Established in 1965, the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington continues to bring the roofing industry together to increase success through advocacy, continuing education, professional collaboration, and consumer awareness. The RCAW is committed to expanding a diverse and inclusive membership that promotes credibility and camaraderie within the roofing industry.
To see where we are in the present and where we are going in the future, it is sometimes a good idea to look at the past. The RCAW has gone through many changes since its inception. The Late Eric Pettersen, a past RCAW President and Board Member, shared his memories of the RCAW in this article extracted from the 2002 RCAW newsletter and added to by various board members and Executive Directors.
It’s been over thirty-one years since I first started attending RCAW meetings. My, how things have changed! Monthly meetings were held in a restaurant where Bellevue Square now stands. It was truly a “good old boys” club, and I was the only kid.
It was a great group of people, proud and successful contractors in their own right – people like Pete Stanley, Merle Wright, Vic Otlans, Mel Bosnick, Walt Crow, Bud Yost, Rudy Baack, Leigh Haight, Oscar Puetz, Bill Spafford, Walt Smith, Jerry Kotson, Vince Pirak, Eddie Larson, Rich Bratland, Monty Moore, Bill Linklater, Pad Finnigan, Don Heldman just to name a few.
Diverse, interesting, friendly, and maybe only slightly opinionated? Yes. Did we have spirited discussions? Yes. Did we have fun and make good friends? Absolutely. What an opportunity it was to get to know most of the contractors in the commercial roofing market within a few months.
It was a completely different association those days. The by-laws restricted the contractor members to only those who were signatory to the Roofers Union Labor Agreements. The primary function of the association was to serve as a collective bargaining group for the labor negotiations and contract administration with the Seattle and Tacoma Locals of the Roofers Union. Further, most of the roofing work in this area, except single-family residences, was done by union roofers.
In the late seventies, the landscape began to change. Open shop construction began to emerge in all markets and the State and Federal Government had the increasing propensity to promulgate regulations that were to affect every aspect of our businesses. It is also clear that the roofing industry needed to improve its image in the community. The hard working and honest people with integrity were not credited with such character to the extent they deserved.
These emerging trends triggered a complete paradigm shift within the association in the late seventies and early eighties. The RCAW got completely out of the collective bargaining business and into lobbying, industry promotion, and membership services. The management, by-laws, and funding all had to be changed to reflect these shifts in focus.
Money was always a problem in the early years because the association was much smaller and depended on dues for financing. This changed dramatically with the advent of the “Industry Fund”. This source of funding was created to provide money for promotion of the industry, improving its image, and to have a presence in Olympia to represent our interests.
The industry fund was a unique vehicle for funding, whereby, the contractors “Taxed” themselves based on roofing labor hours as a part of the collective bargaining agreement with the roofers union. This worked well for a while, but some of the larger contractors provided a disproportionately large part of the funding for the association. The larger contractors were paying in many thousands of dollars per year (in 1970’s dollars) to this fund. This funding source became a big problem with the rapid emergence of open shop construction while the union contractors footed the bill for most of the promotional and lobbying efforts. It was clear after a while the association had to wean itself from this type of funding.
I dwell on this issue because of the significance the “Industry Fund” played in providing the “bridge” money to move the association forward to answering the challenges noted above. It provided a rapid financial momentum to hire a full time “Executive Director”, open an office and to begin the business of industry promotion and representing our interests in Olympia.
It is an important historical fact that these early contractors were not legally obligated to sign a labor agreement with an industry fund provision, but most did. We owe these contractors our gratitude for the considerable financial commitment in those years; for without it I believe the association would not have answered the new challenges of the changing landscape.
The early “Management” was limited to a part time position. “Executive Secretary” more closely described the job. There was no association office and the job consisted mostly of taking minutes and recording the finances. Some of you will remember the names of the people in this position as Bert Bryant, John Morell, and Jack Goodhue.
The first full time Executive Director was Meg Jacobsen, the first woman in any part of the association leadership. With her presence, the rough edges of the meetings began to disappear, and her efforts began the current tradition of putting a positive professional face on the association and moving forward with the new direction. Future Executive Directors included Mary Jacobsen, Lois Sadler, Betty Baxter, Mistie Chiddick, Patti Harmon, Sefton Oxford, Tracey Prociw and now Amanda Fields.
