Mike Flores
RAX Founder & Roofing Veteran
Mike Flores is a dynamic leader in the roofing industry, with a proven track record of building successful businesses and guiding others to do the same.
Over his extensive career, he has played a pivotal role in the growth of numerous companies, helping over 2,500 roofing professionals and more than 1,500 public adjusters obtain their licenses through his mentorship and training programs.
Mike has also helped over 50 individuals achieve six-figure incomes, transforming their lives and empowering them to teach many others to do the same.
Nathaly Gajardo
Founder of RAX Español & Director of Admissions & Licensing
Nathaly Gajardo is the founder of RAX Español, the first Spanish-language roofing licensing program in Illinois — created to open doors for Latino roofers who have long been overlooked or underserved.
Born in the U.S. and raised in Ecuador, Nathaly returned to the United States at 16 years old without speaking English. She personally understands what it feels like when language becomes a barrier — to opportunities, to income, and to confidence. That experience fuels her mission today: helping others overcome the same struggles she once faced.
As the Enrollment Consultant for Roofing Academy X, Nathaly guides students from their very first question to their final steps before the exam. Fluent in English and Spanish, she specializes in supporting first-time students who feel nervous, unsure, or intimidated by the licensing process. Her warmth, clarity, and patience have made her one of the most trusted and influential voices at the academy.
Beyond enrollment, Nathaly plays a vital role in student success — coordinating communication, supporting class operations, and making sure every student feels understood and supported, regardless of background or starting point.
A devoted mother and a leader with a heart for service, Nathaly built RAX Español to give her community what she wished she had at 16: a real chance to grow, succeed, and achieve the American Dream.
Most importantly, Nathaly wants every student to know this:
You don’t need perfect English to move forward. What you need is someone who understands your journey and believes in your potential. You can grow, you can succeed, and you never have to feel insecure about where you’re starting. RAX Español is here to guide you — step by step — so language never holds you back again.
Jonathan Michael
RAX Instructor & Mentor
Jonathan Michael is a roofing industry professional with deep experience in both the field and the classroom. He is the owner of Betterment Restoration, a roofing company built on integrity, quality, and service.
Today, he brings that same standard of excellence to his role as an instructor at Roofing Academy X, where he helps aspiring roofers prepare for and pass the Illinois Roofing Exam.
Jonathan’s approach to teaching blends real-world experience with clear, supportive instruction. His goal is not just to help students pass the test, but to give them the confidence and mindset to succeed long after the exam. He understands firsthand the challenges of getting started in roofing—and he takes pride in guiding others through that process.
Before launching his roofing company, Jonathan spent 14 years in the retail industry, including 12 years in leadership roles at Nordstrom. There, he developed strong communication and coaching skills, learning how to motivate teams and help people grow. That leadership foundation continues to drive his passion for mentoring others, especially those looking to take the next big step in their career.
Jonathan’s mix of hands-on roofing knowledge, business ownership, and people-first leadership makes him an invaluable asset to Roofing Academy X. He’s dedicated to helping students turn a license into a long-term opportunity.
Outside of work, Jonathan enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, and investing in personal development. A lifelong learner, he credits much of his growth to a long-time business coach and live development programs with Tony Robbins. “Nordstrom taught me a lot,” Jonathan says, “but personal development gave me the tools to help others—and that’s become a true passion.”
Uzziel Jaramillo
RAX Instructor & Mentor
Uzziel Jaramillo is the visionary founder and president of Next Generation Roofing Contractors, bringing over 20 years of extensive experience in the construction industry.
With two construction licenses under his belt, Uzziel has made his mark by specializing in the recruitment, training, and large-scale management of roofing crews across the nation.
Uzziel’s passion for roofing runs deep, as he follows in the footsteps of his father, who was also a roofer.
This legacy inspired the name of his company, Next Generation Roofing Contractors, symbolizing his commitment to carrying forward the tradition while embracing innovation and growth.
Driven by a deep passion for empowering others, particularly immigrants, Uzziel is dedicated to helping individuals realize their full potential and achieve the American Dream.
Since 2000, he has been at the forefront of disaster response, working on every major hurricane and providing employment opportunities to hundreds of workers during these critical times.
Beyond disaster response, Uzziel has worked as a general contractor on new construction projects for major developers, including Lennar, and has successfully deployed subcontractors across multiple states.
His commitment to giving back to his community is evident in every aspect of his work, as he continues to create opportunities for growth and success for those he leads and serves.
Fabian Lara
RAX Instructor & Dedicated Teacher
Fabian Lara brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our roofing class, specializing in helping roofers pass their state exams with confidence.
With a background rooted in leadership and successful project management, Fabian’s career spans over three decades in corporate America, where he managed multimillion-dollar production teams and led large-scale operations.
In 2019, Fabian joined NRC, where he oversaw a $20 million production team and played a key role in the company’s success, contributing to projects totaling over $100 million during his five-year tenure.
His commitment to excellence and regular training sessions ensured that his team was always at the top of their game.
Prior to NRC, Fabian spent 31 years at AGCO Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, where he rose through the ranks to become the Warehouse Superintendent of Operations.
His responsibilities included managing a large team, overseeing substantial inventory worth over $150 million, and implementing strategic initiatives that improved safety, quality, and productivity year after year.
Fabian’s expertise extends beyond the roofing industry; he also has a proven track record in property management, having successfully managed property rehab projects for Fannie Mae and real estate investment clients.
His dedication to process optimization, standardization, and creating efficient workflows ensures that every student in our class receives top-notch instruction and guidance.
Fabian is not only a seasoned professional but also a man of faith, attributing his values to raising his family and maintaining a marriage of over 35+ years.
Currently residing in the far west suburbs and with a family of his own, Fabian embodies the values of professionalism, diligence, and a commitment to excellence.
Join us in welcoming Fabian as your instructor, and let’s work together to achieve your goals of passing the state exam and advancing your roofing career.