Backend Category: Women in the Mechanical Industry Initiative

Tradeswomen Build Nations 2024 Inspired the Women Making a Difference in the Trades

The Tradeswomen Build Nations conference took place in New Orleans, Louisiana, from September 27-30, 2024. MCAA was honored to be part of this inspiring event, which drew over 5,200 attendees representing a diverse array of trades, including members of the United Association (UA), International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Teamsters, Bricklayers (BAC), and many more.

The conference kicked off on Friday, September 27th, with a full day of exhibits. Key industry manufacturers and suppliers were featured, including major names like DEWALT and MILWAUKEE TOOL. The day concluded with an opening reception, setting the stage for a weekend of learning, networking, and solidarity.

On Saturday, September 28th, the plenary session began with a reflective and respectful opening prayer and Land Acknowledgment, followed by a warm welcome from North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) Tradeswomen Committee Chair, Vicki O’Leary. In her opening remarks, Chair O’Leary emphasized the importance of the event and the progress being made by women in the trades.

Next, attendees heard from Sean McGarvey, President of NABTU, who delivered an empowering speech, along with other notable leaders. A special moment followed when the Honorable Julie Su, Acting Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor, shared a message of support. Capping off the morning’s highlights, President Joe Biden delivered a heartfelt message of solidarity and encouragement to the tradeswomen, emphasizing their crucial role in shaping the nation’s workforce.

One of the most anticipated moments of the weekend followed the President’s address. Tradeswomen proudly took to the streets of New Orleans for the annual banner parade, cheering each other on in a vibrant display of unity and sisterhood.

The day continued with a UA-led caucus, where over 1,000 union women gathered to hear updates from UA leadership on key topics such as safety, training, recruitment, and groundbreaking new maternity benefits. The session also included remarks from MCAA President Rick Gopffarth, who spoke passionately about the growing opportunities within the industry. He highlighted a few initiatives such as the joint efforts between the UA and MCAA, The Foundations of Field Leadership course, the Women in the Mechanical Industry Conference, and the Safety Excellence Initiative focus on mental health. He concluded by emphasizing the crucial role women play in the trades and the transformative impact they continue to have on the industry.

The Tradeswomen Build Nations 2024 conference was a powerful testament to the strength, resilience, and growing influence of women in the trades, with this year’s event marking another step forward in the movement for equality and representation.

Congratulations to Kyla Magee, Recipient of the Ferguson Women in the Mechanical Industry Scholarship

Kyla Magee is one of two recipients of the Ferguson – Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Scholarship. Annually, the two scholarship recipients are invited to attend the WiMI Conference with complimentary registration. This year, the conference was held June 10-12 in Cleveland, OH.

Kyla anticipates graduating from the University of Nebraska in December 2025 with a degree in Construction Engineering. She is currently serving her chapter as the Student Chapter President and has previously held the roles of Community Service Chair and Vice President. She previously interned with Ray Martin Company and is interning this summer with MMC Contractors. Both companies are MCAA members.

“At first glance, my favorite thing about mechanical construction is the construction part itself. I think plumbing, hydronic piping, and HVAC are so interesting and so complex in how they are designed and manufactured. There is still so much about mechanical construction that I don’t know and I am so eager to learn. I think the most appealing part of mechanical is the community aspect. I think because it is a specialty that the people in this industry have much more of a community with each other, even across the country. Through my experience with MCA-Omaha and at MCAA events, people have been so welcoming and so open to teaching me new things. I think compared to a GC, mechanical has so much more of a personal feeling. I remember at my first GreatFutures Forum, it was explained that a building is just a shell without mechanical construction and that mechanical is the heart of a building. I thought that was so cool and so true (and still do)!