Throughout the history of the association suppliers, manufacturers, and industry professionals have been a part of the membership as non-voting associate members (note as of 2007, all RCAW members have voting rights). Their support has always been an important factor in the success of the association.
During the eighties there were major changes in the by-laws intended to help the RCAW grow. Positions were created on the board for one manufacturer representative and one distributor representative.
The most significant change came when contractor membership was opened to include non-union contractors. We also moved to include members from Eastern Washington. These bylaw changes were intended to expand the influence of the RCAW and to offset the loss of the industry fund financing. We also hoped to attract new talent to the Board of Directors with new energy and ideas.
The relationship that was forged with the Independent Business Association (IBA) and Gary Smith has been crucial to our reference in Olympia. No one contractor or group of contractors has the time or expertise to represent us as he does. IBA and Mr. Smith are a force to be reckoned with on the hill during session for roofing industry rights in our state.
As many things change, some things never do. The RCAW is still the best available forum for networking and keeping up to speed with the industry. And, our events throughout the year prove the RCAW is not always about work.
Now a days, the RCAW provides membership benefits that add to your bottom line. A membership with RCAW will enhance your reputation, create trust in the marketplace, help you tap into knowledge through webinars, educational classes and peer groups including legal, operations, marketing, sales and much more. Your membership in the RCAW will increase your purchasing power with our new membeR resourCe advantAge reWards program, including current member to member benefits, and change your life and business with events and information you never had access to before.
The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington is designed for all roofing industry businesses, residential and commercial alike, as well as associated businesses that want the best for their company, employees, and industry within the entire state of Washington. RCAW is here for YOU, but you get out what you put in just like anything else.
Get involved - network, learn and take your business to the next level.
Join today and be part of the change adding growth and innovation to the roofing industry in Washington.
Amanda Fields comes to RCAW with an extensive 26 years of nonprofit leadership experience. She spent 22+ years at the Building Industry Association of Washington, starting as the Receptionist and working her way to Education Director. Amanda also spent time at the Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs (WACOPS) before working at the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce where she helped coordinate free construction training in the PacMountain region and helped find construction industry employment at a living wage. She also partnered with Thurston County CTE Directors, and both manufacturing and construction professionals to help develop a unified manufacturing and construction curriculum for Thurston County high schoolers. She is also the current Chair of the Construction Program at New Market Skill Center who services all Thurston County and beyond schools.
Amanda has worked on the BIAW, WACOPS and Thurston Chamber Scholarship Programs as well as the was the administrator for the BuiltGreen® Washington Program. Amanda enjoys planning events such as: Olympia Brew Fest, Boss of the Year, Excellence in Remodeling Awards, SPIKE (Individual recruiters) Parties, Membership Parties/Events, Golf Tournaments, etc. She lives in Olympia with her husband Don, an ARMY Veteran, and roofing estimator. They have 2 children, a 22-year-old daughter, an amazing artist, married and working full-time as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Her son is 15 years old and is a remarkable programmer, video game development and loves baking, camping, and drawing. She is a new and proud Grandma, as of 2023, to an amazing little boy, Oliver. They also have 4 rescue animals, 2 dogs, Rudy Roo and Wally Boo and 1 cat, Bella.
She was born in Aberdeen, WA, lived in Raymond, WA for a few years before moving to Olympia. She has two sisters, Jenni (Oregon) and Sissy (Florida), and two brothers Shawn and Johnathan (Florida). Amanda was raised by her mother, Nita, an ARMY Veteran, and brain cancer survivor. She is very proud to have grown up within a multi-generational military family. Amanda enjoys laughing, gardening, using power tools, riding dirt bikes, traveling, camping, hiking, and picking blueberries at her family’s blueberry farm in Olympia.
A native of Stanwood, WA, Justin Shirley is a leader both in the community and the roofing industry. Graduating from Stanwood High, he led the Agricultural Mechanics Club and was Vice President of FFA. Justin began his career in agriculture at age 11 and shifted to roofing at 14. Known for his exceptional work ethic, he quickly advanced in the trades.
As the Senior VP of Operations at State Roofing, Justin is pivotal in driving the company's growth across Washington while upholding its values of craftsmanship and integrity. His insights are integral to the company's strategic direction.
