Archives: News Items

Advanced Leadership Institute Course 20 Now Accepting Applications

MCAA is currently accepting applications for its flagship executive education program, the Advanced Leadership Institute. Designed specifically for mechanical contracting executives, the ALI is focused on developing the talents and business networks of leaders in the industry.

The intensive, team-oriented, two-week residential program includes lecture, individual coaching sessions, and the development and presentation of final a team project.

The ALI is offered annually at Babson College in Wellesley, MA. The dates for ALI Course 20 are September 13-17, 2020 and November 1-6, 2020.

The application process is competitive, and applicants must provide the endorsement of their CEO/President. While the deadline is May 29, 2020, the course fills up quickly, so early submission is recommended.

For additional program details and application criteria, download the application form.

MCA of Indiana Student Chapter Member Finds Full-time Position with Freitag-Weinhardt, Inc.

Jonathan Dang has accepted a full-time position with Freitag Weinhardt, Inc., in Terre Haute, Indiana. He is interning for the company while he completes his studies at Indiana State University, where he is pursuing a B.S. in Safety Management with a minor in Construction Management. He will join the company as an employee after graduation in December 2020.

Jonathan, who is the president of the MCAA Student Chapter at Indiana State University, noted that “one of the things that made a career in the mechanical industry so appealing is the investment in students and their futures.”

He went on to describe the experiences that led to his career choice. “When I started to pursue my college degree, I did not know what I wanted to be. Until I was given the opportunity to go to my first MCAA GreatFutures Forum in 2018 in Anaheim. I never understood how amazing MCAA and all its members can be. From the latest technology to the passion of all the individuals there, I was awestruck and, at that moment, I was all in.”

Jonathan met Bob Moreland and Mark Ungar from Freitag-Weinhardt, Inc. at an MCA of Indiana event during MCAA19 in San Antonio. “They offered me an internship at their office, and I took it,” he said. “During my internship, I have learned how to do estimating, subcontracts, POs, and change orders, and I understand how people operate in the field.”

Jonathan also attended the 2019 MCAA GreatFutures Forum in Washington, D.C. He said, “No matter how many MCAA events I attend, I am always blown away by the fact that MCAA is willing to invest much of their resources in college students like me. I look forward to the future that MCAA is building.”

You can find student chapter members like Jonathan at mcaagreatfutures.org.

Apply for the NEW MCAA Internship Grants Funded by MCERF!

For 2020, MCAA has updated its student internship grant process to focus on the intern and give them the best opportunities possible with MCAA member companies. Five-hundred-dollar grants will now be offered directly to students who accept internships or full-time positions, with funding from MCERF.

Having MCAA interns working at member companies is a win-win for the mechanical contracting industry. Employers get top talent and build a pipeline of future employees. Students gain experience, create connections, develop skills and further their interest in mechanical contracting. In paying the student instead of the employer, MCAA’s goal is to increase the overall number of interns and drive the overall number of talented employees accepting full-time positions after graduation.

How does the new grant application process work?

The MCAA member company will first ensure a prospective intern is in good standing at an accredited two- or four-year college, university or technical school. While MCAA encourages its members to give priority to students from the MCAA Student Chapter Program, this is not a requirement to receive a grant.

Each MCAA member company can submit up to two internship grant applications per year. Once an application is reviewed and accepted, MCAA will send a $500 Visa Gift Card to the member company so it can present the Gift Card to the student at the start of their internship.

MCAA will follow-up with each company and intern to ensure the process and overall internship was successful.

Start your search for top talent today!

MCAAGreatFutures.org gives members access to student profiles and resumes. The profiles are searchable by university, desired location, and even a specific skill set, like BIM or AutoCAD. A keyword filter allows users to zero in on students who fit the bill.

Not finding a match? Try reaching out to our 60 MCAA Student Chapters. The chapter advisors are a great resource to help find the right person. And, MCAA members have exclusive access to post job openings on our job board.

Help build our industry’s GreatFuture – apply for a grant!

Kim Bassett and Charles Bacon Are Recognized for Their Commitment to Safety

Kim Bassett, President and CEO of Bassett Mechanical, and Charles A. Bacon, III, CEO of Limbach Facility Services, have been named to Safety+Health magazine’s list of 2020 CEOs Who “Get It.” This annual recognition is presented to safety leaders who go the extra mile to protect employees both on and off the job, as nominated by readers. “I do many things in my role as president and CEO,” Kim said, “but doing my best to keep our associates safe is by far the most important.”

