What’s New

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

LAARS, a Bradford White Company (and a benefactor of MCAA24), is working closely with MCAA and the United Association (UA) toward a shared vision of continuous support for a trained, skilled workforce that is committed to safety, quality, and productivity. LAARS and the UA have established more than 50 advanced water heater and boiler training labs across the United States, with many more in development.

Want to improve your business relationships, gain product knowledge and leverage your business strategy? Join us for MCAA Converge. More than just a meeting, MCAA Converge is a meticulously crafted experience designed to address the unique needs of your company. Picture executive-to-executive meetings, a melting pot of strategic discussions, and an atmosphere buzzing with innovation.

Distracted driving kills thousands of people each year and seriously injures hundreds of thousands more according to the National Safety Council. MCAA’s distracted driving resources arm mechanical contractors with the resources needed to educate their workers during Distracted Driving Awareness Month and throughout the year. These are just a few of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that highlights the basics of GMAW (MIG) and FCAW welding. The bulletin describes the technical aspects of GMAW, explains how the metal gets from the wire to the workpiece (transfer modes), and highlights what contractors need to pay attention to when bringing the process into their shop or field fabrication site.

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.

Construction is a demanding, high-stress profession with one of the highest suicide rates in the nation. Providing training and connecting people with treatment services can be hard. MCAA’s Mental Health Awareness resources simplify the process. These are just a few of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA extends a warm welcome to Ron King, who joins the staff starting April 1, 2024, as MCAA’s new Executive Director, WebLEM and NCPWB. Ron will take over for Nick Nikpourfard upon his retirement in June. Ron joins us after a 17+ year career in the MEP division of Trimble, where he was most recently the Association Relationship and Business Development Director. Prior to joining Trimble, Ron worked for GEM Inc., a leading single-source contractor in Toledo, Ohio. He served as co-chair of the MCAA WebLEM Committee since 1998. MCAA is pleased to welcome Ron to the staff, and his significant other, Susan Hall, to the MCAA staff family.

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting to explore the innovations shaping the future of pipe welding. You will experience cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Don’t miss out…register today!

MCAA invites you to participate in the 2024 National Issues Conference for a deep-dive into the key regulatory and legislative issues affecting the union construction industry. Along with our partners in the Construction Employers of America (CEA), we will host regulators and representatives from Congress for their expertise and insights on a variety of topics. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the latest information that impacts your business from the nation’s capital! Register today!

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting to explore the innovations shaping the future of pipe welding. You will experience cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Don’t miss out…register today!

Today the White House announced a historic program targeting opioid overdoses. The White House Challenge to Save Lives from Overdose calls attention to construction industry efforts, including those of MCAA and our safety alliance partners at the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), and The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC).

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Ed Kommers, former executive director of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Western Washington (MCAWW). Ed equips those new to negotiations with the tools and knowledge needed for effective multiemployer bargaining as a unified team.

MCAA is pleased to welcome Shannon Paciorek, our new Associate Director, Meetings & Events. Shannon previously planned meetings and webinars for the Association of Cancer Care Centers and its Oncology State Societies. Her background in television production includes an Emmy Award win for sports. A member of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), Shannon enjoys running and trying out new restaurants. She is married with two daughters and two dogs. On the weekends, you can find her on a soccer field or at a dance competition. MCAA is pleased to welcome Shannon and her family to the MCAA family.

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

MCAA invites you to participate in the 2024 National Issues Conference for a deep-dive into the key regulatory and legislative issues affecting the union construction industry. Along with our partners in the Construction Employers of America (CEA), we will host regulators and representatives from Congress for their expertise and insights on a variety of topics. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the latest information that impacts your business from the nation’s capital! Register today!

ServiceTitan is the latest addition to the growing list of software platforms partnering with MCAA. The company is actively working to bring MCAA’s safety and health resources into ServiceTitan to make it easier for contractors to use and access, joining existing partners like Tyfoom and MCAI.

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting to learn from a case study highlighting recent advancements in adaptive welding. You will experience cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Don’t miss out…register today!

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Terry and Lee Resnick, partners in Resnick Succession Group. Terry and Lee teach business owners how to enhance, preserve, and ultimately transition their companies as well as non-business assets in the most tax and cost-efficient manner.

MCAA invites you to participate in the 2024 National Issues Conference for a deep-dive into the key regulatory and legislative issues affecting the union construction industry. Along with our partners in the Construction Employers of America (CEA), we will host regulators and representatives from Congress for their expertise and insights on a variety of topics. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the latest information that impacts your business from the nation’s capital! Early-bird registration discounts end March 1. Register today!

Technology is changing every day, but the need to secure company data remains constant. MCAA’s Things and Must Do’s to Protect/Secure Your Company’s Data reviews the basic steps contractors should take to keep intruders out and company data secure. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA President Robert Beck joined Frank Favaro for The People Business podcast on February 22, 2024. Listen as he delves into the significance of continually forging and solidifying relationships. He sheds light on the power of influence and its role in serving the greater good for everyone involved. Amid the earnest conversation, Robert also highlights the importance of infusing fun into all aspects of the day.

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting to learn about breakthroughs in orbital welding technology for med gas. You will experience cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Don’t miss out…register today!

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Frank Favaro, founder and President of ServeCentric Coaching in Cleveland, OH. Frank teaches sales employees where other companies drop the ball when it comes to customer interactions, relationships, and service and how to avoid those same mistakes.

Operating a vehicle in any weather condition involves a variety of risks. Winter weather requires extra care and attention to minimize risk to both companies and drivers. CNA, an MCAA member and longtime supporter of MCAA’s Safety Excellence Initiative, shares tips to minimize risk and keep everyone safe on the road.

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting for a showcase of cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Register today!

The Construction Employers of America (CEA) invites you to participate in the 2024 National Issues Conference, which will take place May 6–8, 2024, at the Royal Sonesta Washington, DC Capitol Hill. This event will focus on key regulatory and legislative issues affecting the union construction industry today. As with previous in-person conferences, the CEA will host both regulators and representatives from Congress for their expertise and insights on a variety of topics. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the latest information that impacts your business from the nation’s capital! Early-bird registration is now available!

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.

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

Want to improve your business relationships, gain product knowledge and leverage your business strategy? Join us for MCAA Converge. More than just a meeting, MCAA Converge is a meticulously crafted experience designed to address the unique needs of your company. Picture executive-to-executive meetings, a melting pot of strategic discussions, and an atmosphere buzzing with innovation.

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting for a showcase of cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Register today!

This week, at the annual Safety & Health Conference in Tucson, AZ, MCAA and MILWAUKEE TOOL announced the winner of the 2023 Safety Professional of the Year as Mark Rook of AMS Industries.

MCAA has long touted a 20-year track record of safety excellence and loudly voiced a commitment to make job sites safer for the mechanical industry and all construction workers nationwide. In an effort to bring awareness to and elevate the topic of Mental Health, MCAA shares one of its most impactful videos with the industry and general public, Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention.

Over the last decade, the MCAA Safety Excellence Initiative has seen a lot of changes. The industry has changed, PPE has changed, and even the rules we follow from OSHA have changed, but at MCAA one thing has remained constant, Tracy Haus. Tracy joined MCAA’s national Safety & Health Committee years ago and has led this committee as its chair for over a decade.

One of the most important videos in the MCAA Safety & Health resource collection is now available in Spanish. Over the last several years, MCAA members have increasingly requested our safety videos in Spanish, and that comes as no surprise. Data shows that 34% of construction workers are Spanish speakers, the largest of any industry in the U.S. The fatality rate for Hispanic construction workers remains higher than that for non-Hispanics, but with resources like these MCAA is working to bridge that gap.

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.

Want to improve your business relationships, gain product knowledge and leverage your business strategy? Join us for MCAA Converge. More than just a meeting, MCAA Converge is a meticulously crafted experience designed to address the unique needs of your company. Picture executive-to-executive meetings, a melting pot of strategic discussions, and an atmosphere buzzing with innovation.

As we welcome 2024, let’s take a moment to reflect on all the great things that the MCAA family accomplished in 2023.

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that highlights revisions to the NCPWB Brazing Procedure Specifications (BPSs). NPCWB members may continue to use the old BPSs for work that is already in process under existing contracts. Members must begin to use the revised version for contracts that begin after January 1, 2024.

When called upon to produce plans for older buildings, contractors may need to take measurements for pipes and ductwork that are not easily accessed. MCAA’s Laser Scanning explains how laser scanning may be able to help facilitate this work. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Join us from June 24 – 26, 2024, at one of America’s “Best Minor League Ballparks” for an event that transcends the ordinary. MCAA Converge isn’t just a meeting; it’s a meticulously crafted experience designed to address the unique needs of your company. Picture executive-to-executive meetings, a melting pot of strategic discussions, and an atmosphere buzzing with innovation.

Looking to gain efficiencies, the BP Group undertook a high-level process reengineering process that resulted in the development of an online tool. MCAA’s PIPES (PROCESS INFORMATION PORTAL ENABLING SUCCESS) provides details of the solution to inspire others looking to undertake a similar project. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Harris saw an immediate return on investment (ROI) from their Watts Specialties automated pipe cutter, with improved efficiency in cutting and handling and no need for hand-cutting for olets or saddles. Based in St. Paul, MN, Harris has 15 regional offices with more than 300,000 square feet of fabrication shops.

Over the last several years, MCAA members have increasingly requested our safety videos in Spanish, and that comes as no surprise. Data show that 34% of construction workers are Spanish speakers, the largest of any industry in the U.S. The fatality rate for Hispanic construction workers remains higher than that for non-Hispanics, but with resources like these MCAA is working to bridge that gap.

Enhance your strategic supply chain with the seven newest members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

Heightened competition has spurred mechanical contractors to share their impressive story of accomplishment, capabilities and convictions to bolster their image and competitive advantage. MCAA’s Public Relations: An Important Marketing Tool for the Mechanical Contractor highlights the need for regular promotion as a business development tool and offers tips for selecting a public relations consultant. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA CEO Tim Brink joined Frank Favaro for The People Business podcast on September 27, 2023. Listen as Tim shares his journey, from his grandfather’s plumbing business to the mentors who guided him, the importance of caring for people, and the value of authentic relationships.

Workplace safety includes more than PPE and fall protection, it encompasses workplace distractions and workplace violence. Identifying warning signs and taking appropriate actions to prevent workplace violence is important to everyone’s safety and health. These resources show viewers how to protect themselves and others if they find themselves in an active workplace violence situation. This month’s kit includes two full length videos on workplace distractions and workplace violence and a microlearning series on workplace violence protection.

MCAA is accepting recommendations for individuals to serve on national committees in the coming year. If you are interested in serving, review the committee descriptions below, then contact your local association executive to express your interest. Their recommendations are due to MCAA no later than November 3, so don’t delay!

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.

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that explains the origins of the 37-1/2°± 2-1/2° bevel, the normal bevel angle found on piping fittings and flanges and in many specifications and standards.

Over the last decade, the MCAA and the United Association (UA) have worked together on several safety and health initiatives. From presenting and education during the UA’s Instructor Training Program (ITP) and MCAA’s Safety & Health Conference to our newest project partnering together to bring awareness to mental health and suicide prevention, launched on September 1, 2023, the partnership pays dividends to MCAA and UA members alike.

Mechanical contractor and fabricator Andy J. Egan Co. (Egan), an MCAA member, has a reputation for being an innovator within the industry. From its world-class fabrication shop to cutting-edge construction technology department, the company creates a culture that encourages employees to explore methods for delivering higher-quality projects on expedited schedules. Fabrication Shop Foreman Shane Shook developed a time-saving weld procedure in partnership with the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA), with a certification that will soon be available to all UA members and contractors.

The Hearst Connecticut Top Workplaces have awarded MJ Daly, LLC, an MCAA member, a Top Workplaces 2023 award. The list is based solely on employee feedback from a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage, LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the success of any organization, including alignment, execution, and connection, just to name a few. Congratulations to the MJ Daly team!

Studies show that suicide is killing workers in the construction industry at five times the rate of work-related injuries like falls and struck-by incidents. And it’s killing them in all parts of the industry – including upper management. Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to why this is happening nor is there an easy fix, but in many cases deaths from suicide CAN be prevented when we push mental health stigma aside and help one another. MCAA and our Alliance partners explored the topic during a September 13, 2023, webinar. This is one recording you won’t want to miss – you could help save a life!

Harris saw an immediate return on investment (ROI) from their Watts Specialties automated pipe cutter, with improved efficiency in cutting and handling and no need for hand-cutting for olets or saddles. Based in St. Paul, MN, Harris has 15 regional offices with more than 300,000 square feet of fabrication shops.

Construction has one of the highest rates of death by suicide of all industries in the United States, about four times higher than the general population. MCAA is proud to tackle Mental Health Awareness & Suicide Prevention head on with a series of NEW resources developed in partnership with the United Association (UA).

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), employers have a responsibility to protect their workers from extreme heat. Every year, dozens of workers die and thousands more become ill while working in hot or humid conditions. Heat is the number-one cause of weather-related deaths in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 815 heat-related worker deaths and 70,000 heat-related serious injuries between 1992 and 2017. To protect workers, employers should establish a complete heat illness prevention program in addition to observing the heat index.

Congratulations to MCAA member Baker Group on being named Plumbing & Mechanical’s 2023 Mechanical Contractor of the Year. The firm’s dedication to its employees and commitment to building lasting relationships with its clients earned Baker Group the title.

MCAA has become aware that some people have received an email stating that the MCAA Field Leaders Conference mailing list is available for sale. We would like to assure you that MCAA never sells lists of our members or our event attendees, nor do we authorize any third parties to do so.

MCAA is pleased to welcome the two newest members of the staff: Darnelle Everett and Sosina Haileselassie. They are supporting the Events and Accounting departments respectively.

Credit cards are rapidly becoming the preferred method of covering a variety of financial transactions between contractors and their vendors/suppliers and project owners. MCAA’s Credit Card Payments reviews the advantages and disadvantages of making payments via credit card to help you fully understand the benefits and costs involved. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Cole is studying Construction Engineering at Iowa State University and will be graduating in May 2024. He’s been an active member of his student chapter and has served as Recruitment Chair and Vice President. Cole previously interned with MCAA Members MMC Contractors and Baker Group.