Family is at the core of Justin's life. Married to Michelle for 24 years, they have four children and three grandchildren. Outside of work, Justin enjoys family activities, supports the Seattle Seahawks, and loves outdoor adventures with his son Dallas. He also serves on the board of the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) and the Stanwood/Camano Fair Board.
State Roofing
724 Columbia St NW, Ste 245
Olympia WA 98501
(360) 794-7164 Office
(253)-232-5905 Cell
Justin@stateroofing.com
stateroofing.com
DJ Esary was raised in the Pacific NW and is Co-Owner of Esary Roofing and Siding which was established in 1967 by his father Dave Esary. Based in Burlington, WA, Esary Roofing and Siding continues to be a family business through its current owners Brett and DJ Esary. DJ is a past president of the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington and has served on its board of directors for many terms. Aside from his years of roofing industry experience, DJ is a rabid Washington State Cougar fan and enjoys all things crimson and gray. Most importantly, aside from being a COUG fan, his time is spent enjoying all the time he can get with his wife and two young daughters and all the fun activities that they bring.
Esary Roofing and Siding - "Since 1967"
420 Pease Rd,
Burlington, WA 98233
(360) 757-0933 Cell
(800) 735-7183 Office
Born in raised in Lakewood, Wa.
Graduated from Bellarmine Prep. High School
Went to Gateway College in Phoenix, AZ.
Started in the Home Improvement industry in 2005 with Penguin Windows, after a successful 4.5yrs I moved on to CR BOGER Construction where I learned Roofing, Siding, Doors, and Gutters along with continued education for windows. I quickly became the VP of Sales and Trainer.
I was a part of many RCAW events during my time there. 2017 CR Boger shut their doors. I continued my career with DaBella and now the General Sales Manager and Corp Trainer for Tri-State Roofing. I’ve continued my career and education with RCAW events and GAF/Owens Corning/IKO.
I feel that I would be an excellent candidate for the RCAW as I love what we do and want to continue and strive to make the Roofing industry the best it can be.
TRISTATE ROOFING, INC.
1901 Center Street
Tacoma, WA 98409
(253) 363-8280
Christian has been working in roofing industry for the last 11 years. Since he was 22 years old, he installed residential and commercial roofing systems.
His wife, Pricilla, daughter, Victoria, Christian and their 3 dogs, reside in Lakewood. Christian and his family enjoy every day to the fullest and whenever they can. Christian enjoys hiking, fishing and camping. Christian also enjoys studying, reading and learning new things, always trying to improve to be a better person. One of Christian's passions in life, is to teach. Something he loves doing.
Lakewood Roofing LLC
Christian Flores
4200 108th St SW
Lakewood WA 98499
Gage Fishering was born and raised in southern California, before leaving to attend Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff AZ, where he earned a degree in Business Marketing from the W.A. Frankee College of Business. He then relocated to Dallas- Fort Worth TX, where he got his start in the roofing industry, as an inside sales representative for IB Roof Systems. After a year of inside sales Gage was promoted to the Business Development Manager for the entire PNW, where he has now been working for the past year. When he is not working, he enjoys spending time with this family, golfing, hiking, and attending sporting events.
IB Roof Systems
Gage Fishering
506 E. Dallas Road, Suite #300
Grapevine, TX 76051
(206) 710-4017
gage.fishering@ibroof.com
Allison Woslager is a seasoned professional with a remarkable 18-year track record in the home improvement industry, specializing in both traditional and digital marketing strategies. Her career has been marked by a relentless commitment to excellence and a passion for helping businesses thrive in their respective niches.
In a significant career milestone, Allison ventured into entrepreneurship in September 2022 when she founded her own marketing agency, Integrity PNW LLC. Driven by a deep-seated dream to empower businesses to grow and achieve greater success, she embarked on this new chapter with a clear vision and unwavering dedication.
Born in New Jersey and raised in the picturesque landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, Allison has a profound connection to the region. Tacoma, in particular, holds a special place in her heart as it serves as the backdrop to her life with her son, beloved dog, and two cherished kitties. Her personal and professional journey is a testament to her resilience, expertise, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the world of marketing and business growth.
