GAF Expands Baltimore Workforce Pipeline With Free Roofing Training Program

More than 80 residents completed the latest Roofing Academy course, gaining practical skills and job opportunities in the roofing industry

students at training — Photo courtesy of GAF

Three students participate in hands-on roofing training during a recent GAF Roofing Academy session in Baltimore. The tuition-free program trained more than 80 local residents in residential and commercial roofing installation, providing skills and industry connections to help launch careers in the roofing industry.

GAF recently hosted GAF Roofing Academy in Baltimore, successfully training more than 80 local residents during a week-long course at the North American Trade Schools. The program provided participants with hands-on and classroom instruction in residential and commercial roofing installation, equipping them with the foundational skills needed to launch long-term careers in the roofing industry.

GAF Roofing Academy is a tuition-free, national training program that aims to help individuals of any background and education level, with an emphasis on untapped talent pools, including veterans, justice-involved individuals, women, and other underrepresented groups in the roofing trade. Since the program launched in 2020, it has trained more than 5,300 individuals, including more than 200 in the greater Baltimore area, with over 3,000 placed into jobs nationwide.

“The GAF Roofing Academy is about more than just learning roofing techniques; it’s a catalyst for growth across communities,” said Kimberly Santiago-Vega, program manager for the GAF Roofing Academy. “This program opens doors not only to new careers but also positions students to help build up their communities. During the week, participants gained hands-on skills, earned credentials, connected with employers, and built relationships that empower them to launch careers and strengthen Baltimore’s community.”

Upon completion of the class, participants received a GAF Roofing Academy certificate and were connected directly with local contractors for job opportunities, including interviews for potential full-time employment. Graduates also had the opportunity to earn their OSHA 10 certification at no cost outside of training hours.

"By offering this training, they are giving people opportunity, which is greatly needed in Baltimore," said Justin Mathis from the North American Trade Schools.

Alongside the job fair, GAF held a graduation at Patterson Park for students, contractors, local organizations and local leaders to interact and network. As a part of the event, a ceremonial diploma was presented on behalf of the Mayor’s office in honor of the graduates of this year’s GAF Roofing Academy.

“Programs like this not only open doors to meaningful careers but also strengthen the fabric of our city by investing in our people," said MacKenzie Garvin, Esq., director of the Mayor’s Office of Employment Development.

GAF has 30 manufacturing locations across the country, including in Baltimore, where it has been a dedicated part of the local community for nearly 60 years. The company is committed to fostering opportunities for residents by supporting workforce development efforts such as the GAF Roofing Academy. These initiatives empower Baltimore residents to gain valuable skills, pursue rewarding careers, and help build more resilient communities throughout Maryland. In addition, GAF works alongside contractors and local organizations, such as Friends of Patterson Park and Habitat for Humanity, and has donated enough material to roof hundreds of homes and beautification projects in public spaces across central Maryland.