How the Roofing Alliance and ASU are revolutionizing industry education

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Arizona State University is offering students a comprehensive education aimed at equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in an ever-changing industry. 

The Roofing Alliance has firmly established itself as a key player in advancing the roofing industry through its dedication to education, innovation and community engagement. Having funded over 50 research projects and tackling economic and technological challenges, the Roofing Alliance’s contributions extend far beyond technical advancements. They focus on advancing education and training, participating in philanthropic efforts and celebrating the dedicated individuals who are the foundation of the roofing industry. 

Their goal is to cultivate a thriving, sustainable and successful future for the roofing industry. One way they are doing this is through their collaboration with Clemson University, which has led to the adoption of their innovative roofing education model in construction management schools across the nation. The “Fundamentals of Roofing” course at Clemson University has become the “Roofing Technology” course at Arizona State University (ASU) with it evolving each semester. ASU is offering students a comprehensive education aimed at equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in this ever-changing industry. 

In an interview with Anthony “Tony” Lamanna, associate professor and The Penta Building Group professor in the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment he shared his support for this program. He is a strong advocate of the program and said, "When you have a program that focuses on education and training, it elevates the entire industry. We are setting a standard for what roofing education should be." 

One of the program's standout features is its hands-on approach to learning. Students are not only taught theoretical concepts but are also given ample opportunities to apply them in real-world scenarios. This balance between theory and practice ensures graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the roofing industry. 

A cornerstone of the curriculum is its emphasis on collaboration with industry leaders. Through the Roofing Alliance, ASU partners with top roofing companies, manufacturers and suppliers to give students access to valuable industry insights and resources. Guest lectures, industry visits and internships offer students a firsthand look at the roofing sector's operations. 

Tony highlighted the importance of these partnerships, saying, "Collaborating with industry leaders allows us to give students the most current and relevant information. It’s about connecting education with real-world applications." 

These partnerships also open networking opportunities, allowing students to build connections with industry professionals and potential employers. This collaborative approach not only enhances the educational experience but also increases the employability of graduates. 

The curriculum also includes modules on emerging roofing technologies, sustainable practices and innovative construction techniques. Tony stressed the importance of remaining current: "The industry is changing quickly, and our curriculum reflects that. We are teaching students about the latest technologies and sustainable practices to prepare them for the future." 

Safety is paramount in the roofing industry, and the ASU curriculum integrates comprehensive safety training into its curriculum. Students learn the best practices for job site safety, including proper equipment use, adherence to regulations and hazard identification and mitigation. 

Tony noted, "Safety is a cornerstone of our program. We want our graduates to be skilled and safe in their practices. It's about creating a culture of safety that will benefit the entire industry."  This focus on safety fosters a culture of awareness among future roofing professionals, aiming to reduce workplace accidents and injuries and ultimately contribute to a safer industry. 

The Roofing Alliance’s commitment to providing roofing curriculum to all universities and vocational schools with construction management programs is a groundbreaking initiative addressing the future needs of the roofing industry for talent. By offering a comprehensive education, fostering collaboration with industry leaders, embracing technological innovation and prioritizing safety, the program is shaping the future of the roofing sector. It prepares the next generation of professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary for success, ensuring continued growth and advancement for all businesses in the industry. 

As Tony put it, "Through our dedication to education and excellence, we are paving the way for a brighter future in roofing. The Roofing Alliance partnership and the curriculum they initiated stand as a testament to their commitment to advancing the industry through education, innovation and collaboration."