Organization: MCAA

Inside MCAA: The Blueprint for Mechanical Contracting – Ep. 5 The Evolution of Technology in the Mechanical Industry

Welcome to Inside MCAA, The Blueprint to Mechanical Contracting, the podcast dedicated to unveiling the strategies and resources that power success within the Mechanical Contractors Association of America. Hosted by renowned Customer Experience Coach and NEI Instructor Frank Favaro, each episode dives deep into the wealth of educational tools, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts that define MCAA.

Monthly we will explore how MCAA supports its members with cutting-edge insights and industry updates, helping navigate the dynamic landscape of mechanical contracting. From legislative advocacy to fostering trusted partnerships, Inside MCAA offers a behind-the-scenes look at the initiatives driving innovation and growth in the field.

EPISODE 5: Sean McGuire, MCAA’s Executive Director of Innovative Technologies and Fabrication & Chris Weaver, Director of Technology at Andy J. Egan Co., Inc.

In this episode of Inside MCAA, host Frank Favaro discusses the evolution of technology within mechanical contracting with Sean McGuire, MCAA’s Executive Director of Innovative Technologies and Fabrication, and Chris Weaver, Director of Technology at Andy J. Egan Co., Inc. Together, they talk about the transformative role of technology in the industry and the challenges of driving innovation. Chris shares his journey from a one-man BIM department to leading a team of 17, contributing to his company’s growth from $20 million to $300 million in annual revenue. He reflects on the resistance he faced from field teams wary of technology’s impact on traditional trades, a tension he ultimately overcame with support from strong leadership and clear communication about the company’s future direction. Sean adds valuable insight into the broader industry perspective, highlighting how MCAA’s technology committee has enabled contractors nationwide to share strategies, overcome common obstacles, and grow together.

Follow Inside MCAA on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Find the Latest from Jomar Valve and Lochinvar, LLC 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:

Jomar Valve
Ensure quality and performance with Jomar’s expanded high performance ball valve lineup. Our premium, Italian ball valves and new, engineered bronze ball valves are the most versatile and complete high performance lineup available.

Lochinvar, LLC
Lochinvar, a leading manufacturer of high efficiency boilers, water heaters, pool heaters and sustainable options offers space and water heating solutions for virtually any application.

Need Something Else?

Find many more smart solutions in MCAA’s 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!

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. 

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.

Beacon Economics Report Offers a Strategic Decision-Making Tool for Service

The 2024 Beacon Economics Market Report for MSCA is here! This essential report delivers up-to-the-minute insights and data-driven analysis tailored for mechanical service contractors. Uncover updated key trends for 2024, including market shifts and economic forecasts that directly impact your business. This study is an invaluable resource for looking at market trends that will help guide strategic decisions and keep you competitive. Don’t miss out on this powerful tool—download the new report today!

Find the Latest from Trane 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:

Trane
Trane® has launched the new Thermafit® Model MAS air-source modular multipipe unit. MAS provides simultaneous heating and cooling with all the benefits of Thermafit modular design for ease of install in new and existing buildings.

Morris Group International
The Murdock® tube evaporator in Maintenance Advantage® drinking fountains and bottle fillers is a more sanitary way to provide cold water. Murdock is a Morris Group International brand.

Need Something Else?

Find many more smart solutions in MCAA’s 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!

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. 

Partnering to Accelerate Production with Morris Group International & North Mechanical

For a new medical product manufacturing plant, North Mechanical chose Morris Group International® (MGI) brands Acorn Engineering Company® and Jay R. Smith Mfg. Co.® to meet the tight deadline and accelerate the manufacturer’s production capacity. MGI’s flexibility and willingness to prioritize the contractor’s needs proved crucial in helping North Mechanical overcome obstacles and deliver a successful project.

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.

Final Opportunity to Register with Early Bird Pricing for the 2025 Safety and Health Conference

The early bird registration for the 2025 Safety and Health Conference is closing soon, with rates set to increase to $1,249 once the deadline passes.

The 2025 Safety & Health Conference will unite safety professionals from across the construction industry to address and explore both challenges and emerging opportunities in safety. With the aim of equipping contractors with essential knowledge and tools, this event is designed to help create workplaces that minimize the risk of injury and illness.

Attendees will have access to an array of educational programs focused on enhancing professional skills, featuring industry-leading experts covering key aspects of jobsite safety. Sessions will delve into topics such as emerging technologies, evolving best practices, and actionable insights to improve safety in daily operations. Hands-on workshops will provide a deeper look at innovative safety concepts, offering practical guidance to help attendees integrate these strategies effectively.

