“Heather is an excellent addition to ARMA’s leadership team,” said Reed Hitchcock, ARMA Executive Vice President. “Her experience with the organization and the industry will bring valuable perspective, insight, and energy to our technical capabilities.”

Heather Estes is a technical leader with over 15 years of experience spanning the full lifecycle of roofing materials—from the laboratory to the manufacturing floor. A career "asphalt nerd" with an M.S. in Chemistry from UNC-Wilmington, Estes began in forensic analysis, specializing in the chemistry of material failure.

She has spent the subsequent phase of her career bridging the gap between research and real-world application, championing durability and resiliency standards while mastering the complexities of manufacturing and product development. This unique perspective—combining hands-on testing, R&D, and regulatory strategy—allows her to serve as a comprehensive technical advocate for the industry.

As the incoming Vice President of Technical Services at ARMA, Estes is dedicated to supporting asphalt roofing manufacturers and advancing the technical performance of asphaltic materials. When she isn't advancing industry codes and standards, she is at home with her family, enjoying life's adventures with her husband, their son, and their dogs. 

“I have long admired ARMA’s commitment to technical excellence through my various industry roles, and I am honored to now lead those efforts from within,” Estes said. “Asphalt is in my DNA, and I am excited to advocate for the manufacturers who drive this industry forward, building on the phenomenal foundation Aaron Phillips has built over the years.”

Estes will work closely with the current Vice President of Technical Services, Aaron Phillips, through his departure at the end of June to ensure a smooth transition of ARMA’s technical activities. ARMA will also continue to rely on the expertise and engagement of volunteers from its member companies to help advance the association’s technical initiatives.

Additionally, Hitchcock recognized Phillips for the legacy he built during his tenure with the association.

“Aaron has played an important role in advancing ARMA’s mission and ensuring asphalt roofing is well represented in key technical and regulatory conversations since joining the team in 2020,” Hitchcock said. “He has helped elevate ARMA’s technical voice across the industry while building strong relationships with partner organizations and stakeholders. We are grateful for his contributions and the lasting impact he has made on the association and the industry.”

Under Phillips’ leadership, ARMA has established a new standard for technical advocacy, engagement, and education on behalf of ARMA members, while also working with ARMA’s professional staff to formalize internal processes and procedures. 

For additional information concerning ARMA, its programming, and resources, visit asphaltroofing.org. 

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