Coming Together as a United Front Elevates the Roofing Industry

RCS Influencer Mandy McIntyre talks to 1st Choice Roofing owner about what people can expect when they attend Roofing Day in D.C.

As Roofing Day in D.C. approaches next month, many contractors across the county might be asking themselves the same questions: What is this exactly? Why should I go? What can I expect? I sat with Ian Fess, owner of 1st Choice Roofing in Cleveland, Ohio to discuss his experience at Roofing Day in D.C. to offer some insight to anyone in the industry wondering what this day is all about. 

From a contractor’s perspective, describe your experience going to Roofing Day in D.C.? 

“I thought it was pretty awesome to meet up with a bunch of different people from all over the roofing industry. I met fellow contractors along with manufacturers and company representatives and also a lot of people from Ohio. In the state of Ohio we have a lot of manufacturing for roofing, so we were able to all get together and demonstrate a united front as an industry regardless of where we come from or in what capacity our role is in roofing.” 

What was the biggest take away from your experience? 

“The fact that we were able to literally stand and get in front of the representatives and senators of our country. We had an opportunity to see how our government actually works. It showed us that if we actually reach out and talk to our representatives maybe we can get something done.”

As a contractor, why do you feel it’s important to be involved with Roofing Day in D.C.? 

“I believe it’s important to be involved in the roofing industry period and what it stands for. Our industry at times doesn't have the best image, and I think anything that we can do as roofers to promote a good image, especially to the people who are putting together the laws of this country is a good thing. By coming together as a united front, we are really able to elevate our reputation as an industry and let the country know how vital our work is. It goes a long way in furthering our potential to attract future workers and what we’re able to do as an industry.”

Mandy McIntyre is the Service Operations Manager of 1st Choice Roofing Company. See her full bio here.