2023 CONFERENCE SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Wednesday, October 4, 2023
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM RCAT Board Meeting (Marriott Marquis, Brazoria 2nd Floor)
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM RCAT Annual Golf Tournament (Wild Cat Golf Club, 12000 Almeda Rd
Houston, TX 77045) Registered players should arrive at 12:00 PM for check-in and lunch. 1:30 Shotgun Start.
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Main Exhibitor Setup (Texas Ballroom 4th Floor)
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM Welcome Reception Open to all registered conference attendees. (Marriott Marquis 6th Floor, Altitude Rooftop / Pool Area)
Thursday, October 5, 2023 (All Events at the Marriott Marquis Houston)
6:30 AM – 5:00 PM Registration Desk Open 4th Floor (2nd Floor Registration Desk Open 6:30 - 11:30 AM only)
7:00 AM – 12:00 PM Exhibitor Set-Up (Texas Ballroom 4th Floor)
7:00 AM – 8:30 AM Attendee Breakfast (Houston Ballroom Foyer, 2nd Floor)
7:30 AM – 11:00 AM RCAT Licensing Exam Prep. Boot Camp (Galveston Room, 2nd Floor) (3 CEU) (7:30 AM Business & Safety; 8:30 AM Residential Roofing; 9:30 AM TX Windstorm Inspection Program; 10:00 AM Commercial Roofing) Preparation Course for the RCAT Licensed Roofing Contractor Program Exams. PRE-QUALIFICATION & SEPARATE REGISTRATION REQUIRED. NO WALK-INS! This session is NOT included with Conference Registration Package.
7:30 AM – 10:20 AM Seminars / Educational Programs for Residential & Commercial Roofing Contractors - complete details below. ALL SEMINARS ARE ON THE 2ND FLOOR.
You must be FULLY REGISTERED for the conference to gain entrance to seminars. Space in each room will be available on a first come, first serve basis.
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM RCAT Board Meeting (Marriott Marquis, Brazoria 2nd Floor)
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM RCAT Annual Golf Tournament (Wild Cat Golf Club, 12000 Almeda Rd
Houston, TX 77045) Registered players should arrive at 12:00 PM for check-in and lunch. 1:30 Shotgun Start.
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Main Exhibitor Setup (Texas Ballroom 4th Floor)
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM Welcome Reception Open to all registered conference attendees. (Marriott Marquis 6th Floor, Altitude Rooftop / Pool Area)
Thursday, October 5, 2023 (All Events at the Marriott Marquis Houston)
6:30 AM – 5:00 PM Registration Desk Open 4th Floor (2nd Floor Registration Desk Open 6:30 - 11:30 AM only)
7:00 AM – 12:00 PM Exhibitor Set-Up (Texas Ballroom 4th Floor)
7:00 AM – 8:30 AM Attendee Breakfast (Houston Ballroom Foyer, 2nd Floor)
7:30 AM – 11:00 AM RCAT Licensing Exam Prep. Boot Camp (Galveston Room, 2nd Floor) (3 CEU) (7:30 AM Business & Safety; 8:30 AM Residential Roofing; 9:30 AM TX Windstorm Inspection Program; 10:00 AM Commercial Roofing) Preparation Course for the RCAT Licensed Roofing Contractor Program Exams. PRE-QUALIFICATION & SEPARATE REGISTRATION REQUIRED. NO WALK-INS! This session is NOT included with Conference Registration Package.
7:30 AM – 10:20 AM Seminars / Educational Programs for Residential & Commercial Roofing Contractors - complete details below. ALL SEMINARS ARE ON THE 2ND FLOOR.
You must be FULLY REGISTERED for the conference to gain entrance to seminars. Space in each room will be available on a first come, first serve basis.
7:30 AM – 8:50 AM (Harris/Scot Cotton Room) - Steve Patrick, Level the Playing Field: "Set Yourself Apart From the Competition - Big Time" (1.5 CEU) With dozens of roofing companies competing for their business (or more), how do you set your business apart with prospective clients? This course will teach you how to overcome objections and make them say, “I’d be crazy not to hire you!”
