Not too many times in a person’s life can they say, I helped to start a national association.  For me, the idea of National Women in Roofing percolated for many years and developed through numerous discussions with amazing women who work in the roofing industry.  How many times did I hear, we need a platform to talk about career, balance, mentoring, education, recruitment and much more?  Many of us have found amazing mentors both men and women who have helped us grow and develop great careers in the roofing industry.

When the opportunity presented itself to incubate this idea with the Midwest Roofing Contractors Association (MRCA) we knew we had to give it a try.  Women and men from throughout the industry stepped forward to volunteer their time, talent and treasures to support this fledging concept of a Women in Roofing group.

The thing that was amazing was how fast the concept grew and how many people supported the idea.  The incubation of the idea quickly developed national interest and it became clear that this was going to work.  At this year’s IRE, National Women in Roofing will be launched.  A national association that will focus on education, mentoring, networking and recruitment of women in the roofing industry.  It will be an association that focuses on the empowerment and collaboration of women and men focusing on the overall growth of careers in the roofing industry.

Many people, both men and women, have made this possible and several companies have stepped forward sponsoring the growth of this concept.  I am humbled by the kindness and support of our industry and I am very proud to be the chairperson of this new national association.  Special thanks to everyone who has helped and is helping make this possible.

Be sure to attend the launch of NWIR at the IRE; event information is in the newsletter.  It is going to be a great event and you will be able to say that you have been a part of the creation of a new national association!