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Trades turn into careers at Transcona Roofing

Derek Young didn’t always see roofing as a career. When he joined Transcona Roofing Ltd. in 2015, it was simply a way to support his family. He had already been in roofing for years, but “I was still wondering, what should I do with my life?”

That changed as the company began to recognize his technical ability and leadership potential, first promoting him to production foreman in 2018 and two years later moving him into the service department. There, Young discovered he had a real talent for connecting with customers, problem-solving and building relationships.

“I care so much about my career and what I do,” says Young, currently service foreman. “It’s grown a lot faster than I expected. I’m helping people understand about roofing and where their money is going. It’s about proper customer service which is a really good fit for me.”

Headquartered in Winnipeg, Transcona Roofing is a full-service roofing and waterproofing contractor for the installation, repair and maintenance of industrial, commercial and institutional buildings.

“You could start as an hourly labourer, and within four or five years, become a foreman, and continue moving up like Derek,” says president Rich Marchetti. “There’s no prior trade experience required. You just have to come to us with a good work ethic and a matching value set.”

The company backs that up with a comprehensive internal training program, coupled with the Winnipeg Construction Association’s education programs and Red Seal apprenticeship training through Apprenticeship Manitoba.

“Before we train people on technical, we talk about what they’re good at first,” Marchetti explains. “So, employees become self-aware of their strengths and also their weaknesses. Customizing career paths based on strengths is huge.”

While at Transcona, Young completed the Building Supervisors for Tomorrow certificate offered by the Winnipeg Construction Association, as well as additional programs. He is currently working toward his Red Seal certification.

“Small goals became big goals,” Young says. “Going back to school was a whole new eye opener — so much learning. Over time, you’ll definitely succeed, as long as you keep pushing.”

“We’ll give people as much training as they can take and as much responsibility as they can take,” says Marchetti. “Derek’s growth reflects what we believe: that a trade is not just a job, it’s a pathway to a meaningful career and leadership. When people demonstrate strong values, take ownership of their development, and are supported with training and opportunity, they can build long-term futures that extend well beyond their starting role.”

Young credits Transcona Roofing with seeing his potential before he fully did himself, as well as for a culture that values open communication and continuous improvement.

“Everyone has a voice,” says Young. “It’s an environment where employees are seen as individuals, not just numbers, and are placed in roles that fit their strengths. You can have 20 different people who are good at 20 different things, but it’s about putting them in the right position, at the right spot, to make them succeed.”

Mentorship has also been key, says Young — not only from Marchetti but also by the experienced foremen who serve as role models. Now, Young is a mentor and example for others, including for his own son who also works for the company and for the labourers who often call him for advice.

Marchetti says Young’s career journey is one example of how investing in people creates better leaders, stronger teams and better outcomes for the customers.

“My general manager is an engineer that we put through for his MBA,” says Marchetti. “It’s how we build more than roofs — we build careers.”