7:30 AM – 9:20 AM (Fort Bend Room) - Stephane McShane, Maxim Consulting Group: "Managing the Lifeblood of Contracting - Cash Flow" (2 CEU) Cash flow is one of the most important issues facing contractors today. As the market continues to stay strong, companies are faced with starting new projects, hiring staff, and investing in assets to support the business. More companies go bankrupt due to cash flow issues than due to profitability. Many things can and should be done to improve cash management practices. We will explore a range of tools and techniques, from simple to complex, that allow firms to manage and control cash flow. Examples include contractual negotiation strategies, pricing and bidding practices, development of cost and resource-loaded schedules that tie to billing activities in the schedule of values, use of 12-week cash flow forecasts, project closeout procedures, and managing the billings and collection cycle. An interactive cash flow simulation provides hands-on experience that enhances the learning outcomes.
7:30 AM – 8:20 AM (Montgomery Room) - Chris Hunter, RoofingSites.com: "How to Build the Ultimate Digital Marketing Machine for Your Roofing Business" (1 CEU) Are you ready to take 2024 by storm? Do you have a clear plan of attack as it relates to your Internet marketing & lead generation strategy? Have you put together an updated plan based on all the changes in the Online Space? On this live training, we'll be unpacking "How to Build the Ultimate Marketing Machine for Your Roofing Company" and what you need to do to MAXIMIZE your lead flow via the internet in your Roofing business going into the New Year. Discover the latest marketing trends and what's working now, increase your inbound calls and leads, Dominate your local market online.
7:30 AM – 8:20 AM (Liberty Room) - Karen Ensley & Brian Benitez, Ensley Benitez Law, PC: "1099 v W-2 and WHY it Matters" (1 CEU) It's more than just how someone is being paid - it's about how much control the employer exerts over the worker. Including issues such as TWC and DOL wanting everyone characterized as W-2 employees to generate more employment taxes and unemployment coverage. We'll also talk about how TWC and DOL investigations commonly get started, and how to best position the company for a 1099 model if that's how the business is being managed. Learn how to void or better survive TWC and DOL investigations and make an intelligent decision on how to structure relations with employees/1099s.
8:30 AM – 9:20 AM (Montgomery Room) - Charlie Smith, McElroy Metal: “Six New Things You Need to Know About If You Do Commercial Metal Roofing” (1 CEU) Over the past couple of years there have been some exciting new developments relating to installing standing seam metal roofing on commercial buildings. These include new panels in the marketplace, new rigid insulation designed to go on open purlins, structural enhancement while retrofitting a metal building, stabilizing purlins, and insulating when removing an R panel from a metal building going back with a standing seam and why you should be using a symmetrical standing seam instead of a double lock.
8:30 AM – 9:20 AM (Liberty Room) - JP Vogel, Gray Reed: "Changes in Texas Lien Laws and Pursuing Claims" (1 CEU) This presentation will overview the recent legislative changes to the Texas lien law process and will review the process for pursuing payment claims in Texas. Objectives are to understand Texas Lien Law, the basics of collecting money in Texas, and pursuing contractual non-payment claims in Texas.
9:00 AM – 10:20 AM (Harris/Scot Cotton Room) – William Elliot, Elliott Coaching LLC: "A Guide to Building a Company Workforce Development Model" (For field workers) (1.5 CEU) Craft trades attrition and recruitment gaps continue to be an area of concern. While past activity and attempts have been made through the referral process there has yet to be a planned unified front. Building a detailed strategic plan for Recruitment and Retention with outlined benchmarks along the way will be an outline for increased relationships with not only internal colleagues also public resources along with brand recognition of a unified campaign. Individuals will leave with an understanding of current labor trends, resources to increase awareness and action planning, and a baseline workforce development plan/guide.
9:30 AM – 10:20 AM (Fort Bend Room) - Ramzi Sarkis, Ray Holtzclaw, J Galt: "Unleashing the Power of Corporate Credit" (1 CEU) Focusing on today’s biggest business challenges: financing operations, business expansion, financial flexibility, and financial protection. And discovering the solutions: understanding the power of unleashing corporate credit, marketplace options, corporate credibility, leveraging corporate credibility, and ensuring success. Learn how to utilize the power of the corporate veil by separating personal assets from business assets, build a strong corporate credit profile, and how to have a safety net that helps companies’ weather challenging times and maintain stability.
9:30 AM – 10:20 AM (Montgomery Room) - Paul Reed, Commercial Roofing Academy: "Residential to Commercial Roofing" (1 CEU) The Commercial Roofing Academy is designed to help residential contractors transition into commercial roofing but is also for commercial contractors who want to learn more about commercial roofing. In this class, you will gain more knowledge on different commercial roofing systems and learn how to start or expand your commercial division and get in front of decision makers.