When I first joined my student chapter, I didn’t realize how much it would matter to me. I needed to join a club at the time for my scholarship and figured it would turn into one of those things where you meet once a month and never really talk to anyone. I couldn’t have been more wrong once I realized how much of a community there is inside of MCAA, MCA-Omaha, and especially within our student chapter in Nebraska. I’ve built so many friendships and relationships with industry professionals that I recognize and feel comfortable talking to. Besides that, I’ve been able to hold multiple leadership positions in which I’ve been able to help influence my fellow students to pursue mechanical as a career. I’ve learned so much locally and every time I get to attend a national conference, I feel grateful to learn about everyone else’s experiences as well. After graduation, I plan to stay involved with my local student chapter by becoming a mentor and of course, working for an MCAA contractor.”

MCAA and the John R. Gentille Foundation congratulate Kyla on this prestigious scholarship and thank Ferguson for their commitment to supporting students interested in pursuing a career in the mechanical contracting industry.

Congratulations to Gina Carnovale, Recipient of the Ferguson Women in the Mechanical Industry Scholarship

This is the seventh year for the Ferguson Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Scholarship, which was presented at the Awards of Excellence Breakfast during the MCAA Convention to two high-achieving female students working toward a degree relative to the mechanical industry. Both recipients were invited to attend the 2024 WiMI Conference in Cleveland, OH, as honored attendees with complimentary registration.

Gina is a Construction Management major at Kent State University with an anticipated graduation of May 2025. She is an active member of her student chapter and has served as the competition chair lead and secretary. Last summer she interned with MCAA Member, Southland Industries.

“Before becoming involved with Kent State’s MCAA student chapter, I had limited knowledge of what a career in construction entailed, let alone mechanical contracting. Joining the organization marked a pivotal moment in my academic journey as it has provided me with countless opportunities. The Student Chapter Competition was the baseline of my knowledge and I used the knowledge I gained from this experience and the Job Fair at the 2022 GreatFutures Forum to land my first internship (Southland Industries). This has since launched my passion for the industry and has inspired me to create bigger career goals for myself.

My favorite aspect of MCAA as a future professional is its ability to transform the construction industry into a closely-knit community, encouraging collaboration among companies nationwide. Through MCAA, I have made professional connections that I believe will be valuable throughout my entire career. Moreover, my involvement in MCAA has allowed me to assume leadership roles within our student chapter, enhancing not only my technical skills, but also my soft skills, such as communication and teamwork.

Looking forward, I hope to further enhance my leadership abilities through continued involvement with MCAA after graduation by working for a company deeply involved in the national organization. It would be incredibly rewarding to give back to an organization that has offered me so much. Since my first MCAA conference, I have considered what it may be like to potentially be a panel member someday, sharing my own story. My goal is to share my experiences through MCAA, inspiring other college students to consider the mechanical industry and explore the opportunities it holds.”

MCAA and the John R. Gentille Foundation congratulate Gina on this prestigious scholarship and thank Ferguson for their commitment to supporting students interested in pursuing a career in the mechanical contracting industry.

2026 WiMI Conference

The annual WiMI conference will feature exceptional speakers, interactive educational sessions, industry related roundtables and opportunities to build lasting relationships with fellow women in the mechanical industry. A full menu of educational offerings will help you discover all the opportunities this industry has to offer. From industry newcomers to executives, and everyone in between, this is the event to attend for all women in the mechanical contracting industry.

Exchange Ideas, Share Experiences & Enhance Your Skills at the WiMI Conference

June 10 – June 12, 2024 | Cleveland, OH

The Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Conference is your platform for building lasting connections and fostering a supportive community. Networking opportunities abound, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences, and collaborate on strategies for success. Register today!

Join us for an engaging series of roundtable discussions covering a diverse range of topics crucial to success in the mechanical industry. From leveraging technology to navigating human resources challenges and redefining fear, these sessions offer valuable insights and practical strategies for professionals at all levels. Whether you’re focused on sales, project delivery, or senior leadership, seize the opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and enhance your skills in a collaborative environment tailored to your specific interests and goals.

An array of captivating educational sessions and inspiring speakers round out the conference, which is designed to empower and uplift women at every stage of their careers.

Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned executive, the WiMI conference offers something for everyone. Gain valuable insights, expand your network, and leave feeling empowered to take on new challenges and seize opportunities.

