Roofing Road Trips With Heidi Welcomes Rudy Gutierrez

By Colin Sheehan, RCS reporter.

From film sets to company of the year, Shell Roofing CEO Rudy Gutierrez talks sustainability in roofing.

Rudy Gutierrez, CEO of Shell Roofing Solutions, which was recently named company of the year by the California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, joined Heidi J. Ellsworth, RCS partner, on the Roofing Road Trips with Heidi podcast, to talk about sustainability in roofing, company culture and diversifying the industry.

Rudy Gutierrez’s career in roofing started in an unlikely place, the entertainment industry. Gutierrez worked on waterproofing projects for films such as Hook, Apollo 13, and Batman to name a few. He also worked on nearly every music video for Michael Jackson’s Thriller album.

After his introduction to waterproofing and spending some time working for a major roofing manufacturer, Gutierrez launched Shell Roofing Solutions with his brother and business partner, Hector Gutierrez, during the 2008 recession. They focused on energy solutions and sustainability within their products, as well as building trusting relationships with customers. Gutierrez realized that customers often seek energy efficiency when deciding to re-roof, so creating environmental consciousness products is both a profitable undertaking and a way to create that initial connection with clients. “We want to be there 15, 20 years [from now] when they need to reroof, we want that organic growth,” said Gutierrez.

The podcast then delves into strategies for the recruitment of young people. Gutierrez notes young people, and people from diverse backgrounds, as untapped resources that add valuable insights and new perspectives to roofing and the industry, which has been quickly evolving alongside technology. Gutierrez pins company culture, patience and sincere attention to individuals as key qualities in retaining young people. “They have no issues going from company, to company, to company. . .and we need to create that environment that keeps them interested,” Gutierrez remarked stating further, “for me, the diverse market needs to be there. We need to promote all.”

Gutierrez and Ellsworth also discuss COVID-19’s impact on Shell Roofing Solutions and roofing in general, as roofing is considered essential work by federal and state legislatures. Protecting the employees and the clients was and is Gutierrez’s priority, and he adapted to the situation with that as his mindset.

Needless to say, this episode is a must listen for those interested in learning about sustainable roofing, the recruitment and retention of young people, and developing an attractive company culture that promotes excellence, community and company pride.

Learn more about Rudy’s background and sustainability when you listen to the podcast here.