The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) is pleased to announce that its ongoing skills demonstrations across Scotland are gaining significant publicity and attracting further support from Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs).

Following successful events, such as a recent one at STEM-Helix that featured popular single ply and roof slating workshops for young people, several MSPs have voiced their support for the NFRC's efforts in promoting careers within the roofing sector.

Among those offering support, Gordon MacDonald MSP mentioned the new national 5 course introduced at Wester Hailes High School, which is supported by NFRC Member, Compass Roofing. He also referenced the Scottish Traditional Building Forum event he co-sponsored with MSP Alex Rowley, where NFRC held another skills demonstration.

Fulton MacGregor MSP highlighted his visit to Coatbridge High School, where NFRC delivered a roof slating demonstration with the assistance of Lewis Miller, Company Director of Compass Roofing. Speaking of his visit, Fulton commented: "One of the most encouraging aspects of my visit to Coatbridge high was seeing that attitudes towards what might once have been thought of as a male-dominated industry have now changed significantly, with plenty of boys and girls registering their interest in getting involved. I was really struck by the fact that so many girls wanted to be involved."

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MSP Carol Mochan, who has frequently attended NFRC skills demonstrations and site visits, also referenced her visit to the Scottish Traditional Building Forum event held in the Parliament grounds, where NFRC offered roof slating demonstrations. Carol further highlighted the important issue of local apprenticeship opportunities, a matter raised to her by Kellie-Ann Lees of NFRC Members DM Roofing and Roughcasting during a site visit and which has continued to be discussed in the Scottish Parliament.

Building on this momentum, Carol Mochan MSP is set to host the NFRC’s Parliamentary Reception, titled "A Blueprint for Scotland's Emerging Construction Talent," on Monday, June 3, 2025, in the Garden Lobby of the Scottish Parliament.

Scott Miller, Managing Director of Compass Roofing Ltd and NFRC Scotland Chair and Board member, expressed the organisation's commitment: "We have absolutely no plans to slow down our commitment to raising the profile of careers in roofing, and every acknowledgement fuels our ambition. Our members across the region and further afield understand the importance of providing young people an insight into roofing careers and opportunities, and on behalf of NFRC, I extend my gratitude to Gordon, Fulton, and Carol for voicing their support."

The growing cross-party support underscores the recognised importance of promoting traditional and modern roofing skills to the next generation and addressing industry workforce needs.