Focus

Two deadlines are nearing for important honors: The Roofing Industry Alliance for Progress' Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards and the SpecRight Excellence in Design Award. I strongly encourage you to consider participating.

The MVP Awards are particularly important to the roofing industry because they honor those who often aren't recognized for their hard work and dedication—roofing workers. Any field worker up to the level of superintendent can be nominated. Ten winners from various regions will be honored at NRCA's 121st Annual Convention in Las Vegas, Feb. 19-23, 2008, and one of the 10 will be named the best of the best in a special contest sponsored by Professional Roofing and OMG Inc., Agawam, Mass. More information and an official entry form are available at www.nrca.net/member/about/awards/mvp/default.aspx.

The SpecRight Excellence in Design Award recognizes those who design long-lasting, energy-efficient, environmentally friendly roof systems according to accepted industry practices. Architects, specifiers, roof consultants and roofing contractors who are responsible for the design of a nominated roof system are eligible to apply. To be eligible for the 2008 award, roof systems must have been designed and installed by Jan. 1, 2005. One winner will be selected and honored at NRCA's 121st Annual Convention and receive $2,500. More information and an entry form can be found at www.specright.net/about/design.aspx.

I know the summer was busy for you, and it probably was easy to let these awards slip your mind. But take a few moments now to think about your crews. Is there a roofing worker who you've been meaning to appreciate? The MVP Awards could provide that opportunity. And think about the projects you've completed recently. Can any of them be considered environmentally responsible and eligible for the SpecRight Excellence in Design Award?

The roofing industry is full of wonderful employees and exceptional roofing projects. It's time for you to share their stories and honor them.

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