ERA at IRE: Education, Engagement, and Industry Connection
The International Roofing Expo (IRE) once again delivered a strong mix of education, networking, and industry dialogue, with more than 45 educational sessions across nine tracks covering topics ranging from general business strategy and workplace safety to single-ply systems, EPDM details, and emerging technologies.
ERA staff Jason Wilen, Ellen Thorp, Natalie Judd, and Katie Dansereau were active throughout the event, engaging across multiple fronts. Activities included attending the ROOFPAC reception, meeting with ERA members at trade show booths, connecting with trade media, conducting video interviews, supporting and presenting education sessions, and reconnecting with long-time colleagues while building new industry relationships. Staff also participated in several technical and business-focused education sessions addressing roofing system performance, evolving codes, sustainability considerations, and contractor-focused best practices.
Education Highlights
A key highlight of the week was ERA’s education session focused on the growing opportunity around solar-ready roofing.
Solar-Ready Roofs: How to Turn Roofs into Revenue
As rooftop solar demand continues to grow, roofing contractors are uniquely positioned to lead these projects when they understand what solar-ready truly requires. This session provided practical, contractor-focused guidance on assessing and preparing commercial roofs for future solar integration. Topics included structural considerations, membrane and attachment strategies, drainage planning, and coordination with codes and exemptions. The session also explored real-world case examples and revenue models that contractors can use to differentiate themselves, add value for building owners, and expand service offerings. Attendees left with clear, actionable steps to leverage roofing expertise into solar-readiness upgrades and long-term business growth.
ERA staff John Geary, Ellen Thorp, and Jason Wilen wrote and presented this session, reinforcing ERA’s role in helping contractors navigate emerging market opportunities without compromising roofing system performance or durability.
ERA staff also supported and attended an EPDM-focused education session entitled EPDM: Low-Slope Roofing Solutions for Solving Real-World Roofing Challenges
This session addressed the everyday constraints contractors face, including tight schedules, labor availability, cost pressures, and jobsite conditions. It highlighted how EPDM roof systems can help address these challenges while maintaining installation efficiency and long-term performance. Topics included when EPDM offers the most value, how system choices affect labor and material costs, and the tools, training, and techniques that support efficient EPDM installation. The session reinforced the importance of system-level decision-making and practical field considerations that directly affect project outcomes.
Member Engagement and Media Outreach
In addition to education, ERA staff spent significant time on the show floor meeting with members and industry partners. These conversations focused on EPDM-related products, system applications, market trends, and contractor feedback from the field. ERA also conducted video interviews with members to capture insights on product development, installation considerations, and evolving customer needs, helping extend the reach of member expertise beyond the show.
ERA staff also met with representatives from the trade media to discuss current research initiatives, technical resources, and ongoing advocacy efforts, ensuring accurate and timely coverage of EPDM-related topics and broader roofing system issues.
Looking Ahead
IRE continues to be a valuable forum for education, collaboration, and connection across the roofing industry. ERA’s presence reflected its ongoing commitment to technical education, contractor support, member engagement, and clear communication around system performance, sustainability, and long-term value. The conversations and insights gathered at this year’s show will help inform ERA’s education, research, and communications efforts in the months ahead.