By Jonny Suchor. 

A longtime roofing knowledgeable’s reflective journey and visionary outlook for the trade. 

Through the third day of the Worldwide Roofing Expo 2024, Megan Ellsworth of RoofersCoffeeShop® spoke with Ron Harman from Benchmark.  

Reflecting on the occasion, Ron expressed his enthusiasm, acknowledging the overwhelming however optimistic nature of the expertise. Regardless of Benchmark not having a conventional sales space, Ron highlighted the energetic participation of his group and shared his conviction in regards to the expo’s success.  

“I will say it is the very best present ever,” Ron states, “It is like consuming from a hearth hose.” 

A specific focus of the dialog was integrating know-how within the roofing trade, with Ron commenting on the importance of the AI keynote. “If that does not make everyone take into consideration the concept of structured knowledge and what you do with it, then I believe all of us have to pay attention,” he stated. He expressed confidence in human mind over machines however acknowledged the crucial function of knowledge group and utilization, emphasizing the significance of adapting to technological developments. 

Ron additionally praised the Roofing Alliance Scholar Competitors on the expo, appreciating its power and inspiration. For Ron, this occasion highlights the significance of investing within the youth and inspiring their entrance into the trade. He shared an inspiring encounter with the group from Auburn College, highlighting their eagerness to study. “I used to be very lucky final night time earlier than the awards banquet to face in step with the group from Auburn,” Ron says. “They have been simply stuffed with questions, they have been sponges, they have been attempting to study.” 

He additionally mirrored on the significance of participation with trade associations for networking {and professional} development alternatives. As a long-standing Nationwide Roofing Contractors Affiliation (NRCA) member, he’s considering how he will be concerned extra and he advocated for larger participation inside the trade, notably urging roofing contractors to interact with and strengthen connections inside the roofing group. 

Ron’s dialog was not only a reflection however a name to motion for these within the roofing trade. He inspired everybody, particularly roofing contractors going through the sector’s day-to-day challenges, to lean into the accessible assets, search collaboration and acknowledge the energy of unity.  

Watch the video to study extra about Benchmark’s illustration at IRE 2024.