The National Women in Roofing organization (NWinR) officially launched during a kick-off reception Tuesday in Orlando on the eve of the IRE 2016. The hospitality event at the Rosen Centre was a chance for women leaders in the roofing industry to meet and celebrate the future opportunities for professional and personal growth. After launching the initial Women in Roofing group at the Midwest Roofing Contractor Association (MRCA) Convention in late 2014, Executive Chair Heidi Ellsworth said it was time to expand the national footprint and incorporate women from all segments of the industry across the country.

“If you work on the roof or behind a desk, we don’t care,” Ellsworth said. “We want all women engaged in this and to help empower them to be successful in their careers.”

The new organization’s mission remains centered around four main principles: mentoring, education, networking and recruiting.