Archives: News Items

Find the Latest from Trane and SLOAN in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show

MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show connects our contractor members with the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

Participating companies highlight and link to new products, product lines, services, solutions or web pages of particular interest. Here are just a few of the recent additions:

Trane
Trane’s new heat pump and dual fuel Precedent rooftop units, now up to 25 tons, offer multiple efficiency levels and customization options to serve a variety of commercial applications.

Learn More

SLOAN
Federally-funded building projects are often required to use BABAA-certified building components. Sloan is helping building professionals understand these requirements and learn about the products that meet this certification.

Learn More

Need Something Else?

Find many more smart solutions in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show!

Visit the Virtual Trade Show

Speaking of Smart Solutions

Visit the Smart Solutions Case Studies area of our website to learn how other mechanical contractors found their win-win with cost-saving and productivity-enhancing applications from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

This section of our website also includes tips and ideas to help your company save money and enhance your productivity. Don’t miss it!

Visit Smart Solutions

Connect With Additional Manufacturer/Supplier Training

Save yourself time and let MCAA connect you to the latest Manufacturer/Supplier member’s training opportunities. Visit the Manufacturer/Supplier Training area of the Resource Center to get started. 

Selecting the Right Press Tool

Press tools are a reliable and accessible choice for joining pipe in all commercial and residential settings, with a variety of press tool options available depending on the jobsite. Today’s professionals can rely on press tools to make secure, flameless connections on copper, stainless steel, PEX, and black iron in a fraction of the time it takes to solder pipe. A press tool not only saves you time, it also saves you money by delivering reliable performance, press after press.

LEARN MORE

Looking for More Smart Solutions?

Visit the Smart Solutions Case Studies area of our website! You’ll see how other mechanical contractors found their win-win with productivity-enhancing and cost-saving applications from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

Plus, you’ll find tips and ideas on other ways you and your company can save money and enhance your productivity.

VISIT SMART SOLUTIONS

Early Bird Savings End October 21 for MCAA’s November Field Leaders Conference

November 11 – November 13, 2024 | Atlanta, Georgia

Field leaders are one of a contractor’s most valuable assets. Energize your field leaders and build their skills with MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference. Watch the video to hear what other contractors have said about the program, then sign up your field personnel. Register them before October 21 and save with early bird rates!

About the Education

MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference benefits field leaders at all levels and your company.

Field leaders will learn to:

  • View themselves as professionals
  • Understand how their performance impacts the bottom line
  • Establish tangible goals
  • Appreciate the importance of customer relationships and their role as the face of the company

They will return to your company with:

  • Real-life tips and tools for success on the job site
  • Ways to control crucial job site conversations
  • An action item list they can put to work right away
  • A fresh perspective on the latest tools and construction resources
  • A network of other jobsite leaders to advise and support them
  • The inspiration to take this knowledge and apply it to better themselves at work, and in life

Your Field Personnel Cannot Afford to Miss this Conference! Register them before October 21 and save with early bird rates!

REGISTER & LEARN MORE

Financial Assistance Opportunities

The United Association’s (UA) International Training Fund (ITF) is offering $5,500 grants for UA/MCAA foreman administrators who attend one of the 2024 MCAA Field Leaders Conferences.

GRANT INFORMATION & APPLICATION

2025 Safety and Health Conference to Spotlight Mental Health and Risk Management with Inaugural Summits

January 13-16, 2025  |  Fort Lauderdale, FL 
Register now to receive early bird pricing! 

Two of the most pressing topics in the realm of safety and health will take center stage at the 2025 Safety and Health Conference. Attendees will gain valuable insights from subject matter experts during two groundbreaking summits: the Construction Mental Health Summit and the Construction Risk Management Summit.

Construction Mental Health Summit
Monday, January 13, 2025  | Sponsored by Procore  | $299

Mental health in construction is critical, and during this half-day workshop, industry experts Josh Rizzo and Justin Azbill will lead an interactive session designed to empower leaders with compassion, courage, and connection. Participants will explore strategies for improving mental well-being both personally and professionally, focusing on vulnerability and leadership with heart.

Construction Risk Management Summit
Thursday, January 16, 2025  | Sponsored by CNA | $299

This first-ever summit will bring senior safety and health professionals together for an in-depth discussion on construction risk management. With a focus on auto, workers’ compensation, rework, prequalification, and the economic impact of workplace injuries, experts from EHS, contractor safety, and the insurance sectors will offer practical insights that can elevate risk management strategies across the industry. 

The Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA), the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), and The Association of Union Contractors (TAUC) are pleased to bring you the inaugural Safety & Health Conference. This event will take place from January 13-16, 2025, at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach, a family-friendly, oceanside resort in Fort Lauderdale, FL.  

This premier event will feature a wide range of presentations covering topics from safety leadership and fall protection to machine guarding and the role of artificial intelligence in safety. Attendees will also get hands-on learning experiences from top manufacturers and exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technology and innovations in safety equipment and software.

A special highlight will be the party on the beach celebration, where participants can unwind and enjoy live music by the Milwaukee Tool Shed Band, sponsored by MILWAUKEE TOOL. Plus, in response to the national blood shortage, we are hosting our first-ever blood drive on Tuesday and Wednesday, offering attendees the chance to give back during this critical time.

With an expected attendance of over 500 safety professionals, the 2025 Safety & Health Conference promises to be a sold-out event. Don’t miss your opportunity to join! Register now to secure early bird pricing.

REGISTER NOW

Unlock New Business Opportunities at the 4th Annual MCAA Converge

June 23-25, 2025

Join us for an extraordinary opportunity to propel your business forward at the 4th Annual MCAA Converge, from June 23-25, 2025. This isn’t just another conference—it’s an expertly curated experience designed to address the unique needs of your organization, offering high-level executive discussions, cutting-edge innovations, and breakthrough strategies.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of The Lofton Minneapolis Hotel and the iconic Target Center, MCAA Converge 2025 promises to redefine industry engagement. This exclusive event brings together top executives from 30 leading manufacturer/supplier companies and 45 contractor companies, fostering meaningful connections and strategic collaborations.

At this year’s Converge, we’ll tackle pressing industry topics, including current and future market trends, major upcoming projects, emerging technologies, and the crucial art of building lasting relationships. Expect dynamic conversations and a collaborative environment where fresh ideas flourish.

Secure your company’s spot or arrange a personalized meeting to explore the opportunities ahead. Be part of this innovative event by completing the survey and reserving your place today.

Visit www.mcaaevents.org/converge to learn more and complete the survey.

Participating Manufacturer/Supplier Companies:
Aquatherm, ASC Engineered Solutions, Baltimore Aircoil, BuildOps, Carrier Corporation, nVent/CADDY, Daikin, DEWALT, EVAPCO, Inc., Ferguson, LAARS Heating Systems, MILWAUKEE TOOL, Morris Group International, Mueller Industries, NEFCO, NIBCO, Inc., ServiceTitan, SLOAN, STRATUS, Trimble, Uponor, Victaulic, Viega LLC, Watts Water Technologies, Zurn Elkay Water Solutions.

LEARN MORE

BuildOps Webinar: Closing the Skilled Labor Gap: How AI is Helping the Trades Work Smarter

The MSCA education continues with the last of our three-part webinar series, presented by MSCA’s esteemed level 1 sponsors. This 30-minute webinar focuses on the latest technological innovations and forward-thinking strategies shaping the future of the mechanical services industry. In an ever-evolving landscape, staying ahead of the curve is essential to driving growth, improving efficiency, and overcoming industry-wide challenges.

This is a great opportunity to bring some of the conference into your office! The session will provide thought-provoking insights and practical takeaways you can bring to your business. Gain a competitive edge and position yourself at the forefront of the industry’s technological revolution. 


Closing the Skilled Labor Gap: How AI is Helping the Trades Work Smarter

The skilled labor shortage is one of the most pressing challenges in the trades, but AI is helping businesses do more with less. In this webinar, we’ll dive into how AI can address everyday challenges—automating repetitive tasks, speeding up workflows, and allowing your team to focus on critical, high-value work. From streamlining data entry to providing real-time insights that keep projects on track, this session will highlight practical, real-world applications of AI that can increase productivity without adding extra costs. Whether you’re just exploring AI or ready to improve efficiency, join us for actionable insights on how AI is shaping the future of the trades with Director of Solution Engineering at BuildOps, Glen Tipton.

Presented by BuildOps

Watch Now

MSCA thanks BuildOps, ServiceTrade and ServiceTitan for their sponsorship of MSCA24, and for providing this webinar series to keep the education going. We look forward to seeing you at the MSCA 2025 Annual Education Conference, November 9 – 12, 2025 in Scottsdale, AZ. Be sure to take a few minutes to explore these other education opportunities of interest to service contractors.

