By The Coffee Shops®.

Panelists discussed challenging workplace bias, sponsoring women’s careers and creating a culture where employees feel supported.

At the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) Women in Roofing Day event in Tukwila, Washington, a panel of industry leaders had a conversation focused on recognizing unconscious bias, supporting women’s advancement and addressing mental health concerns throughout the construction industry. Moderated by Jennifer Stone of Tremco, the panel featured Justin Shirley of State Roofing, Donovan Gladstone of GAF, Eric Johnston of PABCO Roofing Products, Cody of Polyglass and Josh Wilson of Stoneway Building Supply.

Panelists began by examining assumptions they had encountered or held about women’s roles in the industry. Several noted that their early experiences in roofing and construction included few women outside office, administrative or sales positions. As more women entered installation, manufacturing and leadership roles, those experiences challenged outdated assumptions about what women could or wanted to do.

A recurring theme was the importance of remaining open-minded and avoiding assumptions about what someone can or cannot do. Rather than focusing on differences, the panelists emphasized evaluating individuals based on their abilities, goals and contributions.

The conversation then shifted to one of the event's most candid topics: the responsibility men have to challenge inappropriate comments, stereotypes and workplace behavior when women are not present. Panelists acknowledged that speaking up can be uncomfortable and, at times, carry professional risk. However, they agreed that creating meaningful change requires action rather than silence.

Several speakers shared personal experiences where they had witnessed inappropriate treatment toward women and questioned whether they had done enough in those moments. Their honesty highlighted a key takeaway from the discussion: allyship is not about having all the answers but being willing to listen, learn and take action when necessary.

The panel also explored the difference between mentorship and sponsorship. While mentors offer advice and guidance, sponsors actively help create opportunities by advocating for others, making introductions and encouraging individuals to pursue leadership roles. The speakers encouraged attendees to use their influence, regardless of title, to help others advance in their careers.

Workplace systems and policies were another focus. The panel discussed how flexibility, understanding family responsibilities and removing unnecessary barriers can create more opportunities for women to succeed. Several speakers noted that simple actions, such as listening to employees' needs and questioning outdated assumptions about productivity, can make a significant difference.

One of the most impactful portions of the discussion centered on mental health. Drawing attention to the construction industry's high rates of suicide, substance abuse and mental health challenges, the panelists shared personal stories about addiction, loss and recovery. The conversation emphasized that mental health affects everyone in the industry and that leaders must create environments where people feel safe asking for help.

The speakers encouraged companies to become more familiar with available resources, normalize conversations about mental health and train leaders to recognize warning signs. Most importantly, they stressed that meaningful support often begins with something simple: asking someone how they are doing and genuinely listening to the answer.

As the session concluded, the panel left attendees with a powerful reminder that leadership is rooted in empathy, curiosity and human connection. Whether supporting women in the workplace, mentoring future leaders or checking in on a struggling colleague, the small actions individuals take every day can have a lasting impact on the people around them and on the future of the roofing industry.

The discussion’s message was ultimately one of shared humanity: remain curious, challenge assumptions, use influence to create opportunities and take time to check on the people around you.

By Lauren White.

Women across the PNW came together for a powerful day of connection, education and progress in roofing.

It’s back! For the second time, the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) hosted the Pacific Northwest Regional Women in Roofing Day in conjunction with the Seattle National Women in Roofing (NWIR) council on October 16, 2026. Around 100 professionals gathered at the Interurban Hotel in Tukwila, Washington for a day of networking, education and connection. The morning started off with Jennifer Stone from Tremco and Katie Bodiford, NWIR executive director, sharing the journey and genesis of NWIR 10 years ago. It started with a group of women who shared similar desires for the industry and experienced similar frustrations being in a male-populated industry. “Where are the women?”
was one of the main questions at many industry events.

In response to the question, they decided to act and start a local council in the Midwest to bring women in the industry together. Those women were Heidi J. Ellsworth, Sharri Carlozzi, Jennifer Ford-Smith and Jennifer Stone. After the event, Jennifer Stone challenged the group, saying, “This needs to be bigger, this needs to be national.” And that’s exactly what happened. Now there are 63 councils across the U.S. and there are international members as well. "Ten years ago, 0.5% of the industry was women and now we are at 5% of women in roofing," Katie shared. It’s great growth, but there’s more to be done!

