Meta Team works with Clemson University providing opportunities for next generation of roofers

Thanks to the Roofing Alliance (the Foundation of National Roofing Contractors Association), Dr. Dhaval Gajjar (an Assistant Professor at Clemson University) and roofing professionals across the United States, Clemson students now have the unique opportunity to participate in a course focused on the roofing industry.

The Principles of Roofing from Design to Installation and Beyond course, developed and led by Clemson’s Dr. Gajjar, is “a descriptive study of roof construction, focusing on the nomenclature, building materials, estimating, safety, technology and the assembly of different roofing systems.” It is the first known university class to specifically concentrate on the many aspects and entities involved in the roofing industry.

Dr. Gajjar’s inspiration for creating this first-of-its-kind course began during his graduate studies and continued with his extensive work in the construction industry as a general contractor and project manager. “One thing I learned was that roofing is such a critical component of any building,” stated Dr. Gajjar. “The highest percentage of problems in the construction industry are with the roof system. More attention needed to be paid to this part of construction.”

Working to provide a solution, Dr. Gajjar partnered with the Roofing Alliance as a source to engage with industry professionals. Nearly one and a half years of research and development resulted in over 160 completed surveys, 137 industry partnerships, and creation of a designated task force, all leading to curriculum content for the course.

With a strong belief in providing substantive opportunities for the next generation, founding members of Meta Team have played an active role in Dr. Gajjar’s work. Candace Klein and Kelly Van Winkle serve on the Clemson Curriculum Development Task Force, while Sherri Miles coordinated valuable product donations for use in the classroom. All three have facilitated guest lecturers and provided course-specific presentations, offering real-world industry support to the learning environment.

“This is an industry-led class that has resulted in true collaboration,” offered Dr. Gajjar. “The roofing industry is so diverse, not one person can be an expert in everything. The support from the various roofing professionals has had way more impact than just a faculty member teaching the content.”

With twenty-one students enrolled in Clemson’s first roofing class, future learning opportunities are certain. Principles of Roofing has also become part of the university’s permanent curriculum. Two other courses for the creation of a roofing certificate program are under review by the Roofing Alliance.

Another goal for Roofing Alliance and Dr. Gajjar is to move beyond the Clemson campus to deliver this program to other educational institutions, further expanding learning opportunities for the next generation of roofing professionals.

More information regarding the partnership between the Roofing Alliance and Clemson University can be found here.