Women are tirelessly working to show they can be just as big a part of the roofing industry as their male counterparts. While men massively dominate the roofing industry, the presence of women is growing, leading to a more diverse and enriched industry that reflects broader changes in construction and skilled-trade fields.
To celebrate the eighth annual National Women in Roofing Days, we gathered the latest facts and statistics about women in roofing, highlighting the challenges they face within the industry and the opportunities this sector holds. Alongside these insights, we’ve included perspectives from women thriving in the industry and a compelling interview with one of today’s most influential women in roofing.
Presence of Women in the Roofing Industry
Approximately 5% of roofers are female, highlighting a significant gender disparity within the industry. This means that out of a total of 258,603 roofing employees, only 12,930 are female. The reasons behind this statistic are complex, potentially involving factors such as industry perceptions, gender biases, and barriers to entry.
The percentage of female roofers in the industry today is relatively similar to that of 10 years ago. Percentages increased noticeably from 2017 to 2018, taking a dip in 2019. There was a clear anomaly in 2020 as the pandemic hit, and women suddenly made up approximately 12% of the roofing workforce.
During 2020, industries with relatively small shares of women employees, such as the construction industry, experienced smaller job declines than other sectors. Specifically, within construction, 15% of male employees lost their jobs, while 11% of female employees faced job losses. This suggests a slightly lower rate of job loss among female employees compared to their male counterparts.
Despite the anomaly in 2020, the percentage of women in roofing has since reverted to levels similar to those in 2016, when women made up around 5% of the industry workforce.
When compared to some other male-dominated sectors, roofing is slightly ahead in terms of gender balance. Women hold only 3% of HVAC technician or plumber jobs, and only 4% of carpenter or electrician jobs. And when we take a closer look at different jobs within roofing, women are bucking the trends of gender norms. For example, 11% of roofing machine operators are women.
Challenges Women Face in the Roofing Industry
When you face challenges, use it to shape and mold you instead of letting it break you. Take the evening to sulk and eat cake, then remind yourself who you really are and get out there and change the world.
While the presence of women in the roofing industry is much needed, it is not without its challenges. The journey for female roofers involves mastering the physical demands of the job and breaking through cultural barriers, highlighting their resilience and determination in a field where they are significantly underrepresented.
Here are some remarks on these challenges from women in the industry.
Gender bias and stereotypes
In the construction industry, gender bias and stereotypes continue to present significant obstacles, especially for women wanting to break into leadership roles.
“There are a lot of old-school roofers who think women have no place running a roofing business,” says Sarah Ahrendt, CEO of Ardmor Construction. “One of my current sales reps previously would have said, ‘There is no shot in hell for a woman to make it as a construction company owner.’ I think at every turn you will have to work harder and know more to get where you want to go.“
These biases not only hinder individual careers, but also impact the overall diversity and growth of the construction industry. To overcome these challenges, it is important to promote an environment that values the talents of all employees, regardless of gender.
Finding supportive mentors
Having strong mentors makes a significant difference in overcoming many challenges. Guidance from experts can help build confidence, develop skills, and open doors to leadership opportunities. It’s important for companies to take proactive steps to foster a more inclusive industry.
“The two biggest challenges that I see are stereotypes and a shortage of female role models.” says Heather Estes, Senior Codes and Regulatory Compliance Specialist at GAF. “Oftentimes, roofing and women appear to be antonyms, and so we may not lean into learning about different parts of the business. Branching out and creating opportunities for growth throughout the industry will only help to strengthen everyone. Especially if we look to mentor new people and evolve with technology.”
Visible role models not only inspire and empower women, but they also provide tangible examples of success and breaking traditional gender stereotypes.
Opportunities for Women in Roofing
If you focus on gaining skills and knowledge and becoming the best version of yourself, you will be able to go further than you ever dreamed.
Ahrendt
Despite being underrepresented, the women already working in the roofing industry are breaking new ground and challenging traditional norms. Their presence within the industry is a crucial step toward diversity and inclusivity in the sector, paving the way for more women to see roofing as a viable and rewarding career option. But what are the realistic opportunities for women in roofing today?
“There are so many more opportunities in roofing besides [being an office manager]. My current sales manager is a female and crushing it,” Ahrendt says. “Anything that a woman wants to do, she can do — I have a family friend who frames and builds her own houses. There are no limits on which role a woman can fulfill.”