Resource Highlight: MCAA | NECA | SMACNA Tool and Equipment Rental Guide

Construction tools and equipment are an essential part of any contractor’s business and can represent a significant investment. Companies need the most updated costs to inform internal estimating, project proposals for new and potential customers, and cost accounting efforts surrounding contractor-owned equipment. The newly updated MCAA | NECA | SMACNA Tool and Equipment Rental Guide provides a robust guide to equipment recovery costs for mechanical, electrical, line and other construction contractors. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Backed by the expertise of EquipmentWatch, the industry leader in equipment data, the guide lets users:

  • Search for rates using an enhanced web portal that includes filters to let them narrow search results.
  • View or download a comprehensive list of every rate in the guide in .pdf or .csv format.
  • Adjust rates for a specific region.
  • Account for rising fuel prices.
  • Review lists of typical tools and expendable items.
  • Map IDs to MCAA legacy IDs.
VISIT THE WEB PORTAL

Explore the full range of MCAA resources in the Resource Center, where you can use the blue Find A Resource bar to pinpoint exactly what you need.

Have Questions or Need Personal Assistance?

Contact MCAA’s Adrienne Breedlove.

MCAA CEO Tim Brink Represents the Construction Industry at White House Event

On Tuesday, October 8th, 2024, MCAA CEO Tim Brink joined the White House Domestic Policy Council (DPC) and White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) for the first White House Challenge to Save Lives from Overdose Event. The event celebrated nearly 250 commitments from stakeholders across all sectors to help expand access to lifesaving opioid overdose reversal medication and reduce preventable drug overdose deaths.

“With education and awareness, we can empower people to take action and save a life.”
– Timothy J. Brink, MCAA CEO

Tim was introduced by Rahul Gupta, Director of the ONDCP. In his role representing the construction industry, Tim highlighted the importance of this crucial initiative and how important normalizing this issue is. “Reaching other trades facing substance use and overdose requires a collaborative and inclusive approach. We haven’t completely figured this out, and we all need to learn from each other. Through our Alliance with NECA, SMACNA, and TAUC, we have top-down support for this challenge, but it also requires equal support from the bottom up and everywhere in between,” Tim said.

He also highlighted MCAA’s approach to recognizing drug abuse, misuse, and addiction’s relationship with a person’s mental health, and emphasized MCAA’s award-winning mental health awareness and suicide prevention video, and our new joint Construction Mental Health Summit with SMACNA and TAUC at the 2025 Safety and Health Conference.

MCAA’s leadership in construction safety and health started 25 years ago under the guidance of longtime industry expert Pete Chaney. Over the last 25 years, MCAA has been able to attribute a decrease of about a half a million injuries, a savings to contractors of tens of billions of dollars, to these efforts, which included creating and distributing over 700 safety and health resources in multiple languages.

“The crisis often begins with the first major injury, leading to the initial prescription for pain relief. It continues on the jobsite due to the pressures of the current work environment, such as the necessity for speed to market and the fact that if you don’t work, you don’t get paid. This all contributes to the need to work through pain and the continued use of opioids,” said Brink.

MCAA supports the White House’s position encouraging employers to:

  • Train employees on how and when to use an opioid overdose reversal medications.
  • Keep opioid reversal medications in their first aid kits, both on jobsites and in offices.
  • Provide opioid overdose reversal medications to trained employees.

Learn More

If you have questions about this or other safety-related topics, please contact Raffi Elchemmas, MCAA’s Executive Director of Safety, Health, and Risk Management.

MCAA & NFPA Are Empowering Electrical Safety for Mechanical Service with New Training & Education

MCAA has joined forces with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to offer resources and tools customized and curated to specifically address and mitigate risks related to electrical safety posed to MCAA members, including physical, compliance and financial risks. Crafted by NFPA’s trusted subject matter experts, this content will provide actionable information and strategies to help you and your team keep pace with the ever-changing regulatory environment, identify potential hazards and shortfalls, and markedly improve safety for your employees, customers, and their workplaces and communities.

Depending on your needs and goals, we offer different levels of educational programs from introductory to more in-depth and on-going programming—and it’s all at a discounted rate.

See the brochure for offerings and discounts, then request more information at nfpa.org/mcaa-nfpa.

If you have questions that aren’t addressed here, please contact Raffi Elchemmas.

Connect With the Latest Training from DEWALT Industrial Tool Company and Conex Bänninger (IBP Group LLC) at MCAA.org

The Manufacturer/Supplier Training area of MCAA’s website connects our contractor members with training opportunities available from the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

Participating companies highlight and link to new webinars and training opportunities across their product lines, services, solutions or web pages. Here are just a few of the recent additions:

DEWALT Industrial Tool Company
The DEWALT PERFORM & PROTECT™ line of tools and accessories is YOUR FIRST LINE OF DEFENSE™ on the job. They are designed to provide a high level of one or more of the following: dust containment, control, or low vibration, without sacrificing performance. These quick and easy product guides from DEWALT® will help get you started using your tools.