New to this year’s lineup are two highly anticipated summits—nearing capacity—offering additional learning opportunities: the Construction Mental Health Summit (pre-conference) and the Construction Risk Management Summit (post-conference).

With over 500 safety professionals expected, the 2025 Safety & Health Conference is on track to sell out. Reserve your spot today to ensure you’re part of this impactful event!

Share Your Insights on Technology Innovations with Dodge Construction Network

MCAA is partnering with Dodge Construction Network to conduct critical research on the state of technology across the construction industry, and your participation is vital to its success. This survey should take approximately 15 minutes to complete. Your answers are strictly confidential and will not be associated with your name or the name of your company in any way.

As a thank you for participating, Dodge Data & Analytics will donate $25 for every completed survey—up to a total donation of $2,000—to Heavy Metal Summer Experience, an innovative six-week pilot program designed to expand work-based college alternatives, introduce high school students and recent graduates to careers in the building trades and help fill our industry’s skills shortages.

Thank you for helping the industry and participating in this important effort.

Connect With the Latest Training from XOi and Ridge Tool Company 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:

XOi
XOi’s holistic communication tool changes the way field service companies do business by leveraging photos, videos, and smart technology to bring efficiency, transparency, and expertise to every job. In this microlearning series, you will see examples of how to automate tech checklists, learn the benefits of internal job documentation, and find some helpful preventative maintenance videos to reference.

Ridge Tool Company
Take a deeper dive into RIDGID Diagnostics. Learn what we have to offer in terms of diagnostics, inspection & locating. Plus learn about our online business tool, RIDGIDConnect.

Interested in More Training from Our Supplier Partners?

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

Find the Latest from Josam Company and Marking Services, Inc. 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:

Josam Company
Josam Company is well known in the commercial plumbing industry for offering innovative engineered products to the marketplace. Our full line of drainage products offers labor-saving features and benefits with the installer in mind. With superior quality products that are easy to install and customizable to meet the demands of any drainage application.

Marking Services, Inc.
MSI’s AIM Mobile Technology delivers on-demand 24/7 access to critical asset information. Our QR coded tags provide instant access to critical documents in the field. AIM will greatly increase productivity and efficiency in the field providing Asset and Document Management (O&M, Commissioning, Startup, Warranty, Submittals, etc.) to meet your turnover package needs.

Need Something Else?

Find many more smart solutions in MCAA’s 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!

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. 

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.

Nominate a Safety Professional as the 2024 MCAA/MILWAUKEE TOOL Safety Professional of the Year

Nominations are due by close of business on December 5, 2024. 

Nominations are open for the 2024 MCAA/MILWAUKEE TOOL Safety Professional of the Year award. This award is presented annually to a mechanical industry safety and health professional who has led his or her company to achieve an exceptionally high degree of safety excellence. Six individuals have received the award since its inception in 2018. Nominate someone today and they could be number seven!

To nominate someone from your company, or from another company, please complete the nomination form below and submit it by close of business on December 5, 2024. 

The 2024 MCAA/MILWAUKEE TOOL Safety Professional of the Year award will be presented at the 2025 MCAA | SMACNA | TAUC Safety & Health Conference on January 13, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

The winner will also be invited to the MCAA25 convention in Austin, TX, in March to receive the award onstage during the Awards of Excellence Breakfast. Airfare, lodging, and registration will all be complimentary.

MCA of Houston Commits $100,000 to Help Those Impacted by Hurricanes Helene & Milton

The MCA of Houston’s Board of Directors has authorized a $100,000 donation to the MCAA Charitable Fund in support of those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The donation will support Convoy of Hope’s relief efforts in the affected areas. MCAA thanks the MCA of Houston for its generosity. If you would like to join them in providing hope and support for those affected by these storms, use the button below to make a donation. Your generosity can make a lasting difference in their recovery.

Be Inspired During the MCAA25 Lunch Featuring Kendall Toole

You asked and we listened! Back for a second year in a row is the Monday featured lunch. This lunch is open to all attendees who are trying to grab a quick bite between the morning and afternoon education seminars. At MCAA25 we will have the pleasure of listening to and learning from Kendall Toole as we enjoy our lunch.

Kendall Toole is a lightening rod of energy, natural-born fighter and dynamic athlete who knows how to harness the collective attention in any room. She is passionate about destigmatizing mental health and stands as a change-maker for how society approaches 360 wellness. Kendall motivates those around her to find their voice and believe in their inner strength.