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Get Practical Tips for Navigating Contract Discussions & Change Order Negotiations at the WiMI Conference

June 10 – June 12, 2024 | Cleveland, OH

Join industry insider Shaabini Alford for an interactive workshop to explore and understand the physiological responses of the “fight or flight” instinct, and how they impact negotiations. Then dive into practical tips and tricks for navigating contract discussions and successful change order negotiations. The session will give you the grounding needed to enter your next negotiation with confidence.

An array of captivating educational sessions and inspiring speakers round out the conference, which is designed to empower and uplift women at every stage of their careers.

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Five Ways To Create A Safer Workplace for Women in Construction

Over 390,000 women work in the construction industry, up significantly over the past decade. Despite this tremendous growth, many women still face challenges, including safety and health. All workers deserve a safe workplace and to return home at the end of the day in the same shape as when they got there. MCAA’s Safety Excellence and Women in the Mechanical Industry initiatives are pleased to bring you these tips for creating safer workplaces for women.

The following tips are adapted from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) blog:

Provide Properly Fitting Personal Protective Equipment

Women’s safety on the job is undermined when safety measures, such as providing personal protective equipment (PPE) for diverse bodies, are not implemented in favor of a one-size-fits-all approach. A recent survey of tradeswomen and non-binary tradespeople found that nearly three in ten report never or rarely being provided gloves or safety equipment in sizes that fit them. According to another survey, 89% of tradeswomen said they had difficulty accessing PPE that fits and 77% reported they were exposed to unnecessary hazards because of ill-fitting PPE. In response, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a notice of proposed rulemaking to ensure that all employees have PPE that fits properly.

Guarantee Safe and Sanitary Bathrooms

OSHA’s sanitation standards require employers to provide accessible sanitary facilities for ALL personnel and to ensure that these facilities are maintained appropriately. Despite this, many tradeswomen we’ve talked to say they still lack access to clean toilets on sites, and too many encounter hostility and harassment from male colleagues when bathrooms are designated for women only. Inadequate and unsafe facilities lead to many women reporting that they avoid using toilets or drink less water. The result can be a higher incidence of bladder and kidney infections and an increased risk of heat stress and other health problems.

Ensure Protections for Pregnant and Postpartum Workers

Pregnant and postpartum workers often have unique health and safety needs. The new Pregnant Workers Fairness Act requires covered employers to provide “reasonable accommodations” to workers’ known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions unless the accommodation will cause the employer an undue hardship. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), as recently extended by the Providing Urgent Maternal Protections for Nursing Mothers Act (PUMP Act), covered employers are required to provide nursing employees with reasonable break time and a private space, other than a bathroom, to express breast milk at work for up to one year after the child’s birth. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) entitles eligible employees of covered employers to unpaid, job protected leave for the birth of and bonding with a child, for prenatal care and incapacity related to pregnancy, for the worker’s own serious health condition including following the birth of a child, and to care for a child with a serious health condition. Employers should ensure they are adhering to these laws and any other relevant state laws, and may choose to go beyond them by, for example, providing job-protected paid family and medical leave, paid sick leave and child care for workers with children. Supporting employees throughout all phases of their lives, including pregnancy and parenting, ensures that employers can attract and retain a pool of diverse, skilled workers.

Prevent Gender-Based Violence and Harassment

Lack of respect, discrimination and gender-based violence and harassment (GBVH) undermine worker health and safety and drive women out of male-dominated jobs. In fact, lack of respect or discrimination is the most commonly cited reason tradeswomen consider leaving the construction industry. Employers should assess their worksites and institute policies and programs to change workplace culture and prevent and address GBVH, such as those detailed in the Women’s Bureau’s Tools for Building an Equitable Infrastructure Workforce. Addressing GBVH is not just necessary for inclusivity; it plays a role in creating safe workplaces.

