The holiday season is once again upon us, and I find myself reflecting on this past year and all there is to look forward to in 2024.

Of all the things to celebrate from 2023, it would be remiss not to mention the wonderful Best of Success conference we had earlier this month in Dallas. One of the standouts for me was our excellent speaker, Garen Armstrong, executive director of Shamrock Roofing & Construction in Kansas City, Kan. Garen spoke in great detail on the importance of family, perseverance, and all he learned while recovering from his recent heart transplant. 

As roofing experts, we know a thing or two about perseverance. We’ve had to change paths often in our industry. The COVID-19 pandemic, a recession, and countless hurdles in between have forced us — as contractors, owners and manufacturers — to pivot in how we do business.

And for many of us, it’s not just about business. We’re constantly juggling families and home life, along with our constant work. If Garen’s speech taught me anything, it’s that life, like our beloved industry, doesn’t always go as planned. 

Finding a happy balance is the surest way to a happy home and work-life balance. So how do we do that? How do we keep our work stresses at the office? Well, there’s no easy answer, but one thing is for certain: The need to be present with our families is obvious. May we all go into this next year with clear minds and positive attitudes. 

On the business side of things, if the market outlook is accurate, the year ahead looks strong. The demand for roofing projects is high. Building owners and residential homeowners are still replacing and repairing roofs caused by the natural disasters 2023 sent our way.

With construction and restoration in full swing, there is much to be hopeful for looming on the horizon. In terms of revenue, according to Transparency Market Research, the commercial roofing market is expected to reach $10.38 billion by 2024, with the forecasted period between 2024-2032 achieving a market value of around $41.50 billion total— creating plenty of scope and opportunities industry-wide.

Speaking of opportunities, here are some important January dates and events to keep in mind:

• Jan. 12-14 – SPRI Conference & Annual Business Meeting

• Jan. 23-25 – World of Concrete

• Jan. 31 – Building Enclosure’s Roofing Forensics Webinar

What are you most looking forward to in 2024? What lessons are you taking with you into the new year? If you have any thoughts on what this year will bring to our industry, feel free to email our Editor-in-Chief, Art Aisner, at aisnera@bnpmedia.com.

We look forward to celebrating another year with all of you.