FEI has been a key part of readying me for ownership in my company. The knowledge I've gained has challenged my thinking, processes and attitude. My entire company has greatly benefited from my participation in FEI.

Kellie Paasch

Independent Roofing Co., Omaha, Neb.

I am a better roofer, employee and business professional following this program. The learning opportunities provided by the FEI program has had immediate applicability, and I believe will continue to do so. Even better, the friendships and business connections with my counterparts in the industry have been spectacular. I walk away with increased knowledge, diverse experiences and solid friends.

Daniel Ritter

Academy Roofing Inc., Aurora, Colo.

FEI has helped to better shape our company culture, being more adapted and better prepared to address the needs of an ever-changing economy and workforce. With the assistance of the reputable Northwestern Kellogg School of Management, this education will equip you with additional tools to be a more successful and thoughtful leader. The relationships and networking friendships you make will last long into the future, renewing your perspective and optimism in our valuable roofing industry. FEI has singlehandedly been the most influential learning experience of my professional career. Leadership can be so much more satisfying when it moves a heart to trust you.

Mike Vodika

Damschroder Roofing Inc., Fremont, Ohio

FEI was definitely one of the highlights in my roofing career. I'd actually go so far to say it was life-changing. Instead of relying solely on my father and uncle for guidance, I now had the support of peers and colleagues from across the country to collaborate with. My father would say if you stop learning, you stop growing. That's what it's all about. If it's not too cliche? I'd also say I'm grateful for the opportunity to attend FEI.

Patrick E.B. Bollinger

Ames, IA

I wanted to take the opportunity to thank and congratulate all those at NCRA who have been instrumental in putting together the FEI program. I got a lot out of our last session in Chicago and am especially impressed with the professors/speakers you have been able to get committed to the program. It is rare to have access to such accomplished and insightful minds in such a focused setting. Although the dynamics are different in interacting with the other contractors in our class, I have gained a lot of knowledge from the people who have been selected for the program. Although it is impossible to control how much value each individual takes away from each session, NRCA has done an excellent job in providing us with the opportunity to make improvements to ourselves, our company, and our industry.

Marc Farrell

A.W. Farrell & Son Inc., Salisbury, N.C.

The FEI program has been a great experience. I was hesitant to join, but now I am disappointed it is coming to an end. I have learned a lot in the classroom that will benefit me personally and my company, but the best part has been the people I have met. I now can say I have a network of roofing contractor friends throughout the U.S. I am sure we will continue to learn from each other for years to come.

Will Gooding

Gooding Simpson & Mackes Inc., Ephrata, Pa.

FEI has opened my eyes to many areas of the business that I do not come in contact with on a daily basis. Also, the networking is great—it allows me to learn what other people in the industry are doing across the country. The professors are top-notch; the accommodations are great; and Chicago is an awesome city.

Michael Gaulin

Magco Inc., Jessup, Md., a Tecta America company

As the president of an existing company, I was not sure what to expect from a class titled 'Future Executives Institute.' I found out early on I had access to the guidance I needed to help me in my business not only with NRCA and professors at Kellogg but also with fellow classmates who may or may not have been experiencing similar issues. My experience with FEI has taught me I need to continue to learn the industry to the best of my ability, but there is no need to do it alone. I feel this course has had a positive influence on the way I interact with my employees, my customers and, ultimately, my family.

Jeffrey S. Engen

BAC Construction Services LLC, Minneapolis

The experience at FEI has been beneficial to me in a number of ways. First, the class provides time away from our day-to-day activities to allow room for thinking from a clear perspective. Second, there is structured training about topics relevant to our day-to-day work and our long-term strategic planning, both of which are essential for us to excel in our jobs. Third, FEI provides an invaluable opportunity to network with successful businesspeople who share common goals yet can provide unique insights and approaches to achieving these goals.

Mark Moran

Knickerbocker Roofing, Harvey, Ill.

FEI is a wonderful experience. It is a relief to hear everyone has the same challenges. Every year, I have left FEI excited and refreshed and ready to apply the things I learned. I only wish we could get together more often!

Calandria Palmer

Crown Roofing Services Inc., New Orleans

I've been able to share my thoughts and concerns and learn from others who are not in direct competition with our company, and though we all have varying degrees of experience, I know we all benefit and will leave better than we came. FEI has exposed me to several great leaders in our industry and increased my understanding about what you give and receive by being involved.

Chris Sprick

Sprick Roofing Co. Inc., Corvallis, Ore.

FEI has been a worthwhile and rewarding experience. The information is useful, and the friendships and insight are invaluable.

Brad Beldon

Beldon Roofing Co., San Antonio

I have found the FEI program to be beneficial for my personal growth as a business owner and administrator. One of the best aspects of the program is making good friends with people from other geographic regions and the free exchange of ideas with fellow contractors with many different backgrounds. It is definitely a good forum for expanding horizons within the industry.

Bob Bueche

Pioneer Roofing Co., Phoenix

I'm thrilled to be involved with the first two years of FEI. I only wish I had something like it available to me 25 years ago.

Jamie McAdam

F.J. Dahill Co. Inc., New Haven, Conn., and FEI facilitator