Promote Mental Health

Stress from GBVH, lack of inclusion, and demanding worksites can be harmful to worker health and increase mental health challenges, which can include mental illness and substance use disorders as well as emotions like grief, sadness, and anxiety. Research shows that workers who have not been integrated into a workplace culture are more likely to have accidents on the job due to the increased psychological and emotional stress of being excluded. These challenges can also lead to low job satisfaction for women, which results in their exit from construction occupations. OSHA’s webpage on Workplace Stress includes resources to both help understand the issue and provide guidance for employers to help address the issue.

MCAA applauds the DOL’s focus on women’s safety and health. Our Safety Excellence and Women in the Mechanical Industry initiatives are working together to bring you additional information on the topic in the future.

In the meantime, you can learn more about MCAA’s Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Initiative here. Questions can be addressed to Jocelyn Jackson, MCAA’s Director, WiMI and Dues Management.

Information on MCAA’s Safety Excellence Initiative is available here. Please contact Raffi Elchemmas, MCAA’s Executive Director of Safety, Health, and Risk Management with any questions.

Build Confidence & Enhance Your Communication Skills at the WiMI Conference

June 10 – June 12, 2024 | Cleveland, OH

Build your confidence and enhance your communication skills with two educational sessions. First, Alex Willis of Leadership Surge will empower you to navigate challenging interactions with confidence and professionalism. Then, Rebecca and Keith of TALLsmall will teach you how to express yourself clearly and effectively so your voice cuts through the noise in the office and on jobsites.

An array of captivating educational sessions and inspiring speakers round out the conference, which is designed to empower and uplift women at every stage of their careers.

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Embrace Cultural Identity, Overcome Fear & Pursue Your Dreams at the WiMI Conference

June 10 – June 12, 2024 | Cleveland, OH

Be inspired by Princess Sarah Culberson, humanitarian and author. She will share her remarkable journey from fear to fabulous, exploring themes of self-discovery, courage, and embracing cultural identity. This empowering closing session will inspire you to overcome fear and pursue your dreams while advocating for yourself in both professional and personal spheres.

An array of captivating educational sessions and inspiring speakers round out the conference, which is designed to empower and uplift women at every stage of their careers.

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Be Inspired to Dream Big & Make Impactful Changes at the WiMI Conference

June 10 – June 12, 2024 | Cleveland, OH

Be inspired by industry leader Demi Clark, founder of Spark Building Group and our day two General Session speaker. With a background ranging from hands-on construction to leadership in publicly-traded companies, she will ignite conversations on how to achieve professional goals, empowering individuals and organizations to dream big and make impactful changes.

An array of captivating educational sessions and inspiring speakers round out the conference, which is designed to empower and uplift women at every stage of their careers.

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Arden Building Companies, LLC Recognizes Women in Our Industry

Arden Building Companies, LLC, an MCAA member, recognized some of the women of working for its companies during Women in Construction week. MCAA is pleased to share these profiles, which showcase the variety of roles held by women in our industry. Read on to learn more about them and the “aha” moments in their careers.

Vicki Cataldo, Pipefitter Foreman
Local 537 | Corporate Mechanical of New England

Vicki has been in the pipefitting trade for 20 years, and her interest in pipefitting was initially sparked by family involvement in the business. Her biggest challenge as a woman in the trades was being the only female when she first joined the union. She says, “Twenty years ago, it was very different from how it is now.” Her best experience is all the great people she met along the way – the ones who have taught her and the ones she has taught. She advises other women in the trades to “learn the trade so that no one can ever say you can’t do the job. And don’t take any crap from anyone. Learning your trade and doing it as well or better than anyone else is your best asset.”

Rose Connelly, Pipefitter Journeyperson/Foreman
Local 777 | MJ Daly

Rose joined the union in 2016 and MJ Daly in 2017. She has worked on various projects: big powerhouse jobs, small boiler jobs, and other projects in between. This has given her experience and interactions with people from across the country, and she says she truly never feels disrespected or looked down on because she is a woman. When Rose became a foreman in 2021, she noticed that many people would “test” her or try to gauge her knowledge and ability or how she would react to something. She says, “Now that we are a few years down the road, I’ve settled into my abilities as a foreman and genuinely don’t feel any different than the guys. Everyone treats me just like they would anyone else.”

