For Chuck Chapman, vice president of Central Roofing Company of Glendale, Ariz., a Tecta America Company, roofing wasn’t the career he envisioned while growing up.
“I went to school as a communications major - I wanted to be the next Wolfman Jack,” said Chapman, referring to the longtime radio disc jockey who was the king of the airwaves in the 50s and 60s. “When I realized that wasn’t going to happen, I reverted back to roofing, as that was my summer job while I was going to college.”
“I wear a lot of hats,” Chapman told Roofing Contractor magazine. “I develop, estimate and negotiate work. I project manage work. I train estimators in new roofing systems and estimating software. I work with on-site management to develop their skills as new managers.”
He may not be as famous as Wolfman Jack, but Chapman has become widely renowned in his role as president of the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA).
Aside from heading up the WSRCA, Chapman is also helping transform Central Roofing during tough economic times.
Chapman said the two key words that sum up the road to success in the roofing industry are “hard work.”
He had this advice for his fellow contractors: “Work hard and be the best that you can be. Get all the education and training that you can get. Go the extra mile with your customers. When you think you have done your best, go one step further. In this economy the opportunities are few and far between, so you have to make the most of every single chance that you have of obtaining business.”
Chuck Chapman tries to pass on the lessons he has learned along the way to his co-workers and association members. It’s his way of honoring those who helped him achieve success in the industry.
“I have had the luxury of being mentored in this business by a very wise man,” he said. “The most important thing is I was taught that this industry is all about people. If you start with that, then everything else falls into place. Treat people as you want to be treated. Simple.”