The new NRCA year is upon us, and NRCA’s board of directors just met during NRCA’s Midyear Meetings in Chicago. A fine new group of officers and directors were installed, and 156 committee and task force members participated and offered insights for our leadership. To say a lot is happening at NRCA would be an understatement. Our staff and volunteer leaders are working feverishly on programs to unite the roofing industry, and I commend them.
I also tip my cap to former chairmen Jim Barr and Kent Schwickert and NRCA CEO Reid Ribble for their collective stewardship during the past few years. Because of their leadership and responsibility, NRCA members will not see a dues increase for the third consecutive year. It is noteworthy that NRCA was able to invest millions of dollars in programs such as NRCA ProCertification,™ numerous training initiatives and a new software platform while operating within budget.
Market leaders from throughout the U.S. have begun to sign up their installers for NRCA ProCertification. We expect to see more than 700 certified installers before the fiscal year is over. NRCA currently offers certifications for asphalt shingle system installers, thermoplastic system installers and foremen. Companies at the forefront of their markets that certify their workforces will enhance consumer confidence, reaffirm the value of their experienced workers and provide a career path for their newer installers. I am excited to see the return on investment these companies will realize through their participation in NRCA ProCertification.
I’ve spent a lot of time in Washington, D.C., this year and can report our staff is working hard for our members. The second annual Roofing Day in D.C. was a tremendous success and saw increased participation. It was great to witness such a diverse group of people from all segments of our industry converge on Capitol Hill with one voice. In recent years, our progress has been widespread. We’ve had an effect regarding various legislative issues, including roof depreciation, immigration, career and technical education, and regulatory reform.
Several other projects are in the works that will benefit our members, including a specialized health care captive. Our industry demographics are favorable for such a venture, and our Executive Committee made it clear during its May meeting that establishing such a program is a top priority. Our vision includes lower premiums, lower deductibles, better coverage and the possibility of returning a dividend to the participants. Please stay tuned.
It is imperative our industry develop young workers to replace our aging workforce. The national unemployment rate is below 4%, and many of our members are looking to their local CTE schools for the next generation of roofing professionals. Unfortunately, most schools lack updated roofing curriculum, and our trade is not attracting as many students as we’d like.
NRCA is trying to change this. We are working with SkillsUSA and the National Center for Construction Education & Research to make a career in roofing a viable option for a young man or woman at a CTE school. I believe there will be a day in the near future when several thousand students a year are being placed at NRCA member companies when they graduate. Your membership dues are helping to make this happen.
I think it’s going to be another busy year.
Regards,
Nick Sabino