National Women in Roofing is revamping its annual NWIR Days to maximize educational opportunities while providing an adventure for attendees.

NWIR Days is a conference tailored toward women in the roofing industry to hone their business and leadership skills. Traditionally, NWIR Days hold an all-day education and networking event before the International Roofing Expo, followed by an optional half-day with fun opportunities to better connect with like-minded peers. This year, the fun takes place Feb. 16–17 starting with the half-day.

“We’ve adjusted our format to where the optional events such as yoga and book club are now on the front end,” said Katie Bodiford, NWIR executive director. “We’ve even added a ticketed Dinner at the Caverns event Sunday night as well.”

On Feb. 16, the events begin at 2 p.m. with yoga and book club events, followed by an optional “Dinner in the Caverns” in the evening. A maximum of 200 attendees will tour the Natural Bridge Caverns, a cave system located 18 stories below Texas, followed by a buffet dinner in the Hidden Wonders Ballroom that includes entertainment.

Since it is walking through a cavern system, attendees will want to pack comfortable shoes and perhaps leave their ball gowns at home. The cavern website states the tour includes a half-mile walk with stairs and steep ramps in places. Worry not — on the way out, guests can take the Belt Assisted Transport, much like the movable walkways in airports, to exit.

This isn’t the only major change to the event. This year marks the first time it will be a self-contained show versus hosting the event within the IRE’s venue. NWIR Days will be held at the Grand Hyatt River Walk, giving those wishing to attend the option of staying in the same space as the event.

“We are incredibly excited about NWIR Days 2025. For the first time, we have our own dedicated venue at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk,” said Anna Anderson, 2024 NWIR chair. “We understand that having space dedicated to the event will foster stronger relationships and meaningful conversations.”

On Feb. 17, a day of 32 educational sessions touching on everything from leadership to work-life balance will kick off at 8 a.m., with this year’s theme being “Focus.” The keynote speaker is Katie Goodman, an international comedian who will inspire attendees with her witty and encouraging style and show how to apply improv comedy skills to every aspect of life.

The day ends with an awards ceremony at 4:50 p.m., where winners of the WORLD Award Veteran and Rising Star awards will be announced. On Feb. 18, NWR is coordinating an optional roof walk to tour a roof.

For more information and to register, visit nationalwomeninroofing.org/nwir-days.