Relatively new to the roofing business, this former attorney fosters a close-knit, family-style culture among all team members with grit and accountability.

How long have you been in the roofing industry, and how did you get your start?

RK: I began my career in roofing in the summer of 2023 when I was hired into my current position with Damschroder Roofing Inc. Formerly part of the legal profession, my affiliation with the roofing industry stems from my longstanding close relationship with Dana Howell (the current owner of Damschroder) and Dave Damschroder (the founder of the business), as well as a host of other former and current Damschroder employees who are members of the church I help to pastor.

What are a few reasons why your company is successful?

RK:

• Close-knit, family bond among all team members, management and field personnel alike, supported by a generous owner who serves others rather than focusing on self.
• Emphasis on pursuing perfection at every level of the organization, with accountability and grit to support that pursuit.
• We relentlessly focus on driving satisfaction and abiding relationships with our customers.
• Constant refining of our processes to drive results with a shared mindset of continuous improvement and innovative thinking.

Ron Kreager at the Young Guns meetup held during the 2024 Best of Success conference.

What are the big challenges in your particular market, and how is the company addressing them?

RK:

• Weather, especially winter, is a constant challenge that requires us to utilize labor opportunities in a flexible manner and communicate thoroughly with customers to establish clear expectations.
• Attracting and retaining the best talent in the industry is an enduring challenge, which we meet by ensuring that Damschroder Roofing, Inc. is the best roofing company to work for in the country.

Do you see your age as an advantage or disadvantage in this business?

RK: I would consider my age an advantage in this business. While I’m old enough to be blessed with a breadth of life experience, I’m also young enough to have exposure to some emerging trends, particularly related to technology, that will play a critical role in our industry in the foreseeable future. For example, technologies like robotics and artificial intelligence will almost certainly impact the roofing industry in the not-too-distant future. Having a basic understanding with these technologies and how to leverage them for success is an advantage that is, at least partially, a product of my age.

What area of the roofing business are you most passionate about?

RK: I am most passionate about the relationship area of the roofing business, whether in sales, operations, customer service, or any other area. My passion is to help our team members to realize the potential that lies within them by coming alongside them and offering them my time and efforts. I consider it a great day when I can see a team member excel in an area in which they have previously struggled. Further, I’m fueled by moments when I can play a small role in bringing peace of mind and complete satisfaction to one of our many cherished customers.

What did you get from attending the Young Guns meeting at Best of Success?

RK: It was amazing meeting other Young Guns and gathering insight from a room full of consummate professionals in the roofing industry. The networking was wonderful, and I had the opportunity to hear from some speakers/facilitators who attended.

What’s next? What are your future plans for the business?

RK: Damschroder Roofing Inc. is poised for tremendous growth, and I’m excited to be a part of that journey. I am working with the Damschroder team this year to solidify relationships with customers in Ohio, the Midwest, and beyond. We plan to open Damschroder University in the first quarter of 2025, which we will use to equip our team with all the skills and tools they need to continue to deliver the exceptional work our customers have come to expect from us. Finally, we plan to expand our geographic footprint this year and work on that effort is presently underway. In short, 2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year.