Ten years ago, the goals set forth by this group were:

• Mentorship and community for women
• Education for women where they felt comfortable being educated and then be leaders in education
• To recruit more women to the industry
• Provide a safe and comfortable space for women to network

And those pillars remain today. As Jennifer stated, “Everything comes from the lens of, ‘Does this empower women?’”

After the opening session, attendees had the opportunity to attend two of the three breakout sessions offered. PABCO Roofing Products presented “Understanding Asphalt Shingles,” Stop Claims presented “Top 5 L&I Issues” and ABC Supply presented “Building Your Business.” Between sessions, attendees had the opportunity to network, take photos in the photo booth and meet with industry partners at their tables to learn about what’s new with VELUX, Anything Insurance, RCAW, NWIR, PABCO and more.

During lunch, which was sponsored by Owens Corning, we had the opportunity to network and learn more about the people at our tables. I happened to be sitting next to the afternoon keynote, Katee Williams, the owner of Steve Garlock Equipment. She shared her journey in the roofing industry, an industry that her mother worked in and was a trailblazer for Katee and her career in roofing.

Katee encouraged attendees to learn, adapt and work their way up, reminding them that they don’t have to know everything in one day. “Confidence often comes after you take the step, not before,” she shared. She also reflected on the distinction between being a strong employee and becoming a strong leader, discussing the challenges of navigating the roofing industry, leading a company and raising a family. Her story came full circle with her mother in attendance and her daughter now working alongside her at Steve Garlock Equipment — bringing three generations of women in roofing together in the room.

She also shared lessons learned throughout her career with attendees, saying:

• Learn everything you can
• No role is too small
• Relationships and partnerships will follow you for decades
• Don’t lose yourself as you build your career. Take care of your health and your family.
• Find mentors and build relationships with other people
• There’s room for everyone at the table
• A career is built over decades, not in one perfect year

The final two sessions of the day were a women’s panel and men’s panel. The women’s panel was moderated by Allison Woslager of Integrity PNW. The discussion brought together Jennifer Stone of Tremco, Katie Bodiford of NWIR, Cheri Groves of Axis Roofing, Kimberly Santiago-Vega of GAF and Claudia Carachure of CF Roof and Gutter. Panelists discussed navigating bias, building confidence and advancing women’s careers through education, networking, mentorship and sponsorship. They also explored employee retention, workplace culture, mental health and work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of supportive leadership, clear growth opportunities and personal well-being.

The men’s panel was moderated by Jennifer and featured Justin Shirley of State Roofing, Donovan Gladstone of GAF, Eric Johnston of PABCO Roofing Products, Colin Parks of Polyglass and Josh Wilson of Stoneway Building Supply. The panel focused on challenging workplace bias, advocating for women’s career growth and creating more inclusive opportunities across the roofing industry. Panelists also emphasized personal accountability, meaningful allyship and the importance of open conversations and genuine support around mental health.

We closed the day with a group photo, raffle prizes and thank you’s. Overall, it was a great day of connection and learning with like-minded professionals in the Pacific Northwest. Being surrounded by others who understand the challenges and possibilities of a career in roofing was a powerful reminder that days like this matter. From exploring NWIR’s origins to learning through breakout sessions, inspiring keynotes and candid panel discussions, the day reinforced how education and connection can help build a stronger future for women in roofing.

By The Coffee Shops®.

From fire ratings to moss management, this session covered the details every roofing professional should know.

At the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) Women in Roofing Day in Tukwila, Washington, attendees gained a deeper understanding of one of the industry's most widely used roofing systems during the breakout session, “Understanding Asphalt Shingles,” presented by PABCO Roofing Products' Lori Jerome and Eric Johnston.

The session explored the evolution of asphalt shingles, beginning with the hand-cut paper-based shingles used in the early 1900s.

