Focus

In 2008, NRCA University launched its Roofing 101 online educational program. NRCA University created Roofing 101, its first comprehensive online educational offering, in response to research showing roofing professionals desire online learning opportunities, as well as programs geared toward their employees and clients.

Roofing 101 consists of self-paced learning modules that require about one hour each to complete. The program teaches roofing fundamentals and is meant for audiences such as new employees, customers, facility managers, building owners and design professionals. The five modules focus on roof system design, installation and maintenance, as well as safety, building code compliance, and energy efficiency for low- and steep-slope roof systems. Participants earn certificates of completion for each module, as well as for completing all five modules and passing an exam. Continuing education credits also are available.

Because the fundamentals of roofing are paramount to advancing professionalism in the industry, NRCA's leadership is providing roofing professionals the opportunity to sample Roofing 101. So beginning this month, all registered users on NRCA's Web site, www.nrca.net, will be given the opportunity to take, free of charge, Roofing 101's Module 1: The Basics. NRCA has received positive feedback regarding this module from roofing professionals who have asked employees to complete the program or purchased the program for clients and prospects.

Module 1: The Basics discusses the roles and responsibilities of key roofing industry stakeholders and introduces the concepts of roof slope and drainage, roof assembly components and the many types of low- and steep-slope roof systems available. The module typically is $35 for NRCA members and $55 for nonmembers.

Registered users will receive an e-mail detailing how to take advantage of this free learning opportunity. The promotion also will extend to new users who register on NRCA's site after May 1. Registration is free.

If you haven't done so already, I encourage you to take advantage of the Roofing 101 offer and discover how e-learning can help your business. More information is available at www.nrca.net.

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