In 2020, almost 3,000 fatal and over 200K nonfatal distracted-related motor vehicle accidents occurred. Commercial drivers are 6 times more likely to be involved in a critical safety event when participating in handheld browser activities. Also in 2020, there were fewer vehicles on the road, but the decrease in miles driven did not correlate to fewer accidents. Even with 11% fewer miles driven, vehicle accident deaths rose by 8.3%. This month’s kit includes resources on auto safety, forklift safety, and heavy equipment safety. Also, check out the four new CNA infographics in their fleet safety series.

On July 27, the Department of Labor (DOL) announced that the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) issued a hazard alert for heat. This action is to remind employers of their obligation to protect workers against heat illness or injury in outdoor and indoor workplaces. The agencies will also step up inspections and enforcement of heat-safety violations in high-risk industries, including construction.

Welding preheating is used to ensure weld quality and reduce the chance of cracking and other defects that can result in costly rework. Preheating is commonly used in field and shop applications when welding steel or steel alloy pipes or plates that are 1” thick or more. Applications that often use preheating include power plant and structural construction, as well as pipe fabrication. Here, Miller Electric outlines four common methods for welding preheating and how to choose the best option for your application.

Each year, thousands of workers suffer from heat illness while working in high temperatures, direct sun, and humid conditions; dozens even die. Many mechanical contractors spend part of their working day in hot environments, both indoors and outdoors. Workers performing physical labor are often exposed to hazardous heat conditions that can have severe safety and health outcomes. This month’s kit includes information and posters from MCAA, OSHA, CNA and Milwaukee Tool. We will also be partnering with Tyfoom on a free heat stress webinar on July 27th at 3:00 pm ET.

NCPWB consultant Walter J. Sperko, P.E. discusses the changes in ASME Section IX, 2023 edition of interest to piping fabricators and contractors. These changes, which can be found in the “Summary of Changes” in the front matter of Section IX, become mandatory for new qualifications beginning on January 1, 2024.

One of the classic mistakes that owners of mechanical contracting firms often make when transferring ownership of their company is not fully exploring all their options. MCAA’s Business Transition Options for the Mechanical Contractor reviews the various options for transferring ownership of a company and showcases the advance planning and analysis needed for a successful transfer. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you! In our continuous efforts to enhance your user experience, we will soon be implementing a significant upgrade to the WebLEM login process. Say hello to Single Sign-On (SSO)! Due to the transition to SSO, your company admin may have to regenerate your subscriber token and/or the API key. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but this step is essential to ensure a secure and uninterrupted login experience.

In a new fleet safety series, CNA, a member of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council, offers MCAA members four infographic posters around the most common claim, auto safety. The posters address common issues including: tips to reduce auto accidents, situational awareness while driving, driving under the influence, and understanding distracted driving. MCAA thanks CNA for sharing these valuable safety resources with the entire membership.

The 2023 MCAA Safety Statistics & Awards program recognizes member company safety performance from 2022. This year the MCAA Safety Excellence Initiative is proud to recognize 86 MCAA members companies. All applicants receive a valuable benchmarking report that will allow them to compare their own 2022 incidence rates with the aggregate rates of the other participating MCAA companies overall, those in the same size category, and with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics incidence rates.

MCAA President Robert Beck rolled out the association’s 2023-2024 initiatives in a series of conference calls with MCAA committee chairs, local association executives, and MCAA staff. MCAA has been working towards these goals already, and now we are going to show how it all ties together and is being supported by MCAA leadership.

Intense competition requires the parties to the collective bargaining process to jointly find a path to create wealth and build relationships that allow them to be more competitive in their markets. MCAA’s Developing Improved Labor-Management Relations provides a look back at past practices as well as a road map for improving your company’s relationship with labor. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) or Ergonomic injuries are more than a buzzword. OSHA approximates that 1 in 3 injuries is an MSD and is costing U.S. workplaces billions of dollars each year. This month we are relaunching our recent video on Musculoskeletal Wellness. This video comes with a pocket guide, documentation sheet, test, and answer key. The kit also includes several microlearning videos and a supervisor video, both collaborations with our partners at CNA Insurance. You can also rewatch our Ergonomics webinar where we partnered with Washington University in St. Louis and CPWR to reduce MSDs in construction.

Working at heights continues to be one of the most dangerous parts of construction and service. Each year falls are the leading cause of workplace fatalities and fall protection is the most cited OSHA violation. MCAA has put together a kit which includes training on Aerial Lift Safety, Fall Prevention and Protection, Ladder Safety, and Scaffold Safety. This kit also includes model programs on fall protection and fall rescue. This could be one of the most important kits of the year.

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that explains how the NCPWB Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) differ from the American Welding Society (AWS) Standard Welding Procedures in both application and adoption.

Worker health is at the heart of all that safety professionals do. This month the MCAA is packaging six worker safety videos and their accompanying materials with eleven worker safety resources and bringing you an infection control recertification webinar with the ASSE, the American Society of Sanitary Engineering. Members can refresh training on subjects such as Asbestos Awareness, Bloodborne Pathogens, Hexavalent Chromium, Silica, Radio Frequency Radiation Safety, Respiratory Protection as well as download guides, bulletins, and programs on each topic.

More than 10,000 serious construction-related eye injuries happen each year, yet these injuries are preventable with proper eye protection. Help workers to understand why eye protection is critical. To celebrate 20 years of safety excellence, MCAA is releasing five impactful videos in 2023 to help improve safety & health across the entire industry.

Did you take MCAA’s ASSE 12020: Environment of Care, Infection Control and Construction Risk Assessment Professional Qualification Standard certification class in April 2020? If so, your certification is set to expire, and MCAA has prepared a free 2-hour recertification course through ASSE International. The goal of the ASSE 12020 personnel certification is to provide end users with contractors and technicians who can work as valuable members of construction risk assessment teams. You can assist in protecting building occupants from pathogens and other potential construction hazards while at the same time preventing outbreaks. Following the course, attendees will need to pass a recertification exam. The cost of the exam is $110. ASSE will provide additional details during the webinar. Join MCAA and ASSE on Thursday, April 13 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Eastern to take the first step toward your recertification.

You cannot eliminate the possibility of business disruptions—but you can prepare for them. Whether the cause is a storm, a cyberattack, or another unexpected event, a sudden disruption could affect your organization at any time. To grow and thrive in an uncertain risk environment, your business needs preparation to absorb, adapt, and be resilient to disruptive events. CNA, a benefactor of MCAA23, offers a series of short podcasts (about 15 minutes each) on risk and resilience.

Did you take MCAA’s ASSE 12020: Environment of Care, Infection Control and Construction Risk Assessment Professional Qualification Standard certification class in April 2020? If so, your certification is set to expire, and MCAA has prepared a free 2-hour recertification course through ASSE International. The goal of the ASSE 12020 personnel certification is to provide end users with contractors and technicians who can work as valuable members of construction risk assessment teams. You can assist in protecting building occupants from pathogens and other potential construction hazards while at the same time preventing outbreaks. Following the course, attendees will need to pass a recertification exam. The cost of the exam is $110. ASSE will provide additional details during the webinar. Join MCAA and ASSE on Thursday, April 13 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Eastern to take the first step toward your recertification.

Exposure to lung-damaging silica dust is preventable with proper respiratory protection. Help the more than 2 million workers who are exposed to silica each year learn why this protection is so critical to their health. To celebrate 20 years of safety excellence, MCAA is releasing five impactful videos in 2023 to help improve safety & health across the entire industry.

To celebrate MCAA’s 20 Years of Safety Excellence, MCAA is offering monthly safety kits to benefit our contractors around the country and the mechanical industry workers they support. This month’s kit focuses on power tool and hand tool safety. Every contractor and worker use tools to do their job. Injuries from improper use and choosing the wrong tool for the job happen far too often. This month’s kit provides members with information on the most common hand and power tool injuries in the mechanical construction and service trades. The videos highlight the tools most likely to be involved in an injury incident and teach proper use of the tools to help prevent injuries. Be sure to check out the additional resources from our partner in safety, MILWAUKEE TOOL, for additional information on power and hand tool safety.

Exposure to hearing-damaging hazardous noise is preventable, yet only 50% of construction workers wear hearing protection. To celebrate 20 years of safety excellence, MCAA is releasing five impactful videos in 2023 to help improve safety & health across the entire industry.

Kristy Stephens, Executive Director of the MCA of Eastern Missouri, an MCAA affiliate, recently reported on the progress she and her team have made since she came aboard nearly 6 years ago. The board and the staff have embraced the challenge to guide the organization through systemic transformation, and it shows in their results.

Safety is the top priority for MCAA contractors, and attendance at the 2023 MCAA Safety Conference proved it. The 2023 conference was the largest safety event in MCAA history, bringing together over 350 professionals to focus on safety and health in San Diego, CA.

3M has notified the industry of a potential issue that could result in some construction and vest style harnesses not performing properly. This condition results in the adjuster not being able to be adjusted or not locking in place after adjustments have been made. This manufacturing issue will result in the harness not performing properly in the event of a fall, which could result in severe injury or death. Protect your workers – read the inspection notice below.

Join us and register today for NCPWB’s Annual Technical Conference/Committee Meeting to learn about the new developments in pipe welding, as well as network with friends, colleagues and new acquaintances. This year’s conference will take place at Sonesta Resort on Hilton Head Island, SC, April 23-25, 2023. 

High employee turnover of professional staff is a major issue facing the mechanical contracting industry today. It can have a massive impact on a contractor’s productivity and bottom line. MCAA’s Retention of Professional Staff outlines specific strategies that contractors can implement to increase their ability to retain employees as well as metrics that can be used to measure the effectiveness of these initiatives. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that explains what is required to qualify a welding operator and how to properly complete the QW-484 form.

We hope that you enjoyed the holidays with your families. Together, we made it through 2022 and the challenges it presented. As we jump into 2023, let’s look at all we accomplished together in 2022.

MCAA wants to hear about all of your mechanical contracting interns and has revised the internship grant application process to ensure program success is being rewarded and celebrated.  

Bassett Mechanical, an MCAA member, announced several leadership promotions that position the company for continued growth as well as delivering on its vision of Creating Customers for Life®. Jerod Steigenberger will become President of the 86-year-old family enterprise. Kim Bassett will assume the role of Chairperson of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, and Bill Bassett will become Chairman Emeritus. Patty Van Ryzin will be the Chief Human Resource Officer.

Employees working in warehouses and tool rooms manage tens of thousands of tools used in the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing and mechanical systems. MCAA’s Bluetooth for Tool Management provides an overview of Bluetooth technology to assist those considering a move to a Bluetooth tool management solution. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Employees working in warehouses and tool rooms manage tens of thousands of tools used in the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing and mechanical systems. MCAA’s Bluetooth for Tool Management provides an overview of Bluetooth technology to assist those considering a move to a Bluetooth tool management solution. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Mental health awareness is a growing priority in the mechanical industry. At the 2023 MCAA Safety Conference, hear from Josh Rizzo, a Bronze Star Medal recipient and longtime construction industry expert, on how to lead while taking care of yourself and the teams you serve. Join us January 17-19, 2023, in San Diego, CA. Register today!

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.

MCAA is on track to have the highest number of safety professionals in one place in over 20 years at MCAA’s 2023 Safety Conference. The event will include 50+ hours of education and training, keynote speeches on safety leadership, and a celebration of safety. We will once again be joined by our partners in safety, the United Association. Join us January 17-19, 2023, in San Diego, CA. Register today!

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

MCAA’s 2023 Safety Conference includes 50+ hours of education from subject matter experts, plus inspiring keynote speakers like Connie Podesta. Connie will take you inside the minds of your most difficult employees and give you the tools to turn negative attitudes into positive, entitlement into accountability, complacency into productivity, complaining into solutions and “that’s not my job” into ownership. Join us January 17-19, 2023, in San Diego, CA. Register today!

Faced with limited space in a new fabrication shop, Shinn Mechanical workers designed an articulating weld boom. MCAA’s Articulating Weld Boom provides details about this innovative device that lets fabricators perform any type of welding, including TIG, without any cords or hoses on the floor. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

National accounting firm Withum’s thought leaders will explore relevant topics to help your business stay agile and dynamic in the fast-changing business world during Withum’s Business and Finance Symposium: Future-Proofing your Business in an Era of Unknowns (November 9 and 16, 2022, from 1:00 – 5:00 PM ET). The online program will cover trending Tax and A&A concepts and discuss cryptocurrency, supply chain, transaction readiness, navigating turnover, and more.

MCAA is celebrating 20 years of safety excellence with our 20th anniversary safety conference. New this year, an extended learning (add-on) course will prepare safety professionals for the Board of Certified Safety Professionals’ Certified Safety Professional (CSP) exam. The course, which is limited to 20 students, is sponsored by MCAA’s newest Manufacturer/Supplier Council member, ClickSafety.

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Greg Fuller, Owner and CEO of North Mechanical Contracting, Inc., North Mechanical Services, Inc., NewJac Industrial, LLC, and Integrated Modular Construction, LLC. Greg provides a comprehensive look at fabrication that is ideal for anyone interested in starting or expanding their fabrication process.

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that explains how to protect welders from exposure to welding fumes and minimize health risks.

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

Training is key in driving desired systematic improvement in any organization. Yet many businesses see training as an optional cost rather than as a necessary investment with a significant return. Consequently, training often drops to the very bottom of companies’ priorities. Prioritizing training, however, makes your employees more productive, more profitable while at work, and more committed to your organization.

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Mark Rogers, President of West Chester Mechanical Contractors, an HVAC, service and plumbing contractor that serves the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area. Mark sheds light on how interactions and decisions made in the field impact all areas of a company.

Employee reviews are powerful tools in the performance improvement process. MCAA’s Employee Reviews provides guidelines and samples to help ensure a productive and beneficial review process for employees and their managers. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

National accounting firm Withum shares information to help you understand the tax implications of the recent Internal Revenue Service (IRS) ruling addressing the proper treatment of improperly forgiven paycheck protection program (PPP) loans. The IRS ruled that the PPP loan forgiveness amount is not tax-free, even if the Small Business Administration (SBA) and lender granted the borrower full loan forgiveness, if the taxpayer did not satisfy the factual requirements for loan forgiveness.

Unit prices are difficult to establish and even more difficult to utilize to establish a fair and equitable price for changes to contract work. MCAA’s Unit Pricing highlights the pitfalls of this pricing method and provides guidelines to help you avoid them. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Plumbing a new Sloan showroom comes with high expectations, so Great Lakes Plumbing and Heating Company placed a priority on early coordination and constant communication with Sloan and its construction company, Skender, throughout the project. That partnership paid off when the project faced some roadblocks, which Great Lakes Plumbing resolved using Sloan products.

