April 15th marks my 10th anniversary in the restoration industry. Since I’m only 25, I’m not sure how I could work in any industry for that long, but alas, here we are! (If you just rolled your eyes like I did writing that, my sincere apologies. I’ll buy you a drink at the next show.)
The RIA show was my very first industry event, the first time I ever traveled for work, and I was just two weeks into a brand-new job. Like many, I found myself here by accident and now have zero intentions of going elsewhere. This industry and the people in it have become like home to me. I remember learning so much about the industry from other young professionals in the Young Professional Restorers Committee (YPRC), diving into RIA volunteering, and attending as many shows as possible. In those early years, I was so fortunate to have found a lot of industry connectors who took the time and energy to connect me with others. Today, I am so proud to know so many of you—but also understand that’s just the tip of the iceberg! It was through the key relationships I developed through the YPRC, and some nudging from some industry colleagues, that C&R decided to launch our Emerging Leaders initiative this year. We hope this will be an invaluable resource to young professionals joining our industry.
The industry has seen a lot of change in the last decade, too. The pandemic and massive industry consolidation are two things that come to mind, in addition to countless CAT events, new industry standards, generational shifts in the workforce, and more women finding their way into restoration…my list could go on and on.
The reality is, being a restorer today isn’t easy. From delayed payments to increasing administrative burdens, restorers are constantly balancing the work of serving their communities while fighting for fair treatment. Yet, despite it all, there is an unwavering commitment among those in this field to keep pushing forward.
That’s what makes this industry so special—the resilience, the camaraderie, and the unshakable belief that what we do matters. And real change is happening. Thanks to the tireless advocacy of the RIA and its amazing servant leaders, restorers are gaining a stronger voice, making headway in carrier relations, and working to create a more sustainable future for our profession.
Thank you for being here, for doing the work, and for making this industry what it is. Cheers to the next 10 years.
In partnership,
Michelle Blevins
Michelle Blevins
Michelle Blevins is a content creator, marketing consultant, and entrepreneur whose career has been centered around education and fostering relationships within the industry she serves.
A journalist by trade, Michelle is passionate about running a publication rooted in integrity and valuable education. She views her role as owner and publisher of C&R Magazine as a bridge between industry experts and restoration and cleaning contractors.
Since joining the restoration industry, Michelle has made it her business to stay on top of the latest industry trends. She has become a go-to resource for anyone looking to learn more about what’s happening within today’s restoration industry. This has earned her a spot on many industry stages facilitating panels and helpful discussion with industry experts on the biggest topics facing restorers and cleaners in the current market.
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