9:30 AM – 10:20 AM - (Liberty Room) Philip J. Siegel, Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel: "Put it in Writing! Essential Policies for Every Employee Handbook" (1 CEU) Employee handbooks are an important tool in establishing company culture through the use and implementation of various company policies. During this session, we will discuss what are considered the essential employment policies for any employee handbook. Essential employment policies which will be covered include the EEO policy, attendance policy, vacation policy, cell phone use policies, and harassment and discrimination policies among others. We will also discuss common employment policies which may serve as the basis for an unfair labor practice claim under the federal National Labor Relations Act if not drafted properly. Objectives are to identify when it is necessary to draft a written employment policy on a specific issue, ensure they have a complete Employee Handbook containing all "essential policies" for a roofing contractor, and ensure the legality of those employment policies considered essential for any roofing contractor's Employee Handbook.
10:30 AM – 11:20 AM Keynote Speaker (Houston Ballroom 1-3, 2nd Floor) - Dave Davlin, DTD Communications: “The Game-Winning 3 – Making It Count … In Business and In Life” Success can be defined in its simplest form as making life better for someone else. The key to success in any organization lies not only in the development of great programs and services, but in the development of great people. In this interactive, humorous, and powerful presentation, Dave shares three essential ingredients for developing a purpose-driven mentality to achieve a fulfilling career and balanced life. You will be challenged to make the most of every moment in order to develop yourself personally and professionally while creating value and making a difference in the lives of others. The objectives are developing vision and defining one's sense of purpose, recognizing, and embracing the importance of creating positive and memorable experiences with fellow workers and family members, and understanding and embracing the value of service in the pursuit of success.
11:30 AM – 12:50 PM RCAT Annual Business Meeting & Awards Luncheon (Houston Ballroom 4-7, 2nd Floor)
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Grand Opening & Expo (Texas Ballroom 4th Floor)
-Door Prize Drawings Start at 2:00 PM! You MUST be present to win!
-Expo Happy Hour Food & Beverage Service Starts at 3:00 PM!
Friday, October 6, 2023 (All Events at the Marriott Marquis Houston)
7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Registration Desk Open 4th Floor (2nd Floor Registration Desk Open 7:00 - 11:30 AM only)
7:30 AM – 9:00 AM Attendee Breakfast (Houston Ballroom Foyer, 2nd Floor)
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM RCAT Licensed Roofing Contractor Exam Session (Galveston Room) (Separate registration and pre-qualification is required. NO WALK INS!)
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Seminars / Educational Programs for Residential & Commercial Roofing Contractors - complete details below. ALL SEMINARS ARE ON THE 2ND FLOOR.
You must be FULLY REGISTERED for the conference to gain entrance to seminars. Space in each room will be available on a first come, first serve basis. All classrooms are on the 2nd Floor.
7:30 AM – 9:20 AM (Fort Bend Room) - Stephane McShane, Maxim Consulting Group: "Managing the Lifeblood of Contracting - Cash Flow" (2 CEU) Cash flow is one of the most important issues facing contractors today. As the market continues to stay strong, companies are faced with starting new projects, hiring staff, and investing in assets to support the business. More companies go bankrupt due to cash flow issues than due to profitability. Many things can and should be done to improve cash management practices. We will explore a range of tools and techniques, from simple to complex, that allow firms to manage and control cash flow. Examples include contractual negotiation strategies, pricing and bidding practices, development of cost and resource-loaded schedules that tie to billing activities in the schedule of values, use of 12-week cash flow forecasts, project closeout procedures, and managing the billings and collection cycle. An interactive cash flow simulation provides hands-on experience that enhances the learning outcomes.
7:30 AM – 8:20 AM (Montgomery Room) - Chris Hunter, RoofingSites.com: "How to Build the Ultimate Digital Marketing Machine for Your Roofing Business" (1 CEU) Are you ready to take 2024 by storm? Do you have a clear plan of attack as it relates to your Internet marketing & lead generation strategy? Have you put together an updated plan based on all the changes in the Online Space? On this live training, we'll be unpacking "How to Build the Ultimate Marketing Machine for Your Roofing Company" and what you need to do to MAXIMIZE your lead flow via the internet in your Roofing business going into the New Year. Discover the latest marketing trends and what's working now, increase your inbound calls and leads, Dominate your local market online.