Find the Latest from IFS North America and Lincoln Electric 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:

IFS North America - MCAA Virtual Trade Show
IFS North America
IFS believes that service complexity shouldn’t be a hurdle to business success; it should be an asset for your business, and a value that gets passed to your customer. It’s no wonder, then, that IFS achieved the highest score in complex service and support in Gartner’s Critical Capabilities for Service Management. See how IFS stacks up here.

Learn More

Lincoln Electric - MCAA Virtual Trade Show
Lincoln Electric
CrossLinc™ Technology and Flextec® multi-process welders from Lincoln Electric enable voltage control at the wire feeder, saving time while enhancing quality and productivity.

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

Walter Sperko Receives ASME’s J. Hall Taylor Medal

Walter Sperko, long-time consultant for the National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB), received the 2019 J. Hall Taylor Medal from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

The medal is presented for distinguished service and eminent achievement in the field of codes and standards pertaining to the broad fields of piping and pressure vessels. Walter was recognized for his leadership and professionalism in the advancement and recognition of ASME Codes and Standards, especially for significant contributions to the standardization of qualification of welders, welding operators and brazers and the procedures they follow in ASME construction.

Walter became the NCPWB’s Technical Consultant in 1987. Since then, he has been helping our contractors address issues raised by inspectors and owners and their sometimes-unrealistic demands.

Our members get the full benefit of Walter’s vast knowledge of piping, welding and metallurgy.

Walter holds five patents and serves on various Code committees including:

ASME Board on Pressure Technology, Codes and Standards
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Committee

  • Standards Committee IX (Welding and Brazing), Vice-Chairman
  • Standards Committee II, Subgroup on Strength of Weldments
  • Standards Committee III (Nuclear)
  • ASME B31 Code for Pressure Piping Standards Committee
  • ASME B31.9, Building Services Piping

American Welding Society

  • Technical Activities Committee
  • International Standards Activities Committee
  • D10 Committee on Pipe and Tube

The NCPWB congratulates Walter on his achievement.

NCPWB Resources Provide ASME Section IX Compliance Help

The NCPWB has two new resources to help member companies comply with the new ASME Section IX requirements. A Technical Bulletin summarizes the requirements for contractor personnel who supervise UA/NCPWB joint test events. It includes customizable documentation forms to simplify compliance as well as a link to the full policy document. The new requirement becomes mandatory on January 1, 2020.

Explore the Latest from Conex Bänninger (IBP GROUP LLC) and E.H. Wachs 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:

Conex Bänninger (IBP GROUP LLC) - MCAA Virtual Trade Show
Conex Bänninger (IBP GROUP LLC)
Benefiting from over 100 years’ experience in fittings manufacture and over two decades experience in press system design, >B< MaxiPro is set to revolutionize pipe jointing in air conditioning and refrigeration applications. The >B< MaxiPro range is brought to you by Conex Bänninger, a specialist in providing high quality fittings, valves and accessories across the globe.

Learn More

E.H. Wachs - MCAA Virtual Trade Show
E.H. Wachs
E.H. Wachs manufactures portable weld prep machine tools used in construction and maintenance to cut, bevel, face and counterbore pipe and vessels. Available for purchase or rental.

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

Explore the Latest from CNA and MIFAB 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:

CNA - MCAA Virtual Trade Show
CNA
Mechanical contractors take on risk with each project, when was the last time you reviewed your insurance needs?

Learn More

MIFAB, Inc. - MCAA Virtual Trade Show
MIFAB, Inc.
Serving all of the USA, Canada, Australia and the Middle East, MIFAB can provide you with the quality, engineered plumbing and drainage solutions you need. Innovative product designs save the installer time and material cost and provide the owner with higher quality cast stainless steel drains and cleanouts for the same cost as the industry standard nickel bronze.

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

Limiting Driver Distractions from Cell Phone Use

Distracted driving poses significant risk to every business that has employees who drive both company-owned and personal vehicles for company business. Common activities that divert attention from the road include texting, most mobile phone use, eating and drinking, reaching for an object, talking with a passenger, and reading navigation systems. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), for the second consecutive year, more than 40,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2017. According to a 2017 NSC public opinion poll, 74 percent rated distracted drivers as a major concern for traffic safety. Use this guide from CNA to assist in developing and supporting a program that helps in the control of driver behaviors, based on statistics about the impact of cell phone use and driver distractions, such as talking and texting.