Lori explained how the industry progressed to three-tab shingles in the 1930s before transitioning to the architectural laminated shingles that dominate today's residential roofing market. Modern roofing products now include enhanced performance and designer shingles that offer improved weather resistance, aesthetics and durability.

A key focus of the presentation was the role of Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), an industry organization that provides educational resources, installation guidance and market data. Eric highlighted ARMA's free installation manual as a valuable tool for training new roofing professionals and learning industry terminology.

The presenters also walked attendees through the manufacturing process of an asphalt shingle. Today's shingles are built on a fiberglass mat, which is coated with asphalt to provide water-shedding protection. Colored granules are then applied to shield the asphalt from ultraviolet rays while also creating the product's appearance. Together, these components work to deliver flexibility, weather protection and curb appeal.

For contractors, understanding homeowner priorities is essential. According to Lori and Eric, homeowners typically focus on appearance, performance, cost, value and peace of mind. Common questions often center on shingle longevity, color options, weather resistance, maintenance requirements and warranty coverage.

The session also covered the different categories of asphalt shingles, including traditional three-tab, architectural and designer products. Designer shingles often mimic the look of cedar shake or natural slate while providing the benefits of asphalt roofing systems.

Performance testing was another major topic. Eric reviewed how manufacturers evaluate wind resistance, impact resistance, fire performance and granule adhesion. He also discussed the growing importance of Class A fire-rated roofing systems as wildfire concerns continue to increase across the western United States.

Closer to home, the presenters addressed a common Pacific Northwest challenge: moss. Eric emphasized that algae-resistant shingles are not the same as moss-resistant shingles and encouraged contractors to educate homeowners about ongoing roof maintenance, especially in shaded environments where moisture and organic growth are more prevalent.

The session concluded with a discussion on installation best practices and warranties. The presenters stressed the importance of proper nail placement, ventilation and documentation, noting that these factors can significantly affect both roof performance and warranty coverage. Their message was clear: product knowledge, proper installation and transparent communication with homeowners are key to long-term roofing success.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Roofing professionals are invited to connect, learn and invest in their professional growth during the RCAW Women in Roofing Day. 

RCAW’s Regional Women in Roofing Day is returning to the Pacific Northwest with a full day focused on education, networking and professional development for people throughout the roofing industry. On this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Megan Ellsworth spoke with Amanda Fields, executive director of the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) and Carolina Joya, vice president of business development at ROOFCORP of America and chair of the Seattle National Women in Roofing (NWIR) chapter, about the October 16 event. 

Hosted by RCAW in partnership with PABCO Roofing Products, PNW Regional Women in Roofing Day is designed to bring together contractors, suppliers, manufacturers and other industry professionals. Amanda explained, “This event is to inspire and bring together women from all areas of roofing, contractors, suppliers, manufacturers and professionals. It's a full day of learning, networking and leadership development.” 

The day begins at 8 a.m. with breakfast and networking before moving into presentations, educational breakout sessions and panel discussions. Speakers include NWIR co-founder Jennifer Stone, NWIR Executive Director Katie Bodiford, and Katie Williams, owner of Garlock Equipment. Attendees can also choose from sessions covering brand building, asphalt shingles and Washington Labor and Industries issues. 

Beyond formal education, Amanda and Carolina emphasized the value of professional connections and bringing new ideas back to the workplace. Amanda noted, “Sometimes one conversation or one class can give a company or an attendee a fresh new idea or a solution.” 

Carolina encouraged employees interested in attending to review the agenda with their supervisors and identify specific learning goals before the event. She suggested making the agenda part of the conversation and demonstrating how particular sessions or connections could benefit both the employee and company. After attending, employees can share what they learned, who they met and what they believe could be applied at work. 

The event is designed for professionals across roles, experience levels and genders. Carolina emphasized, “This really is for everyone, regardless of how long you've been in the industry, regardless of your title, regardless of your experience or even your gender.” 

Attendees staying at Hotel Interurban can also participate in an informal networking gathering the evening before the event. Discounts are available for RCAW and NWIR members, as well as for sponsorship opportunities. 

Register now for this great event happening October 16, 2026.