Don’t miss out on the MCAA Converge, a unique and intimate event that offers customized executive-to-executive meetings tailored to meet your company’s needs. The approach brings together top decision-makers from MCAA contractor and MCAA Manufacturer/Supplier Council members, engaging in strategic and innovation-based discussions. Don’t delay – register today for the November 14 – 16, 2022, event in Arlington, TX. Registration closes September 16, 2022.

Enhance your strategic supply chain with the five newest members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

National accounting firm Withum shares information to help you understand the potential impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act, which was signed into law on August 16, 2022. They note that the act, which includes $80 billion of increased funding for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), will meaningfully increase IRS audit rates, but the impact won’t happen overnight.

Congratulations to MCAA member Harrell-Fish Inc. (HFI) on being named Plumbing & Mechanical’s 2022 Mechanical Contractor of the Year. The firm’s commitment to its employees, its dedication to improving the industry by educating everyone, and its eagerness to be adopt technology and innovation earned HFI the title.

MCAA extends a warm welcome to Vincent Sarubbi Jr., who will be joining the staff starting September 6, 2022. He will be MCAA’s new Director, Government Relations, learning the ropes from John McNerney. Vince comes to the MCAA after a decade of service on Capitol Hill advising Members of Congress on a variety of issues directly related to MCAA members’ business interests, including healthcare, education/apprenticeship, labor, and pension issues. MCAA is pleased to welcome Vince to the staff.

MCAA member XOi Technologies, a leading provider of technician-focused technology solutions, has formed a partnership with the United Association (UA) that delivers XOi’s innovative AI-based tech-enablement solution to HVACR instructors and registered service apprentices across the United States.

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.

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

Stacy Zerr will become the MCA of Kansas City’s (MCAKC) next Executive Director on October 31, 2022. She brings over 24 years of mechanical contracting experience to the role, most recently as the Director of Pre-Construction Services for The Waldinger Corporation in Des Moines, Iowa. Stacy is active in MCAA as Chair of the Innovative Technologies Committee and as a member of both the Project Managers Education Committee and the Women in the Mechanical Industry Steering Committee. “We look forward to the leadership and professionalism that Stacy will bring to the association, and we’re excited to have her join our team at the end of October,” said Greg Stanger, MCAKC President.

MCAA has partnered with the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) for Safe + Sound Week, August 15-21, 2022. This nationwide event, held each August, recognizes the successes of workplace health and safety programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America’s workers safe.

MCAA Member Arden Building Companies recently hosted an Intern Day to familiarize new interns with the company and the industry. The event was hosted by Robert Bolton, CEO of Arden Building Companies and MCAA’s President, John Puniello, President of Arden Engineering Constructors, and Ciara Fusaro, HR Manager for Arden Building Companies. It included a mix of fun and games and serious learning about the industry, including a demonstration of Arden’s new Spool Welding Robot and a tour of the Unique Metal Works sheet metal fabrication facility. Arden’s interns are learning from the teams at Arden Engineering Constructors in Pawtucket, RI, Corporate Mechanical of New England in Woburn, MA, and MJ Daly in Waterbury, CT, all MCAA members.

MCAA and its partners in safety, CNA & MILWAUKEE TOOL, offer resources to help protect workers from heat stress.

MCAA is collaborating with the Center for Construction Research and Training and the Arizona State University’s Ira Fulton Schools of Engineering to conduct a survey designed to help industry stakeholders better understand some potential welding risks.

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that explains what welders are allowed to weld in production based on the test conditions.

Many employees are more comfortable using their own mobile devices on the job. MCAA’s Bring Your Own Device – Is It Right for Your Company? explores the advantages and disadvantages of a bring your own device (BYOD) policy to help mechanical contractors decide whether to adopt such a policy. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The MCA of Chicago elected Jim Jacobsen, Jr., of DePue Mechanical, Inc.as its president during the association’s June 16, 2022, annual meeting. Jim is taking over from past president Charlie Usher of Ideal Heating Company.

MCAA’s Safety Statistics & Awards program recognized 90 MCAA members’ safety performance in 2021. All applicants received a valuable benchmarking report that will allow them to compare their own 2021 incidence rates with the aggregate rates of the other participating MCAA companies overall, those in the same size category, and with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics incidence rates. Those who qualified also received a certificate of commendation. Congratulations to all!

3M has notified the industry of a potential manufacturing issue that could result in some lanyards not performing properly in the event of a fall. This could result in severe injury or death. Select 3M™ DBI-SALA® ShockWave™2 Arc Flash Shock Absorbing Lanyards are impacted and should be removed from service. See the recall notice for details and information about replacements.

More workers are killed or injured in and around excavations than in any other phase of construction work. MCAA and safety partner CNA offer resources that reinforce the importance of trench protective systems to keep your team safe during Trench Safety Stand-Down Week June 20 – 24, 2022 and every day.

The full-featured digital version of MCAA’s Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide enhances the look and feel of our printed directory. Download your copy for digital-only benefits that help you stay connected throughout the year. Printed copies will mail in the next few weeks.

A&R Mechanical Contractors, Inc. credits PypeServer software with dramatically improving efficiency in its fabrication shop; pipe cutting tasks that used to take hours can now be done in 10 minutes or less. Justin Powers, A&R’s virtual design and construction (VDC) and fabrication business unit manager, oversees work across the spectrum from contract award to field installation. He described his company’s typical workflow and tools and the impact of integrating PypeServer software.

When a customer files bankruptcy, mechanical contractors face legal and other pitfalls that may affect their business relationship with that customer. MCAA’s Doing Business with a Customer in Bankruptcy reviews each of these to help contractors preserve relationships and protect their bottom line. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Ongoing supply chain and project timeline issues continue to be challenges for many companies. This makes it more important than ever for contractors to find ways to improve efficiency and make up for lost time on projects. Get tips to improve productivity and save time on projects from Miller Electric Mfg. Co.

The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC) has released its 2022 Union Craft Labor Supply Report. The industry’s only union-specific report focused on construction and maintenance shows great confidence in the industry’s growth prospects.

MCAA is pleased to welcome Carlos Arias to the MCAA staff. Carlos, who is originally from Guatemala, will be the new voice answering the phones at MCAA starting May 2, 2022. Carlos began his service career in the hospitality industry with many years at several major Washington, DC hotels. He has spent the past 16 years working in property management in Gaithersburg, MD, a suburb near the MCAA office. On weekends Carlos spends time with family and friends at cookouts, enjoying music and dancing, and traveling to the beach. Join us in welcoming Carlos and his family to the MCAA staff family.

To survive and grow in today’s marketplace, mechanical contractors must become better managers and business professionals. MCAA’s The Management Audit: Peer Group Guidelines explains how informally organized groups of non-competing contractors can assist each other through idea exchange to run their respective businesses more professionally and more profitably. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

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

A company’s employee manual sets expectations and delivers information. MCAA’s Guide to Human Resources Policies provides guidance on human resources policies to help MCAA members design their own employee manuals. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Labor Secretary Marty Walsh joined Vice President Kamala Harris April 12, 2022 to announce a first-ever Occupational Safety and and Health Administration (OSHA) National Emphasis Program (NEP) to protect workers from indoor and outdoor heat hazards. The NEP lists construction among the industries expected to have high exposures to heat-related hazards resulting in illnesses. MCAA is representing our members’ interests with OSHA because we know there is nothing more important than the health and safety of our workers, and you’re invited to join us.

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that explains how to determine the number of test coupons required to meet the minimum weld length for radiographic examination under ASME Section IX.

Thanks to MCAA member contributions, an additional $5,750 has been donated to The MCAA Charitable Fund for Ukrainian relief. These donations will be added to $46,250 in member contributions and $25,000 from MCAA previously donated to support the work of the International Committee of the Red Cross, which is actively saving and protecting the lives of victims of armed conflict and violence in Ukraine. MCAA will continue to forward additional donations to the International Committee of the Red Cross. Please consider making a donation using the link on the MCAA website.

MCAA extends a warm welcome to Noreen Cournoyer, who will be joining the staff as MCAA’s new Associate Director, Conference Services starting April 4. Noreen previously planned events for the New Jersey Association for Justice and the National Association of Attorneys General. She graduated from Northeastern University in Boston, MA, and has since earned the Digital Event Strategist (DES) and Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credentials. She holds leadership roles with the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Capital Chapter and the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Research Foundation. MCAA is pleased to welcome Noreen to the staff and to the MCAA family.

MCAA’s The Next Generation of Data Security provides guidance and insight on current tools and techniques to protect your data and operations. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA President Armand Kilijian announced that the MCAA Charitable Fund will make a $25,000 contribution to help Ukraine and invited everyone to add their own donations to that amount using the link on the MCAA website.

After losing a large project because they did not work in Revit, icon Mechanical made the switch to Revit, later adding Trimble SysQue. Tim Riedle, vice president of engineering for icon, credits the addition of SysQue with helping icon get ahead of schedule on their projects. (Trimble is a benefactor of MCAA22.)

MCAA’s Safety-Talk email listserv puts the collective brain trust of a network of safety professionals at your fingertips. MCAA members are invited to join in – ask questions, share information, and be in the know about all things safety. Contact MCAA’s Raffi Elchemmas to join or learn more.

Renovating an active hospital is challenging in the best of times; to complete a transplant hospital’s new unit in the midst of a global pandemic, Rand Construction needed products that could be delivered on time and installed quickly and safely. Gruvlok® grooved couplings and fittings from ASC Engineered Solutions were the perfect fit. ASC is a major sponsor of MCAA22.

Gallo Mechanical, the Gulf Coast’s leading mechanical and plumbing contractor, saw an opportunity to eliminate paper and automate its fabrication shop with advanced technology. After a competitive bid, Gallo selected MSUITE’s FabPro for its ability to integrate with TigerStop and track time and production in the fab shop. “From the start, the integration between MSUITE and TigerStop saved our firm $4,000,” said Ray McDonald, Gallo’s general manager and fabrication coordinator.

As President Biden and our western allies level sanctions on Russia, options for cyberwarfare against Russia are being planned and executed against Moscow. Official Russian government websites have already experienced outages and disruptions and the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is warning of retaliatory cyber-attacks on U.S. infrastructure and businesses. Now is the time for your business to prepare for this possibility.

NCPWB’s General Welding Guidelines provide background information and supplementary instructions to contractors and welders who are using National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau Welding Procedures Specifications (WPS). It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

If you are interested in learning and sharing knowledge on the impact of supply chain chaos on welding; improving your welding business through technology; safe pressure testing of piping systems; building a digital manufacturing fab shop — not to mention networking with friends, colleagues, and new acquaintances — then don’t miss the NCPWB Annual Technical Conference! Register today and join us April 24 – 26, 2022.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s Business Transition Options for the Mechanical Contractor bulletin and podcast, which reviews the various options for transferring ownership of a company and showcases the advance planning and analysis needed for a successful transfer.

THE CROSBY GROUP has issued a remove from service and arrange for return and replacement notice for a selection of screw pin anchor shackles. These shackles may have a condition that can reduce the ultimate load capacity from the published catalog values. The shackle bow may have a previously undetected indication, and continued use may result in loss of load, property damage, severe injury, or death.

MCAA is pleased to welcome Amanda Haneke to the MCAA staff. Amanda is the new voice answering the phones at MCAA. She took over the role from Melanie Thompson-Ott, who is now the Assistant Director, Registration and Conference Services. Amanda previously worked for Starbucks and Severn Bank (now Shore Bank). She lives on a farm in Davidsonville, MD (20 minutes from Annapolis) with her grandmother. When she isn’t busy taking care of her grandmother or five chickens, she is an avid gardener and canner. She grows vegetables and herbs and makes pickles, relish, jams, and other treats. Her passion is baking custom cakes. Join us in welcoming Amanda and her family to the MCAA staff family and congratulating Melanie on her new role.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s Exposed: Keeping Your Data to Yourself After an IT Breach. This resource explains what company executives can do to protect their companies if their website is hacked and defaced, their files are held for ransom, or their Data Center goes offline with no estimate for restoration.

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.

Watch the video to see highlights from the 2022 MEP Innovation Conference.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has withdrawn the COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard on vaccine mandates as an enforceable emergency temporary standard. OSHA remains committed to pursuing a proposed rule through the formal process. Both MCAA and the UA continue to strongly encourage the vaccination of workers against COVID-19.

Last week the MCAA presented one of the most exciting Safety Directors’ Conferences ever. The first in-person conference in two years brought together safety professionals from around the country for world-class education on best practices and safety and health issues specific to the mechanical industry. Participants also heard keynotes on safety leadership from Capt. Richard Phillips, Olympian Vince Poscente, and longtime safety advocate Regina McMichael during the January 18 – 20, 2022, event in sunny Florida.

This week, we focus on NCPWB’s General Brazing Guidelines. These guidelines provide background information and supplementary instructions to contractors and their brazers who are using National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau Welding (NCPWB) Brazing Procedure Specifications (BPSs).

The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC) invites MCAA members to participate in its 2022 Union Craft Labor Supply Survey, the industry’s only union-specific survey focused on construction and maintenance. The survey is once again being conducted in conjunction with the Construction Labor Research Council (CLRC). Survey responses are due by February 11, 2022.

If you are interested in learning and sharing knowledge about all things NCPWB related, this is the event for you. Register today and join us April 24 – April 26, 2022!

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on the MCAA/CNA MICROLEARNING SAFETY VIDEO SERIES: Refraining from Distracted Driving. This video will teach your workers how refraining from distracted driving can help prevent motor vehicle collisions.

Today the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) issued a decision regarding the highly controversial OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) for COVID-19 vaccination.

Congratulations to everyone at Bassett Mechanical for being named PHC News magazine’s Contractor of the Year. The company, which is a member of MCAA and the MCA of North Central Wisconsin, was selected for its effective Behavior Based Safety Program, 85-year history, comprehensive capabilities, and customer-centered approach. Included among these pillars is the company’s long-standing motto, “We Answer to You®”, and its vision of Creating Customers for Life®.

Today is the first day the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) can begin enforcement of the planning and record keeping mandates in its Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on vaccine mandates. While the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) heard oral arguments of the appeal on January 7, 2022, it has not reached a determination. While that could happen at any time, it will most likely happen before the February 10, 2022, the compliance deadline for testing. MCAA has all the tools to help your company comply today.

The most effective inspection that a contractor can do to protect himself from bad welding is fit-up inspection, and this bulletin explains why.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on the MCAA/CNA MICROLEARNING SAFETY VIDEO SERIES: Worker Personal Health. This video will teach your workers simple personal health practices that can help reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

Just Announced! The NCPWB 2022 Annual Technical Conference/Committee Meeting will be held at the Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Key, Clearwater Beach, Florida, April 24-26, 2022. Registration will open soon!