Integrity PNW LLC
17621 35th Avenue East
Tacoma, WA 98446
(253) 740-9865
Donovan Gladstone is a Pacific NW native through and through. His passion for the roofing industry knows no bounds. Donovan is the Steep Slope Territory Manager for GAF Corporation - North America’s Largest Roofing Manufacturer. He has been with GAF for 26 years with his first 12 years covering Oregon and Idaho, and the last 14 years covering Western Washington and Alaska. He has served 8 years on the Board of Directors for the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington as the Membership Chair. You will also see his true NW spirit on display at his signature run annual event the RCAW Salmon Derby. Donovan represents GAF working with roofing contractors daily. He lives in the Gig Harbor with his wife Vanessa and their two daughters Grace and Paige. He is a family man, with a passion for the outdoors and in his free time, you will most likely catch him steelhead or salmon fishing one of the pristine rivers on the Olympic Peninsula.
GAF Corporation
Steep Slope TM - W. WA / AK
1 Campus Drive,
Parsippany, NJ 07054
253-229-9326
Jennifer Palmer is the CEO of Palmer Construction, a successful roofing company based in Spokane Valley. With a unique journey to success, Jennifer's story is one of resilience and determination. After managing shops for over 20 years, including John Deere in the middle of the oil boom, and now having her own shop, she is dedicated to upholding the outstanding reputation her father built over the last 38 years. Jennifer's life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with stage 3/4 breast cancer. This challenging period forced her to leave her job, but it ultimately became a blessing in disguise for Jennifer and her family of eight.
During her time of healing, Jennifer channeled her energy into her husband's construction company, leveraging her education and business acumen. Together, they transformed their family business into a remarkable enterprise, with Jennifer assuming the role of CEO. Under her leadership, Palmer Construction has earned a reputation for excellence in the roofing industry.
In 2022, Jennifer was nominated for and became the runner-up for Woman of the Year in the largest restoration network, a testament to her impact and influence in the industry. Additionally, she has been invited to speak at RISE 2023, sharing her inspiring story of going from rags to riches.
Jennifer's perspective as a woman in traditionally male-dominated industries such as tire and roofing has been instrumental in bringing innovation and driving growth. She has successfully tapped into new markets and built trust with a diverse clientele.
Jennifer Palmer's professional journey exemplifies the transformative power of determination, adaptability, and a commitment to making a difference.

Palmer Construction
16124 E. Marietta Ave. #102
Spokane, WA 99216
(509) 607-2487
Jennifer@Palmerconstructionwa.com
Travis Young was raised in the Gildersleeve floating logging camp in SE Alaska, with his family of 7 Rob and Suzanne Young and his 4 siblings. After graduating high school in Sitka, AK he went off to college to pursue a career in teaching and coaching. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Sacramento State University, then went back to Alaska where he obtained a master's degree in education. After several years of teaching in both northern California and Sitka, life changes and family circumstances brought him Washington where he could be closer to his wife's family, to be there for them at a time when they were in need. It was 2005 when he opened up his company specializing in painting and coatings. They have completed thousands of painting projects of all types and sizes. In 2014 and as a general contractor roofing installs became a focus for them and they have completed many roofing projects, including membrane/metal/coatings and of course a large amount of fantastic laminate shingle installs. Travis resides in Lake Tapps with his wonderful family including his amazing wife and daughter Jerilyn and Emerson. Their son Truman is a Jr. at Pacific University in Forrest Grove, OR.
TRAVIS YOUNG
PROJECT MGR./ESTIMATOR
PO BOX 7252
Bonney Lake, WA 98391
(253) 447-7036
Alvin began his career with Beacon in October 2006 and has worked in roles of increasing responsibility. He is currently Regional Vice President for Beacon’s Northwest Region. Prior to that, he worked in the supply chain for ten years, most recently in the Vice President of Supply Chain role.
Alvin holds an MBA from the University of California, Los Angeles and a B.S. in Mathematics from the University of California, Irvine. For his current role, he recently relocated to Seattle from Texas. In his spare time, Alvin likes to golf and enjoys running.
Alvin Cung
Vice President | Northwest Region
(714) 412-4239
Seattle, WA
I am an RCAW Board of Director because I know I have the skillset, and experience, to really help grow and continue to modernize the association.
I understand the industry well, and I am well versed in the technology that continues to shape and change the industry. In my current role at Eagleview, I speak with 100’s of roofing companies every week, including those here in Washington State.
I love what I do, and believe that if I were to be accepted, I absolutely will be an asset in furthering the already stellar reputation of the RCAW.
It is an honor to serve our industry in the great state of Washington.
