Inaugural Diversity + Inclusion Forum

By Lauren White, RCS Reporter.

Join roofing and industry professionals to learn about creating a diverse and inclusive company culture.

Where will you be for the first ever Diversity + Inclusion Forum?  Join us in Washington, D.C. at the Marriott Wardman Park on April 21, 2020.  This event will take place before Roofing Day in D.C. 2020.  This event was made possible through the joint efforts of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and National Women in Roofing (NWIR), along with the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce.

With today’s workforce, in order to attract top talent, having a company culture that celebrates and welcomes diversity, equity, and inclusivity, is vital.  Industry leaders and stakeholders will help attendees understand strategies to advance diversity and inclusion and lead effectively in this type of work environment. 

According to NRCA, “...The Diversity + Inclusion Forum 2020 will help you identify ways to engage underrepresented groups, develop resources to increase your cultural competency, and educate you on why supporting diversity and fostering a culture of inclusion is a business imperative to strengthen your workforce.”

Start the day with coffee, networking, and registration.  Attendees will then get an overview of the day and special welcome from NRCA CEO Reid Ribble, NWIR Chair and RCS influencer Jennifer Stone, and California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce Julian Canete.

Three sessions will take place before lunch.  The first speaker will discuss “Why Inclusion and Diversity are Essential to Foster High Performing Teams” presented by Leah Maguire, Vice President of Inclusion and Diversity at Owens Corning®.  Next, attendees will hear from Julian Francis, President/CEO of Beacon Building Products about, “Why Equity, Inclusion and Diversity Matter to Your Business’ Bottom Line.”  Before the lunch break Julian Canete, CEO of California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, will speak about, “Understanding and Identifying Unconscious Bias.” 

At 1 p.m., there will be an industry panel covering “Leading in a Diverse and Inclusive Culture.”  During this hour-long session, professionals will share best practices for a diverse and inclusive work culture, in addition to insights and strategies to cultivate competencies.  Attendees will gain tools that will help foster an environment of engagement and innovation.

Our very own Heidi J. Ellsworth, RoofersCoffeeShop® partner and President of HJE Consulting, will be moderating the panel.  A variety of roofing professionals will share their knowledge, including: Mardee Billingsley, Executive Vice President Tremco Roofing and Building Maintenance, Leo Ibarra, Vice President of Blue’s Roofing Co., Sherri Miles, President of Miles Roofing Inc., James Thomas, President/CEO of Topps Products, Inc., and Elizabeth Walters, Marketing and Business Operations Manager for Derbigum Americas Inc.  

Following the panel there will be a mixer to network and discuss key takeaways from the forum.  Then attendees can prepare for Roofing Day in D.C. 2020 by completing registration and check in and attending the opening ceremony.  Roofing Day brings hundreds of roofing professionals together from all segments of the industry to be seen and heard by Congress.

The Diversity + Inclusion Forum will be an event you won’t want to miss!  Join other like minded roofing and industry professionals from across the United States who are working towards a more inclusive and culturally diverse workplace.  

Register now for the inaugural Diversity + Inclusion Forum!