Stephanie Baird, the 2023 recipient of National Women in Roofing’s WORLD Award Veteran honor, tried not to immediately spoil who won this year’s award when presenting it at NWIR Days. However, it quickly became apparent to the recipient and her colleagues, who held back joyful tears.

“This year’s WORLD Award recipient is a sales and marketing professional who has spent the last 12 years in the roofing industry, currently managing contractor services at a roofing manufacturer company,” said Baird. “Her adaptability in an ever-evolving industry serves as an inspiring example of resilience and dedication.”

Calling her a leader and "an unstoppable force," the NWIR named Rachel Garcia, director of contractor services for Malarkey Roofing, as its 2025 WORLD Award Veteran winner. The award was presented during NWIR Days, held at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk on Feb. 17, two days before the International Roofing Expo.

“I am absolutely speechless,” Garcia said upon accepting the award. “Thank you to my team and National Women in Roofing for all that you’ve done this last year, it’s been incredible.”

Since 2019, NWIR has recognized members with its WORLD (Woman of Outstanding Roofing Leadership Distinction) Award Veteran for their leadership, commitment to the industry and creating opportunities for others. The award is given to those with 10 or more years of experience in the industry.

Garcia began her career in 2012 as a marketing events manager before moving up to manager of contractor services in 2023, earning her newest position as of this year. In addition to her responsibilities, Garcia has served as chair of the NWIR Council in Oregon since 2020. 

“Our council is so special to me and this award is just as much theirs as it is mine,” said Garcia.

Rachel Garcia accepting the 2025 WORLD Award Veteran from outgoing NWIR Chair Anna Anderson

She has elevated the roofing industry through positions on the advisory councils of the Midwest Roofing Contractors Association and Western States Roofing Contractors Association. She attends and manages roughly 15 trade shows annually, Baird said. 

“She exemplifies what it means to be a leader,” Baird said, later adding, “What truly sets her apart is her unwavering positivity and genuine passion for the success of others.”

Through her industry connections, Garcia has led several donated roof replacement projects to those in need as well as annual fundraisers for victims of sexual exploitation. Outside of roofing, she’s served as an associate board member of the Boys & Girls Club of America. 

“I’m honestly speechless with how many fantastic women are in this industry, and I feel so lucky to be one of them who cares, so thank you to everyone that paved the way,” she said.

Rising Star Award

FROM LEFT: Amanda Veinott, owner of Maven Roofing & Exteriors and 2024 Rising Star; Sarah Sutton-Shouse of Raincoat Roofing and 2025 Rising Star winner; Anna Anderson, CEO of Art Unlimited and outgoing NWIR chair

Amanda Veinott, owner and founder of Maven Roofing & Exteriors in Roxbury, N.J. and 2024 Rising Star winner, presented the Rising Star award for this year’s recipient. The Rising Star Award recognizes professionals with less than 10 years of roofing industry experience who exhibit outstanding leadership in the industry and innovate and inspire others. 

This year’s award went to Sarah Sutton-Shouse, service manager at Raincoat Roofing in Chicago. 

“Her impact on the roofing industry, her community and NWIR reflects her unwavering dedication to fostering education, mentorship and philanthropy,” said Veinott. “She has worked tirelessly to expand opportunities for women in the industry, bridging connections with major organizations like NRCA and the CRCA to champion diversity, equity and inclusion.”

Having been with Raincoat Roofing since 2019, Sutton-Shouse is a founding leader and chair of NWIR’s Northern Illinois Council. In 2022, she received National Roofing Partners’ Spirit Award for her hard work, dedication and positive attitude. She has also organized charitable efforts benefitting the Salvation Army.

Sutton-Shouse thanked everyone who has helped her and encouraged her, making sure to call out her Illinois Council for supporting her along the way.

“I love all of you and thank you,” she said.

Council Celebrations

NWIR recognized specific regional councils with its first-ever Councils Awards. The awards honor councils for their accomplishments in categories like community outreach, leadership and coordinating successful events. The award winners were:

• Community Impact: Dallas-Fort Worth Council
• Emerging Excellence: Kansas City, Mo. Council
• Leading the Way: Northern New Jersey Council
• Education Gold Star: Minnesota Council
• Outstanding Event: Washington, D.C. Council
• Council of Distinction: Central Florida Council

“An important part of who we are is recognizing the accomplishments of these amazing women and all of the nominees,” said Katie Bodiford, NWIR executive director. “I really tip my hat to all of them.”