Cultivating Tomorrow's Roofing Pros

By Adam Cabrera. 

A new model of apprenticeship is perhaps the way to go in attracting the next generation to the roofing industry. 

When it comes to attracting the next generation of roofing professionals, the key is offering them something more than just a job, that’s the opinion Caden Aquino, a roof inspector for Weatherproofing Technologies, Inc. (WTI), shared on a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips with Heidi Ellsworth.  

A central part of this is education, but it's the unique combination of free, practical education paired with work experience that sets the WTI apprenticeship program apart, he explains. "You get to go to college, you get to learn... and then you already have three, four years of experience and that helps a ton," says Caden.  

Having transitioned from factory work, Caden was new to the roofing industry when he joined WTI Tremco. The apprenticeship program offered him a hands-on opportunity to learn about different roof systems and techniques while also understanding safety practices and working toward a degree in construction management. 

But what's equally important for Caden, and likely many others in his generation, is feeling part of a community at work. "Yeah, it really feels like a family here. I work with a really great supervisor and some great employees," Caden says, noting that the supportive work environment is crucial to his job satisfaction and motivation. 

Caden believes that his success in the program isn't an anomaly. It's easy to get involved with the apprenticeship program, he assures, highlighting the simplicity of the process. "Yeah, it's not that complicated. It's pretty easy for the most part," he says. 

Attracting the next generation to the roofing industry requires a blend of offering educational opportunities, providing practical work experience and cultivating a strong sense of community. Caden's experience shows this approach not only draws young talent into the industry but also nurtures their professional growth and loyalty to their company. 

Listen to the Roofing Road Trips podcast to hear more about the WTI program and how it is training the next generation of roofers.