There have been many requests from MCAA members for a simple and easy way to track & report the Emergency Testing Standard (ETS) from OSHA for both the vaccine requirements and weekly testing. Tyfoom has created just that!

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s website, home of the latest information and resources from your association, at your convenience.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s Resource Center, which includes a variety of filters to help you find trusted information and tools, easier and faster.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) will begin enforcement of its Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on vaccine mandates in early 2022 barring an emergency stay from the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS). MCAA’s Safety Bulletin on the ETS, the MCAA Model COVID-19 Mandatory-Vaccination Policy, and NEW MCAA Model COVID-19 Vaccination, Testing and Face Covering Policy outline what needs to be done to be compliant with the ETS.

To operate with fabrication level precision, it takes precise ITM content that doesn’t come with the software out of the box. Contractors need to create their own catalog of ITM components or work with third-party providers to purchase ITM-managed databases.

A three-judge panel of the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals dissolved the stay of the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on vaccine mandates and testing on December 17, 2021. An emergency stay application has since been filed with the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) and OSHA has announced new compliance deadlines for implementation and enforcement of the ETS.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on the MCAA/CNA MICROLEARNING SAFETY VIDEO SERIES: Proper Material Staging. This video will teach your pipefitters, plumbers, sprinklerfitters, welders, service technicians and fabrication shop workers how to protect themselves from the musculoskeletal injuries that occur when materials are improperly staged.

The Safer Federal Workforce (SFW) Task Force issued updated Frequently Asked Questions based on Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance on non-enforcement of vaccination on Federal contracts and subcontracts. The guidance, which applies to those that had been governed by the vaccination mandates in EO 14042, comes after recent court decisions stayed the effectiveness of those rules pending further legal challenges.

Dustin Allen of Trimble and Trent Station of J.W. McClenahan discuss the advantages of using cloud-based collaboration tools that allow you to leverage your investment in BIM to streamline Revit prefabrication workflows.

Legislative and regulatory developments are picking up pace in Washington, DC, in advance of the Congressional recess. Key issues of interest to MCAA members include vaccination requirements, clean energy, electric vehicle tax credits, and revised Davis-Bacon regulations.

At the request of members and local affiliate executives, the deadline for MCAA/MILWAUKEE TOOL Safety Professional of the Year award nominations has been extended until Friday, December 17, 2021. The award is presented annually to a mechanical industry safety and health professional who has led his or her company to achieving an exceptionally high degree of safety excellence.

MCAA Member Baker Group announced that BJ Baker III stepped down as Chief Executive Officer on December 6, 2021. BJ’s innovations during more than 45 years with the company, including 38 years as CEO, have shaped Baker Group into an industry leading specialty contractor. He will continue as the Chair of the Baker Group Board of Directors and remain an active member of the leadership team. Gary Bridgewater will become Baker Group’s new CEO and Doug Kumm will fill the role of President.

Safety and health professionals are registering for MCAA’s 19th annual Safety Directors’ Conference in record numbers. Don’t miss out! Join them at Disney World in Orlando, FL, January 18 – 20, 2022, to: get the latest information on the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS), explore the newest safety innovations, hear from Olympic Skier and Best Selling Author Vince Poscente on Radical Safety, and more. You won’t want to miss it! Explore the event brochure to learn more. Better yet, click the register button and sign up today! We look forward to seeing you there!

AIM Mobile Technology and Field Implementation Services from Marking Services Inc. (MSI) allow Boston Children’s Hospital (BCH) to keep track of documents for thousands of facility assets—which not only helps them comply with rigorous requirements for health care institutions but also saved money by ensuring easy access to warranty information for a failing piece of equipment. The move from paper to digital helps the hospital provide care that aligns with best practices.

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

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) issued an Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on COVID-19 on November 5, 2021. While the standard has been temporarily stayed by the Fifth Circuit, MCAA wants to help mechanical construction, service, and fabrication shop employers prepare in the unlikely event the stay is temporarily lifted and OSHA decides to initiative enforcement. To that end, we’ve prepared this Safety Bulletin offering a quick overview of potential impacts and a Model COVID-19 Mandatory Vaccination Policy. Both are now available free to members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA extends a warm welcome to Michele Hoffman, who will be joining the staff starting January 1, 2022. She will be MCAA’s new Director, Career Development as Megan Walsh moves back to full time responsibilities in the Events Department. Michele comes to us from MCA-Omaha, where she spent 13 years working with their local board and committees, and in event management and communications roles. During that time, she served as the Industry Advisor for the University of Nebraska Student Chapter, which was named MCAA Student Chapter of the Year in 2015, 2019, and 2020. She has been a member of MCAA’s Career Development Committee since 2018. Michele is originally from central Illinois, a graduate from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (Advertising Major), and currently resides in Omaha. MCAA is pleased to welcome Michele to the staff, and her husband Eric and their two children to the MCAA staff family.

MCAA offers a capsule digest of some key public policy, legislative, and regulatory developments in Washington, D.C., that will influence the MCAA policy agenda in the near and intermediate terms.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on the MCAA/CNA MICROLEARNING SAFETY VIDEO SERIES: Safe Lifting Technique to Help Prevent Musculoskeletal Injuries. This video will teach your pipefitters, plumbers, sprinklerfitters, welders, service technicians and fabrication shop workers how to protect themselves from the musculoskeletal injuries that occur when materials are improperly lifted and moved by hand.

The Baker Group recently hosted 200 contractors to their Des Moines, Iowa operations as part of the 2021 MCAA Fabrication Conference, powered by MSUITE. As hosts, they shared with attendees how they perform every aspect of their operations, including BIM, engineering, multi-trade fabrication, safety and transportation.

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

On Friday, November 12, 2021, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit continued its stay on the implementation of the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on vaccine mandates and testing pending a full review of the request for a permanent injunction. It also directed OSHA to “take no steps to implement or enforce the mandate until further court order.” MCAA will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.

As MCAA resumed in-person programming this fall, industry leaders from across the nation gathered at Babson College for this year’s Advanced Leadership Institute. This cohort of executives from both the construction and service sectors studied strategic decision-making, managing organizational change, conflict resolution, and a whole lot more. After two intensive weeks of leadership education, Friday marked the graduation of the 21st Advanced Leadership Institute class.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s 2021 3D Scanning Technology Research Report. The report assesses various laser, non-laser scanning and photogrammetric hardware and software tools used by mechanical contractors. MCAA members stand to benefit from these and other rapidly evolving technologies that can expedite work, increase precision and prevent mistakes.

Registration is now open for MCAA’s 19th Annual Safety Directors’ Conference at Disney World in Orlando, Florida, January 18-20, 2022. This conference brings together hundreds of occupational safety and health professionals, MCAA local affiliate executives, United Association safety instructors, principals, owners, and others who have safety and health responsibility.

On November 6, 2021, the attorneys general in ten states (Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Iowa) sued the Biden administration over the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on COVID-19 that would have been effective immediately. As anticipated, the ETS has been stayed by the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals. MCAA members won’t have to worry about enforcement until the courts hear, and rule on, the lawsuits.

Innovation comes from hard work, grit and the successes and failures that go along with it. If you are fortunate, you can improve your processes from the trials and errors of your peers. Join MCAA, NECA, and SMACNA for the MEP Innovation Conference, powered by Trimble, the most in-depth conference on construction technology and innovation. Register now for the January 24 – 26 2022, event in Tampa, Florida. Capacity is limited and it will sell out.

The Safer Federal Workforce (SFW) Task Force issued more detailed compliance guidance for direct Federal prime contractors and subcontractors performing on direct Federal contracts subject to the COVID-19 employee vaccination mandates under the Biden Administration’s Executive Order 14042. MCAA summarizes the November 1, 2021, guidance.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) is issuing an Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on COVID-19. This ETS is effective immediately, although all aspects of the standard, other than testing, are enforceable starting December 5, 2021. Testing requirements become enforceable starting January 4, 2022.

MCAA is now accepting applications for the 2021 MCAA & MILWAUKEE TOOL Safety Professional of the Year award. The award is presented annually to a mechanical industry safety and health professional who has led his or her company to achieving an exceptionally high degree of safety excellence. The award winner for 2021 will be announced during MCAA’s 2022 Safety Directors’ Conference.

MCAA is ‘ALL IN’ for our 19th annual Safety Directors’ Conference at Disney World in Orlando, Florida, January 18-20, 2022. This conference brings together hundreds of occupational safety and health professionals, MCAA local affiliate executives, United Association safety instructors, principals, owners, and others who have safety and health responsibility.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s Jobsite Safety Inspection Checklist. This checklist can be easily customized to help keep you organized and on track when you perform safety inspections.

On October 25, 2021, the White House revoked the prior COVID-19 travel restrictions and announced that as of November 8, 2021, international travelers traveling to the U.S. by air will be permitted to enter the U.S. if they are fully vaccinated, can present evidence of a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of their entry into the United States, and agree to comply with public health precautions established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

On October 15, 2021, the White House announced that as of November 8, 2021, the COVID-19 travel restrictions for international travelers coming into the United States will be lifted for those who are fully vaccinated or can present evidence of a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of their entry into the United States.

The Trustees of the UA International Training Fund (ITF) are committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all employees, instructors, and students participating in training events sponsored by the ITF. To ensure safe and healthy training, the ITF has developed and adopted the following Preparedness Plan.

Since 1996, the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) has presented their annual Industry Partner Award to individuals or organizations who are allied with the electrical construction industry. This year, NECA presented and recognized MCAA with the 2021 NECA Industry Partner Award at their annual Convention in Nashville.

MCAA has updates to two items relevant to the Biden Administration’s recent COVID vaccination mandates, including a Federal contract clause and guidance on health plan coverage issues relating to vaccinations.

P-number is a numbering system used by ASME for grouping materials of similar weldability so that Code users don’t have to qualify every material that is being welded.

Together with the United Association (UA), MCAA is excited to bring you a new Clean Energy Heat Pump Performance Program. Heat pumps provide clean energy that can reduce or eliminate carbon dioxide from energy sources, thus operating more efficiently. Numerous state and federal financial incentives make heat pumps beneficial to both building owners and contractors. Signatory contractors and UA members are uniquely qualified to get trained and perform the work to reduce the carbon footprint for any state or city. Email Raffi Elchemmas (raffi@mcaa.org) or Robert Vilches (rvilches@uanet.org) to sign up.

Guardian has issued a Stop Use & Inspect Notice on a selection of Self-Retracting Lifelines (SRLs). This notice expands the scope of a previous notice (G-S006-A) and communicates immediate stop use and inspect information regarding a selection of Guardian SRLs with a cable lifeline and external energy absorber. In certain circumstances, the product’s energy absorber may not deploy and may cause serious bodily injury or death.

The Safer Federal Workforce (SFW) Task Force, established by President Biden in Executive Order 13991 (January 20, 2021), issued COVID-19 Safety Guidance on September 24, 2021, in furtherance of the Federal prime contractor and subcontractor vaccination issued by the President in Executive Order (EO) 14042 issued on September 9, 2021.

MCAA believes the timing is right to release a microlearning safety video on Workplace Violence Protection. This stand-alone microlearning safety video highlights the vital course of action to protect yourself and your co-workers in the event of a workplace violence incident, such as an active shooter.

Make sure your service techs have the up-to-date safety training they need to protect themselves from arc flash and electrical shock hazards while working on equipment pushing 480 volts or less. The session covers all applicable OSHA requirements, NFPA 70E provisions, best practices, and real-world accident information.

While manufacturers are working to keep up with demand, unprecedented material shortages, product price increases and ongoing supply chain disruptions are impacting nearly every product category, supplier and consumer. Ferguson’s Vice President of Logistics Brian Sullivan and Director of Category Management Scott James, share insights into today’s challenging supply landscape from a global perspective and how MCAA members can use that information to aid in critical business decisions and business planning.

Together with our partners in safety, CNA, MCAA developed a series of easy-to-watch safety videos that are under 3-minutes! Please enjoy our fourth microlearning video on Refraining from Distracted Driving to Help Prevent Motor Vehicle Collisions.

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

Installing Marley® Cooling Towers from SPX Cooling Technologies, Inc., Wayne Crouse, Inc. shaved several days off of the schedule for a challenging project at a large university medical center in Pennsylvania. Extensive advance planning and coordination with the hospital, contractors, and trades was key.

MCAA’s Safety & Health Initiative explains how the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are responding to the new vaccination mandates projected to affect two-thirds of American workers.

President Biden’s speech detailing a national strategy to combat the COVID-19 pandemic introduced two executive orders and certain administrative actions that will increase mandates for vaccination in both government and private workplaces. Alston & Bird summarizes these measures and provides links to additional resources.

The Biden Administration’s Executive Order Ensuring Adequate COVID Safety Protocols for Federal Contractors, Executive Order 14042 issued September 9, 2021, applies to direct Federal prime contracts above $250,000 and all lower tier subcontracts for work performed at the project site and facilities where work is performed pertaining to covered prime contracts and subcontracts. It does not apply to Federally assisted contracts or suppliers on covered prime contracts. The EO pertains to both prime and subcontractors, irrespective of total employment, while the other Biden Administration EO on vaccination applies to all employers (Federal contractors or subcontractors or otherwise) who employ 100 or more workers. MCAA will keep you apprised on regulatory developments along this ambitious and unique regulatory schedule.

MCAA President Armand Kilijian and UA General President Mark McManus issued a message highlighting the importance of the COVID vaccine to protect not only ourselves and our families, but our jobsites, our fellow members and contractors, and our end users.

Last week the MCAA announced the launch of the NEW MCAA/CNA Microlearning Safety Video Series. Together with our partners in safety, CNA, we developed a series of easy-to-watch safety videos that are under 3-minutes! Please enjoy our second microlearning on Proper Material Staging to Help Prevent Musculoskeletal Injuries.

MCAA is pleased to announce the launch of the NEW MCAA/CNA Microlearning Safety Video Series. Together with our partners in safety, CNA, we developed a series of easy-to-watch safety videos that are under 3-minutes long! Please enjoy our first microlearning video on Safe Lifting Technique to Help Prevent Musculoskeletal Injuries.

Following an energy audit, McKinstry specified Uponor’s flexible Ecoflex preinsulated piping to resolve a remote Minnesota school’s longtime heating problems and save the school thousands in energy costs. Ecoflex proved easy to install, allowing workers to lay hundreds of feet of piping in just one week.

