It may not carry the hype or economic influence of the NFL schedule release, but I’m always looking forward to our editorial content calendar planning, which begins around the same time of year. The real fun is scoping out the dates and locations for the coming year’s best shows and expos the roofing industry has to offer. 

While 2024 has already had memorable gatherings like the International Roofing Expo in Las Vegas, Roofing Day in Washington, D.C., and a record turnout at the Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Expo, there’s still a lot to look forward to in the coming months as show season in the roofing industry takes shape. 

The Schedule Grind

The fun starts this month at the Western Roofing Expo, Sept. 29-Oct. 1, at the Paris Las Vegas. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Western Roofing Contractors Association with members on a sold-out show floor, or attend more than two dozen educational sessions. It’s been a while since I’ve been at this event, and I’m looking forward to personally seeing the spirited competition again at the annual Roofing Games. 

The MRCA Conference & Expo is next up, Oct. 21-23, in St. Paul, Minn., and if fall in the upper Midwest is not your thing, jet down to Orlando for RoofCON 2024, Oct. 23-25. If you still have fuel left in the tank, continue racking up those frequent flyer miles not too long after for METALCON, Oct. 30-Nov. 1, in Atlanta. Not only will this show intersect with Halloween, but ‘Metalheads’ can mingle over metal during a new feature this year — a speed-networking event at The Exchange. It’s a spot designated on the show floor for just networking. Pre-registration is required. 

As fall fades, the pace of events slows down a bit, but the industry’s attention will turn back to Bonita Springs, Fla., for RC’s 20th Best of Success conference, Dec. 4-6, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa. As always, RC Publisher Jill Bloom has recruited some of the best residential and commercial roofing contractors in the business to share their stories — and best practices — from the stage. Surround that with highly-anticipated industry awards and countless networking opportunities with other industry professionals, and it’s clear what makes this a can’t-miss event. The intensive, two-day conference returns to Florida for the first time since Miami in 2019 and the first time on the west side of the state since Marco Island in 2016. We won’t give too much else away, but celebrating 20 years will be memorable. Book now before early-bird pricing expires Nov. 1. 

Looking ahead to 2025, roofers in the Midwest will again converge on Chicago for the CRCA Trade Show & Seminars, Jan. 22-24. Roofers concentrating on storm work and needing a warm-up will want to attend the Storm Restoration Contractor Summit in Dallas, Feb. 4-6. That’s the prelude for the 2025 International Roofing Expo, Feb. 19-21, in San Antonio. RC is the official show publication, and whether you’re looking for information about the show floor, insight about must-see educational sessions, or how to maximize the social and networking events surrounding the show, we’ll provide inside access across our multi-media content platforms. 

How to Prepare

Turning from the schedule, it’s time to talk about preparation. As I approach a decade in the roofing industry, I’m reminded of these three things I’ve learned on the roofing event circuit. 

• Strategize and have a plan. Know which exhibits to hit, which tools to try, and where you want to invest some of that crucial face time on the show floor. That approach also includes sessions, where some of the most valuable connections can be made before or after an expert, takes the stage. 
• Distraction Doom. There are a lot of new, shiny products and services on display out there, grabbing your attention and reaching for your company dollar. It’s easy to get distracted, but remember, not every product or latest innovation is the right fit for your company. I’m reminded by what now-retired, former Residential Roofing Contractor of the Year Ken Kelly told me a few years back: successful businesses can only implement a few significant changes to their business model in a year or less. So keep that in mind when you veer off course on the show floor.

• Meet the Moment. Don’t forget to challenge yourself to get out of your comfort zone. It’s easy to stay in your little bubble of peace, tranquility and comfort — but this is roofing! It’s work that’s meant to be loud and full of challenges. It’s also an industry built on personal relationships; you can’t develop many without getting out there yourself. 

See you on the roofing road!