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SkillsUSA: Contractor and Association Involvement

Oct. 16, 2025 | Noon CDT
Virtual
  • Price: Free

Individual Registration Group Registration


Description

SkillsUSA involvement looks different in every state. States have leveraged different models of engagement and experienced great success recruiting students to learn about and compete in commercial roofing contests. Join Patrick Cochran, founder and CEO of Red Dog’s Roofing; Tara Colardeau, staff developmental director for Red Dog’s Roofing; and Laura Schweikert, executive director of the Arizona Roofing Contractors Association, to learn what states are doing to get students involved and consider how you might develop a plan for SkillsUSA involvement in your area.

Patrick Cochran
Founder and CEO of Red Dog’s Roofing

Patrick Cochran, founder and CEO of Red Dog’s Roofing, Fitchburg, Mass., founded the company in 2012. Initially, Cochran focused on commercial service, maintenance and roof repairs, building a reputation for reliability and quality. In 2014, he earned a Master of Business Administration from Fitchburg State University, Fitchburg, Mass., and expanded the company’s services to include residential roof replacements.

By 2017, Cochran opened a second location in Sarasota, Fla., extending Red Dog’s reach to residential roof repairs and replacements in the region. In 2023, he launched a satellite office to serve customers in Connecticut and Rhode Island.

Tara Colardeau
Staff development director for Red Dog’s Roofing

Tara Colardeau is the staff development director at Red Dog’s Roofing, bringing six years of roofing industry experience to her role. Starting in call center supervision and human resources administration, she has always had a passion for service, training and cultivating company culture.

Colardeau currently oversees recruiting and onboarding but finds even more personal fulfillment in networking and coordinating events with local nonprofits and schools giving back to the community.

During the past year, her biggest project has involved working with SkillsUSA on behalf of Red Dog’s Roofing, supporting the organization’s mission to empower students pursuing careers in the skilled trades.

Laura Schweikert
Executive director of the Arizona Roofing Contractors Association

Laura Schweikert joined the Arizona Roofing Contractors Association in July 2023 as its membership coordinator. With a background in hospitality, retail and real estate operations, she brings a strong foundation in customer service, organization and team support. She then transitioned into the role of executive director.

Schweikert is responsible for supporting ARCA’s mission, coordinating annual events, planning safety and training classes, and helping to ensure the organization remains relevant, engaged and financially stable. She works closely with members, committees and community partners to build strong relationships and deliver meaningful value to ARCA’s network.

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