MCAA has revised the inspection section of the Aerial Lift Safety Training Video to include pre-use inspection testing tilt sensors and pothole protectors on boom and scissors lifts. The video teaches viewers how to protect themselves while working with aerial lifts, including topics such as load capacities, inspection, function testing, what to do in case of a problem, fall prevention & protection, and safe operating procedures.

MCAA President Armand Kilijian had the honor of addressing the United Association (UA)’s 40th General Convention this week is San Diego. Armand was greeted by fully vaccinated delegates and a standing ovation as he highlighted the importance of the UA and MCAA relationship, saying “We could not be as successful as individual contractors without our UA labor partners… and trust me when I say that each of us knows that.” 

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on NCPWB’s Welding Talks, a series of 25 short talks that teach your welders to protect themselves from common welding safety hazards, including grinding, respiratory protection, electrical safety and more.

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

OSHA recently updated their guidelines on mitigating and preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace, which reflects the July 27, 2021 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mask and testing recommendations for fully vaccinated people.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that benefit MCAA members. This week, we focus on MCAA’s GreatFutures Forum, where MCAA members can meet and help shape the students that are our industry’s future. It’s also a great place to find your next intern or new hire and have a great time.

MCAA’s Association Executives Council (AEC) recognized outgoing Chair Ed Kommers at the conclusion of the virtual AEC Business Meeting on July 28, 2021. Ed (MCA of Western Washington) led the AEC for two years – a full year longer than usual – during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his leadership, the Council developed virtual resources to assist many local affiliates with leadership transitions during this difficult time. Thank you, Ed!

MCAA’s Association Executives Council (AEC) welcomed new leaders at the conclusion of the virtual AEC Business Meeting on July 28, 2021. Chair Rick Lundvall (MCA of Rockford, Inc. and Eastern Iowa/Western Illinois MCA), Vice Chair Chip Martin (CPMCA) and Program Chair Valerie Pope (MCA of Central Ohio, Inc. and MCA of Cincinnati, Inc.) will lead the group’s efforts in the coming year. Congratulations to all!

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s new safety training video, Master the Mechanics: Hand & Power Tool Safety for the Mechanical Trades. The video provides trainees with information on the most common hand and power tool injuries in the mechanical construction and service trades. It highlights the tools most likely to be involved in an injury incident, and teaches proper use of the tools to help prevent injuries.

MCAA is pleased to welcome Melanie Thompson-Ott to the MCAA staff. Melanie will be the new voice answering the phones at MCAA starting August 2, 2021. She will take over the role from Priya, who is returning to her previous support role for NCPWB, JRGF and NEI. Melanie has been working in the legal field for over 15 years, mainly as a litigation paralegal with a background in real estate and antitrust law. Originally from Miami, FL, she completed her paralegal studies at the University of Maryland. On weekends she enjoys creating customized chocolate treats, shopping, travel and reality television. Join us in welcoming Melanie and her family to the MCAA staff family.

MCAA extends a warm welcome to Raffi Elchemmas, who will be joining the staff starting August 2, 2021. He will be MCAA’s new Executive Director of Safety, Health and Risk Management, learning the ropes before Pete’s upcoming retirement. Raffi comes to us from Milwaukee Tool, where he was the National Manager, Health & Safety. He is a board-certified ergonomist with an MBA in Sales Leadership & Health Sector Management from DePaul University. He has been a member of MCAA’s Safety and Health Committee since 2019. MCAA is pleased to welcome Raffi to the staff, and his wife Martha, daughter Nina, and son Vartan to the MCAA staff family.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s 2021 3D Scanning Technology Research Report. The report assesses various laser, non-laser scanning and photogrammetric hardware and software tools used by mechanical contractors. MCAA members stand to benefit from these and other rapidly evolving technologies that can expedite work, increase precision and prevent mistakes.

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.

STIHL is recalling to repair certain TS 410 and TS 420 cut-off machines manufactured between January 2021 and April 2021. In some of these machines the flywheel can break apart while the engine is running, posing a projectile hazard to the users or bystanders. If you have any of these machines, immediately discontinue use and take them to an authorized STIHL dealer for free repair.

MCAA’s new safety training video, Master the Mechanics: Hand & Power Tool Safety for the Mechanical Trades, provides trainees with information on the most common hand and power tool injuries in the mechanical construction and service trades. It highlights the tools most likely to be involved in an injury incident, and teaches proper use of the tools to help prevent injuries.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Overview. The United States Department of Defense has created the new CMMC standard that will soon be required for corporations and entities that want to bid as a contractor, or act as a subcontractor, for DoD projects. This whitepaper is designed to give electrical and mechanical contractor corporate leadership and their IT Directors an overview of the CMMC standard.

A Technical Bulletin just issued by the National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) addresses significant changes made in ASME Section IX, 2021 edition, that are of interest to mechanical contractors and piping fabricators. Opinions expressed in this article are Mr. Sperko’s, not the official opinion of ASME BPV Standards Committee IX. These changes become mandatory for new qualifications January 1, 2022.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s revised Management Methods Bulletin on The Next Generation of Data Security. This bulletin is intended to provide guidance and insight of current tools and techniques to protect your data and operations.

If OSHA’s new Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on COVID-19 applies to your company, it may be helpful to understand what the agency’s compliance officers are looking for when they are inspecting affected workplaces, and how they are directed to issue citations for violations of the standard.

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

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on Tools to Reduce the Cost and Risk Associated with Welding and Brazing. This resource highlights the many ways that the National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) keeps contractors informed about welding and brazing technology, and simplifies welding and brazing qualification practices.

Pandemic legislation has created significant opportunities for small and medium sized businesses. Rules ever changing, the programs have been shaped time and time again. Spend one hour with Withum experts as they detail some of the programs which have been most beneficial to businesses. The free webinar takes place June 28, 2021 from 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm EDT.

Baker Group Chairman and CEO B.J. Baker, III signed an Employer Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve (ESSNGR). The June 14, 2021 signing was part of an event highlighting Baker Group’s continued commitment to supporting employees who are members of the National Guard and Reserve. The company is an MCAA member.

As of Thursday, June 17, 2021, the United States has a new federal holiday commemorating June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved African Americans were granted their freedom in Galveston, Texas marking the official end of slavery in the United States. MCAA commends President Biden and all the legislators for recognizing Juneteenth as a crucial part of the American story and their efforts to unify all Americans.

OSHA recently released an Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on COVID-19 covering settings where employees provide healthcare services or healthcare support services. Contractors providing healthcare support services, such as equipment and facility maintenance, may have to comply with several provisions in the ETS. However, the standard does not apply to “well-defined hospital ambulatory care settings” where all employees are fully vaccinated, all non-employees are screened prior to entry, and people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 are not permitted to enter those settings. Contractors whose employees are not providing healthcare support services are exempt from the ETS. However, OSHA has updated its guidelines for employers based on the most current guidance from the CDC. Employers are urged to comply with the updated guidelines.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s newly revised Safety Manual for Mechanical Construction Workers. This quick reference tool provides critical information on everything from aerial lift safety to preventing overexposure to zinc to keep mechanical construction workers safe. It includes new information on administering CPR, beryllium, recent changes to NFPA 70E, and more.

MCAA, the Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR), and other organizations are partnering with Dodge Data & Analytics on a study of jobsite safety. The study will track trends in U.S. construction industry safety practices, and MCAA members are encouraged to participate. The survey will close on June 23, 2021.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s Fire Safety Training Video and its materials. This video will teach your workers to recognize common causes of jobsite fires and how to prevent them.

A new report provides MCAA members with a mechanical industry specific look at how MCAA members are using construction technology. The report, developed by JBKnowledge, is based on the 2020 Construction Technology Report released in March.

Helm Group, Inc. (formerly Mechanical, Inc.) combines leading technology like BIM 360 within Autodesk Construction CloudTMwith Lean construction principles to implement new design, engineering, and construction methods. For example, by fabricating multitrade skids in an offsite fabrication shop, Helm Group increases collaboration and drives efficiencies to deliver highly complex projects while achieving certainty in cost, schedule, and quality. BIM 360 enables the coordination and data sharing that allows the fabrication to be so accurate that, once it arrives onsite, all that is necessary is to lift it into place and install it.

As we wrap up our Beyond the Classroom series, we wanted to highlight the endless opportunities the mechanical contracting industry has to offer. Scott Hinton, Vice President of Harrell-Fish, Inc. and a member of MCAA’s Career Development Committee and MCAA’s Board of Directors, describes the unique nature of mechanical contracting saying, “People do not seem to get stuck in roles. They get more opportunity to advance and continue advancing throughout their careers.”

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s electric arc welding safety training video and its materials. The video will teach your workers to work safely while either performing or working near electric arc welding.

The full-featured digital version of MCAA’s Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide enhances the look and feel of our printed directory. Download your copy for digital-only benefits that help you stay connected throughout the year. Printed copies are in the mail. Whichever version you choose to use, the directory is free as a benefit of membership.

The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC)’s seventh annual study on the current state of the union construction and maintenance labor supply throughout the United States finds that many remain optimistic in spite of dipping growth projections. The study, produced in conjunction with the Construction Labor Research Council (CLRC), also shows an easing of the labor shortage.

MCAA’s Construction Safety Week celebration concludes with a look back at the fall prevention and protection resources we have been highlighting during the week.

MCAA is celebrating Construction Safety Week May 3 – 7, 2021 by highlighting the resources you need to revisit best safe work practices on fall prevention and protection with your workers. Today we focus on MCAA’s Model Fall Rescue Safety Program and Plan.

MCAA is celebrating Construction Safety Week May 3 – 7, 2021 by highlighting the resources you need to revisit best safe work practices on fall prevention and protection with your workers. Today we focus on MCAA’s Model Fall Protection Program.

MCAA is celebrating Construction Safety Week May 3 – 7, 2021 by highlighting the resources you need to revisit best safe work practices on fall prevention and protection with your workers. Today we focus on MCAA’s Fall Prevention and Protection Safety Training Video and its accompanying materials.

High Purity Systems, Inc. (HPS) of Manassas, VA, relied on Orbitalum® high-purity tube cutting, facing, and orbital welding systems to meet the urgent infrastructure needs of a large biopharmaceutical company’s COVID-19 vaccine research and production effort. The project called for thousands of high-purity welds, so HPS partnered with Orbitalum, based outside Chicago and distributed with support from E.H. Wachs.

MCAA is celebrating Construction Safety Week May 3 – 7, 2021 by highlighting the resources you need to revisit best safe work practices on fall prevention and protection with your workers. Today we focus on MCAA’s Ladder Safety Worker Training Video and its accompanying materials.

Southwest Town Mechanical was recently recognized as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2020 in Size Category 1, Zero – 100,000 Work Hours. Southwest Town Mechanical’s aggressive approach to solving COVID-19 related issues, such as lack of available PPE and sanitizing chemicals, set the company apart.

Effective public policy advocacy and non-partisan political activities go hand-in-hand with a broader suite of association member services at MCAA. When MCAA’s Board of Directors re-instituted MCAA’s Political Action Committee over 20 years ago, they did so with a renewed commitment to building the profile of pipe trades union-signatory employers’ key role in the industry, and in policy deliberations in Washington, DC. That foresight and initiative have paid off and will continue to do so into the future with our members’ and local affiliates’ ongoing commitment to that vision.

If your company is requiring its employees to get vaccinated against COVID-19 it runs the risk of acquiring recordable illness cases. OSHA considers employees’ negative reactions to the COVID-19 vaccines to be “work-related” and therefore subject to recordkeeping and reporting mandates when an employer “requires” the vaccination.

Visit the Resource Center to view our three new NCPWB webinar resources on piping codes, ASME code welding requirements and internal oxidation with Walter Sperko. Walter J. Sperko is president of Sperko Engineering Services, Inc., who provides engineering consulting services to customers in the metal fabrication industries in welding, metallurgy, manufacturing processes, piping and pressure vessel design, inspection and quality assurance.

COVID-19 has changed the way we work—in construction and beyond. From implementing new safety protocols to navigating delays, contractors have more processes to learn and more variables to consider. Here are three ways you can use digital technology to maximize your efficiency during the pandemic.

Mall City Mechanical was recently recognized as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Award winner for 2020 in Size Category 3, 250,001 – 450,000 Work Hours. Mall City Mechanical developed and implemented a successful Safety Competent Person Training Program, which set the company apart.

To upgrade four restrooms for PHC—Waterford Clinic, J.M. Brennan, Inc. installed Zurn’s new universal lavatory carriers, saving time and material “without sacrificing support,” said Justin Sherman, J.M. Brennan project manager. The Zurn Z1231EZ Universal Lavatory Carrier is designed to simplify installation. It includes arms that can be adjusted in the field, an independent bracket system that positions horizontally or vertically, and two foot-anchors per upright, instead of four—ultimately saving material, time, and tool wear. Zurn is a sponsor of MCAA’s 2021 Virtual Education Conference.

icon Mechanical was recently recognized as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2020 in Size Category 4, 450,001 – 1 Million Work Hours. icon Mechanical’s successful COVID-19 safety initiative set the company apart.

The CDC has revised its guidelines regarding cleaning and disinfecting surfaces to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The virus that causes COVID-19 can land on surfaces, and it’s possible for people to become infected if they touch those surfaces and then touch their nose, mouth, or eyes. However, it has been determined that the risk of infection from touching a surface is low. The CDC now believes that the most reliable way to prevent infection is to regularly wash hands and use hand sanitizers.

Originally enacted in March 2020 as part of the CARES Act, the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) was modified and extended through 2021. Join experts from Alston & Bird On Tuesday, April 13, 2021, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET as they explore the new opportunities for employers to claim ERTCs in 2021 and some of the challenges employers may face in determining eligibility for the credits. They will also discuss recent changes to the paid employee leave provisions of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) that provide additional opportunities for employer tax credits associated with FFCRA leave. Register now!

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s industry-specific COVID-19 safety resources, because nothing is more important than the health and safety of your workforce.

The NCPWB is offering three free webinars to all NCPWB/MCAA/MSCA contractors, as well as UA members on a wide range of topics related to welding, including piping codes and welding for mechanical contracting managers, the easy way to meet ASME code welding requirements, and internal oxidation for piping welds. The three webinars will all take place on April 19, 2021. Register today!

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

Anvil International, an MCAA member since 1987, merged with Smith-Cooper International in 2019. On March 29, 2021, the unified company relaunched as ASC Engineered Solutions. Under a single name and logo, ASC Engineered Solutions continues its focus on improving the customer experience every day and striving to deliver service excellence.