Learn More

Conex Bänninger (IBP Group LLC)
Conex Bänninger offers online training for >B< MaxiPro, the innovative, flame-free press-fit solution specially designed for ACR applications. From training courses to industry updates, you will have all you need to press ahead.

Learn More

Interested in More Training from Our Supplier Partners?

Be sure to visit the Manufacturer/Supplier Training area for all the latest offerings.

Learn More

Help Those Impacted by Hurricanes Helene & Milton

The MCAA Charitable Fund is collecting donations to help communities affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. All donations will support Convoy of Hope’s relief efforts in the affected areas. Let’s unite as a community to provide hope and support for those affected by these storms. Your generosity can make a lasting difference in their recovery.

Find the Latest from Tyler Pipe & Coupling and Morris Group International in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show

MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show connects our contractor members with the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

Participating companies highlight and link to new products, product lines, services, solutions or web pages of particular interest. Here are just a few of the recent additions:

Tyler Pipe & Coupling
Tyler Pipe & Coupling produces quality cast iron soil pipe and fittings and no-hub couplings in the heartland of America. Visit our website to see how quality cast iron is made right here in the USA.

Learn More

Morris Group International
MGI ConTrols® BASyC® Digital Mixing Valve provides monitoring and adjustment capability for your hot water distribution systems. MGI ConTrols is a Morris Group International brand.

Learn More

Need Something Else?

Find many more smart solutions in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show!

Visit the Virtual Trade Show

Speaking of Smart Solutions

Visit the Smart Solutions Case Studies area of our website to learn how other mechanical contractors found their win-win with cost-saving and productivity-enhancing applications from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

This section of our website also includes tips and ideas to help your company save money and enhance your productivity. Don’t miss it!

Visit Smart Solutions

Connect With Additional Manufacturer/Supplier Training

Save yourself time and let MCAA connect you to the latest Manufacturer/Supplier member’s training opportunities. Visit the Manufacturer/Supplier Training area of the Resource Center to get started. 

Balancing Restroom Style & Function

The key to a successful restroom renovation lies in balancing aesthetics with practicality to create a space that is not only visually appealing but also integrates functionality, durability, and performance. A well-designed restroom can significantly enhance the overall experience for users, leaving a positive impression and reflecting well on the facility.

LEARN MORE

Looking for More Smart Solutions?

Visit the Smart Solutions Case Studies area of our website! You’ll see how other mechanical contractors found their win-win with productivity-enhancing and cost-saving applications from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

Plus, you’ll find tips and ideas on other ways you and your company can save money and enhance your productivity.

VISIT SMART SOLUTIONS

2025 MEP Innovation Conference Features Education to Develop Technology Leaders For Your Organization

The 2025 MEP Innovation Conference, set for January 27-30 in Los Angeles, CA, is going to be a key event for professionals in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing industries. One of the standout sessions will focus on how to become a “Data Empowered Contractor,” tackling the fast-paced changes in construction technology and what technology leaders need to succeed today.

Led by Jeff Sample, this session will focus on *Executive Leadership.* You will get practical advice on building organizational structures, managing change effectively, and creating communication plans that align with your company’s goals. This part of the session is all about helping you lead a culture of innovation and adaptability. Additionally, you will learn about “Elevating Acumen,” which is about improving your ability to communicate across different departments and drive positive cultural change.

Chris Weaver, Director of Technology at Andy J. Egan Company, will join Jeff Sample and leaders from NECA and SMACNA to share real-world experiences handling construction technology challenges. Together, they will offer strategies you can take back to your company to become a data-empowered leader ready for future challenges. This session is a great chance to learn from experts and connect with peers about using technology effectively in construction.

The MEP Innovation Conference is known for its hands-on sessions and networking opportunities, making it a great place to share ideas and explore new technologies. By attending this session, you will gain skills to lead your company in today’s digital world, keeping you competitive and innovative in construction management. Don’t miss this chance to boost your leadership skills and become a data-empowered contractor ready for the future.

REGISTER & LEARN MORE

Webinar: Insights and Innovation Driving the Future of Commercial Contracting

The MSCA Annual Education Conference may be over, but MSCA education continues with our three-part webinar series, presented by MSCA’s esteemed level 1 sponsors. Each 30-minute webinar focuses on the latest technological innovations and forward-thinking strategies shaping the future of the mechanical services industry. In an ever-evolving landscape, staying ahead of the curve is essential to driving growth, improving efficiency, and overcoming industry-wide challenges.

