Why Roofing Might Be the Fastest Path to the American Dream

The roofing industry stands at a critical crossroads. With private equity firms acquiring major contractors, workforce shortages persisting, and young generations seeking different career paths, how does the industry maintain its entrepreneurial spirit while evolving for the future? In part 2 of our conversation with Reid Ribble on Under The Roof along with hosts Todd Kavanaugh and Matthew Elban, we explore what it really means to lead with heart in an industry facing rapid change, from revolutionizing roofing's presence in Washington through Roofing Day DC to addressing workforce challenges.

In part 2 of our conversation with Reid Ribble on Under The Roof along with hosts Todd Kavanaugh and Matthew Elban, we explore what it really means to lead with heart in an industry facing rapid change, from revolutionizing roofing's presence in Washington through Roofing Day DC to addressing workforce challenges.

What You’ll Learn:

How independent roofing contractors can effectively compete against private equity-backed companies through community connection and service excellence
Why the roofing industry needs to improve its self-respect to attract the next generation of workers
How to transform the roofing industry's advocacy efforts through grassroots engagement
Why immigration reform is crucial for addressing workforce challenges in the roofing industry
The principle of interested versus interesting in building lasting business relationships and respect
How to create pathways for career advancement in roofing

Reid Ribble is a unique figure in the roofing industry, having served as a roofing contractor, U.S. Congressman, and CEO of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). After running his family's roofing business in Wisconsin for 30 years, he served three terms in Congress, representing Wisconsin's 8th District. In 2017, he became CEO of the NRCA, where he spearheaded major initiatives to professionalize the roofing industry.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction
[02:36] Lessons From Washington
[05:22] Nonsense in Congress vs. the Real World
[07:00] Infrastructure Isn’t Just Roads
[10:29] Making Roofing Visible in Washington
[13:07] Workforce Crisis and Pro Certification
[15:44] Legal Immigration, Trade Schools, and the Broken System
[19:46] Roofing as a Gateway to the American Dream
[22:10] Respect Starts with on the Jobsite
[26:13] Anxiety, Optimism, and Hiring With Heart
[28:55] Work-Life Balance and Coaching for 25 Years
[33:00] 5 Things Reid Would Tell His 20-Year-Old Self

Episode Resources:

Reid Ribble on LinkedIn
National Roofing Contractors Association Website
Todd Kavanaugh on LinkedIn
Matt Elban on LinkedIn
Baker Roofing Company Website