Weather Shield Florida Team Celebrates 2025 Wins
There’s nothing better than wrapping up a successful year with great food, big laughs, and the people who made it all possible. Earlier this year, our Weather Shield Roofing Systems Florida team gathered for a well-deserved company dinner to celebrate our 2025 wins—and more importantly, each other.
At Weather Shield, we believe strong teams build strong roofs (and even stronger company culture). So this dinner was more than a night out, it was a chance to pause, say thank you, and recognize the incredible individuals who keep our Florida operation running at full strength.
Why Did We Host This Dinner?
Simple put, we wanted to celebrate the heart of Weather Shield Roofing Systems: our people.
After a busy year of roof inspections, emergency roof repairs, Max Life Roof Care visits, and protecting countless commercial properties, it was time to switch out work boots for dress shoes and come together in appreciation. A great culture doesn’t just happen on job sites—it’s built through connection, recognition, and shared values.
And that’s exactly what this night was about.
Who Took Home the Top Honors?
We were thrilled to present two special awards to standout team members who went above and beyond in 2025.
🏆 The Hightower Award: Luke Gerald
The Hightower Award—our MVP award for office staff—was awarded to none other than Luke Gerald. If you’ve worked with our Florida office, chances are Luke’s name is familiar. His dedication, can-do attitude, and tireless support behind the scenes make everything run smoother for both our team and clients.
Luke shows up with purpose, supports the entire commercial roofing operation with grace under pressure, and sets a shining example of what it means to be dependable. Thank you, Luke, for all of your hard work!
🛠️ The Fred Lowery Award: Joshua Rugg
On the field side, Joshua Rugg earned the Fred Lowery Award, which goes to our MVP of the field crew. Josh has a way of lifting everyone around him. Whether he’s leading a crew during a major commercial roof repair or stepping in during tough Florida weather, his commitment never wavers.
It’s not just about getting the job done. It’s about doing it safely, doing it right, and doing it with pride. Josh does all three, every time.
🎖️ Honoring the Names Behind the Awards
This year, we also had the privilege of honoring the two men behind these award names. Frey Lowery and Conner Hightower were each given special medals in appreciation of their own long-standing contributions to our Florida team.
These two leaders have helped shape the spirit and standard of excellence that defines our culture. Their legacy continues to inspire, and we were proud to recognize their impact.
Why Culture Matters in Commercial Roofing
Let’s be real: roofing isn’t always easy work. It takes grit, skill, communication, and mutual trust to keep operations safe and efficient. That’s why we place such a high value on company culture at Weather Shield.
When people feel seen, supported, and appreciated, they show up at their best. And when they do, roofs get built better, leaks get fixed faster, and customers get the kind of reliable care they deserve. Whether it’s our office staff managing contracts or our field teams climbing ladders in the Florida sun, every role matters.
This dinner was a reminder of that. It was also a chance to laugh, share stories, and look forward to what’s next—together.
What’s Next for the Florida Team?
We’re not slowing down.
As we move further into the new year, we’re excited to continue growing our Florida team with the same spirit that brought us all together at that dinner table. More opportunities, more learning, and more celebrating our wins—both big and small.
And yes, we’re already thinking about next year’s awards. The bar has been set high!
A Team Worth Building With
At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we’ve been helping businesses protect their commercial roofing investments for over 40 years. But the real story isn’t just about roofs—it’s about people. The kind of people who care enough to climb a little higher, work a little harder, and treat each other like family.
If that sounds like a team you’d want on your next commercial roofing project—or even to be a part of—let’s talk.
Jeff Vander Hart
Jeff is an executive leader with over 25 years of experience in the building materials, construction, and commercial roofing industries. As Vice President of Operations at Weather Shield Roofing Systems™, he is known for strengthening culture, scaling branch performance, and developing high-performing teams. His career progression—from Project Manager to Director roles and now VP—reflects a track record of delivering results through people-focused, process-driven leadership.