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how PNW Regional Women in Roofing Day creates opportunities for education, professional development and industry connection! 

Por RoofersCoffeeShop® En Español. 

Abad Zárate comparte cómo la perseverancia, la disciplina, la educación y las conexiones dentro de la industria lo ayudaron a construir Azapro Roofing. 

Cuando Abad Zárate llegó a Canadá con poco más de 20 años, no sabía qué era el roofing. Como muchos inmigrantes, buscaba una oportunidad para trabajar y salir adelante. Lo que comenzó como un empleo inesperado terminó convirtiéndose en una carrera que años después lo llevaría a fundar Azapro Roofing. 

"Como todo inmigrante, empiezas a buscarle, empiezas a picar piedra," recordó Abad. Sin dominar completamente el inglés y sin experiencia en techado, comenzó trabajando sobre los techos en Toronto, Canadá. Con el tiempo compró sus propias herramientas y una camioneta, y empezó a conseguir sus propios proyectos. 

Su trayectoria posteriormente lo llevó a trabajar en California y Hawái. Fue precisamente en Hawái donde, trabajando como capataz para una empresa que describe como profesional y dedicada, comenzó a cambiar su perspectiva sobre cómo debía realizarse el trabajo y decidió prepararse para algún día tener su propia compañía. 

En 2021, ese objetivo se convirtió en realidad con el lanzamiento de Azapro Roofing en Washington. Hoy, la empresa también cuenta con operaciones en Kansas City y continúa explorando oportunidades de crecimiento en otros mercados. 

Para Abad, gran parte de ese crecimiento está relacionado con valores que considera fundamentales tanto en su vida como en su empresa. 

"La humildad es una de ellas. La disciplina es otra," explicó. También destacó la resiliencia, la honestidad y la pasión por el trabajo como características que han influido en su manera de liderar y atender a sus clientes. Dentro de Azapro Roofing, su equipo se reúne regularmente para analizar los proyectos, hablar sobre las experiencias con los clientes e identificar áreas donde pueden mejorar. 

El aprendizaje constante también ha sido fundamental en su trayectoria. Abad forma parte de un comité de la National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) y es director de la Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW). A través de su participación en estas asociaciones ha podido conectarse con otros líderes, aprender más sobre seguridad, códigos y nuevas tendencias, además de participar en eventos internacionales de la industria. 

Para Abad, formar parte de organizaciones como NRCA y RCAW también representa una oportunidad para apoyar a otros contratistas, especialmente a los hispanohablantes que pueden enfrentar barreras con el idioma o no saber a quién acudir cuando están comenzando. En RCAW, cuando un contratista de habla hispana se comunica buscando información, Abad tiene la oportunidad de orientarlo en español y compartir los recursos disponibles. 

"Es bien importante estar unidos en estas asociaciones," señaló. "Hay muchas ganas de las personas que estamos ahí de poder ayudar al contratista." Para Abad, acercarse a profesionales con más experiencia, hacer preguntas y aprovechar los recursos de estas organizaciones puede ayudar a los contratistas a evitar errores y encontrar nuevas oportunidades para crecer. 

También reconoce que el crecimiento requiere saber cuándo descansar. Como dueño de negocio, aprendió que desconectarse por un momento y recuperar energía puede ser una inversión que permite regresar con mayor claridad para tomar mejores decisiones. 

"Es una de las mejores inversiones que uno puede tener como empresario: darte un tiempo, descansar," compartió. Para Abad, cuidar esa parte personal también forma parte de la disciplina necesaria para seguir avanzando. 

Para quienes están comenzando su camino en el roofing, su mensaje es sencillo: mantener una visión clara, aprovechar los recursos disponibles y no tener miedo de pedir ayuda. 

"Hay que pensar en grande, hay que soñar en grande," afirmó. "El tema es no tener miedo a preguntar, acercarte con las personas correctas." 

La historia de Abad demuestra que comenzar desde cero no limita hasta dónde se puede llegar. Con educación, humildad, perseverancia y el apoyo de una comunidad dentro de la industria, cada experiencia puede convertirse en un paso más hacia el crecimiento. 