Estes agrees. “The opportunities are really endless in the roofing industry,” she says. “Take me, for example: I’m a chemist, and when I tell people what I do for a living, they often say, ‘Wow, I didn’t know that a roofing scientist/chemist existed.’ The roofing industry has all of the major components of any business: sales, marketing, IT, research and development, sustainability, human resources, all with the benefit of adding in a trade.”
Looking ahead, opportunities for women in roofing are set to grow as companies recognize the benefits of a more diverse workforce, and as more women take on key roles, breaking stereotypes and giving support to women entering the industry.
Success Story: Heidi J. Ellsworth
Heidi is one of the most respected professionals in the roofing industry, and in this interview, we dive into her personal journey and accomplishments.
Fixr.com: Were there specific factors or experiences that influenced your decision to enter the roofing field?
Heidi: I transitioned into the roofing industry from a nonprofit background. Growing up in a construction family, with my parents running a general contracting business and a concrete gunite truck, I was always surrounded by the trades. When an opportunity arose to join Malarkey Roofing Company as a marketing coordinator, I knew it was the perfect fit. I’ve always loved the construction industry, and roofing, in particular, stands out as the best part of it. Most people don’t necessarily plan on entering the roofing field, but once they do, they often stay for life — and I’m so grateful to have found my place in it.
Fixr.com: What is the most fulfilling part of your work, and what is the most challenging?
Heidi: The people are, without a doubt, the best part of my job. Working in the construction trades means collaborating with individuals who provide one of humanity’s most fundamental needs — shelter. Roofing plays a crucial role in protecting families and keeping them safe, and the industry itself is filled with hardworking, authentic professionals. I truly love being part of the roofing and exteriors community. The biggest challenge is elevating the professionalism and public perception of the industry. At RoofersCoffeeShop, our mission is to shine a light on the roofing trade and the incredible people within it. Gaining widespread recognition for the professionalism and expertise in this field can be difficult, but we remain committed to advocating for the industry every day.
Fixr.com: Can you share an accomplishment in your roofing career that you’re particularly proud of?
Heidi: The creation of RoofersCoffeeShop is the greatest achievement of my career. It has been the most exciting and rewarding endeavor I’ve ever undertaken. Another milestone I’m incredibly proud of is founding National Women in Roofing (NWIR). Recognizing the need for greater support and representation of women in the industry, I helped establish an organization dedicated to empowering women and promoting diversity in roofing. Witnessing the impact of NWIR, from fostering leadership opportunities to strengthening the industry as a whole, has been an amazing experience.
Fixr.com: Is there a need for more women in the roofing industry, and why?
Heidi: Absolutely! Since its launch in 2016, National Women in Roofing has not only brought visibility to women already working in the field but has also actively recruited more women into the industry. Roofing has traditionally been male-dominated, but increasing diversity has led to significant financial, political and social advancements. Today, we see more women-owned and women-led roofing companies than ever before, and this shift has greatly enhanced the industry’s professionalism and reputation. Encouraging more women to enter and lead in roofing helps drive innovation and elevate the field to new levels of success.
Support for Women in Roofing
According to Career Explorer, 18% of total people interested in becoming roofers are women. This statistic highlights a growing interest, but there is still work to be done to attract more talent in the field.
Estes explains: “As an industry, I think we need to provide more education and awareness to the successful career paths in roofing. It’s great to learn on the job, but I would love to see more people going to school with a goal of going into roofing. That change won’t happen until emerging leaders see the benefit of going into roofing.”
Here are some organizations actively supporting women in roofing. They offer a wide variety of programs like education, mentoring, community service, career advice and recruitment, networking, recognitions, and awards.
The Future of Women in Roofing
No matter what phase of life you are in, there are opportunities to learn something new and make a difference with something that people use every day: the roof over their head.
The roofing industry offers promising career opportunities, particularly for women looking to enter this field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industry is projected to grow over the next decade, creating about 13,600 openings for roofers each year, on average.
This growth is driven by factors such as the need for roof replacement and repair, advancements in roofing technology, and the ongoing development of new buildings. The expansion of the industry suggests a growing demand for skilled workers, creating opportunities for women to choose roofing as a viable and rewarding career path.
With a growing demand, plus more efforts toward diversity, mentorship, and career development, the industry is becoming more welcoming to everyone.
For those starting their roofing career, Estes advises: “Figure out what qualifications you need for a particular role, believe in yourself, and network with people.”