Like many NRCA member companies, your association was not immune to the effects
of a weakened economy during the past year. And, like many NRCA member companies,
we took some fairly dramatic steps to ensure a healthy future.
Our organization relies on discretionary spending—dues, training and advertising,
for example—for its survival. During difficult times, we feel the effects when members—
and other customers—make the prudent decision to hold onto their cash.
So it was a year of struggle for us as virtually every category of revenue was down
from the previous year and we scrambled to reduce expenses—and staff—to keep up.
Unfortunately, no one bothered to tell our friends in Washington, D.C., that our
resources are more limited, and the amount of activity coming from our nation's
capital compels us to stay engaged. Leaving politics aside, there is no debating
the huge amount of new government activity, much of which affects our industry directly.
That activity includes a massive economic stimulus package that is bound to absorb
some of the roofing industry's capacity as we head into our next year.
That activity also includes a number of far-ranging proposals for an expanded federal
government—in health care, education and energy policy—that will affect every business
owner in the U.S.
Additionally, that activity includes a resurgent regulatory community, and we are
only just beginning to feel those effects.
So it becomes crucial for the industry to remain in a position that allows it to
respond as forcefully as necessary.
Your association also has repositioned itself to prepare the industry for a substantial
change in technology as the U.S. pays more attention to energy conservation and
environmental issues. We helped to establish the Center for Environmental Innovation
in Roofing as part of a larger strategy to put the roofing industry at the forefront
of what many believe will be transformation. NRCA, too, is devoting more resources
to help members understand this change and prepare for it.
I believe this past year was just a blip in the 123-year history of NRCA growth.
Our membership declined (slightly, by about 3 percent) for one of the few times
in its history but fared much better than other associations in the construction
industry. In fact, we currently add about 50 members per month, which is a real
testament to the brand we have established.
So although the year was a financial disappointment, it was another year of steady
progress on a number of fronts. New educational programs were developed, many in
an online format that will have long shelf lives. The third volume (of four) of
the NRCA Roofing Manual was completed and distributed to all members. NRCA's voice
is louder where it matters most—in Washington, D.C., and before codes and standards
bodies—as we continue to represent the best of our industry.
And there is one other enduring sign for NRCA: the continuing dedication and involvement
of our volunteer leaders. Again this year, we had more members volunteer to serve
than we had spaces available, which positions us incredibly well for the coming
year.
My special thanks go to all volunteers who persevered, even when their own businesses
demanded more of their time and attention. Most of all, thanks to your outgoing
president, Rob Therrien, whose tireless efforts will serve us well for years to
come.
Sincerely,
Bill Good
NRCA Executive Vice President