Special thanks to SLOAN for sponsoring this lunch!

Register for MCAA25 today to hear Kendall’s uplifting and meaningful message.

Find the Latest from Raken 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:

Raken
Crews in the field can record quantities of materials with cost codes from any mobile device. They can also add photos and notes to track progress in the field while the office sees the data in real-time.

Morris Group International
The MGI ConTrols® Omega® Mixing Valve is installed at point of use to temper water for sinks, baths, showers, and lavatories. MGI ConTrols is a Morris Group International brand.

Need Something Else?

Find many more smart solutions in MCAA’s 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!

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. 

Boosting Mechanical Revenue 30 Percent

After making the transition from paper recordkeeping to BuildOps software, “our revenue has grown by 30 percent, we’ve doubled the number of tickets that we can handle, and we’re working more efficiently than before,” said Scott Fuksa, president of Jackson Mechanical Service.

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.

Unlock New Business Opportunities at the 4th Annual MCAA Converge

June 23-25, 2025 | Minneapolis, MN

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.

Help Save Lives at the 2025 Safety & Health Conference Blood Drive!

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

As we gather for the inaugural Safety & Health Conference this year, we’re called to take action for a critical cause—the national blood shortage. Earlier this year, the American Red Cross declared a national emergency, underscoring the urgent need for donations. Blood supplies across the country are at dangerously low levels, and every donation counts in helping hospitals and emergency centers provide life-saving care.

We’re teaming up with OneBlood to host a blood drive on-site, offering you a chance to make a tangible difference. Please set aside some time on Tuesday or Wednesday at the 2025 Safety & Health Conference to visit the mobile blood donation truck at the front of the hotel. Your donation could help save a life—and as a token of appreciation, every donor will receive a special gift from OneBlood.

This is an opportunity to make a significant impact while attending the conference. Together, we can help combat this shortage and contribute to a healthier future for our communities.

Let’s show the strength of our construction industry by stepping up and donating! 💪🩸 Find a time that works with your schedule and sign up today!

The 2025 Safety & Health Conference will take place from January 13-16, 2025, at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach, a family-friendly, oceanside resort in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Resource Highlight: MCAA’s Change Orders, Productivity, Overtime—A Primer for the Construction Industry

Unplanned events, circumstances and factors may impact a construction project’s outcome, productivity and schedule. MCAA’s Change Orders, Productivity, Overtime—A Primer for the Construction Industry assists contractors in identifying obstacles to a successful project, and proactively managing these obstacles to mitigate or eliminate their impact to the bottom line. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The primer covers key topics in each of the title areas:

Change Orders

  • How to Identify and Manage Change Orders
  • How to Organize and Submit a Claim
  • Integrated, Cooperative, and Collaborative CPM Scheduling…a Roadmap to Success
  • The Importance of Obtaining the Prime Contractor’s Native CPM Scheduling Files
  • Time Impact Analysis—Measuring Project Delay
  • Identifying, Quantifying and Preventing BIM-Related Cost and Time Impacts NEW
  • Concurrent Delay

Productivity

  • Maintaining Control of Labor Productivity
  • Factors Affecting Labor Productivity
  • Connecting the “Cause” and “Effect” in Loss of Productivity Claims
  • How to Use the MCAA Labor Factors
  • How to Apply the Measured Mile Method of Productivity Analysis
  • How to Estimate the Effects of Cumulative Impacts

Overtime

  • How to Estimate the Impacts of Overtime on Labor Productivity
  • Shift Work and its Effects on Productivity

MCAA members can download it free as a benefit of membership. Printed copies are also available for purchase.

    All content was developed by MCAA’s Management Methods Committee with assistance from industry experts. The committee also publishes a series of Management Methods Bulletins. Visit the Management Methods Bulletins page to explore the full range of available content.

    Have Questions or Need Personal Assistance?

    Contact MCAA’s Frank Wall.

    Connect With the Latest Training from Mueller Industries, Inc. and Morris Group International 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:

    Mueller Industries, Inc.
    Streamline® Carbon Steel Press Fittings | Installation Instructions
    Watch this video to learn about the installation process of the Streamline® Carbon Steel Press Fittings for Mechanical or Gas.

    Morris Group International
    Enhance your skills with AcornVac®, a Morris Group International® brand! Learn how vacuum plumbing can help save water, energy, money and contribute to sustainable design for your next project!

    Interested in More Training from Our Supplier Partners?

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