The National Roofing Contractors Association announced Tuesday that Gary Howes, chief operating officer and principal of Columbus, Ohio-based The Durable Slate Co., has been appointed to the board of directors of the International Federation of the Roofing Trade, or IFD. 

Howes is also chairman of the Slate Roofing Contractors Association of North America.

The International Federation of the Roofing Trade promotes collaboration, innovation, and excellence in the roofing industry worldwide. It connects members, organizes workshops and competitions, and develops technical standards for roofing.

The appointment was made during IFD’s General Assembly held last November in Innsbruck, Austria. Howes is the first American to join the IFD board of directors. Other members include:

• Walter Bisig (Switzerland)
• Dirk Bollwerk (Germany)
• Henrik Mosegaard-Johansen (Denmark)
• Armand Liede (Latvia)

In a news release, the NRCA said Howes brings decades of leadership experience in the roofing and historical restoration industries and serves on NRCA’s board of directors and its Global Advisory and Health and Safety committees.

“Joining the IFD board of directors is a tremendous honor,” Howes said. “IFD’s mission aligns perfectly with my passion for advancing the roofing trade and supporting the next generation of skilled craftsmen.

The Durable Slate Company is a global leader in slate, tile, copper, and historical roofing. The company is known for its craftsmanship and commitment to preservation. Durable Slate Company has restored structures across the U.S. and abroad, earning numerous awards for excellence in the roofing and restoration industries. 

For information, visit nrca.net.