7:30 AM – 8:20 AM (Liberty Room) - Karen Ensley & Brian Benitez, Ensley Benitez Law, PC: "1099 v W-2 and WHY it Matters" (1 CEU) It's more than just how someone is being paid - it's about how much control the employer exerts over the worker. Including issues such as TWC and DOL wanting everyone characterized as W-2 employees to generate more employment taxes and unemployment coverage. We'll also talk about how TWC and DOL investigations commonly get started, and how to best position the company for a 1099 model if that's how the business is being managed. Learn how to void or better survive TWC and DOL investigations and make an intelligent decision on how to structure relations with employees/1099s.
8:30 AM – 9:20 AM (Montgomery Room) - Charlie Smith, McElroy Metal: “Six New Things You Need to Know About If You Do Commercial Metal Roofing” (1 CEU) Over the past couple of years there have been some exciting new developments relating to installing standing seam metal roofing on commercial buildings. These include new panels in the marketplace, new rigid insulation designed to go on open purlins, structural enhancement while retrofitting a metal building, stabilizing purlins, and insulating when removing an R panel from a metal building going back with a standing seam and why you should be using a symmetrical standing seam instead of a double lock.
8:30 AM – 9:20 AM (Liberty Room) - JP Vogel, Gray Reed: "Changes in Texas Lien Laws and Pursuing Claims" (1 CEU) This presentation will overview the recent legislative changes to the Texas lien law process and will review the process for pursuing payment claims in Texas. Objectives are to understand Texas Lien Law, the basics of collecting money in Texas, and pursuing contractual non-payment claims in Texas.
9:00 AM – 10:20 AM (Harris/Scot Cotton Room) – William Elliot, Elliott Coaching LLC: "A Guide to Building a Company Workforce Development Model" (For field workers) (1.5 CEU) Craft trades attrition and recruitment gaps continue to be an area of concern. While past activity and attempts have been made through the referral process there has yet to be a planned unified front. Building a detailed strategic plan for Recruitment and Retention with outlined benchmarks along the way will be an outline for increased relationships with not only internal colleagues also public resources along with brand recognition of a unified campaign. Individuals will leave with an understanding of current labor trends, resources to increase awareness and action planning, and a baseline workforce development plan/guide.
9:30 AM – 10:20 AM (Fort Bend Room) - Ramzi Sarkis, Ray Holtzclaw, J Galt: "Unleashing the Power of Corporate Credit" (1 CEU) Focusing on today’s biggest business challenges: financing operations, business expansion, financial flexibility, and financial protection. And discovering the solutions: understanding the power of unleashing corporate credit, marketplace options, corporate credibility, leveraging corporate credibility, and ensuring success. Learn how to utilize the power of the corporate veil by separating personal assets from business assets, build a strong corporate credit profile, and how to have a safety net that helps companies’ weather challenging times and maintain stability.
9:30 AM – 10:20 AM (Montgomery Room) - Paul Reed, Commercial Roofing Academy: "Residential to Commercial Roofing" (1 CEU) The Commercial Roofing Academy is designed to help residential contractors transition into commercial roofing but is also for commercial contractors who want to learn more about commercial roofing. In this class, you will gain more knowledge on different commercial roofing systems and learn how to start or expand your commercial division and get in front of decision makers.
9:30 AM – 10:20 AM - (Liberty Room) Philip J. Siegel, Hendrick, Phillips, Salzman & Siegel: "Put it in Writing! Essential Policies for Every Employee Handbook" (1 CEU) Employee handbooks are an important tool in establishing company culture through the use and implementation of various company policies. During this session, we will discuss what are considered the essential employment policies for any employee handbook. Essential employment policies which will be covered include the EEO policy, attendance policy, vacation policy, cell phone use policies, and harassment and discrimination policies among others. We will also discuss common employment policies which may serve as the basis for an unfair labor practice claim under the federal National Labor Relations Act if not drafted properly. Objectives are to identify when it is necessary to draft a written employment policy on a specific issue, ensure they have a complete Employee Handbook containing all "essential policies" for a roofing contractor, and ensure the legality of those employment policies considered essential for any roofing contractor's Employee Handbook.
