Focus

It's hard to believe it's 2008 already. NRCA had a busy 2007—much of which was spent preparing for what will take place this year.

A major undertaking of 2007 was completing the second volume in The NRCA Manual series, The NRCA Roofing Manual: Metal Panel and SPF Roof Systems—2008. If you paid your 2008 membership dues or join the association during 2008, you'll receive a free copy. More information about the manual can be found on page 22. This year, NRCA will focus on the manual's 2009 volume, which will address steep-slope roof systems.

Other new publications to watch for in 2008 include the results of an ergonomics best-practices report funded by The Roofing Industry Alliance for Progress; The NRCA Building Codes Manual, Third Edition; results of NRCA's annual market survey; and Roofing Contractors Equipment Cost Schedule.

And as most of you know, NRCA's 121st Annual Convention and the 2008 International Roofing Expo® will take place next month. The industry will gather in Las Vegas Feb. 19-23 for what is sure to be an excellent event. A preview of the convention is on page 32.

During the convention, NRCA will formally announce the formation of the Center for Environmental Innovation in Roofing. The center will focus on promoting the development and use of environmentally responsible, quality roof systems. NRCA will have more information about the center available at its trade show booth.

NRCA will continue to participate in industry and affiliate events and explore international opportunities throughout the year. For example, the association will exhibit at trade shows in Stuttgart, Germany, in March; Chennai, India, in April; Shanghai, China, in June; and Mexico City in October.

Also in 2008, NRCA will be unveiling more online educational courses. The first course, scheduled to be offered in the spring, will be an introductory roofing class. Other system-specific courses will follow later in the year.

NRCA also is finalizing its new strategic plan, which is based on research and brand analyses conducted throughout 2007. Elements of the plan are scheduled to launch in June to coincide with the beginning of NRCA's fiscal year. Professional Roofing will be covering all these developments and, as always, will keep you informed as the year continues.

Ambika Puniani Bailey is editor of Professional Roofing and NRCA's senior director of communications.