Episode
32
September 23, 2025

Why Roofing Contractors Can’t Afford to Ignore Change: Lessons from the Western States Roofing Expo

If you think roofing is just another trade, think again. The industry is evolving faster than ever—driven by technology, labor shortages, and new ways to compete. In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, Jennifer Bagley sits down with Joel Viera, powerhouse leader from the Western States Roofing Contractors Association, to dive into the future of roofing and how the right connections and tech can set you up to win.

Joel pulls back the curtain on the Western Roofing Expo, one of the biggest, boldest regional events in the industry, and shares how roofers are adapting (and thriving) in the face of big shifts: AI, language barriers, workforce challenges, and rapid-fire innovation.

Why Listen to This Episode

Joel has spent 25+ years at the center of roofing’s transformation. This conversation is a playbook for contractors and industry professionals who want to stay relevant, profitable, and ready for whatever comes next. Whether you’re a roofer, a trades entrepreneur, or considering adding roofing to your business, this episode shows you what’s working, what’s changing, and what you can do to get ahead.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

  1. The Power of Regional Industry Events
    Discover why the Western Roofing Expo in Las Vegas is a must-attend for anyone serious about roofing—packed with 36 seminars, hands-on competitions, and powerful networking that’s far from “sterile.”
  2. Why Technology and AI Is a Game Changer
    From AI-powered websites that speak your customer’s language to on-site translation glasses, Joel and Jennifer break down real-world examples of how tech is reshaping customer service, marketing, and team management in roofing.
  3. Growing Through Education & Diversity
    Hear how the Expo is making education accessible with a full slate of Spanish-language seminars, plus how AI and localization are opening doors for multi-lingual teams and clients.
  4. Solving the Labor Shortage (For Real)
    Joel explains why labor is roofing’s biggest ongoing challenge, what’s new with skills programs, and how the next generation is pushing family businesses to adapt faster.
  5. How Collaboration Creates Opportunity
    Learn why joining regional, state, or national associations (and not trying to go it alone) is a contractor’s secret weapon for resources, advocacy, and continuous improvement.
  6. The Truth About AI Adoption in Roofing
    Wondering if contractors are embracing AI or keeping it at arm’s length? Joel shares honest insights about the pressures and generational dynamics shaping adoption in blue-collar businesses.
  7. The Business Case for Adding Roofing
    Thinking of expanding your trade lines? Joel shares why roofing is about as recession-proof as it gets, with year-round demand and deep opportunities for those who invest in education and quality.

What This Means for You

The roof over your head is more than a necessity; it’s a high-demand business with endless potential. But to lead, you need to learn, collaborate, and embrace the tools that are shaping tomorrow. This episode is your inside look at both the challenges and the huge wins waiting for forward-thinking contractors.

Whether you’re ready to level up your knowledge, build a stronger network, or unlock the power of AI in your business, you’ll leave with concrete ideas to protect your profit and push your company forward.

🎧 Listen now and hear from someone at the heart of the industry transformation, so you can act before your competition catches up.

Meet Your Hosts

Jennifer Bagley
Jennifer Bagley is the CEO and founder of CI Web Group, an AI-enabled marketing agency helping home service businesses achieve exceptional growth. With over 15 years of experience, she has led companies to significantly increase their leads and revenue through innovative strategies and emerging technologies. Her 12 Step Roadmap to Accelerated Results is a trusted framework for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies looking to expand their markets and achieve lasting success.

Chuck Staszkiewicz
Chuck is an accomplished entrepreneur and growth strategist, renowned for scaling All Hours Plumbing into a $20 million industry leader before its successful sale in 2023. A co-founder of The Opus & Golds Group, he helps companies grow through innovative strategies and operational excellence. Through his work, Chuck continues to inspire entrepreneurs to achieve their highest potential.

Don’t Fall Behind. Subscribe Now.

The trades industry is moving fast. If you’re not learning, you’re losing. Catalyst for the Trades gives you real strategies from real experts. No fluff, just what’s working.

🎧 Subscribe on your favorite podcast app to get the insights you need to stay ahead, grow smarter, and win more business.

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