Not long ago, I came across a book called Uncertainty: Turning Fear and Doubt into Fuel for Brilliance by Jonathan Fields. It tells the story of how Fields, a successful attorney, walked away from his law career to become a personal trainer and open a yoga studio in New York City—just weeks before 9/11.

Talk about uncertainty! 

In the aftermath of tragedy and chaos, Fields could have walked away. Instead, he used that moment of fear to fuel creativity, purpose, and resilience. It’s a story that feels strikingly familiar to what many roofing contractors are experiencing today. 

Uncertainty has become part of our daily vocabulary. Fluctuating material prices, a stubborn labor shortage, higher insurance costs, and a general sense of unpredictability in the marketplace. Yet through it all, the roofing industry continues to rise, adapt, and lead. 

Perhaps the greatest uncertainty surrounds the workforce itself. Across the country, roofing companies are struggling to find and retain labor, while many of our most loyal and skilled workers, especially those from the Latino community, are facing their own fears. Questions about job security, immigration status, and the economy weigh heavily on families who form the very backbone of our industry. 

And yet, they keep showing up. They climb steep roofs in blazing heat, repair storm damage after hurricanes, and take immense pride in their craft. Their courage and work ethic are a living example of what Fields meant when he said that brilliance doesn’t come despite fear—it comes through it. 

I saw that brilliance firsthand at our Best of Success conference a few days ago! In every story shared and every conversation in the hallways, it was clear that even in uncertain times, this industry’s spirit is unshakable. Contractors are innovating, mentoring, giving back, and finding new ways to lead their teams with heart and purpose. 

The roofing professionals thriving right now aren’t waiting for certainty. They’re investing in people, creating safe and inclusive workplaces, and believing in the next generation. 

So as we close out this year and look toward the next, let’s remember: greatness doesn’t come when things are easy. It comes when we build anyway. Let’s keep showing up, lifting each other up, and turning uncertainty into brilliance—one roof at a time.