Roofing industry leaders talk innovation, growth and community

By Jesse Sanchez.

From cutting-edge materials to leadership programs, industry experts reveal what’s shaping roofing’s future.

At a time when the roofing industry is rapidly evolving, two standout voices — Naomi Dupri of Kirby Fiberglass and Melissa Chapman of The GLO Group — shared their insights on product innovation and leadership growth during a recent interview hosted by Megan Ellsworth at the Colorado Roofing Association (CRA) trade show.

Naomi, who has led Kirby Fiberglass for two decades, expressed the company’s push beyond traditional products. While known for their 90-year history in fiberglass mop manufacturing, Naomi showcased their modern synthetic roofing options like Brava Roof Tile, designed to mimic natural materials while delivering superior performance. "We actually use natural hand-cut shake," Naomi explained, describing how they create about 40 variations compressed into molds for a hyper-realistic appearance. Providing more than just aesthetics, these tiles also offer top-tier durability, with a Class A fire rating and full hail resistance — features that Naomi said are crucial for markets like Colorado.

Meanwhile, Melissa spotlighted The GLO Group’s new leadership initiative, the LDR Accelerator, aimed at empowering smaller contractors to grow their businesses effectively. "The whole purpose of this accelerator program is to really help contractors scale their business," Melissa said. The program focuses on giving contractors with annual revenues under $10 million the resources they need to shift from working in the business to working on the business — a crucial distinction Melissa believes is often overlooked. "They deserve to have a little bit more work-life balance," she added, noting that many hardworking contractors struggle to find time for family and personal growth amid their professional demands.

Both Naomi and Melissa commented on the energy and turnout at the event, which reached record attendance and quickly sold out. "It's been a mix of installers and decision-makers," Melissa said, noting that this combination makes for high-impact networking and learning opportunities. Naomi echoed this sentiment, pointing to the booming Colorado construction scene as a key reason events like this are critical for contractors looking to stay ahead.

Attendees weren’t just there to browse; they were eager to connect, learn and adopt new tools for success in an increasingly competitive industry. And with the buzz surrounding both the Brava product line and the LDR Accelerator, it's clear that companies like Kirby Fiberglass and The GLO Group are not just watching the future of roofing — they’re helping to shape it.

Watch the full interview for more insights from Naomi and Melissa and to see what’s next for roofing professionals!