The student chapter at Ball State University proudly nominated Dr. Sherif Attallah to be MCAA’s 2020 Educator of the Year because they believed he is more than qualified and deserving of this prestigious award, and MCAA’s Career Development Committee agreed. Here’s why.

As MMC Contractors embarked on building a large central utility plant for a globally recognized corporation in the lower Midwest, Ferguson’s new virtual design and construction (VDC) department became a pivotal partner, identifying potential pitfalls and offering cost-effective solutions for the job. Ferguson is a sponsor of MCAA’s 2021 Virtual Education Conference.

MCAA’s first Virtual Education Conference from March 22-25, 2021 featured top quality education seminars and an interactive exhibit, honored award winners, thanked retiring Board members and welcomed new leaders.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on two SmartMarket reports developed in partnership Dodge Data & Analytics. The reports on BIM and prefabrication will help contractors understand the benefits, challenges and opportunities presented by these technologies.

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

Putting Viega products to work allowed Nelson Stark Company to overcome the slew of challenges that came with repurposing a dilapidated factory into a mixed-use development. The contractor knew that Viega’s flameless press technology was the clear choice for renovating the historic building safely and for installing piping much faster than other pipe-joining methods. Viega is a sponsor of MCAA’s 2021 Virtual Education Conference.

MCAA was proud to have the opportunity to spotlight so many women in our industry this week on our social media channels in celebration of Women in Construction Week. Here’s a recap of just some of the amazing talent that we have in our industry, in case you missed it!

Prepare for OSHA’s coming regulatory and enforcement agendas by participating in this 60-minute webinar for mechanical construction and service companies. Our presenter is nationally recognized safety and health expert and attorney Adele Abrams. She is a frequent presenter for MCAA with expertise in legal, occupational safety/health issues, employment law, and mine safety. Adele is also co-author of several books related to occupational safety and health, construction, employment law, and mining. Join us Wednesday, April 7, 2021 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. EDT. Register now!

Ed Kommers, Executive Director of the MCA of Western Washington (MCAWW) announced that MCAWW Associate Director Robin Cowper was elected Chair of the local union-management apprenticeship (JATC) committee. She is the first woman chair and the first association executive to hold that position locally.

Xcel Mechanical Systems estimated saving as much as 40 percent in labor on some aspects of an aerospace laboratory renovation project by using NIBCO® Press fittings and valves. Xcel, based in Gardena, CA, was hired to design and build the mechanical, plumbing, and process piping elements to expand and modernize an occupied research and development facility in southern California for one of the nation’s largest aerospace firms. NIBCO INC. is a sponsor of MCAA’s 2021 Virtual Education Conference.

Madison Association of Plumbing Contractors (MAPC) Executive Director Julie Walsh announced that MAPC Board President Paul Christensen was named a member of In Business magazine’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2021. Christensen is Owner/CEO/Project Executive of 1901 Inc., an MCAA member company.

Olson Plumbing and Heating partnered with Daikin Applied to retrofit a Colorado medical center to house patients recovering from COVID-19, moving from planning to project completion in just 30 days. In response to the rapid spread of the pandemic, St. Mary-Corwin Medical Center in Pueblo, CO, was redesigned to provide post-COVID-19, non-critical, isolated care, freeing up intensive care isolation units in other facilities. Daikin is a sponsor of MCAA’s 2021 Virtual Education Conference.

National accounting firm Withum shares some thoughts on recent developments related to the PPP, PPP2, Loan Forgiveness, and Employee Retention Tax Credits.

The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) shared information regarding these important questions. Before deciding to require employees to have the COVID-19 vaccination, employers should consider possible implications, and may decide to encourage or incentivize, rather than mandate, employee vaccination.

As a state of emergency is declared in Texas, the Mechanical Contractors Association of America is working with the United Association to coordinate relief and provide supplies to those in need. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of our members, their employees and families, and everyone else in Texas as they get through this period of devastation. If you would like to join us in this effort, please follow the link below to contribute to the MCAA Charitable Fund. We, the UA and MCAA, are all in this together!

Madison Association of Plumbing Contractors (MAPC) Executive Director Julie Walsh announced this week that Paul Christensen will serve as MAPC President with Brian Schultz as Vice President, Chris Behrendt, P.E., as Secretary, and Jesse Pertzborn as Treasurer.

The newly updated 2021 Buyer’s Guide is one of many ways MCAA connects you with the supplier partners that make up your strategic supply chain. Take a look for detailed information about their products and services, then use the contact information inside to learn more. Read on to discover the many ways MCAA connects its members with our industry’s top manufacturers and suppliers.

OSHA recently released guidance to help employers protect their workers and prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus in the workplace. MCAA’s new summary highlights the bottom line items in the areas of COVID-19 Prevention Programs, Return to Work Criteria, Social Distancing Measures, Engineering Controls, Face Coverings and PPE, and Sanitization, Cleaning, and Disinfecting Practices.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has provided guidance to help employers implement strategies to navigate the impact of COVID-19 in the workplace. This publication identifies established ADA and Rehabilitation Act principles to answer questions frequently asked about the workplace during a pandemic.

John W. Danforth Company, an MCAA member, has been named Contractor magazine’s 2020 Contractor of the Year. Danforth’s response to COVID-19 and its Virtual Design and Construction expertise are recognized. The company’s engagement with youth and women in the trades and its community engagement initiatives were also highlighted. Congratulations to the entire Danforth team!

Michel Michno has been named the next CEO of Harris, an MCAA member company. He joined Harris in 2015 as chief operations officer, bringing with him over 35 years of experience in the construction industry, including international experience in Europe, Asia, Africa and Central and South America.

As we, the MCAA family, look back on 2020 we see a year that has forced us all to change, to adapt and to overcome some of the biggest challenges to face our industry in decades. MCAA with its volunteer leadership, led by President Brian Helm and the rest of the Executive Committee, the MCAA Board of Directors, our contractor members, our manufacturer/supplier members and partners, local affiliates, volunteers who sit on our committees and Foundation and the national staff have taken the COVID-19 challenge head on. Sharing vision, talent and expertise the MCAA family has come together during 2020 to help each other like never before.

MCAA President Brian Helm is among the industry leaders who shared what they see coming in 2021 with ACHR News. Among his predictions, “In 2021, I think contractors will use what we learned from working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic to simplify many aspects of project management.”

The $2.3 trillion Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (H.R. 133) provides badly needed COVID economic relief, construction market stimulus and a forward-looking prospect for market recovery in public sector infrastructure investments as the pandemic recedes. In a memo to the MCAA Government Affairs Committee, Chair Jim Gaffney provided a summary digest of the items most likely to impact MCAA members and the MCAA policy agenda. The President is seeking greater individual stimulus checks, so there may be an amendment or veto, but this summary will stand for most of what will be the final result. Correction: The latest COVID relief measure signed into law Sunday does not extend the requirement that employers offer paid sick and family leave as required under the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act passed last March as erroneously reported in the MCAA summary published in the Weekly Update on December 28, 2020. The latest COVID bill extends only the availability of the refundable tax credit as under the FFCRA until the end of March 2021 for those employers voluntarily providing such paid leave after December 31, 2020. MCAA regrets the error.

On December 2, 2020, the CDC acknowledged three adverse consequences of the 14-day quarantine for individuals who might have had “close contact” with a person who has or is suspected of having COVID-19. Lindabury’s Labor & Employment team have prepared a summary outlining the details.

The CDC recently updated its guidelines on when to quarantine following exposure to a person who has tested positive for COVID-19. The new guidelines indicate that people who have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19, excluding people who have had COVID-19 within the past 3 months, should quarantine immediately.

John W. Danforth—a founding member of MCAA—is using Raken’s digital time cards and daily reporting to keep a record of all the impacts the pandemic has had on their productivity—so they can demonstrate what they have done and get paid for it. Construction companies have been forced to change the way they operate to ensure safety and compliance, and jobsite data are critical for contractors to maintain a record of productivity and streamline their workflows.

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

Braconier adopted eSUB’s comprehensive software platform to standardize project management and operations, cutting processes such as timecard inputting and payroll processing from a full day down to minutes. The platform also helps Braconier document every aspect of their projects, which helps keep things running smoothly.

MCAA and CNA are pleased to announce that H.L. Moe Company, Inc. earned the association’s top safety award for 2019 in Size Category 2, 100,001 – 250,000 work hours. H.L. Moe Company’s successful “Cart Mounted Vise” program to address ergonomics set the company apart.

Kori Gormley-Huppert, president of MCAA member Gormley Plumbing + Mechanical and chair of MCAA’s Women in the Mechanical Industry Steering Committee, is among those profiled as part of Stanley Black & Decker’s Maker Month Campaign. The campaign is designed to empower makers and tradespeople around the world. Stanley Black & Decker is the parent company of DEWALT and LENOX, both MCAA members.

Many types of welding have been proven performers for a long time. Welding is, at its core, simply a way of joining two materials. While there are other ways to join metal (e.g., riveting, brazing, or soldering), welding has become the method of choice for its availability, high performance, and high strength. NIBCO INC. highlights the benefits of laser welding, including strength and efficiency. NIBCO INC. is an MCAA major sponsor.

MCAA and CNA are pleased to announce that Xcel Mechanical Systems, Inc. earned the association’s top safety award for 2019 in Size Category 3, 250,001 – 450,000 work hours. Xcel Mechanical’s successful “Safety Champion” recognition award for company foremen set the company apart.

MCAA and CNA are pleased to announce that Postler & Jaeckle Corporation earned the association’s top safety award for 2019 in Size Category 4, 450,001 – 1 Million Work Hours. Postler & Jaeckle’s successful Service Specific Safety Committee set the company apart.

Holmberg Mechanical knew Anvil International’s Gruvlok® products would help them meet the quick turnaround time required for the new Colman Dock in Seattle, WA, which will service the largest ferry system in North America. But the job posed another challenge. Because the dock is a publicly funded project (with a price tag of $455 million), Holmberg Mechanical had to comply with Buy America Act (BAA) standards. They needed to secure the right materials on time and with the proper BAA certification. Anvil is an MCAA major sponsor.

As the very public debate in Congress regarding another stimulus bill rolls on, Withum wanted to share an update issued late last week by the SBA, in conjunction with the Department of Treasury. With lobbying groups, lenders, and borrowers long-since advocating for a more simple forgiveness process, specifically for smaller loans, the SBA took this into their own hands late last week, as they released a new interim final rule (“IFR”).

The Alston & Bird Health Care Group details how changes by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to the AAP loan program delays repayment obligations for all health care providers and suppliers that received AAP loans during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Negligent entrustment” can stem from employees driving company-owned vehicles, their personal vehicles, or other vehicles on company business. Employers have a responsibility to know if an employee has something in his or her driving background that creates a risk to others. Negligent entrustment implies a company knew or should have known that it put an unsafe driver behind the wheel of a vehicle and allowed that employee to drive on behalf of the company. (CNA is an MCAA benefactor sponsor.)

Frank Wall has joined the MCAA staff as the association’s Executive Director, Operations. Frank is no stranger to MCAA. He was the Executive Director of the Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors Association of Oregon for 12 years, followed by two years as the Executive Vice President of the M&SCA of Eastern Pennsylvania. During that time, he was also Chair of MCAA’s Association Executives Council. “I am personally excited to work with such a professional staff,” Frank said.

National accounting firm Withum shares some thoughts on the deductibility of PPP expenses.

A limited number of 3M™ PROTECTA® Rebel Self Retracting Lifelines produced between October 14, 2019 and February 25, 2020 may have a manufacturing issue. However, the issue can be easily detected through a pre-use inspection described in detail by 3M.

Viega LLC has named Markus Brettschneider as its new CEO and President. He replaces Dave Garlow, who resigned after 20 years with the company. “I was attracted to Viega because of the culture, the customers, the portfolio and the great opportunities to grow,” he said. “When the opportunity came up, it was really quite a simple decision. I like working for a family-owned company with strong values and great culture, and I’m excited to continue this growth journey with the team.”

Please join us in saying thank you to the MCAA members who have given to the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) in 2020. Their support enables the JRGF to identify and work to solve the issues that confront the organized mechanical construction and service industry, challenges such as future workforce, productivity and technology.

MCAA partner Littler shares information on the U.S. Department of Treasury’s recent guidance for employers with respect to the deferral of the employee portion of certain payroll taxes.

The Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) reports more than 80,000 Americans have failed to get their proper medical screenings during this time. As a result, CTCA is seeing more late stage cancer diagnosis. Making for harder treatment protocols and potentially worse outcomes.

Honeywell has issued an Immediate Stop USE Notice for certain models of Miller MightEvac and MightyLite self-retracting lifelines (SRLs) manufactured within a specific time frame. The notice only affects specifically listed models, with identified manufacturing dates or re-certification dates between October 27, 2016 and October 6, 2018. Models outside of this date range, including new units, are not affected by this notice.

The MCAA family is growing, with more and more companies seeing the value of MCAA membership in ensuring their productivity and profitability. Please join us in welcoming the newest members of the MCAA family.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the MCAA Government Affairs Committee has been working tirelessly meeting with countless Congressional and Senate offices remotely to push our agenda forward. This vital work was made possible by PAC contributions to candidates who support our positions over the long term. Please join us in thanking those who gave and consider making a contribution to support these vital efforts.

MCAA member Arden Building Companies has been named among the Fastest Growing & Innovative Companies by Providence Business News. Arden is recognized as one of the region’s Fastest Growing Companies in the $75 million and above category based on three-year revenue growth. The company will be honored during a virtual awards ceremony on September 16, 2020. Congratulations to Bob Bolton and the entire Arden Building Companies team!

Baker Group reached a remarkable safety milestone on August 18, 2020 when the company surpassed 2.5 million hours worked with no recordable or lost time injuries. “The successes of our employees and our projects are greatly dependent on doing work safely,” says BJ Baker, Chairman and CEO. “It’s a cornerstone of Baker Group culture.” Congratulations to the entire Baker Group team on this major safety milestone!

MCAA President Brian Helm spoke with Kelly Faloon for a recent Contractor magazine article on “Training in the Age of COVID-19.” The article highlights the ways in which associations, manufacturers and suppliers have adapted their education and training programs for virtual presentation. MCAA members Uponor, Inc. and Xylem Inc. – Bell & Gossett are among those highlighted.

Alston & Bird have released their August 17 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

National accounting firm Withum shares a general update on some new PPP loan developments.

