In an effort to address the labor crisis, the NRCA--the nation’s largest roofing association-- is launching a “massive undertaking” to start training and certifying roofing contractors nationwide, reports Replacement Contractor contributor Gary Thill.
NRCA’s ProCertification program will roll out later this year with the aim to certify existing contractors and train new employees. Details about pricing are still being worked out. But manufacturers have indicated a willingness to offer the program at reduced rates to customers. NRCA itself projects spending $11 million to $12 million to bring the full program to market, said Amy Staska, vice president of NRCA University. NRCA is breaking ProCertification into two parts: training and certification.
Certification is designed to let existing roofers show their mastery of industry standards. It will require that roofers pass a written knowledge test and a skills test overseen by a qualified assessor. Tests will be available online in English and Spanish in spoken or written form for all major roof systems, waterproofing, solar, repair and maintenance.
Training will teach newer roofers installation, waterproofing, solar, repair, and maintenance. It will be based on industry standards and foremen’s directions related to manufacturer instructions and company practices. Staska said portions of the training would be online with interactive video and photos along with skills training from qualified trainers.
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