Owner of Nailed It Roofing
Bonfield, Ontario, Canada
I would like to nominate my wife, Michelle as the Female Roofing Professional of the Year. Since first taking shop classes in high school, she has always enjoyed the hands-on work and looked forward to a career in the trades. After high school she found it difficult as a female to be hired in construction. So, she enrolled and became a graduate of Renovation Techniques Construction Carpentry Program at Canadore College in 2005 and was hired as a carpenter; framing houses and sheeting roofs. Learning more about the trades on site she quickly grew a passion for roofing. Michelle was determined to be hired by the roofing crew; she had to prove herself and was determined to break into the male dominated roofing trade.
Michelle was tiny but mighty and got her change at roofing! From that moment on she knew she had what it takes to be a successful roofer. Her dreams continued to grow and soon she determined it was time to break out on her own and start her own business. She began taking weekend business class to learn the ins and outs of owning a business at the same time raising our young family. In 2015 Nailed It Roofing was introduced to the industry and has been one of the top roofing companies in North Bay over the past 7 years. Nailed it Roofing was nominated for New Business of the year in 2015 & 2016 and Small Business of the Year in 2020 by the North Bay & District Chamber of Commerce and Michelle has been recognized individually, nominated for The Northern Ontario Business Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2018.
As a hands-on owner, she is present on the roof all day, removing and replacing shingles. It is not unusual to see her replying to emails late into the night after a long day roofing. Her hard work and dedication have shifted perspectives on roofers and women in trades. As a mother of three, she has found a balance between work and raising our 3 boys. With utmost respect I can say she is one of the hardest workers I know and is well deserving to be noticed for her efforts. Michelle’s commitment extends from her business to the community – giving back when and where she can. Nailed It Roofing has been involved with may community parades and events such as Canada Day and Christmas festivals. She is involved with the community and sponsors local sports teams yearly.
She is a proud mentor for young women at her local college. She speaks at events for women in trades hosted by Skills Ontario and encourages these young females to pursue a career in the trades. She is passionate that women belong and should be represented in all levels of construction. She has recently been appointed a member of the Construction Program Advisory Committee (PAC) at Canadore College for a three-year term. Here she will share her experience and expertise to help ensure that the curriculum is up to date and reflects the current reality in the workplace. I know she will do great things with this opportunity. Please considering placing your vote for Michelle as I believe she truly embodies all that the Female Roofing Professional of the Year should.