Technology continues to change nearly every industry, and commercial roofing is no exception. From advanced safety tools to data-driven inspections, roofing contractors today are embracing new technology to work smarter, faster, and safer.
That innovation was the focus of a recent WREX 13 News segment titled “AI in the Workforce,” which explored how artificial intelligence and automation are reshaping local industries including commercial roofing. Among the featured guests was Chuck Maloney, a FAA Part 107 Certified Drone Pilot with Northern IL Drone and longtime Project Leader here at Peterson Roofing in Mount Prospect, Illinois.
The interview shed light on how roofing professionals across Northern Illinois are using drones, data, and AI tools to improve efficiency and ensure safety on every project.
AI in the Workforce: A Local Look at Roofing Innovation
The WREX feature, which originally aired on October 15, 2025, examined how companies in construction and related fields are adopting artificial intelligence to streamline workflows and reduce risk. While AI is often associated with manufacturing or tech, roofing contractors like Peterson Roofing have been at the forefront of applying this technology to real-world challenges.
“Artificial intelligence isn’t replacing the human element,” Chuck explained during his interview. “It’s enhancing it. We’re able to make safer, more informed decisions faster than ever before — and that benefits both our crews and our customers.”
From Weeks to Minutes: Drones Revolutionize Roof Inspections
In years past, large commercial roof inspections could take days or even weeks. Crews would need ladders, scaffolding, and multiple team members to safely access every part of the roof often under harsh conditions.
With drone technology and AI-assisted imaging, that same inspection can now be completed in a fraction of the time.
Using high-resolution cameras, thermal sensors, and automated flight paths, drones can quickly capture every inch of a roof surface. The data is then analyzed using AI tools that identify potential problem areas such as heat loss, moisture intrusion, or structural damage before those issues become costly repairs.
“Instead of sending a team onto a potentially unsafe structure, we can get a complete, detailed view from the air in just minutes,” Chuck shared. “That’s not only more efficient but significantly safer.”
Improving Jobsite Safety Through Data and Automation
Safety has always been a top priority at Peterson Roofing, and the integration of drones and AI has taken that commitment to a new level. By minimizing the need for manual inspection and high-access climbs, drone-assisted evaluations dramatically reduce the risk of jobsite injuries.
AI software can also monitor and flag unsafe conditions before workers even arrive on-site. Combined with digital project management tools, these technologies give roofing teams a real-time overview of each project’s safety and performance metrics.
“Technology allows us to prevent accidents instead of reacting to them,” Chuck explained. “We can identify risks early, plan accordingly, and make sure everyone gets home safe at the end of the day.”
Efficiency and Accuracy That Benefit Customers
For building owners and facility managers, the benefits are just as clear. Drone-based inspections deliver faster, more accurate reports and reduce downtime. Because the captured data is stored digitally, it provides a long-term record of roof condition and maintenance history.
AI-powered analytics can even predict when and where problems are most likely to occur allowing proactive maintenance instead of costly emergency repairs.
This combination of accuracy, safety, and foresight is what sets companies like Peterson Roofing apart in the competitive world of commercial roofing.
“Our clients appreciate the transparency that comes with this technology,” Chuck said. “We can show them the data, the imagery, and the analysis. It builds trust because everything is visible and verifiable.”
A Commitment to Innovation in Northern Illinois
Founded more than 40 years ago, Peterson Roofing Inc has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted residential and commercial roofing contractors in the Chicago suburbs. From Mount Prospect to Rockford and beyond, the company has always believed that quality craftsmanship and innovation go hand in hand.
Today, that philosophy includes investing in technologies like AI and drones to deliver the best possible outcomes for clients. Whether performing a full roof replacement, repair, or maintenance inspection, the Peterson team uses modern tools to improve precision, documentation, and communication on every project.
“Our industry is evolving quickly,” Chuck noted. “At Peterson Roofing, we see that as an opportunity. We’re combining decades of experience with today’s technology to provide better service than ever before.”
Local Recognition on WREX NBC Rockford
Being featured on WREX NBC Rockford’s AI in the Workforce segment reflects how far the roofing industry has come and how local businesses in Northern Illinois are helping to lead the charge.
The story showcased not just the use of drones but the larger shift toward smarter, data-driven roofing practices that improve outcomes for everyone involved. From increased jobsite safety to reduced turnaround times, AI and automation are proving to be valuable allies in the construction world.
“It’s great to see our industry recognized for innovation,” Chuck said. “The public often sees roofing as a traditional trade, but there’s a lot of technology behind what we do today.”
The Future of Roofing Is Here
As AI and Drones in Roofing continue to advance, the possibilities for commercial roofing will only expand. Peterson Roofing plans to stay at the forefront of that movement adopting new tools that improve safety, speed, and sustainability for their clients.
From aerial inspections to digital project tracking and predictive maintenance, the future of roofing will rely heavily on data. But as Chuck and the Peterson team emphasize, it’s not about replacing people, it’s about empowering them with better tools.
“The combination of skilled professionals and intelligent technology is what creates real value,” Chuck concluded. “And that’s what we strive for every day.”
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