Bridgette Tena, a 51-year-old roofer from Santa Fe, New Mexico, has carved out an impressive career in a male-dominated industry.
With a combined income of over $70,000 annually, she’s proving that fulfilling, high-paying jobs don’t always require a degree. Roofing, one of the fastest-growing fields in the U.S., is not just a job for Tena—it’s a passion.
Tena began roofing as a side hustle four years ago while working as a real estate broker. Intrigued by the construction side of the housing market, she decided to pursue a general contractor license during the pandemic.
This leap of faith led to the launch of her business, B. Barela Construction, in February 2021. Today, her company is on track to generate more than $200,000 in revenue this year, demonstrating the immense potential in this underrated career path.
While roofing is rewarding, it comes with significant risks. The occupation has one of the highest fatal injury rates in the U.S., according to the Department of Labor. Yet, Tena embraces the challenges, describing her job as both fulfilling and empowering.
She finds joy in climbing ladders, working at heights of up to 30 feet, and tackling complex projects alongside her team of full-time employees and contractors. Many of her team members are women, a reflection of her commitment to creating an inclusive environment in construction.
Tena’s journey wasn’t without obstacles. Initially, she found the industry intimidating due to its predominantly male workforce. However, with determination and support from her family, including her mother and daughter, she broke barriers and made a name for herself.
She even faced moments of skepticism from clients who doubted her crew’s abilities based on their gender. Despite these challenges, Tena and her team have earned respect through their dedication and skill.
The roofing industry offers promising opportunities, especially with a growing demand for contractors caused by pandemic-related backlogs and supply chain issues.
Start-up costs for entering the field can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on training and equipment. For Tena, the investment was well worth it. She spent $20,000 of her savings to establish her business, which now generates substantial returns.
For aspiring roofers, Tena recommends starting with on-the-job training or apprenticeships. In many states, including New Mexico, licenses and certifications are required to work independently.
Tena herself has pursued additional training, such as attending a GAF Roofing Academy program specifically for women. These certifications have allowed her to expand her business offerings and improve her expertise.
Roofing might not appeal to everyone, but Tena believes it’s a field worth considering. It’s physically demanding yet deeply fulfilling, providing a sense of purpose that’s hard to find in other careers.
Beyond financial stability, roofing offers the satisfaction of protecting homes and families. As Tena puts it, “People will always need a roof over their heads.”
Her story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the potential of pursuing unconventional career paths. For those looking for a stable, high-paying job without a degree, roofing might just be the answer.
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Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.
