Bergen County’s Roofing Renaissance: How 2024’s Training Programs Are Building Tomorrow’s Skilled Workforce
The roofing industry in Bergen County, New Jersey, is experiencing a remarkable transformation in 2024, driven by innovative apprenticeship programs that are creating unprecedented opportunities for skilled workers. With Fall 2024 Apprenticeship Schedule programs now underway, apprenticeship is learning a skilled trade through on-the-job training and related technical classes, providing a pathway for local residents to enter a rewarding career field while addressing the critical skilled worker shortage facing the construction industry.
The Foundation of Success: Bergen County’s Training Infrastructure
Bergen County has established itself as a leader in apprenticeship education through its comprehensive training programs. Students are required to take a minimum of 144 hours of classroom instruction per year. Classes provide theoretical knowledge, creating a solid foundation for practical application. The county’s commitment extends beyond basic training, with programs such as electrician, plumber and HVAC technician offer licensure opportunities. Students typically enroll in a license prep class after completion of the apprenticeship program and all requirements related to licensure.
The success of these programs is evident in the support structure provided. Dr. James M. Karpowich, Bergen County Coordinator 201-343-6000, ext. 4603E-mail: [email protected] · Kimberly Amaral, Assistant Administrator 201-343-6000, ext. 2289 E-mail: [email protected] oversee comprehensive enrollment procedures that ensure students receive personalized guidance throughout their training journey.
Statewide Investment in Apprenticeship Excellence
New Jersey’s commitment to building a skilled workforce has reached new heights in 2024. Since Governor Murphy took office in January 2018, the state has invested more than $50 million in developing apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and work-based programs, contributing to the creation of 632 new Registered Apprenticeship programs – a 100 percent increase – and the onboarding of 16,891 new apprentices. The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) today announced the investment of $10 million to expand apprenticeship training centers to meet the growing need for skilled workers.
This substantial investment reflects the state’s recognition that apprenticeship is a pathway to highly skilled, well-paid technical careers. And, it often includes the opportunity to earn college credits – or even a degree – paid for by employer sponsors. The results speak for themselves: among those who complete an apprenticeship, 94% remain employed · Average salary for those completing an apprenticeship is $70,000.
Real Success Stories from the Field
The impact of these programs extends far beyond statistics. Success stories from across the roofing industry demonstrate the transformative power of apprenticeship training. Francisco Orozco, an apprentice from ChicagoIL., achieved a remarkable feat by winning the National Apprentice Competition twice consecutively. In 2024, he secured first place in this inaugural national event, and in 2025, he repeated his success, showcasing the caliber of talent these programs develop.
Similarly, apprenticeship programs are breaking down traditional barriers. Gabriella chose roofing because she’s a big fan of heights, but admits she didn’t know what she was getting into as there’s a misconception that women shouldn’t work in construction. But now, an apprentice roofer at Dalton Roofing, she recommends it to everybody and encourages other women thinking about a career in roofing to “go for it”.
Economic Impact and Career Prospects
The financial benefits of roofing apprenticeships are compelling for both individuals and the broader economy. Once you have completed your apprenticeship, which can take up to 2-years, you can begin earning around £17,000 a year as a newly trained operative. Once you gain experience and reach senior level, or become a roofing master, this can go up to as much as £65,000. In the United States, roofers make a median of $50,030, or about $2.0 million over the same period. Skilled trades also provide on-the-job training and apprenticeships that help avoid student loan debt.
The industry is experiencing a generational shift that benefits apprentices. Data from 2024 shows that workers aged 18 to 25, the oldest members of Gen Z, account for nearly a quarter of all new hires in skilled-trade industries. A nationwide survey by Intuit Credit Karma revealed that 38% of Gen Z adults are now employed in the trades.
Local Excellence: A Russo Roofing’s Commitment to Quality
Companies like A Russo & Son Roofing exemplify the values that make apprenticeship programs successful. Serving New Jersey’s Monmouth and Bergen Counties, A Russo & Son Roofing Siding & Gutters specializes in roofing, siding, windows, and gutters. 24/7 emergency services. 30-year labor warranty. Their commitment to excellence is evident in their approach: Our long-standing presence in the community, coupled with our commitment to quality and customer service, makes us the ideal choice for your roofing needs.
For homeowners seeking quality roofing bergen county nj services, companies like A Russo represent the kind of expertise that apprenticeship programs are designed to cultivate. We’re your neighbors, based right here in Monmouth County, serving Brielle families for over 40 years, demonstrating the long-term community investment that characterizes successful roofing businesses.
Building Tomorrow’s Workforce Today
The success of Bergen County’s roofing apprenticeship programs reflects a broader understanding that in the roofing sector, apprenticeships are playing a key role in futureproofing businesses and ensuring skills are passed on to new generations. With the industry shaped by traditional skills, alongside new techniques and technologies, apprenticeships are crucial to its long-term success.
As we look toward the future, as the skills gap in the industry continues to grow, employers are keen to introduce passionate and hardworking people to their teams, combining on the job training with apprenticeship-based learning. In reality, this sees apprentice roofers working with – and learning from – experienced members of the trade, gradually developing the skills that will define the highly skilled workforce of the future.
Bergen County’s 2024 apprenticeship programs represent more than job training—they’re building careers, strengthening communities, and ensuring that the roofing industry continues to thrive with skilled professionals who understand both traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques. For young people seeking meaningful career paths and for homeowners who need reliable roofing services, these programs are creating a win-win situation that benefits the entire region.