January 2017

The new year brings change to NRCA as Reid Ribble assumes the role of CEO following Bill Good's retirement. Ribble, a former roofing contractor turned congressman, looks forward to his return to the roofing industry. Ribble's goals include embracing opportunities presented by the trend toward energy-efficient roof systems and helping resolve the industry's labor shortage, among other goals.

Throughout the U.S., a shortage of qualified workers is negatively affecting the roofing industry. Building a competent, sustainable and high-performing workforce can help address the labor crisis. Roofing contracting companies can contribute by implementing effective workforce development programs that incorporate proactive recruiting, systemized onboarding, training and retention techniques.

When the coal-tar pitch roof system on the Owen Arts Center at Southern Methodist University's Meadows School of the Arts in Dallas failed prematurely, the university called upon Castro Roofing of Texas, Dallas, to complete renovations on multiple roof systems. Despite facing tear-off difficulties and safety and logistical challenges associated with working on a school campus, Castro Roofing completed the project safely and ahead of schedule.

A new Department of Labor final rule became effective Nov. 30, 2016, and requires federal construction contractors and subcontractors to provide their employees with seven days of paid sick leave annually. The final rule explains which contractors and employees are subject to the requirements, how paid leave will be accrued and how it can be used, and how the rule will be enforced.

Continuing education offers as many benefits to company leaders as lower-level employees. Leadership programs address your ability to tap into and understand why you care about what it is you do so you can communicate it effectively to others. It is not necessary to be enrolled in a full-time business management school to get value from the time and money invested in industry executive education programs.