“Everything we do is community.”

By Jenny Yu.  

The RCAW Regional Trade Show brought together contractors, manufacturers and suppliers for a day of learning, engagement and collaboration. 

Despite snowy conditions outside the Muckleshoot Casino, energy remained high inside as roofing and construction professionals gathered for the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) Regional Trade Show that took place earlier this spring. 

For Emerson Pagel, branch manager at ABC Supply in Kent, Washington, and a first-year member of the RCAW Board of Directors, the event represented months of planning and collaboration aimed at delivering valuable education and networking opportunities for industry professionals. “It has just been an absolute blast,” Emerson expressed.  

The annual event featured a diverse lineup of educational sessions in both English and Spanish, along with dozens of exhibitors representing roofing, windows and other construction-related sectors. According to Emerson, organizing the event required extensive coordination among presenters, vendors and association volunteers. “Behind the scenes, it’s been a lot of work trying to track down members that are interested in presenting and teaching, tracking down our vendors for the show,” he said. “We have over 45 to 50 vendors here.” 

The effort paid off, as Emerson described attendees as responding positively to the variety of educational offerings, including certification opportunities, safety training, insurance supplementation and branding strategies. “I’m hearing a lot of very good things, a lot of great feedback about the show,” Emerson shared. “They love getting to have options to get certified in safety, learning about insurance supplementation, how to build a brand.” 

Beyond education, Emerson emphasized the importance of industry associations in creating opportunities for professional growth and meaningful connections. He encouraged contractors who have not yet joined an association to become involved and engage with their local industry community. “Everything we do is community,” he said. “The roofing industry specifically, and the construction along with it. We’re not here to change the world, but we’re here to change someone’s world.” 

Watch the full interview to hear more from Emerson about the RCAW Regional Trade Show, industry trends and the value of getting involved in roofing associations.