💫 She’s In Roofing: Featuring Teri Dorn 💫
Because when passion meets purpose, advocacy becomes action.
This week, we are thrilled to spotlight a woman whose work may often take place behind the scenes—but whose impact is anything but quiet.
Meet Teri Dorn, the Director of Political Affairs at NRCA. With a background spanning over a decade on Capitol Hill, working alongside legislators (including former NRCA CEO Reid Ribble), and deep experience in the intersection of federal policy and private industry, Teri has brought her talent and heart to the roofing world for over seven years.
From her role in government affairs to her unwavering commitment to NRCA members and the industry at large, Teri’s passion is rooted in people. Whether it’s advocating for mental health, raising crucial funds through ROOFPAC, or standing shoulder to shoulder with 260 advocates on the steps of Capitol Hill—Teri is all in.
We had the opportunity to ask Teri a few questions about her journey and what continues to inspire her work every single day. Here’s what she shared with us:
💬 Interview with Teri Dorn
Meet Teri Dorn
1️⃣ What inspired you to pursue a career in roofing, and what keeps you passionate about it every day?
Like so many people I’ve met in the roofing industry, I too, fell into it, and it hasn’t let go. I had a glimpse into the industry during the 6 years I worked as a staffer for former NRCA CEO Reid Ribble when he represented the people of the 8th district of Wisconsin in Congress. And when I learned of an opportunity to join NRCA’s government affairs team in Washington, D.C. not long after Reid retired from Congress, I jumped at the chance. I’ve been so inspired by the people in the roofing industry – in so many ways: the kindness, collaborative nature and philanthropy– and it’s the passion and heart of the industry that fuels my work on their behalf.
2️⃣ How do you bring heart and purpose into the work you do?
As part of NRCA’s team, I get to work with our members, all with the goal of advancing the policy priorities of the industry – and that is what drives me. My favorite part of my day is when my work allows me to talk with our NRCA members and reach out to the industry. It’s the personal connection, getting to know the people we work with, that feels like family. Our members remain front of mind as my colleagues and I work to advance the policy priorities of the industry – and that keeps me going.
3️⃣ What’s a moment in your career that reminded you why you love what you do?
I can’t choose just one, it’s every time we all come together to further the industry. I get to work with all facets of the industry as they support the industry’s advocacy, and one way is through ROOFPAC – the only political action committee dedicated to supporting the roofing industry in Congress. This is where the generosity of our contractors, manufacturers, distributors, consultants, and more help underwrite our fundraising events and advocacy activities – both on the corporate level and so many personally. It was during this past IRE in San Antonio, I looked across the room at the Smoke Skybar – where in partnership with NWIR, we held a live auction and reception to raise money for ROOFPAC and just felt the support – it was palpable. So many in the industry came together and helped raise crucial funds we will use to support pro-business members in Congress – this catapults our work on what the industry needs. And then another – just a few weeks ago, standing in front of the U.S. Capitol as my colleague snapped the photo of 260 advocates from across the industry who took the time to come to Roofing Day in D.C. – the largest advocacy event for the roofing industry – to speak with ‘one voice’ to Capitol Hill. I get to see firsthand the generosity of our sponsors – we had more this year than ever – as they support and help put on these events. It just doesn’t get more rewarding than to be with everyone there. I’ve been especially touched by how our industry has united to address the importance of mental health.
4️⃣ What advice would you give to other women looking to find joy and fulfillment in their careers?
I can tell you what I have found works for me. I find joy and fulfillment in taking time to appreciate and count my blessings. And people are the ultimate blessings. Underneath it all – in whatever work I’m doing – is that feeling of wanting to serve, help where I can, make my little corner of the world a little bit better than I found it. I know it can be easy to get a little disillusioned – and life can be tough – I think it’s harder to stay steadfast in what you are fighting for.
5️⃣ How has embracing your passion and purpose empowered you to uplift others in the industry?
I’ve been and continue to be incredibly inspired by the people in the roofing industry – their kindness, collaborative nature and philanthropy – and it’s the passion and heart of the industry that fuels my work on their behalf. I had a chance to tour a manufacturing facility recently and was struck by the pride, dedication and passion of the people I met there. I consider myself lucky that I get to work through NRCA with people who are so dedicated and passionate. This industry has given me so much, and it all ties directly to the people. My comfort zone is being in the background, working behind the scenes but I’ve come to appreciate how learning more about others has helped me grow and lifted me up. We all need to see our worth, and I find I speak more confidently when I think that there may be something in what I’m saying that helps someone else see their worth. I know that I’ve been incredibly blessed with the people in my life, and if I can spread just a little of that feeling around, I’m better for it.
🌟 Closing Thoughts
Teri Dorn reminds us that passion doesn’t always need a spotlight—it just needs purpose. Her dedication to advocacy, her genuine care for the people of this industry, and her ability to lead with quiet strength are exactly why she’s a force behind the scenes… and a light for others.
From ROOFPAC to Roofing Day to everyday conversations with members, Teri brings heart, intention, and impact into every step she takes.
