IRE Recap
2023 International Roofing Expo in Dallas, Texas
by Marcus Dodson, publisher
The International Roofing Expo® (IRE) headed to Dallas, Texas for its annual show in early March 2023 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. Attendees got a first-hand look at the newest tools, technologies, and resources available to professionals in the roofing industry. The trade show was dynamic and exciting, with roofing contractors, superintendents, foremen, architects, designers, estimators, building owners, facility managers, specifiers, CEOs, and general managers exploring all of the new tools on display, making connections, and having fun.
At this year’s event, attendees explored booths that featured hundreds of manufacturers and suppliers on the trade show floor. There was an unbelievable amount of multi-dimensional products, services, and technologies available for attendees to learn about, from a variety of exhibiting companies. Interactive product demonstrations took place all over the trade show floor, and educational sessions were available to everyone that wished to learn more about the newest practices in the roofing industry. As usual, key suppliers were on exhibit and provided educational solutions for challenges that the roofing industry faces today.
Same as last year, the Metal Marketplace was a popular spot for attendees to gather and learn about the latest cutting-edge metal products, designs, building concepts, tools, and services from metal roofing manufacturers. The Business and Technology Pavilion showcased the latest products and services available that can help businesses run more efficiently, effectively, and safely. These included mobile, wireless, and web-based programs for insurance, finance, credit, estimating, labor, weather, and more. Lead generation tools, marketing services, and project software were popular topics at this trade show spot.
An exciting Exteriors Pavilion was host to the latest windows and siding products and services. There were several demonstrations of new innovations and practices for exterior replacement projects.
National Women in Roofing (NWIR) hosted its Sixth Annual NWIR Day ahead of the trade show. Professional, like-minded, good-spirited women from all facets of the roofing industry came together to experience insight, inspiration, and fun. Sessions covered topics including business development, communications, career development, recruitment, roofing technology advancements, hands-on product demonstrations, and networking. There was a light breakfast, lunch, snacks, and an evening activity for NWIR Day attendees.
First-time IRE attendees were invited to the First-Time Attendees Reception at the House of Blues in Dallas ahead of the show. NRCA staff, attendees, manufacturers, and IRE show organizers went over how to get the most out of your IRE experience. Immediately following the First-Time Attendees Reception was the Welcome Party. Guests enjoyed beer, wine, sodas, and hors d’oeuvres while listening to live music and dancing. The Welcome Party was an excellent opportunity to network with colleagues, meet up with old friends, and make new connections. While there, IRE attendees also got to experience the largest permanently displayed collection of Southern Vernacular Art. Shuttles were available for everyone, allowing it to be a truly fun and stress-free evening.
Chris Czarnik was the keynote speaker at this year’s IRE. As an author, coach, trainer, and subject matter expert on talent recruiting, engagement, and retention, Czarnik is uniquely equipped to talk about the roofing industry and its biggest challenges. He has created and refined an innovative process approach to job search and he provided a wonderfully engaging and insightful keynote address at this year’s show.
The local chapter of Rebuilding Together partnered once again with IRE to give back to a local community project for the 14th Annual Community Service Day Project. Volunteers from across the country gathered to donate time, labor, and supplies to help a community member with roof repairs.
It was another fantastic year for the must-attend roofing industry event. Attendees left Dallas with the tips, tricks, and tools needed to bring continued success to the roofing industry in 2023.