10:30 AM – 11:20 AM Keynote Speaker (Houston Ballroom 1-3, 2nd Floor) - Dave Davlin, DTD Communications: “The Game-Winning 3 – Making It Count … In Business and In Life” Success can be defined in its simplest form as making life better for someone else. The key to success in any organization lies not only in the development of great programs and services, but in the development of great people. In this interactive, humorous, and powerful presentation, Dave shares three essential ingredients for developing a purpose-driven mentality to achieve a fulfilling career and balanced life. You will be challenged to make the most of every moment in order to develop yourself personally and professionally while creating value and making a difference in the lives of others. The objectives are developing vision and defining one's sense of purpose, recognizing, and embracing the importance of creating positive and memorable experiences with fellow workers and family members, and understanding and embracing the value of service in the pursuit of success.
11:30 AM – 12:50 PM RCAT Annual Business Meeting & Awards Luncheon (Houston Ballroom 4-7, 2nd Floor)
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Grand Opening & Expo (Texas Ballroom 4th Floor)
-Door Prize Drawings Start at 2:00 PM! You MUST be present to win!
-Expo Happy Hour Food & Beverage Service Starts at 3:00 PM!
Friday, October 6, 2023 (All Events at the Marriott Marquis Houston)
7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Registration Desk Open 4th Floor (2nd Floor Registration Desk Open 7:00 - 11:30 AM only)
7:30 AM – 9:00 AM Attendee Breakfast (Houston Ballroom Foyer, 2nd Floor)
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM RCAT Licensed Roofing Contractor Exam Session (Galveston Room) (Separate registration and pre-qualification is required. NO WALK INS!)
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Seminars / Educational Programs for Residential & Commercial Roofing Contractors - complete details below. ALL SEMINARS ARE ON THE 2ND FLOOR.
You must be FULLY REGISTERED for the conference to gain entrance to seminars. Space in each room will be available on a first come, first serve basis. All classrooms are on the 2nd Floor.
8:00 AM – 8:50 AM (Harris/Scot Cotton Room) - Jim Johnson, Contractor Coach PRO: "How to Become a Magnetic Leader That Attracts Your Ideal Team" (1 CEU) Most owners and "leaders" of roofing companies don't really understand how to lead in a way that is magnetic to those around them. They are constantly making bad hires that are not aligned with the vision or goals of the business causing an industry with tremendous turnover forcing them to "pay more" to keep talent instead of understanding what the talent really wants. They want growth and recognition. The objectives of this presentation are to understand the problem that leads to high turnover, learn the 7 factors that makes a leader magnetic, and provide a learning map to follow to become that magnetic leader.
8:00 AM – 8:50 AM (Fort Bend Room) – Nicholas Capobianco, Roofr.com: "The Roofing Sales Process: From Quotes to Proposals" (1 CEU) If you’re knocking on doors then who’s working on your customers’ roofs? Let’s get you organized. Come learn from experienced sales pros on how you can build a sales process for your roofing company that doesn’t just work, but makes it rain. Join us as we walk you through how to “wow” prospects with professional quotes and close them with proposals they’re happy to sign.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM (Montgomery Room) - Michael Polizzi, A.C.T. Metal Deck Supply: "Metal Deck 101: Metal Deck Replacement" (1.5 CEU) Commercial re-roof projects often run into the need to replace structural metal deck beneath the roof system. The details may be unknown until the roof is actually torn off and then the job is on hold until this is resolved. Many of these decks are older with obsolete profiles. The course explains how to identify, match, quote and install metal deck. All roofers would agree that an open roof is not the best time for a crash course on metal deck. This presentation provides the tools roofers need… before they need them. We will identify what metal deck is, match existing/obsolete profiles, discuss types, gauges & finishes, learn how to accurately quote, discuss installation and fastening and proper handling.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM (Liberty Room) – Mark Graham, NRCA: "Low & Steep Slope: Update on Roofing Industry Technical Issues" (1.5 CEU) Mark S. Graham, NRCA's vice president of technical services, will provide an update on roofing industry technical issues specific to low and steep slope roofing. Topics to be addressed include the current roofing industry market for low and steep slope roofing, ignition temperature research for rigid board insulation products, changes to the CERTA torch safety program, recent code developments and contractor-reported problems, and concerns with imported lumber and sheathing products and synthetic underlayment. Time will be allotted for questions from audience member participants.