On August 4, 2020, the Small Business Administration (SBA), in conjunction with the Treasury Department, released 23 frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding loan forgiveness under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

Alston & Bird have released their August 10 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

When COVID-19 hit and the world was divided up into essential and non-essential workers, it shone a new light on the mechanical industry, and specifically the service sector. Join John and Kip Bagley (Senior VP of Service, EMCOR Services Mesa Energy Systems; Co-Chair, Mechanical Service Contractors of America (MSCA) Board of Managers) on Friday, August 14 at 2 p.m. EDT as they discuss how the circumstances of 2020 have impacted recruitment, perception of the industry, and what it means to be of service.

MCAA members are constantly innovating and trying new techniques on their projects. Auburn Mechanical is just one example. The MCA of Western Washington member has been building through the COVID-19 pandemic, using a lean approach and specialty systems to meet the Washington State Convention Center Addition Project’s sustainability goals.

There is no question the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the construction and service jobsite productivity. In this expanded webinar John McNerney, Paul Stynchcomb, CCM, PSP, CFCC and Professor William Ibbs, Ph.D. of The Ibbs Consulting Group discuss MCAA’s newly updated Change Orders, Productivity, Overtime manual, and how to use the manual to quantify a loss of productivity (LoP) impact caused by COVID-19.

MCAA member Murphy Company recently promoted Rick Reams to Vice President – Safety and Quality. Tom Skaggs, Executive Vice President, made the announcement, saying, “Rick’s work ethic, professionalism and genuine concern for our workforce are assets to the organization. We are confident that under Rick’s leadership we will further strengthen our safety and quality programs.”

National accounting firm Withum shares a general update on some new developments.

In a joint letter to the Congress, the national labor/management coalition responded to the Western Council of Teamsters rebuttal of the Groom Law Group paper of Composite Plans. This July 31, 2020 version of the letter contains update analysis of the 5500 filings of the median critical and declining status plans.

Alston & Bird have released their July 27 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

MCAA Chief Executive Officer Tim Brink joined Kyle Gargaro for The NEWSMakers podcast this week. Listen to learn how Tim’s experiences as an MCAA member and local association executive are shaping his vision for a more collaborative organization that delivers more services to its members.

National accounting firm Withum shares a general update of where we are today and the EIDL loan program.

On Monday, July 20, the U.S. Department of Labor published additional guidance for workers and employers on how the protections and requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) affect the workplace as workplaces reopen amid the coronavirus pandemic. The guidance from the Department’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD) includes commonly asked questions and answers that address critical issues in all three laws.

Alston & Bird have released their July 20 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

MCAA President Brian Helm spoke with Kyle Gargaro for this week’s episode of The NEWSMakers podcast. The two discussed MCAA’s quick response to the COVID-19 pandemic. They talked about what the industry can expect to see for the rest of 2020 and beyond, and the best practices that will help MCAA members succeed.

DeWALT is committed to supporting MCAA members in the fight against COVID-19. They have supplied a COVID-19 Response with tool cleaning guides, safety product listings, service procedures, on-going training, and several featured stories. DeWALT has you covered with informative materials to help us through these rapidly evolving times.

The way DeWALT works is changing, but their commitment to service isn’t. DeWALT is here to support MCAA members through evolving situations, rules, and safety requirements. They have you covered with the informative materials that will guide you through the proper way to clean and sanitize tools on the jobsite. Watch this short tutorial and review the guidelines below for the proper way to sanitize your tools.

Alston & Bird have released their July 13 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Alston & Bird have released their July 6 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

National accounting firm Withum shares a general update on a variety of issues.

National accounting firm Withum shares a general update on a variety of issues.

The IRS has released Notice 2020-50, which offers added guidance and relief for retirement plan participants taking pandemic-related distributions and loans under the CARES Act. Notice 2020-50 expands the definition of qualified individuals under the Act and provides guidance regarding coronavirus-related distributions and loans. Lindabury, McCormick, Estabrook & Cooper, P.C. have prepared a summary outlining

Alston & Bird have released their June 29 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Arden Building Companies, an MCAA member, announced recently that Paul Battaglia has joined the executive team as President of Corporate Mechanical of New England in Woburn, MA. “Paul brings strength, leadership, and passion for the industry to this role,” said Robert M. Bolton, Chief Executive Officer of Arden Building Companies. “His wealth of experience and deep knowledge of the Boston market will prove invaluable to the Arden Building Companies and Corporate Mechanical of New England team as we begin the next chapter of growing our Boston operations.”

MCAA member Bassett Mechanical recently announced four strategic promotions on its executive leadership team. Kim Bassett, President & CEO, said, “These executive advancements are not only well deserved, but also the next step in creating a strong future for our business and our customers who trust us to provide customized solutions for their unique needs.”

National accounting firm Withum shares some new information regarding a new safe harbor for FTEs.

Alston & Bird have released their June 25 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Alston & Bird have released their June 22 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

OSHA recently released the new COVID-19 publication Guidance on Returning to Work. The publication addresses planning for reopening, applicable OSHA standards, employer FAQs, and much more.

MCAA is saddened by the loss of Robert T. Armistead, P.E., who served as our President in 2010. He died peacefully at his home on June 16, 2020, surrounded by his loving family. Our thoughts are with Susan, Robert, Kane, Bryan and the extended Armistead family during this difficult time. “Bob truly loved the MCAA and his time with everyone involved in the organization. He will be greatly missed,” said Timothy J. Brink, MCAA’s Chief Executive Officer.

2020 has brought about more changes so far than anyone could have reasonably imagined! In the midst of adapting to the pandemic, MCAA welcomed a new leader and since we couldn’t conduct a ‘changing of the guard’ at Convention this year, John Koontz is going to chat with MCAA’s new CEO, Timothy Brink.

On June 17, 2020 the SBA issued not one, but two PPP Loan Forgiveness Applications and sets of instructions – the revised PPP Loan Forgiveness Application and instructions (PPP Application) and the PPP Loan Forgiveness Application Form EZ and instructions (PPP EZ Application). Withum shares a breakdown of the differences and changes.

Alston & Bird have released their June 18 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

MCAA members are innovating and creating new ways to help minimize the impact of COVID-19. Tweet/Garot Mechanical, Inc. of De Pere, Wisconsin, is just one example. In partnership with the teams at HGA, Boldt, Faith Technologies and IMEG, they provided an acute care solution in under two weeks.

National accounting firm Withum shares some new information regarding the roll out of the Main Street Lending Program (“MSLP”).

MCAA members are continuously building facilities to serve the surge of COVID-19 patients in their communities. New England MCA, Inc. member Harry Grodsky & Company, Inc. is just one example. The company recently completed work on a rapid response triage outside the Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, Massachusetts.

MCAA member companies have overcome scheduling and other challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic in order to serve our communities. MCA of Cleveland member Smith & Oby Company’s work on the conversion of Cleveland Clinic’s Health Education Campus (HEC) main building into a COVID-19 surge hospital is just one example.

Triangle Enterprises, Inc. is offering both typical and fire-retardant barrier masks. The company converted part of its production to making the masks to help with the shortages brought on by COVID-19.

National accounting firm Withum wants to alert borrowers to a meaningful potential change to the PPP Program.

National accounting firm Withum wants to alert borrowers to a meaningful change to the forgiveness calculation that was subtly put forward on the new application.

National accounting firm Withum has provided MCAA with a deep dive on the FTE rehire rule, a provision that may be meaningful for many borrower.

Alston & Bird have released their May 20 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

National accounting firm Withum has provided MCAA with information on significant updates/clarifications to the forgiveness calculation that came out late on Friday, May 15.

Alston & Bird have released their May 18 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

National accounting firm Withum has provided MCAA with information on forgiveness and a clarification on loan proceeds.

Some of the chemicals being used to disinfect jobsite surfaces can cause COVID-19 like symptoms in recently disinfected areas without adequate ventilation and/or other protective measures.

There are two new sources of COVID-19 PPE, cloth face coverings, hand sanitizer, etc. for MCAA members. One is the company MONTCO and the other is long-time MCAA partner RESCUE ONE. Both companies are credible, reliable, and have good relationships with MCAA.

National accounting firm Withum has provided MCAA with some news on the recently proposed HEROES Act.

Alston & Bird have released their May 13 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Cohen Seglias’ Labor & Employment Group have released a Q&A on the PPP program with an eye towards using and tracking the proceeds.

The MCA of Omaha, Inc. and UA Local 464 have partnered to distribute hand sanitizer to their members in the field. Kelsey Johnson and MCA of Omaha feels fortunate to be able support their members in a safe way. “This was an incredible effort by us and Local 464. Now more than ever, we all need to work together with our labor partners to keep our members safe and informed.”

Returning to work during the COVID-19 pandemic will require many employers to screen their workers regularly, including taking body temperatures. Long-time MCAA friend and attorney, Brad Hammock, from Littler law firm will walk employers through the legal traps and make recommendations for properly navigating employee COVID-19 screenings.

Cohen Seglias’ Construction Contracts & Risk Management Group prepared sample notice letters for use on jobs where construction has or is about to resume under pre-existing contracts. Also included in this packet is sample language to add to change orders and monthly releases.

On May 11, the U.S. Department of Labor launched its Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Program (IRAP) Standards Recognition Entities (SREs) online application and updated resources, the same day that the IRAP rule goes into effect.

With anticipation of additional guidance being released by the SBA, Withum invites you to join the SBA and Federal Tax Policy experts for a discussion regarding the PPP loan forgiveness process. This webinar will address the new up to the minute guidance in detail, focusing on the knowns, the unknowns, and the strategies for borrowers to make sure they are maximizing their forgiveness through their 8-week covered period.

National accounting firm Withum has provided MCAA with some news on the status of the PPP and comments from the SBA’s Inspector General.

The past few months have introduced us all to a whole new set of issues impacting productivity. From additional safety and screening requirements to distancing protocols, COVID-19 is causing real and often dramatic productivity losses on the jobsite. In this webinar, MCAA Project Management educator John Koontz will walk you through The Measured Mile Method of productivity analysis.

Alston & Bird have released their May 11 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

National accounting firm, Withum has provided MCAA with some news on their upcoming Calculating Forgiveness webinar, Economic Injury Disaster Loans, rumors on changes to the PPP, FAQs complexities and a new FAQ.

Based on new COVID-19 research the CDC has recently changed their guidelines regarding discontinuing isolation for individuals with symptoms of the virus who are caring for themselves at home. The CDC’s change increases the period of recommended isolation by 3 days, from 7 to 10 days after symptoms begin. Please be sure to change your company’s COVID-19 exposure control plans accordingly.

Alston & Bird have released their May 8 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

The Small Business Administration and Treasury Department have issued updates on two FAQs regarding the eligibility for Paycheck Protection Program loans for public and privately owned companies and eligibility for firms that have access to other adequate sources of liquidity.

ASME and AWS have extended the continuity requirements for unemployed welders and brazers.  The announcements cover both ASME and AWS code cases and provide chapter secretaries with guidelines for recording continuity records of unemployed welders.

Alston & Bird have released their May 6 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Join NEI and UA training instructor, Kathy Crosby on May 12 at 1 p.m. EDT, to learn how to keep delayed payments from getting out of control, protecting your rights, and how to measure your company’s cash flow in order to better manage it.

Below are two recently issued Frequently Asked Questions published by the Small Business Administration and Treasury Department on eligibility for Paycheck Protection Program loans for public and privately owned companies and eligibility for firms that have access to other adequate sources of liquidity. The after-the-fact guidance issued on April 24 and April 28 is causing some degree of confusion among firms that have already applied for and been granted PPP loans before publication of this criteria.

Using an effective hand sanitizer is one of the most important things everyone can do to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. This is especially true on construction jobsites and in mechanical service areas where there is no running water.

Alston & Bird have released their May 4 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Arden Engineering Constructors recently completed work on two COVID-19 field hospitals which add 935 patient beds for the anticipated COVID-19 surge in Rhode Island. The project had two 12-hour shifts running seven days a week from the time it began on April 6 until completion on April 18.

Alston & Bird have released their May 1 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Alston & Bird has published their April 29 edition of their A&B 50-State Openings Tracker, along with details and links for quick reference.

In this month’s Beyond the Classroom, you will meet Andrew Palcan, a Project Engineer at Mechanical Inc. Palcan is a past MCAA Student Chapter member and an Architectural Engineering graduate of Milwaukee School of Engineering. Palcan talks about the career opportunities that arose from his involvement with MCAA GreatFutures. He discusses some of his experiences from past MCAA events and the MCAA Student Chapter Competition.

Alston & Bird have released their April 29 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

This educational video provides users with an overview of the next generation of WebLEM — WebLEM+Plus. In this video, you will learn how labor units are created for both the Component and the Work Activity Method (WAM) and what factors are considered in creating labor units. The video also highlights the new and enhanced features of WebLEM+Plus. Welcome to WebLEM+Plus, the next generation of the industry standard for estimating labor hours.

MCAA’s long-time partner Milwaukee Tool has updated their COVID-19 Resource Guide to include additional content on best practices for remote meetings, eSERVICE tool repairs and digital training resources.

Alston & Bird have released their April 27 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

As the new Senate bill was passed by the House on April 23, 2020, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) gained additional emergency funds. MCAA partners and law firm, Lindabury, McCormick, Estabrook & Cooper, P.C., provide an overview of the program application and loan forgiveness requirements to assist MCAA members.

Murphy Company is playing an important role in their communities’ fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. As the number of citizens requiring hospitalization has surged, so has the need for additional isolation rooms on a quick-turn schedule. The pandemic has presented additional challenges, and Murphy Company has met them all with innovative and fast-moving solutions.

Alston & Bird have released their April 24 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Lindabury, McCormick, Estabrook & Cooper, P.C. has prepared a Rider for MCAA members to include in a response to a proposal or an actual subcontracting agreement to take into account the risk to the parties during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alston & Bird have released their April 22 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Several great questions came out of MCAA’s Webinar #8: COVID-19 OSHA Enforcement Preparation, which was presented on April 17, 2020. See those questions and the answers provided by attorney and presenter Adele Abrams.

A panel of past MSCA board members and service contractors lead an informative session on refocusing your service sales priorities and implementing unique and proactive sales strategies.

Alston & Bird have released their April 20 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

As positive cases of COVID-19 increase around the nation there is speculation that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will increase its enforcement efforts. The agency will want to ensure that employers are making a good faith effort to help protect their workers from contracting the virus.