Chloe Jackson, Pipefitter/Welder, 5th Year Apprentice
Local 777 | MJ Daly

Chloe joined MJ Daly in early 2021 as a third-year pipefitter apprentice. She says, “MJ Daly has given me the opportunity to obtain quality on-the-job training. Two years and two large projects later, I’m smarter and more skilled. I have gained the respect of my peers and mechanics. I have no issues pulling my weight. I am comfortable enough to crack jokes and have a good laugh. The job’s hard on everyone. Construction isn’t for everybody. Female or male: find what you’re good at and stick to it.”

Julie Figueroa – Pipefitter Journeyperson (no picture available)
Local 777 | MJ Daly

Of her role, she says, “It’s like any other job. I go to work, pull my weight, and respect those who have taught me. That’s all it takes to earn the respect of whoever I’ve worked with. We are all there to make a living, earn that credit and get home safe to our families.”

Danielle Cruso, HVAC/R, Apprentice
Local 51 | Arden Engineering Constructors

Danielle comes from a background of working with her hands on project cars as a hobby. She researched the trades, and found that HVAC sparked an interest that she wanted to pursue for her career without giving up her hobby. Danielle says, “The most interesting thing about being a service tech is that we are the jack of all trades. We become the masters of our craft.” Her advice for women in the trades is to “dive in, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. No one can tell you what you can and can’t do; you can do anything you put your mind to.” Danielle believes seeing more and more women getting into the industry and taking the lead will take away the stigma about women in the trades. She comments, “It’s a lifelong, rewarding career, having knowledge and skills that can’t be taken away.”

Amanda Romano, Pipefitter Journeyperson
Local 51 | Arden Engineering Constructors

Amanda is in her ninth year of pipefitting, and six months into a new VDC/fabrication position. She studied art and anthropology in college but got into the trades after becoming interested in learning the art of welding. She says, “The positives usually outweigh the negatives, but it’s not an easy career. You must be able to wake up early, be on time, work hard, and get dirty, without much time off (unless there is little work). If you’re cut out for that type of work, generally, women make great workers in the trades. We pay attention to detail, work safely, and communicate well.” She adds, “There is a lot to learn in the trades, which is very useful. I don’t need to call a plumber when redoing my bathroom or replacing my water heater. It has been rewarding to grow independently, and I think a lot of women would enjoy seeing the fruits of their hard labor.”

Susan Avakyan, Controller
Unique Metal Works

Susan has worked at Unique for ten years, first as an Office Manager and now as a Controller. “But really,” she said, “being that we are a small company with many different aspects, I’m involved in some manner or another in just about everything. If office staff, field or shop workers need help, they know I can help them.” She continued, “It wasn’t always like that, especially being a female in a primarily male environment. I got pushback on procedures or comments that ‘they didn’t have to do what I told them.’ One of my most significant challenges was when we transitioned to digital – phones, tablets, and email were less than favorable, especially for men who had been in the trade for a long time. But with time and experience, that has changed. I have gained acceptance and understanding and now feel well respected.

MCA of New England WiMI Chapter

Susan and her colleagues Amber-Rose Sousa, Sr., a project manager with Unique, and Katie Spatcher, VP of Service Sales at Arden Engineering, are especially proud of their role in helping to create the New England Chapter of WiMi (Women in the Mechanical Industry).

Established by the New England Mechanical Contractors Association (NEMCA) in conjunction with MCAA, the New England Chapter of WiMi is focused on providing professional development, support, advocacy, and networking opportunities for women across the region. They will also assist in reducing skill gaps and creating a more gender-equal workforce.

Pictured L to R: Meghann Hennrikus (American Refrigeration Co.), Lori Gately (Kelvin Group), Katie Spatcher (Arden Engineering Constuctors), Yasmin Souza (Corporate Mechanical of New England), Amanda Gagne (American Refrigeration Co.), Amber-Rose Sousa (Unique Metal Works) and Susan Avakyan (Unique Metal Works).