9:00 AM – 9:50 AM (Harris/Scot Cotton Room) – Russ Wilson, Trent Gagnon & Karl Wood, Suncoast Claims, Inc.: "Roofing in the New Era of Property Insurance" (1 CEU) Property insurance claims have shifted drastically over the last decade. We will cover how policy changes affect your clients, who insurance companies are sending to your roofs, and things to avoid doing that might hurt your client's insurance claim. In this course, you will learn to understand how new pitfalls in your client's insurance policy can affect their claim, how to understand the roles of different carrier-representatives that step onto their roof, and how to conduct yourself in a manner that protects your client's insurance claim interests.
9:00 AM – 9:50 AM (Fort Bend Room) – Jason Barrett, GAF Energy: “The Future of Solar Roofing” (1 CEU) GAF Energy is transforming the solar and roofing industries to generate energy from every roof. Our innovative Timberline Solar™ roof system incorporates the world’s first nailable solar shingle to create an attractive, durable, and reliable solar roof. Jason Barrett, VP of Sales for GAF Energy will speak about Timberline Solar™ as a major step forward for broad access to clean energy, how GAF Energy is making solar accessible for roofers, and the broader role solar tech is playing in roofing.
10:00 AM – 11:50 AM (Harris/Scot Cotton Room) - Panel Discussion, "Roofing and Insurance - When Worlds Collide!" (2 CEU) Panel Includes: Carrier Attorney Steve Badger, Zelle LLP; Contractor Attorney Karen Ensley, Ensley Benitez Law, PC; Public Adjuster Karl Wood, Suncoast Claims, Inc; Roofing Contractors, Dan C. Pitts, Jr. CRRL, Pitts Roofing Company and Heath Hicks, CRRL, AVCO Roofing. When roofing and insurance worlds collide, it deserves a Texas size panel discussion. These panelists will be covering some of the most controversial questions and legal issues contractors face as it relates to roofing insurance claims. They will be taking questions from the audience!
10:00 AM – 10:50 AM (Fort Bend Room) - Daniel James, STC - Safety Training & Compliance: "OSHA Inspection Process and How to Protect Your Business" (1 CEU) OSHA may have the legal authority to inspect a jobsite if they have administrative probable cause (a lower burden than criminal probable cause), but a company and its employees also have rights too. Employers are often told to know and exercise their rights during an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspection, but what exactly are employers’ rights during an OSHA inspection, how does the process work and how does a contractor minimize the federal governments impact on their business? In this course, we will examine the OSHA Inspection triggers and process, discuss employers and employees’ rights during an inspection, and go over follow up steps after an inspection to minimize financial costs and company image.
10:00 AM – 10:50 AM (Montgomery Room) - Megan Ellsworth, Heidi J. Ellsworth, RoofersCoffeeShop: "How Podcasts can Boost your Business" (1 CEU) Podcasts have become an essential part of popular culture for millions of listeners. They provide a new way to absorb information that once might have been read in newspapers, books, magazines or heard over the radio. With the lack of skilled labor in this new generation of workers, use the power of podcasting to show people the great industry that is roofing and construction while also positioning your company as the roofing expert. Learn to harness the power of podcasts for your company and brand with this workshop hosted by Heidi J. Ellsworth and Megan Ellsworth. Find the power of podcasts through an interactive seminar that will cover a variety of ways to start your own podcast and use it to recruit and retain talent for your business. The workshop focuses on: Identifying a podcast theme, choosing a format to distribute your podcast across the globe, Creating your podcast brand, Choosing the right podcasting equipment, Selecting the right recording software to edit your podcasts, Recording an intro and outro and Marketing your podcast and use to better your business!
10:00 AM – 11:50 AM (Liberty Room) - Stephane McShane, Maxim Consulting: “Enabling Success: Creating Alignment Between Field & Office" (2 CEU) For construction firms to thrive, synergy, teamwork and trust must exist between the office and the field. The proper deployment of defined processes and tools will facilitate this critical alignment. This collaboration must begin before mobilization and continue through project closeout. During this session, we will discuss the workflow that must exist in order to mitigate risk and maximize productivity. During this session, we will discuss why the processes of preconstruction planning, short interval planning, production tracking, daily project reports, exit strategy, and lessons learned are critical to the organization. We will also discuss what the benefits are for each member of the team, and how these processes can be properly implemented.
