Liz Garza, Founder of She’s In Roofing

Every now and then, someone puts into words exactly what you have been feeling, dreaming, or building. This story, written by the Amazing Anna Anderson, Marketing Visionary | CEO, Art Unlimited | Past NWIR National Chair | Friend (my personal favorite title she holds)… captures the heart of She’s In Roofing in such a powerful way — I just had to share it with you all.

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“When you get to know me well, you will come to learn one thing: I truly believe that life is like a book, with different chapters and characters who come and go. Each one of us has our own stories to write, and although external elements sometimes take over sections of our life stories, we are the main characters and always have the ability to make defining life choices.

Throughout my career in the roofing industry, I have been faced with many amazing moments. One such moment I recently reflected on was after a week of traveling for speaking engagements. I was worn out from long hours of travel, preparation for speeches, trying to support my family from afar, and getting limited sleep at best.

Walking into the event hall that day, I was determined to give my best despite feeling weary. Oddly enough, I only knew a few people at this event, and many attendees were new to the roofing industry. Networking with contractors is a key priority for me, so I made my way from table to table, eager to hear their stories.

As I sat down at one table, I noticed a woman deeply engrossed in taking notes and processing thoughts from a prior session. She seemed excited to learn, yet the content was new and something she didn’t want to forget. I asked her to tell me her story, and it’s one that I believe many of us can relate to:

In 2020, she lost her job due to the pandemic. Her family relied on her income, but her career was suddenly toppled. Unsure of what to do next, she took on side jobs for a few years. She had heard about roofing but always thought it wasn’t a viable career option for her as a woman. Just weeks earlier, while pulling into a parking garage, a brightly wrapped roofing truck passed her. On it was a sticker that read “National Women In Roofing.” In that moment, she knew she had to find out more. Despite wearing heels, she chased after the truck. The roofer probably thought she was crazy, but she discovered that “Yes, women can do roofing!” A few weeks later, she started her own business, found mentors, began networking, and attended a private training event. Her excitement in sharing her journey with me was palpable. It was humbling to share the many resources available to me through my roles within NWIR, RT3, and other manufacturing sources.

Each time I pause and reflect on stories like this and my path within the roofing industry, I realize how blessed I am. There have been amazing highs and lows: times when I’ve sacrificed sleep due to tight deadlines and extensive travel, and moments when I’ve quietly wondered if life could get any more challenging. Through it all, I’ve learned that life evolves, ebbs, and flows, and I have the opportunity to navigate these moments with grace. To lean in, look up, and flow seamlessly through all these chapters is where I truly rely on God to guide me.”

Words by Anna Anderson | Shared with love by She’s In Roofing

Thank you, Anna, for seeing us, hearing us, and always lifting us up. You are truly a heavy lifter and the roofing industry is lucky to have you.

#SHESINROOFING #ARTUNLIMITED #NWIR #WomenSupportingWomen #WOMENINROOFING