Details

What is your position within your company?
I am a minority owner and project manager for Merit Contracting, Rochester, Minn. I oversee and manage all aspects of the roofing and sheet-metal departments.

What is the most unusual roofing project of which you have been a part?
We took on a challenging roof system replacement project for the Mayo Clinic in Rochester. We replaced the roof system on a multistory building adjoined to a helipad, and we were only given a 20-minute warning before the helicopter departed or returned. If you think you know what high winds are, try tearing off next to a helicopter.

What was your first roofing experience?
I helped my father install shingles on our garage when I was 8 years old. I don’t think the neighbors were impressed.

Why did you become involved in the roofing industry?
I always knew I wanted to be involved in the construction industry. After receiving a degree in construction management, I was offered a job with Merit Contracting. I have been with the company for 10 years, and I have been fortunate to work with some amazing colleagues and companies. I look forward to a successful career in the industry.

People would be surprised to know ...
As a kid, I was a huge fan of racing. I raced quarter midget racecars on a small asphalt track for many years.

What is your roofing industry involvement?
I currently am in my final year of NRCA University’s Future Executives Institute—Class 9. Merit Contracting is a member of the Midwest Roofing Contractors Association, NRCA and National Women in Roofing.

What do you consider a waste of time?
Excuses

What song are you listening to over and over?
I can’t think of any particular song, but I am sure it’s something my 4-year-old daughter is listening to.

What’s the most exciting/adventurous thing you’ve done?
My college roommates and I spent our spring breaks snowboarding in Montana. There was nothing better than boarding in the mountains with 12 inches of fresh powder.

What was your first job?
I worked for my father at his small gas engine shop. I have known how to take apart a lawnmower and put it back together since I was 10 years old.

What qualities do you most admire in a person?
Integrity and a strong work ethic

What three condiments always are in your fridge?
Ranch dressing, ketchup and barbeque sauce

What is your favorite stress reliever?
Although it creates stress from time to time, it has to be a round of golf.

My favorite part about working in the roofing industry is ...
The people—I have met amazing people during my 10 years in the industry, and many of them have become close friends.

What’s your favorite roofing material to work with? Why?
I like single-ply roof membranes. It is the most suitable and cost-effective product to sell to a customer that I can be confident to stand behind.

What do you consider your most rewarding experience?
Hands down, my most rewarding experience has been becoming a husband and father.