This is a great opportunity to bring some of the conference into your office! Each session will provide thought-provoking insights and practical takeaways you can bring to your business. Gain a competitive edge and position yourself at the forefront of the industry’s technological revolution. 

Insights and Innovation Driving the Future of Commercial Contracting

Join Alex Kablanian, GM of Commercial & Construction at ServiceTitan, and Charlie Warren, Co-Founder and CEO of Convex as they explore the key market trends and economic indicators for the commercial contracting industry. They also dive into the transformative role technology plays and give a forward-looking perspective on the future of commercial services. This session offers valuable insights and strategies for staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

Presented by ServiceTitan Commercial

Watch Now

Registration Now Open for the 2024 Industry Funds Conference

December 4, 2024 – December 6, 2024 | Longboat Key, FL

Join us for the MCAA Industry Funds Conference at the beautiful Resort at Longboat Key Club in Florida! This essential event will cover key topics such as the Do’s & Don’ts of Industry Funds, Mental Health, a JRGF Update, Legal Perspectives on Expenses & Documentation, and an Economic Update. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed, gain insights, and network with industry leaders. Register now to secure your spot!

Resource Highlight: MCAA’s Project Manager’s Manual

Project managers ensure that work is completed on time, in accordance with contract documents, and at a profit. MCAA’s Project Manager’s Manual equips PMs with general information on project management in the construction industry, offering tips for handling day‐to‐day situations and avoiding some of the most common pitfalls. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The manual covers key topics like:

  • Managing change orders and claims
  • Job cost and labor control
  • Productivity
  • Scheduling
  • Safety
  • And much more

In addition to guidance, explanation, and best practices, it includes templates and examples of commonly used forms and documents like a Short Interval Schedule.

DOWNLOAD

MCAA offers a variety of additional resources of interest to PMs. Find them here.

Explore MCAA’s Comprehensive Suite of PM Education

Have Questions or Need Personal Assistance?

Contact MCAA’s Amy Harding.

Dues Increase Coming in 2025

The 2025 dues rates for MCAA and MSCA member construction and service hours will increase to $.10 per labor hour effective January 1, 2025. The minimum dues assessment is based upon 12,000 hours ($1,200) per branch office, and the maximum assessment is 300,000 hours ($30,000) per branch office. New dues reporting forms will be provided in advance of the January 1 date. Watch MCAA.org and the National Update for an announcement.

National Service and Maintenance Agreement (NSMA) signatory contractors’ contribution rate will also increase to $.10 per labor hour effective January 1, 2025. The minimum of 8,000 hours ($800) per office will remain the same. There is no maximum for NSMA signators.

MSCA Classes – Just a Few Spots Left!

The autumn 2024 MSCA classes are on the calendar and open for registration. MSCA provides focused training programs for your operational personnel. This collection of programs, unlike any other, provide the continued training to set your employees apart in the HVACR industry. Service Managers is SOLD OUT, but we still have a couple of spots left in the following:

Dispatcher Training Program 
November 6-8, 2024 | Linthicum Heights, MD

REGISTER & LEARN MORE

Field Service Supervisors Training Program  
November 6-8, 2024 | Linthicum Heights, MD

REGISTER & LEARN MORE

Sales Basecamp 
November 6-8, 2024 | Linthicum Heights, MD

REGISTER & LEARN MORE

Help Us Develop New Service Training Courses

MSCA is always looking to expand our educational offerings to meet our members’ needs. We are creating new intermediate and advanced sales courses, as well as technical service courses, and we could use your help! Take just three minutes to fill out the survey so we can provide the training you need!

TAKE THE SURVEY

Relax and Connect with Peers at MCAA25 – Register Today!

Wednesday night is definitely the time to let your hair down at MCAA25! The evening will begin with a two-hour reception hosted by MILWAUKEE TOOL. Following the reception, everyone will join their local MCA groups for a gourmet sit-down dinner as a prequel to the big show…Bryan Adams! Register today to be part of the Wednesday night fun at MCAA25!

Bryan Adams has the reputation of being one of the most exciting live musicians in the world. He has 17 studio albums, and his song writing has garnered him numerous awards and accolades including three Academy Award nominations, five Golden Globe nominations, a Grammy Award and 20 Juno Awards

Special thanks to our sponsors MILWAUKEE TOOL (reception), Daikin Group (dinner & concert beverages) and Watts Water Technologies (dinner) for making this evening memorable!

Register today to be part of the Wednesday night fun at MCAA25!

CONVENTION WEBSITE