Explora más historias de éxito de contratistas en el próximo boletín, Informando Desde El Techo.

By Emma Peterson. 

Tim Cossette shares insights into the value of RCAW, the power of networking and the importance of industry collaboration. 

A couple months ago, The Coffee Shops™ crew was at the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW)’s 2026 trade show. This year’s show was bigger than ever, with more than three dozen booths on the expo floor, an entire Spanish-language education track and of course the ever-popular Fastest Shingle Competition! While there, we got the chance to catch up with professionals from all across the industry, like Tim Cossette from Owens Corning! 

Tim has been a proud member of RCAW for years now. He shared a bit about his experience, saying, “I've been on the board for two years and was previously the chairman of membership. And overall RCAW is just a fantastic organization with great networking events and a lot of value for professionals.” 

When we asked him about how this year's show was going, he emphasized how RCAW gives contractors and professionals a space to set aside the competition and learn together:  

Going to a show like this, professionals get to see a lot of things very quickly and talk with others that face similar pain points and challenges as they do... You can share best practices and know the people aren’t here to steal your ideas, they’re here to learn together.  

Not only does creating this supportive community help professionals grow their careers and businesses, but it also helps the image of the roofing industry on a whole. As Tim put it, “A big problem is the lack of trust between our industry and homeowners. By sharing best practices with each other in environments like RCAW’s show, we can raise the standard of the industry and work together to change homeowners’ perceptions.” 

Check out the whole interview with Tim to hear more about the 2026 RCAW show.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

The 55th Annual Golf Tournament is a testament to how relationships, shared knowledge and industry camaraderie strengthen roofing across the Pacific Northwest. 

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington’s (RCAW) 55th Annual Golf Tournament is more than a day of friendly competition. It brings contractors, manufacturers, distributors, service providers and industry leaders together to strengthen the relationships that help move roofing forward. Roofing depends on technical skill, dependable products and sound business practices, but it also relies on trust. Regional events such as the RCAW tournament create a relaxed environment where professionals can reconnect, welcome newcomers and have conversations that may not happen during a formal meeting. 

A discussion out on the green between holes can lead to a new supplier relationship, connect a contractor with a needed service or offer a fresh perspective on a business challenge. These face-to-face interactions help professionals better understand one another’s expertise, priorities and approach to business. 

The tournament also creates opportunities for regional knowledge sharing. Participants can discuss labor shortages, safety requirements, weather considerations, regulatory updates and market trends with peers facing many of the same conditions across Washington and the Pacific Northwest. Bringing different segments of the industry together also encourages collaboration. Contractors can share what they are experiencing in the field, while manufacturers, distributors, consultants, technology providers and service partners can gain a clearer understanding of the challenges roofing businesses are working to solve. 

While golf provides the setting, the tournament’s lasting value comes from the community gathered around it. The event reflects RCAW’s commitment to education, advocacy, networking and industry support while giving participants an opportunity to celebrate the people and partnerships behind their work. 

Roofing is ultimately a people business. Long after the final putt, the connections, ideas and potential partnerships formed at the RCAW Annual Golf Tournament continue creating value throughout the industry. 

Learn more about the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington and its annual events!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Malarkey Roofing Products connects with local contractors at the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington trade show. 

At the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) regional trade show, industry connection was at the center of the conversation as contractors, vendors and peers gathered to ask questions, exchange ideas and learn from one another. Renee Williams, outside sales representative for Malarkey Roofing Products®, joined Lauren White during the show to talk about the value of regional events and the opportunity they create for meaningful one-on-one conversations.  

Renee described the show as active and well attended, with more people stopping by to connect and ask questions. She said the event continues to grow, bringing in more attendees and vendors each year while giving contractors a chance to spend time with their peers. Renee noted, “People like being able to be around their peers as well asking questions, learning things from the industry and this is a great opportunity for that.” 

For Malarkey Roofing Products, in-person conversation is an important part of supporting contractors and staying visible in the regional market. Renee said the show provides exposure and a chance to discuss the company’s products, services and role in the industry. 

