Focus

NRCA University will begin developing a certificate and credentialing program for roofing workers.

For several years, NRCA and its volunteer leadership have been examining ways to address the industry's workforce problem (which includes the recruitment and training of workers). Practically speaking, contractors wondered whether a national organization could provide effective worker training locally.

As time passed, advancements in technology, increased pressure to compete and a dwindling workforce brought the idea to the forefront this year.

During its Midyear Meetings held in Chicago July 12-16, NRCA University announced it will begin developing a credentialing program for all levels of roofing workers—from an employee starting a career in roofing through the designation of "master roofing worker."

The goal is to offer workers a true career path in roofing, which, NRCA hopes, will help attract more people into the industry and provide opportunities for them to advance within it. Much of the training will take place via distance learning platforms, eliminating costly travel expenses. In addition, participants will be able to track their progress online. Existing experienced employees will be offered the opportunity to qualify for several levels of certification based on their knowledge and experience, allowing them to participate in the program, as well.

The entire program will take at least three years to develop, but training will begin next year. The effort is part of a much broader goal of attracting more workers to the industry.

For example, in May, NRCA launched its online career center (www.nrca.net/careers) that offers job listings; information about the roofing industry; and resources for employers, such as detailed, customizable job descriptions, recruiting tools and onboarding tools.

"For many years, there has been a great need for workers in the roofing industry," says William Good, NRCA's CEO. "The NRCA Career Center—and the training initiative—will help make workers more aware of the many opportunities that exist in our industry and how rewarding a career in roofing can be."

Ambika Puniani Bailey is editor of Professional Roofing and NRCA's vice president of communications and production.

More Like This

  • Sustainable by design

    The U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) system is the most widely known "green" building certification system, but recently the Green Building Initiative's Green Globes® building certification system has gained momentum as an alternative to the LEED system. Roofing contractors must be prepared to fulfill any Green Globe responsibilities that differ from their typical responsibilities.

  • Roofing with care

    When ProHealth Care built a new ProHealth Care Cancer Center in Pewaukee, Wis., it called upon Paul Crandall & Associates Inc., Grafton, Wis., to provide roof system recommendations and the installations. Paul Crandall & Associates installed a polymer-modified bitumen roof system and a vegetative roof system on the building while wearing bright pink safety T-shirts to honor the spirit of the cancer care center.

  • It's good to be green

    Sustainable design has gained popularity in the commercial building sector because of its lower environmental impact and favorable long-term operating costs. One way to incorporate sustainability into a commercial building envelope is to install a vegetative roof system. Vegetative roof systems serve as accessible green environments, provide habitats for birds and insects, and mitigate the urban heat island effect, among other benefits.

;