Learn more about MCAA’s national WiMI initiative here and be sure to register for the 2024 WiMI Conference to enjoy exceptional speakers, interactive educational sessions, industry related roundtables and opportunities to build lasting relationships with fellow women in the mechanical industry like the ones profiled here.

Build Lasting Connections & Collaborate for Success at the WiMI Conference

June 10 – June 12, 2024 | Cleveland, OH

WiMI Chair Stacy Johnson will kick things off with a lively and exhilarating team-building experience featuring SongDivision. This memorable and energizing experience will inspire attendees to find their voice, both professionally and personally.

An array of captivating educational sessions and inspiring speakers round out the conference, which is designed to empower and uplift women at every stage of their careers.

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Find Your Voice with Empowering Education & Networking at the WiMI Conference

June 10 – June 12, 2024 | Cleveland, OH

Join your MCAA and MSCA peers for this year’s Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Conference. Experience an array of captivating educational sessions, inspiring speakers, and invaluable networking opportunities designed to empower and uplift women at every stage of their careers.

At the heart of the WiMI conference are its general sessions, where dynamic speakers share inspiring journeys of overcoming fear and embracing cultural identity. Education sessions put the focus on building and enhancing the key skills needed to thrive in our industry. And interactive roundtable discussions bring it all together, offering an opportunity to practice those skills while exchanging ideas on a diverse range of topics.

The WiMI conference is your platform for building lasting connections and fostering a supportive community. Networking opportunities abound, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences, and collaborate on strategies for success.

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MCA of Western Washington Names Cowper as its Next Executive Director

The MCA of Western Washington (MCAWW) has appointed Robin Cowper as its Executive Director effective January 1, 2024. “Robin is well positioned and well qualified for this role and I cannot be more happy or proud,” said current MCAWW Executive Director Ed Kommers. He noted that Robin has been with MCAWW since 2005 and is a Certified Association Executive (CAE), a credential presented by the American Society of Association Executives.

Kommers added, “With her, the MCAWW group of Scott Middleton, Brittany Akkurt, and Michael Tran is one of the best teams I have worked with in my career.”

When Cowper takes her new role in January, Kommers will remain on as an advisor to ensure a smooth transition.

MCAA congratulates Robin on her new role and wishes the entire MCAWW team continued success.

Enhance Your Company’s Training & Leadership and Meet Your Financial Objectives with Skills from NEI Instructor Leah Gutmann – New Classes Added

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Leah Gutmann, owner of First Forward Consulting, LLC. Leah teaches instructors to enhance their skills, managers to build leadership skills, and finance teams to meet company objectives. Her newest classes focus on building the fundamental leadership skills of our industry’s field leaders, service leaders, and project managers.

Leah is certified to deliver training on a wide variety of leadership and financial topics. She has over 12 years of experience in the design, implementation and facilitation of educational programs, classes and seminars. Her 20-year career as a CFO and Finance Manager in the mechanical construction industry has given Leah the unique ability to offer training and consulting from a hands-on, in the trenches perspective.

Leah offers six course series, each tailored for a specific audience and purpose.

The Field Leadership Series (FLS) builds the fundamental leadership skills every field leader must know, believe in, and be able to apply in practical and consistent ways to drive long term success for individuals, crews, projects, and organizations.

The Service Leadership Series (SLS) teaches participants to apply critical leadership skills to real service team problems, building confidence at both the individual and team level. Everyone participating will leave with tools and strategies that can be applied immediately to improve results at all levels.

In the Project Manager Leadership Series (PML), project managers will learn the essential tools needed to gain respect, get noticed, and be the project leader others follow because they want to, not because they have to.

The Instructor Training Series (ITS) Seminars train JATC instructors, association instructors, and organization subject matter experts to increase retention of material, connect with students, and transfer critical industry knowledge to the next generation, thus enhancing their organization’s competitive advantage. All classes are adapted to fit the needs of each instructor group and their application to the mechanical construction industry.

