GEOFF SMITH, an industry veteran of 42 years, known as the Roofing Outlaw on social media where he has a 3 million following, has been recognised as the Roofer of The Year at the On The Tools Awards.

Geoff’s daughter, Bobbiemay Smith, also renowned as Roof Girl, received a nomination for Apprentice of the Year, showcasing exceptional dedication and skill in the roofing trade.

Geoff’s journey into roofing began through family connections, shaping his passion for the craft at a young age.

“Roofing chose me,” he reflects, having worked alongside a friend’s father during school holidays, igniting a career spanning over four decades.

The Roofing Outlaw has gained renown for his unapologetic honesty, using social media to highlight industry issues, particularly the lack of skilled labour due to insufficient apprenticeship uptake.

Guiding his daughter, Bobbiemay, through her apprenticeship, Geoff instilled valuable lessons.

“When Bobbiemay wanted something, I made her work for it. It wasn’t just about money but learning its value,” Geoff explains.

Roof Girl

Accompanying her father and elder brothers, Bobbiemay has spent time on a lot of roofing sites, which ignited her passion for the trade. She has now begun a roofing apprenticeship and excels in artistic slating and lead-work.

Bobbiemay’s recognition for her skills and dedication, especially in artistic slating and lead-work, has boosted her confidence and her ambition to inspire other women in the industry. Overcoming challenges, including limited funding for training, she prides herself on being accepted as an equal among peers and accomplishments like solo slating a dormer with intricate artwork.

Both Geoff and Bobbiemay wish to encourage more young people, especially women, to join the trade. They advocate for equal opportunities and maintaining high industry standards of workmanship. They actively engage on social media with tips, collaborate with training academies to promote available courses as well as supporting charitable roofing work.

Roof Girl, Bobbiemay Smith

Roofing Outlaw

Geoff stands as a champion for the charity SKCIN, actively raising awareness for skin cancer within the building trade. His proactive efforts have been instrumental in saving the lives of 29 individuals.

Through Geoff’s social channels, he prompts individuals to get skin moles medically checked. Without his encouragement, these individuals might have faced dire consequences, underscoring the impact of his work beyond the roofing industry.

Geoff’s advice for newcomers is consistent learning, while Bobbiemay emphasises resilience in the face of stereotypes. Their hope is to showcase equal opportunities and the joy of working together as a family.

The recognition received at the On The Tools Awards is a source of immense pride for both Geoff and Bobbiemay. Geoff’s elation on receiving the Roofer of The Year award echoes his disbelief: “I’ve never won anything in my life,” he said.

Their love for roofing endures, even in challenging weather, often finding humour amidst the toughest conditions, a testament to their dedication to the craft.

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