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

Jackson & Blanc Saves Thousands by Deploying Rhumbix Core Digital Solution

California-based Jackson & Blanc digitized its timekeeping process with Rhumbix Core, saving an estimated $52,000 per year in labor costs alone. The company’s commitment to adopting innovative technologies is well-known, but adopting a new technology can sometimes be costly and require overcoming hurdles to implementation and adoption. Jackson & Blanc realized that technological advancements and social changes force companies to evolve—or fall behind.

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

RMF Nooter Receives First Place at the Zero Injury Safety Awards® Gala

RMF Nooter, Inc. received first place in the nation at the 19th Annual Zero Injury Safety Awards Gala. The award recognizes 2.3 million work-hours performed injury-free on the BP Toledo Refinery project. When asked why RMF Nooter is consistently ranked among the top five in the nation, Bobbie Strayer, Vice President of Administration, noted, “Safety is a part of every phase of our jobs. From the planning phase, through execution, and at close out.” Congratulations! MCAA applauds your commitment to safety excellence.

UA-MCAA Labor Relations Conference Convenes in Las Vegas

The 2019 UA-MCAA Labor Relations Conference: Succeeding Together will convene October 29 – 30, 2019, at The Mirage in Las Vegas, Nevada. The conference, jointly hosted by the United Association (UA) and MCAA, will feature panel discussions focused on topics such as growing apprenticeships, expansion of service, and attracting tomorrow’s diverse workforce.

Complete Temperature Systems Slashes Office Staff Time with MobiliForms

Complete Temperature Systems of Chicago cut office staff time by 14 hours per week using MobiliForms from iBusiness Technologies to help streamline their operations. Before, field work orders, service tickets, and preventive maintenance checklists had been driven around, which delayed invoicing and created the possibility of getting lost. Now, information streams in real time, allowing for same-day or next-day invoicing. CTS’ government contracts require specific work acknowledgement letters; with MobiliForms in place, they are signed onsite, stored, and shared digitally. MobiliForms also allows techs to capture pictures and sounds on work orders.

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

Discover the Latest from Jay R. Smith Mfg. Co.®, Wheatland Tube and More 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:

Jay R. Smith Mfg. Co.® a Member of Morris Group International - MCAA Virtual Trade Show
Jay R. Smith Mfg. Co.® a Member of Morris Group International
Designed with tilt-up concrete buildings in mind, this hydrant box will cut your wall hydrant installation labor time by 75 percent or more. Discover more products that save you time on the job.

Learn More

Wheatland Tube - MCAA Virtual Trade Show
Wheatland Tube
The uniform grain structure of SureThread™ continuous weld standard pipe delivers exceptional strength and allows for each threading, bending and cutting – making installation fast.

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

The Countdown Starts Now – MCAA2020 Registration Will Open September 30!

The wait is almost over! Registration for MCAA2020 will open at 12:00 noon Eastern time on September 30! Known as the premier event of the year for education and networking, MCAA2020 will bring you memorable speakers, sessions, parties and experiences all in a magnificent setting! Check out the Convention website at mcaaconvention.org and register soon through our secure online registration system to secure your preferred hotel accommodations. We look forward to welcoming our MCAA Family to Maui. Mahalo!

We Have Five Great Properties. Register Early to Get Your First Pick!

When it comes to finding the perfect accommodations, MCAA2020 attendees have plenty of choices. Each of the five properties is stellar with unique amenities to make your stay memorable. Make sure you register early to get your first-choice property—Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui, Grand Wailea Resort & Spa, Grand Wailea Ho’olei Villas, Four Seasons Resort or Fairmont Kea Lani. We’ll handle the reservations for you during registration, which will open at 12pm eastern time on September 30.

Download Your New Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide Today!

The full-featured digital version of our Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide enhances the look and feel of our directory with digital-only benefits to help you:

  • Network on the go with linked email addresses.
  • Connect with the companies, products and services that interest you using linked web addresses.
  • Get where you’re going…fast…with bookmarks and a linked table of contents.
  • Find advertisers instantly with a linked advertiser index.

MCAA’s Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide is free as a member benefit. Printed directories are in the mail and will arrive to members within the next two weeks.

Download Your Copy

Have updates? Please share! Contact Jan Grillo for assistance.