In the Leadership Development Series (LDS) Seminars for Service and Construction, management level employees and team leaders focus on building strong communication skills and self awareness to help them be successful leaders.

The Financial Development Series (FDS) Seminars for Service and Construction offer customized coursework to address foundational, intermediate, or advanced topics for your identified group and will include direct application and practice to relevant projects, service work, and company financials.

Like our other NEI instructors, Leah brings her unique blend of industry and teaching experience to virtual courses, a new NEI offering. Providing top notch, accessible education for everyone in your organization is what the MCAA’s NEI is all about! Visit the NEI website for more information about these seminars and a full list of the NEI courses available to MCAA members.

Book your courses via the NEI website, then apply for a 20% rebate on the instructor fees, up to $5,000 per class.*

NEI WEBSITE

*This benefit is available only to MCAA members and local affiliates in good standing who book courses via the NEI website. Learn more about the rebate program here. Have questions or need personal assistance? Contact MCAA’s Frank Wall or call him at 301-990-2215.

New MCAA Staff Role for Jocelyn Jackson

Jocelyn Jackson has added Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) to her dues management role. As MCAA’s Director, WiMI and Dues Management, she will be the staff liaison to the WiMI Committee, playing a key role in facilitating committee activities. Please join us in congratulating Jocelyn on her new role!

MCA of Northwestern Ohio Hosts Inaugural WiMI Meeting

The Mechanical Contractors Association of Northwestern Ohio hosted the inaugural meeting of its Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) group on October 26, 2023. Although this group is just starting its journey, it has already made a significant impact. In the spirit of “Socktober,” attendees generously contributed 145 pairs of socks to support Bethany House, a local women’s shelter.

During the meeting, the participants took time to craft words of encouragement cards for the UA Local 50 female apprentices. These heartfelt messages will be hand-delivered, along with the book “Successful Sister” authored by Alicia Robinson, a steamfitter from UA Local 469.

WiMI is deeply committed to empowering women in the mechanical industry by providing valuable opportunities for networking, education, and mentorship, enabling them to advance and excel in their careers.

MCAA is excited to welcome the Mechanical Contractors Association of Northwestern Ohio WiMI group to the growing number of local WiMI groups.

WiMI Featured in D.A. Dodd, LLC Newsletter

The WiMI23 Conference inspired Debbie Siddall, Caitlin Schimmel, and Alyson Funkhouser, three staffers at D.A. Dodd, LLC, to write about MCAA’s Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) for their company newsletter. Learn more about their experience and how it has inspired them to become more involved at the local level.

2025 WiMI Conference

Congratulations to Morgan Fischer, Recipient of the 2023 Ferguson WiMI Scholarship

Morgan Fischer is studying construction management at Kent State University and is one of two recipients of the Ferguson – Women in the Mechanical Industry Scholarship. Ferguson underwrites these scholarships which recognize high-achieving female students working towards a degree relative to the mechanical industry.

Morgan spent last summer interning for MCAA Member, The Brewer-Garett Company and noted that she enjoyed the company and their values so much that she decided to continue her internship with them during the Spring of 2023.

“To stay with a company long-term after graduation means that the company needs to have a sense of belonging and teamwork. I have always tried to include others and make them feel like they belong because I know what it feels like to be excluded. I think companies that have the empathy and care for their employees are the most successful. This success is not only defined by their financials or numbers of projects, but by the way their employees are proud to work there. This is so important to me because I’m very passionate about construction and the work I will be doing and I’m looking forward to being just as passionate about my employer.

Ever since I was younger, I have loved problem solving and completing puzzles. Since working with a mechanical contractor, I have viewed the mechanical systems as puzzles with all of the pieces and patterns that are required for installation. No system is exactly the same, but many of them have similar components. I enjoy the challenge that comes with different projects and coming up with solutions for the design and installation of the systems. I think a career in mechanical contracting would never get boring and is such an important aspect of a building.”

MCAA and the John R. Gentille Foundation congratulate Morgan on this prestigious scholarship and thank Ferguson for their commitment to supporting students interested in pursuing a career in the mechanical contracting industry.