11:00 AM – 11:50 AM (Fort Bend Room) - Brian Benitez, Ensley Benitez Law, PC: “Contracts 101” (1 CEU) Contracts 101 is a primer on construction contracts in Texas. We’ll discuss what your contract should have in it, what it can’t have, and many things in between. We’ll also touch on a particular type of contract – the Non Competition Agreement and discuss those things that Texas courts will protect under a non-compete, and what you need to do to draft your non-compete to give yourself the best chance in court.
11:00 AM – 11:50 AM (Montgomery Room) - Patrick Berridge, Berridge Manufacturing: “Versatility of Metal Cladding” (1 CEU) The Versatility of Metal Cladding presentation examines the performance characteristics and attributes of metal roofing and cladding, including differences in aesthetic options, installation practices, and energy-efficiency. This course covers both wall and roofing applications and describes how they can be used to contribute to weather resistance and durability. Case studies and project examples will be provided to help illustrate the benefits, diversity, and unique properties of using metal on various projects.
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Expo Open (Texas Ballroom 4th Floor)
-Door Prize Drawings Start at 12:00 PM! You MUST be present to win!
-It’s Friday! Expo Happy Hour Food & Beverage Service Starts at 12:00 PM!
-$5,000 RCAT Raffle Winner Drawn at 1:30 PM!
8:00 AM – 8:50 AM (Fort Bend Room) – Nicholas Capobianco, Roofr.com: "The Roofing Sales Process: From Quotes to Proposals" (1 CEU) If you’re knocking on doors then who’s working on your customers’ roofs? Let’s get you organized. Come learn from experienced sales pros on how you can build a sales process for your roofing company that doesn’t just work, but makes it rain. Join us as we walk you through how to “wow” prospects with professional quotes and close them with proposals they’re happy to sign.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM (Montgomery Room) - Michael Polizzi, A.C.T. Metal Deck Supply: "Metal Deck 101: Metal Deck Replacement" (1.5 CEU) Commercial re-roof projects often run into the need to replace structural metal deck beneath the roof system. The details may be unknown until the roof is actually torn off and then the job is on hold until this is resolved. Many of these decks are older with obsolete profiles. The course explains how to identify, match, quote and install metal deck. All roofers would agree that an open roof is not the best time for a crash course on metal deck. This presentation provides the tools roofers need… before they need them. We will identify what metal deck is, match existing/obsolete profiles, discuss types, gauges & finishes, learn how to accurately quote, discuss installation and fastening and proper handling.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM (Liberty Room) – Mark Graham, NRCA: "Low & Steep Slope: Update on Roofing Industry Technical Issues" (1.5 CEU) Mark S. Graham, NRCA's vice president of technical services, will provide an update on roofing industry technical issues specific to low and steep slope roofing. Topics to be addressed include the current roofing industry market for low and steep slope roofing, ignition temperature research for rigid board insulation products, changes to the CERTA torch safety program, recent code developments and contractor-reported problems, and concerns with imported lumber and sheathing products and synthetic underlayment. Time will be allotted for questions from audience member participants.
9:00 AM – 9:50 AM (Harris/Scot Cotton Room) – Russ Wilson, Trent Gagnon & Karl Wood, Suncoast Claims, Inc.: "Roofing in the New Era of Property Insurance" (1 CEU) Property insurance claims have shifted drastically over the last decade. We will cover how policy changes affect your clients, who insurance companies are sending to your roofs, and things to avoid doing that might hurt your client's insurance claim. In this course, you will learn to understand how new pitfalls in your client's insurance policy can affect their claim, how to understand the roles of different carrier-representatives that step onto their roof, and how to conduct yourself in a manner that protects your client's insurance claim interests.
9:00 AM – 9:50 AM (Fort Bend Room) – Jason Barrett, GAF Energy: “The Future of Solar Roofing” (1 CEU) GAF Energy is transforming the solar and roofing industries to generate energy from every roof. Our innovative Timberline Solar™ roof system incorporates the world’s first nailable solar shingle to create an attractive, durable, and reliable solar roof. Jason Barrett, VP of Sales for GAF Energy will speak about Timberline Solar™ as a major step forward for broad access to clean energy, how GAF Energy is making solar accessible for roofers, and the broader role solar tech is playing in roofing.
