is encouraging contractors and their teams to recognize the importance of managing stress and anxiety before it begins affecting their work, relationships or well-being.

While common advice like taking a walk, getting enough sleep or meditating can help, NRCA notes that high-achieving professionals may need more intentional ways to step back from the constant pressure to perform.

One place to start is by giving yourself permission to take a break. In an industry where there is always another estimate to send, crew to manage or customer to call back, stepping away can feel difficult. However, time away from work can help people return with a clearer perspective, stronger focus and more energy for the tasks ahead.

NRCA also recommends starting with small, manageable changes rather than trying to overhaul everything at once. For example, a contractor who wants to spend less time checking their phone can begin by putting it on silent in another room for 15 minutes. Small adjustments can build into healthier routines over time.

Another practical strategy is to move unfinished work out of your head and onto paper. At the end of the workday, write down three tasks that need attention tomorrow. Creating a clear plan can help prevent incomplete projects, customer issues and jobsite concerns from following you home.

Breaking larger challenges into smaller steps can also make overwhelming situations feel more manageable. Whether the issue is a staffing concern, a complicated project or a growing to-do list, identifying the next immediate action can help create momentum.

NRCA also points to the value of separating work mode from home mode. Taking a few minutes to reflect on the day, acknowledge what was accomplished and prepare for the next day can make it easier to leave work concerns behind and focus on time outside the business.

Finally, connecting with trusted peers, friends or family members remains an important part of resilience. No roofing professional needs to carry stress alone. Honest conversations can provide support, perspective and a reminder that help is available.

NRCA offers mental health resources designed to help roofing employers and employees support themselves and their teams. Creating a stronger industry starts with taking care of the people who power it.