Empowering Hispanic contractors in the industry

By Jessica Bravo.  

Network with the Hispanic roofing community and celebrate Hispanic contributions at this year’s Expo Contratista. 

In this episode of the Roofing Road Trips® podcast, host Heidi J. Ellsworth explores the dynamic world of roofing through a bilingual lens with guest Teresa Ramirez of Southeast Contracting Services and Sergio Terreros, organizer of Expo Contratista, National Hispanic Construction Trade Show. This special episode, available in both English and Spanish, highlights the significance of the roofing industry within the Hispanic and Latino communities and provides a sneak peek of what to expect at the Expo this year. 

They discuss the upcoming 2024 Expo Contratista, a major national Hispanic construction trade show. Sergio, who invested his own resources to create this impactful event, underscores how roofing has become a leading trade in the Hispanic and Latino communities. Reflecting on the initial challenges, he explains, "Find me a Hispanic trade show where we can go and showcase the product. Guess what? There was none. How on Earth are there not trade shows for the Latino community?” His dedication not only highlights the role that Hispanic and Latino professionals play in the industry but also his personal drive to fill a critical gap. "My entrepreneurship came out and I said, 'Well, let me do it.’” His belief in the show’s potential led to its success, illustrating how he values this platform for the community. 

Similarly, Teresa Ramirez emphasizes the value of trade shows like Expo Contratista for fostering cultural connections and business growth. She highlights her favorite part of the show, saying, “[It] is so interactive, and the people are so proactive and supportive. Basically, you'll feel like you're part of a familia because that's how we are, the culture of Latinos. We treat everyone as one of us.” Teresa notes that the expo provides a unique space for individuals from various backgrounds to network and embrace diversity in meaningful ways. 

Additionally, Itzel Najera, who joined The Coffee Shops earlier this year as the Spanish content coordinator, shares her perspective as a young Hispanic. She expresses excitement about the growing support for the community, noting how this information is a valuable resource she can share with her family and others who may benefit. “Seeing how all these organizations are coming in to help out, it's amazing, because I know I could provide that information to my dad or to anybody who might need the help. I think it's a really great resource, and I'm excited to see how it's going to help the Hispanic community,” she shared. Itzel is enthusiastic about the positive impact these efforts will have on the Hispanic community. 

Expo Contratista has a lot to offer this year, including expanded seminars, educational opportunities, and networking events aimed at enhancing business relationships.  

Mark your calendars for October 4-5th, 2024. The event, running from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., offers free registration this year thanks to Owens Corning’s generous support. To secure your spot, simply register at ExpoContratista.com. 

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about ExpoContratista 2024 and the importance of networking within the Hispanic roofing community. 

Photo Source: ExpoContratista Youtube