10:00 AM – 11:50 AM (Harris/Scot Cotton Room) - Panel Discussion, "Roofing and Insurance - When Worlds Collide!" (2 CEU) Panel Includes: Carrier Attorney Steve Badger, Zelle LLP; Contractor Attorney Karen Ensley, Ensley Benitez Law, PC; Public Adjuster Karl Wood, Suncoast Claims, Inc; Roofing Contractors, Dan C. Pitts, Jr. CRRL, Pitts Roofing Company and Heath Hicks, CRRL, AVCO Roofing. When roofing and insurance worlds collide, it deserves a Texas size panel discussion. These panelists will be covering some of the most controversial questions and legal issues contractors face as it relates to roofing insurance claims. They will be taking questions from the audience!
10:00 AM – 10:50 AM (Fort Bend Room) - Daniel James, STC - Safety Training & Compliance: "OSHA Inspection Process and How to Protect Your Business" (1 CEU) OSHA may have the legal authority to inspect a jobsite if they have administrative probable cause (a lower burden than criminal probable cause), but a company and its employees also have rights too. Employers are often told to know and exercise their rights during an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspection, but what exactly are employers’ rights during an OSHA inspection, how does the process work and how does a contractor minimize the federal governments impact on their business? In this course, we will examine the OSHA Inspection triggers and process, discuss employers and employees’ rights during an inspection, and go over follow up steps after an inspection to minimize financial costs and company image.
10:00 AM – 10:50 AM (Montgomery Room) - Megan Ellsworth, Heidi J. Ellsworth, RoofersCoffeeShop: "How Podcasts can Boost your Business" (1 CEU) Podcasts have become an essential part of popular culture for millions of listeners. They provide a new way to absorb information that once might have been read in newspapers, books, magazines or heard over the radio. With the lack of skilled labor in this new generation of workers, use the power of podcasting to show people the great industry that is roofing and construction while also positioning your company as the roofing expert. Learn to harness the power of podcasts for your company and brand with this workshop hosted by Heidi J. Ellsworth and Megan Ellsworth. Find the power of podcasts through an interactive seminar that will cover a variety of ways to start your own podcast and use it to recruit and retain talent for your business. The workshop focuses on: Identifying a podcast theme, choosing a format to distribute your podcast across the globe, Creating your podcast brand, Choosing the right podcasting equipment, Selecting the right recording software to edit your podcasts, Recording an intro and outro and Marketing your podcast and use to better your business!
10:00 AM – 11:50 AM (Liberty Room) - Stephane McShane, Maxim Consulting: “Enabling Success: Creating Alignment Between Field & Office" (2 CEU) For construction firms to thrive, synergy, teamwork and trust must exist between the office and the field. The proper deployment of defined processes and tools will facilitate this critical alignment. This collaboration must begin before mobilization and continue through project closeout. During this session, we will discuss the workflow that must exist in order to mitigate risk and maximize productivity. During this session, we will discuss why the processes of preconstruction planning, short interval planning, production tracking, daily project reports, exit strategy, and lessons learned are critical to the organization. We will also discuss what the benefits are for each member of the team, and how these processes can be properly implemented.
11:00 AM – 11:50 AM (Fort Bend Room) - Brian Benitez, Ensley Benitez Law, PC: “Contracts 101” (1 CEU) Contracts 101 is a primer on construction contracts in Texas. We’ll discuss what your contract should have in it, what it can’t have, and many things in between. We’ll also touch on a particular type of contract – the Non Competition Agreement and discuss those things that Texas courts will protect under a non-compete, and what you need to do to draft your non-compete to give yourself the best chance in court.
11:00 AM – 11:50 AM (Montgomery Room) - Patrick Berridge, Berridge Manufacturing: “Versatility of Metal Cladding” (1 CEU) The Versatility of Metal Cladding presentation examines the performance characteristics and attributes of metal roofing and cladding, including differences in aesthetic options, installation practices, and energy-efficiency. This course covers both wall and roofing applications and describes how they can be used to contribute to weather resistance and durability. Case studies and project examples will be provided to help illustrate the benefits, diversity, and unique properties of using metal on various projects.
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Expo Open (Texas Ballroom 4th Floor)
-Door Prize Drawings Start at 12:00 PM! You MUST be present to win!
-It’s Friday! Expo Happy Hour Food & Beverage Service Starts at 12:00 PM!
-$5,000 RCAT Raffle Winner Drawn at 1:30 PM!