TIM COSSETTE
tim.cossette@owenscorning.com
(855) 984-6590 Office
Term in Office | Name |
---|---|
2022-2024 | Justin Shirley |
2021 | Colin Madsen |
2020 | Casey Groves |
2018-2019 | Matt Swanson |
2017 | Colin Madsen |
2016 | Don Vose |
2014-2015 | John Holum |
2013 | DJ Esary |
2012 | Don Vose |
2010-2011 | Allen Merril |
2009 | Mike Jorve |
2008 | Don Vose |
2007 | Steve Grinaker |
Term | Name |
---|---|
2020 | Casey Groves |
2019 | Matt Swanson |
2018 | Matt Swanson |
2017 | Colin Madsen : Madsen Roofing Inc. |
2016 | Donald Vose : Legends Roofing Company Inc. |
2015 | John Holum : Tristate Roofing Inc. |
2014 | John Holum : Tristate Roofing Inc. |
2013 | DJ Esary : Esary Roofing & Siding |
2012 | Donald Vose : Legends Roofing Company Inc. |
2011 | Allen Merrill : Northwest Roof Service |
2010 | Allen Merrill : Northwest Roof Service |
2009 | Mike Jorve : Jorve Corporation |
2008 | Donald Vose : Legends Roofing Company Inc. |
2007 | Steve Grinaker : Western Roof Service |
2021 Board of Directors
Brought to you by the Roofers Coffee Shop and the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington, including Legends Roofing and Matrix Roofing. Listen in on discussions on trends in the industry and how we can continue sharing the positive sides of being in this business.
IBA is the largest broad-based small business organization based in Washington State. We currently help over 4,200 small business owners in Washington State, and we can help you and your small business. This is IBA's non-member website so you can check us out and see examples of how we can help you and your business. This is just a small sample of what is available for IBA Members. And, as an RCAW member you are a member automatically in the IBA
Membership in the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington has many benefits. We break our
membership down by certain categories to make it more affordable for every business type we
represent.
Our memberships run from January 1st – December 31st.
Our RCAW Membership benefits are growing daily, and all RCAW members receive three memberships in one!! When you join the RCAW you get a complimentary membership in the CleanTech Alliance which is up to a $2,700.00 additional value added, as well as membership benefits to the Independent Business Association of Washington and that coupled with all the other benefits in our membeR resourCe advantAge reWards program, our healthcare trust, as well as the education, legislative assistance, events, affiliations and so much more makes membership in the RCAW an astute financial decision for all roofing companies and affiliates in Washington State, the greater Pacific Northwest and beyond.
We are here to be your “Ladder to Success.”
Sponsor Level | Yearly Dues |
---|---|
Palladium | $10,000+ |
Platinum Sponsor | $5,000 |
Gold Sponsor | $3,500 |
Silver Sponsor | $2,500 |
Bronze Sponsor | $1500 |
To our many events which you can sponsor a part up to all of we have many choices to fix every budget.
Please CLICK HERE to download the Media & Sponsorship brochure below for more detailed Information on every sponsorship available and please call or email with any questions you may have. We are here to serve.
Sponsorships are subject to change. Please see event page for any updates which have happened recently.
Membership in the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington has many benefits. We break our membership down by certain categories to make it more affordable for every business type we represent.
Our memberships run from January 1st – December 31st. If you are interested in joining outside of the normal calendar year, please call us at 253-561-7229 so we can pro-rate your new membership. You can pay monthly (some fees apply) or annually. We have made flexible payment plans to fit every situation.
Please see our annual rates below. You can also download a month-to-month payment form as well. Remember if you are joining after March 31st, call for prorated membership through the end of the year.
Our RCAW Membership benefits are growing daily, and all RCAW members receive a dual membership in the CleanTech Alliance which is up to a $2,700.00 additional value added – that coupled with all the other benefits in our membeR resourCe advantAge reWards program, our healthcare trust, as well as the education, legislative assistance, events, affiliations and so much more makes membership in the RCAW a deal for all roofing companies and affiliates in Washington State and beyond.
We are here to be your “Ladder to Success.”
3815 100th Street S.W., Building 1, Suite B
Lakewood, WA 98499
3815 100th Street SW
Building 1, Suite B
Lakewood, WA 98499
All Rights Reserved | RCAW | Powered by Aletheia Digital