WASHINGTON, D.C. – Mike DuCharme, vice president product marketing at Carlisle Construction Materials, has been named the new chair of the EPDM Roofing Association (ERA) by the group’s board of directors. He replaces Jennifer Ford-Smith, director of marketing and single ply product management at Johns Manville, who will remain on the board.

“I’ve worked with ERA since its founding more than a decade ago,” said DuCharme. “This organization has made valuable contributions to our industry, providing science-based information about the durability and sustainability of EPDM. As we move forward and roofing resilience becomes increasingly important, it’s an honor to be leading ERA and helping to guide its important work.”

DuCharme began his career at Carlisle in 1983 and previously served as chair of ERA from 2010-2011. He has been a member of ERA since its founding in 2003, and an active member of ERA’s technical committee, helping to shape studies on EPDM recycling, the hail-durability of EPDM, and the long-term service life of EPDM.

“We are fortunate to have Mike leading our efforts,” said Ellen Thorp, associate executive director of ERA. “He is widely respected in the roofing industry, and his depth of knowledge about EPDM will help ERA to navigate an increasingly complex regulatory environment. This is an exciting time for the manufacturers of EPDM, and no one is better suited than Mike DuCharme to help us capitalize on the opportunities ahead.”