The conversation also highlighted what sets Malarkey Roofing Products apart. Renee pointed to the company’s polymer modified asphalt shingles, sustainability efforts, 3M granules, upcycled materials and nail zone as examples of product features designed with performance and installation in mind. She also noted that the company is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. Renee stated, “We have a lot of history with being the first in the industry, just pioneering and making good change in the industry.” 

Watch the full interview to learn more about Malarkey Roofing Products and their work with Western Washington contractors!

By Jenny Yu.  

The RCAW Regional Trade Show brought together contractors, manufacturers and suppliers for a day of learning, engagement and collaboration. 

Despite snowy conditions outside the Muckleshoot Casino, energy remained high inside as roofing and construction professionals gathered for the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) Regional Trade Show that took place earlier this spring. 

For Emerson Pagel, branch manager at ABC Supply in Kent, Washington, and a first-year member of the RCAW Board of Directors, the event represented months of planning and collaboration aimed at delivering valuable education and networking opportunities for industry professionals. “It has just been an absolute blast,” Emerson expressed.  

The annual event featured a diverse lineup of educational sessions in both English and Spanish, along with dozens of exhibitors representing roofing, windows and other construction-related sectors. According to Emerson, organizing the event required extensive coordination among presenters, vendors and association volunteers. “Behind the scenes, it’s been a lot of work trying to track down members that are interested in presenting and teaching, tracking down our vendors for the show,” he said. “We have over 45 to 50 vendors here.” 

The effort paid off, as Emerson described attendees as responding positively to the variety of educational offerings, including certification opportunities, safety training, insurance supplementation and branding strategies. “I’m hearing a lot of very good things, a lot of great feedback about the show,” Emerson shared. “They love getting to have options to get certified in safety, learning about insurance supplementation, how to build a brand.” 

Beyond education, Emerson emphasized the importance of industry associations in creating opportunities for professional growth and meaningful connections. He encouraged contractors who have not yet joined an association to become involved and engage with their local industry community. “Everything we do is community,” he said. “The roofing industry specifically, and the construction along with it. We’re not here to change the world, but we’re here to change someone’s world.” 

Watch the full interview to hear more from Emerson about the RCAW Regional Trade Show, industry trends and the value of getting involved in roofing associations.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how a longtime equipment supplier is expanding its services and product offerings to better support contractors in the field and at the shop. 

At regional trade shows, contractors are not just comparing products; they are searching for ways to reduce friction in their daily operations. That focus was evident at the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) trade show, where Steve Garlock Equipment used its presence to highlight a broader, more service-driven approach under new ownership. Katee Williams, who purchased the company in August, said the priority is to build on an established reputation while clarifying the full scope of what the business can offer. “We’re here to get the word out of what we carry and a lot of people know us as a Leister distributor,” Katee said. “We also repair the Leister equipment and so we really want people to know what else we carry and what other services we could provide for them.” 

That message reflects a deliberate shift from recognition to understanding. While the company has long been associated with specific equipment lines, its capabilities extend beyond distribution and repair. Founded in 1997 by Steve Garlock, the business built its foundation serving commercial contractors with equipment, maintenance services and essential jobsite tools. Under new ownership, that foundation is being expanded rather than replaced. 

Katee said the company is broadening its reach to include both commercial and residential contractors, with an increased focus on every day jobsite needs. The growing inventory includes safety equipment, ropes, harnesses and tarps; items crews depend on consistently but often source through multiple channels. 

To address that inefficiency, the company is placing greater emphasis on access and delivery. By supplying materials directly to contractor shops, the goal is to simplify procurement and give crews immediate access to the tools they use most. Katee stated, “If we can streamline that for people and they can have it right there at their shop, I think that would make it a lot easier.” 

The expansion also includes new product categories and service capabilities. Compressors have been added to the lineup, and the company is working to certify a technician to service generators, extending its support beyond traditional offerings. 

As the show continues, Katee said the focus remains consistently to strengthen connections with contractors while demonstrating how expanded services can improve efficiency both in the field and at the shop. 

Watch the full interview to learn more about how expanded equipment offerings and delivery-focused services can help streamline your day-to-day operations!