ALACHUA, Fla. — With a projected growth rate of 12% — much higher than the national average of 5% — the opportunities available in roofing are increasing, as are the training needs. Working jointly to establish a workforce development solution for the roofing industry, the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) have partnered to create a career path from education to certification.

To that end, NCCER’s Roofing curriculum is being revised and expanded.

“NCCER is proud to partner with NRCA to enhance the training of roofing craft professionals,” said Boyd Worsham, NCCER president. “The roofing industry is an essential sector of construction — every facility, from school to church to home, has a roof, yet it is a craft area that is frequently under-recognized. In addition to expanding our curriculum, we also aim to highlight the critical role of these craft professionals in our society.”

Consisting of two levels, the NCCER Roofing curriculum will prepare an individual to sit for the NRCA ProCertification. The NRCA ProCertification program uses a series of assessments for each type of roof system installation to certify workers, allowing them to earn professional credentials. The NCCER and NRCA partnership will help increase consumer confidence that these certified craft professionals have the knowledge and skills to do the job well.

“NRCA is excited to partner with NCCER because of their strong commitment to workforce development that is inclusive of both low- and steep-slope roofing installation,” said Nick Sabino, president of Deer Park Roofing Inc., Cincinnati, and NRCA’s chairman of the board. “The partnership also will raise awareness for careers in roofing, enhance installer professionalism, and increase the number of ProCertified applicators in the industry.”