The Future of Roofing: Training the Next Generation

The roofing industry is changing fast and the companies that thrive will be the ones that adapt.

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin sits down with Melvyn Scofield, better known as Your Iowa Roofing Guy. From his years in manufacturing with IKO to educating with the Maintenance Academy, Melvyn has a no-nonsense approach to teaching property managers, roofers, and homeowners what it takes to build trust and prepare for the future of roofing.

We dig into why education is the ultimate differentiator, how technology and AI are shaping roofing, and what it takes to motivate the next generation to pick up the torch. If you want to future-proof your roofing company, or any construction business, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Key Takeaways

• [01:27] How the nickname Your Iowa Roofing Guy was born from one customer conversation.
• [03:27] Melvyn’s transition from manufacturing with IKO into roofing sales and contracting.
• [05:28] Why educating property managers builds long-term trust and better budgets.
• [07:22] How roofing cost guides help prevent customers from being misled.
• [09:58] The power of video education for both customers and training your own team.
• [11:51] Are young workers really “lazy,” or is it a generational misconception?
• [14:51] The role of robotics and AI in the future of roofing (and why they won’t replace humans).
• [19:18] Why too many contractors hope to hire “seasoned” workers instead of training new ones.
• [23:44] Finding that one motivated young worker and making them an example for the team.
• [27:16] Why parents, not schools, are the key to making the trades cool again.

Connect With Melvyn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melvynscofield/

Support Titans of the Trades:

If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.