To address the construction industry's demand for 500,000 additional workers, the GAF Roofing Academy offers tuition-free, hands-on training specifically designed for transitioning service members. With approximately 200,000 veterans entering the civilian workforce annually, the program bridges the gap between labor shortages and the need for purpose-driven careers. Key Program Impact (Since 2020) - 400+ classes conducted nationwide. - 4,400+ individuals trained in residential, commercial, and solar roofing. - 2,500+ graduates placed into jobs. - 43% job placement rate for service members through the DoD SkillBridge partnership. Why Roofing for Veterans? The academy functions as a "roofing bootcamp," translating military discipline into technical skills. Veterans benefit from: - Economic Opportunity: Starting salaries average $40,000, exceeding many entry-level civilian roles. - No Cost: Training is free and does not require the use of GI Bill benefits. - Career Diversity: Curriculum covers technical installation (TPO, shingles), sales, insurance, and estimating. - Inclusivity: The program actively recruits from underserved groups, including women, minorities, and justice-involved individuals. Approved by the Department of Defense SkillBridge, GAF partners with organizations like Team Rubicon and the Army Career Skills Program to create a national pipeline of disciplined, job-ready talent for certified employers. https://www.gaf.com/en-us/blog/in-your-community
Creating Opportunities for Justice-Involved Individuals At GAF, we believe in the power of second chances. Through our innovative, tuition-free GAF Roofing Academy, we provide justice-involved individuals and those from underserved communities with meaningful, career-building opportunities in the roofing industry. Since 2020, the program has trained over 3,400 participants, placed more than 2,000 in jobs, and seen a 70% increase in justice-involved participants between 2023 and 2024. With 85% hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications, graduates are set up for success and connected with local employers. This initiative has changed lives—like John Harris, who turned his life around, achieved financial stability, and became a role model for his sons. Employers partnering with us benefit from a motivated, loyal workforce and access to hiring incentives like tax credits. Together, we’re building stronger communities and brighter futures. Learn more about the GAF Roofing Academy and the impact of second-chance hiring! https://www.gaf.com/en-us/blog/in-your-community/gaf-roofing-academy-offers-second-chances-and-helps-build-new-futures-281474980426156
GAF's co-op program provides students with hands-on experience in manufacturing, allowing them to gain autonomy and leadership in areas like project management, engineering design, and budgeting. Participants earn competitive wages, work alongside supportive mentors, and can often earn academic credit. The program, which lasts six months, differs from internships in its length and full-time nature, requiring participants to take a semester off. Success stories highlight the meaningful work students complete, such as designing equipment, managing compliance projects, and refurbishing manufacturing facilities. Co-op students also build professional relationships through mentorship and interactions with senior leadership. The program fosters diversity and inclusion by offering scholarships, partnering with organizations like the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, and recruiting from diverse institutions. Graduates of the program, like Min U., Michael Hesseltine, and Dante Stellar, have successfully launched careers in manufacturing, with some accepting full-time roles at GAF. GAF invites motivated individuals to explore leadership opportunities in manufacturing through its co-op, internship, and career programs.
GAF is proud to host the annual Latinos In Roofing Summit & Expo, a must-attend event for Latino roofing contractors and installers! Now in its third year, this summit provides vital networking, education, and training opportunities—all delivered in Spanish, ensuring that contractors can grow their businesses without language barriers. Held in Los Angeles on June 22, 2024, this year’s event drew hundreds of industry pros for valuable sessions on leadership, marketing, commercial roofing, and more. Attendees didn’t just gain knowledge—they built lasting connections, enjoyed pre-event networking, and even caught a Dodgers game together! From business insights to GAF certification programs, the summit offers tools and resources that are helping Latino contractors thrive. As one attendee said, “Knowledge is power, and this event gives us the tools to succeed.” Want to be part of a community that supports your growth in roofing? Join the GAF Latinos In Roofing initiative and explore the many resources available to you!