Alston & Bird have released their April 17 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Congratulations to Bryce Danielson, a sophomore at University of Nebraska, and one of the two recipients of the Alan O’Shea Memorial Scholarship. The Mechanical Contractors Association of New Jersey has established two scholarships to honor the memory of Alan O’Shea, former Executive Director of the MCA of New Jersey. These national scholarships memorialize Mr. O’Shea’s many contributions to the mechanical contracting industry.

With so many of us working remotely it’s important to consider the ergonomic design of our workspaces. MCAA’s long-time partner CNA is sharing with us Ergonomic Tips for Working Remotely.

Alston & Bird have released their April 1st COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, Administrative and Regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Ali Brown, a junior at the University of Nebraska has been awarded one of the two Ferguson-Women in the Mechanical Industry Scholarships. Ferguson underwrites these scholarships, which recognize high-achieving female students working towards a degree relative to the mechanical industry. Ali has been a member of the MCA Omaha Student Chapter since 2017. She is earning her degree in Business Administration & Human Resources. She sees the opportunities for growth in all areas of the industry. Ali has been interning for MCA member, Waldinger Corporation focusing in administration, virtual design construction and accounting. Ali will continue her internship through this summer.

MCAA developed a best practices guidance document to help protect mechanical construction and service workers from COVID-19 exposure. MCAA and the United Association partnered with several industry experts to gather all facts and proper procedures concerning this virus. Because MCAA members are using the safety talk for worker training, MCAA developed a 20-question multiple choice test and accompanying answer key to help members document that the training occurred, and that trainees understand the training content.

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) requires certain employers to provide their employees with paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. The Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division administers and enforces the new law’s paid leave requirements. These provisions are effective on April 1, 2020, and apply to leave taken through December 31, 2020.

The Department of Labor has provided guidance explaining the Paid Sick Leave and Expanded Family Medical Leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Please note questions 35-37 deal with Multiemployer CBAs but still need more clarification.

Alston & Bird has gathered information and released the Analysis of Funding Streams in the CARES Act. The analysis covers what type of loans are available through the Small Business Administration (SBA), what is new for small businesses under the latest stimulus bill, what is paycheck protection, who qualifies for paycheck protection, what the modified EIDL Program is and how to access it.

On March 30, MCAA consultants, Alston & Bird LLP, released a very comprehensive COVID-19 update for MCAA members. The update includes everything from the latest news on emergency funding, Administrative and Regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

On March 27, MCAA consultants, Alston & Bird LLP, released a very comprehensive COVID-19 update for MCAA members. The update includes everything from the latest news on emergency funding, Administrative and Regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Alston & Bird has tracked closures in each state and provided the details for quick reference.

Cohen Seglias’ Construction Contracts & Risk Management Group prepared sample notice letters for use on jobs where contractors and subcontractors are still ordered to work either in violation of shutdown orders or under unsafe work conditions that are contrary to the CDC guidelines. Also, with many companies still bidding and entering into contracts for new work, Cohen Seglias is providing sample force majeure language that covers pandemics such as this as an unforeseen event entitling you to an extension of time and an increase in price caused by any resultant delays.

The DOL Wage and Hour Division has updated their COVID-19 webpage to include Field Assistance Bulletin 2020-1, announcing a temporary non-enforcement period. Separately, the Wage and Hour Division have released the posters that employers are required to display outlining the rights of federal employees and non-federal employees under the FFCRA.

MCAA is sharing a very informative video on how to safely bring groceries and fast food into your home, while protecting your family’s safety and health.

Alston & Bird has tracked closures in each state and provided the details for quick reference.

On March 25, MCAA consultants, Alston & Bird LLP, released a very comprehensive COVID-19 update for MCAA members. The update includes everything from the latest news on emergency funding, Administrative and Regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

The law firm of Cohen and Seglias has drafted and provided a “COVID-19” package of letters and forms for contractor members to use as the situation dictates for protection and to ensure the appropriate relief. Given a project’s specific circumstances, these forms may need to be tweaked.

The Construction Employers of America (CEA) have released a joint letter urging the federal government to expand essential services to critical construction job sites and projects.

On March 23, MCAA consultants, Alston & Bird LLP, released a very comprehensive COVID-19 update for MCAA members. The update includes everything from the latest news on emergency funding, Administrative and Regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Alston & Bird has tracked closures in each state and provided the details for quick reference.

Long-time MCAA friend and partner, MILWAUKEE TOOL, is sharing guidelines with MCAA members regarding the proper cleaning and disinfecting of tools. MCAA thanks MILWAUKEE TOOL for helping prevent the spread of COVID-19, and for sharing this information with MCAA.

On March 20, MCAA consultants, Alston & Bird LLP, released a very comprehensive COVID-19 update for MCAA members. The update includes everything from the latest news on emergency funding, Administrative and Regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

The Department of Homeland Security released a COVID-19 response for essential critical infrastructure workers today. The response included an initial list of “Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers” to help State and local officials as they work to protect their communities, while ensuring continuity of functions critical to public health and safety, as well as economic and national security.

On March 18th, the UA and MCAA released a joint statement on the serious and ever-evolving COVID-19 pandemic. Together, we will be tracking developments and providing support wherever possible.

MCAA developed a best practices guidance document to help protect mechanical construction and service workers from COVID-19 exposure. MCAA and the United Association partnered with several industry experts to gather all facts and proper procedures concerning this virus.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is providing employers recommended instructions for helping to prevent the spread of coronavirus in their workplaces.

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 application process is competitive, so early submission is recommended.

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.”

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). He 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.

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.

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.

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! Download the planning guide at mcaaconvention.org and then register soon through the convention website to secure your preferred hotel accommodations. We look forward to welcoming our MCAA Family to Maui. Mahalo!

Eighty-one people attended the 75th NCPWB Technical Conference to learn about a wide variety of topics including: The Value Chain Approach to Welding Management, Mechanizing the Welding Industry, Brittle Fracture Risk of Carbon Steel Piping, Fabrication Measurement, and Predictive Management. The conference took place at The Resort at Longboat Key Club in Longboat Key, FL from April 29-30, 2019.

The 2019 UA-MCAA Labor Relations Conference: Succeeding Together is scheduled to take place October 29 – 30, 2019, at The Mirage in Las Vegas, Nevada and registration is now open!

Contractors continued to build relationships with the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council and student chapter members during the annual exhibits. The Annual Manufacturer/Supplier Council Exhibit highlighted well-known products and services as well as solutions that are just emerging to take on the anticipated challenges that lie ahead. The Student Chapter Exhibit provided members with another opportunity to meet students seeking their Great Futures in our industry.

Enjoy this recap of Monday’s activities at MCAA18! Additional videos are coming soon!

MCAA President Greg Fuller opened MCAA18, saying “The amazing members of this Association never fail to go ALL IN. Each and every single one of you. We are the most involved, most dedicated, most generous membership anywhere, and have been for some time. And as a result, as an association, and as an industry, we are now seeing – we are now living – the benefits.” The convention’s Opening Session on March 26, 2018, included a presentation by Bestselling Author Malcolm Gladwell and the ever-popular president’s video.

Looking for new talent to secure your company’s future? Hoping to connect during MCAA18? Start your research at MCAAGreatFutures.org. A new search option helps you easily narrow your search to those candidates who are joining us at MCAA18. Look for it to the left of the Search by Keyword area, click the circle to select it and hit submit. Be sure to check back often…more students are adding their resumes daily.

The results are in! Congratulations to our four finalists for the 2018 MCAA Student Chapter Competition: Colorado State University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, University of Washington and Wentworth Institute of Technology! You can see the final four teams compete at the 2018 MCAA Convention on Monday, March 26 at 1:30 p.m.!

Our industry is all about people who bring their skills, experience and personalities to work every day. Making sure your employees perform at their best and get along well with each other ensures your company will grow and thrive. Connie Podesta will lead two sessions at MCAA18 that will show you how to create a team of over-achievers who enjoy what they do and who they do it with.

Emily Murphy has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate as Administrator of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). As GSA Administrator, Murphy will lead a workforce of 11,600 full-time employees and oversee more than 371 million rentable square feet of property and approximately $54 billion in annual contracts. Murphy is the daughter of MCAA past president Jim Murphy and Mimi Murphy.

Are you planning to solder in a couple of dozen 1-1/2 inch brass control valves in that heating system you are installing in that high-rise building?

“Despite being on the executive board of my school’s MCAA Chapter, I still didn’t fully appreciate what it is actually like to work for a mechanical contractor until this presentation. The “A Day in the Life of Ted” video was an excellent view as to what makes your section of the industry different than a typical building contractor.” That was one student’s reaction to the video at MCAA’s GreatFutures Forum.

Since they started using the Miller® PipeWorx 400 welding system, Team Industries has reduced rework—saving time and money—because of the system’s ease of use and consistent arc quality. “We have seen a decrease in X-ray failure. The consistency of the arc definitely plays a role in that,” said Jim VanZeeland, shop superintendent. “It’s just been a great machine for us.”

Welder Performance Qualification Tests (WPQTs) were developed to standardize welder qualification practices and to ensure that NCPWB welder qualification records were correct and accurate.

A completely penetrated root pass using an “open root” joint design is the most challenging part of making that weld. Using a backing ring makes it easier to be sure there is full penetration. Check out NCPWB’s new Technical Bulletin.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has raised civil penalties for violations of its rules to take into account inflation since penalties were last set. The new Interim Final Rule, which was published in the Federal Register on July 1, will take effect on August 1, 2016 for violations that occurred after November 2, 2015.

If a unique management idea helped your company overcome a challenge and improve your bottom line, consider nominating that innovation for the next prestigious E. Robert Kent Award! You and your innovation will be recognized during the Awards of Excellence program at MCAA 2017 in San Diego.

MCAA has just made available its Safety Bulletin with information about the Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s (OSHA) revised recordkeeping rule to Improve Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses.

A Technical Bulletin just issued by the National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) concerns failures in seamless carbon steel pipe, fittings and flanges during hydrostatic testing due to changes in steelmaking practices by certain mills over the last five years.

The 2016 NCPWB Technical Committee Meeting (April 24-25, Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, Ponte Vedra, FL)  featured presentations about the latest developments in welding technologies, materials, equipment and processes.

Listen to this candid conversation with facility managers who share insights and recommendations for developing and maintaining important and productive partnerships with service providers.

The Critical Path Method (CPM) schedule is an essential management tool for all construction team members when it comes to completing an on-time and financially successful project.

National accounting firm Withum shares some new information regarding a new IFR and an EIDL update.

Alston & Bird have released their June 15 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

National accounting firm Withum shares some new information regarding the accounting for PPP loans.

Alston & Bird have released their June 11 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

National accounting firm Withum shares some analysis regarding the PPP Flexibility Act of 2020.

Alston & Bird have released their June 8 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

National accounting firm Withum shares some analysis regarding the PPP Flexibility Act of 2020.

National accounting firm Withum shares some analysis regarding the PPP Flexibility Act of 2020 that borrowers need to consider.

Alston & Bird have released their June 4 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

National accounting firm Withum shares a bit of breaking news – PPP Flexibility Act Passes the Senate!

The MCAA’s “Factors Affecting Labor Productivity” can be an invaluable tool when attempting to prove labor productivity loss, a process that has always been one of the most difficult aspects of change management. John Koontz will explore how to practically apply the MCAA factors to estimate and price losses of labor productivity. Join us on Tuesday, June 9 at 1:00 p.m. EDT.

National accounting firm Withum shares news regarding the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act. of 2020.

Join host John Koontz on Friday afternoons, as he welcomes a different guest each week to talk about what’s new and interesting in the world of Mechanical Contracting. Sit back and learn how industry leaders are innovating and adapting to challenges, enjoy a laugh or two, and meet members of the MCAA community from all across the country.

Alston & Bird have released their April 15 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

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

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

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.

Do your fab shop workers need a quick reference for working safely in the shop? MCAA’s Safety Manual for Mechanical Fabrication Shop Workers will provide them with critical information on everything from working safely with overhead and gantry cranes to preventing overexposure to manganese while performing hot work. Members can download the manual free as a benefit of membership, or purchase print copies for their workers who prefer them.

MCAA CEO John Gentille recently challenged MCAA President Greg Fuller to put together a compelling video that would convince everyone to go ALL IN at MCAA18 this March 25-29 at the beautiful JW Marriott Hill Country resort in San Antonio. He had only 30 seconds. See what you think! Online registration remains open through our MCAA18 website, and for you procrastinators, we’ve extended the early-bird cutoff a week, to January 12th!

The MCAA and the UA have teamed up to provide additional financial relief to 357 field and office employees of our South Texas members who were victimized by Hurricane Harvey. Each employee is receiving a $500 relief check, with half coming from the MCAA Disaster Relief Fund and half from the UA’s Charitable Trust. This is in addition to the $1,000 relief check each employee already received from MCAA’s Disaster Relief Fund. Here’s the reaction of one of CFI Mechanical’s employees: “Chuck, once again I am floored by the generosity of others. Today I received a second check for disaster aide from the MCAA along with the UA Charitable Trust. Together with their members, they raised more to assist flood victims. This will help while waiting for the insurance company to decide what might or might not be covered. I have never been more proud to be a plumber for a union contractor that is so active in MCAA. Thank you again for your generosity!”

On January 23rd, President Trump held a White House meeting with UA General President Mark McManus and other leaders of the Building Trades. On January 24th, President Trump signed Executive Orders to advance the construction of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access Pipelines.

Leading construction contract experts from the national law firm of Peckar & Abramson, Adrian Bastianelli, III, Esq. and Mark R. Berry, analyze the key private and public construction contract terms and conditions that govern contractor entitlement to COVID-19 project delay and impact. They discuss the added cost requests for equitable adjustment and claim for time

National accounting firm Withum shares news regarding the current status of the PPP loan program.

National accounting firm Withum wants to pass along some news regarding the status of the PPP program, as well as an issue regarding EIDL loans.

National accounting firm Withum wants to alert borrowers to a new Interim Final Ruling (IFR) that was released on Friday, May 22nd.

SLOAN provided needed touch-free commercial restroom products to two temporary COVID-19 field hospitals: Chicago’s McCormick Place Convention Center and Yale University’s Payne Whitney Gym.

National accounting firm Withum shares some new information about a new IFR (Interim Final Ruling) released on June 23rd regarding the Covered Period for the forgiveness process on PPP loans.

This webinar covers tool sharing protocols, length of virus stability, EPAs List N, and how to properly disinfect tools, batteries, and gear.

National accounting firm Withum shares a news snippet from last week’s Interim Final Ruling (IFR 14) on PPP Loan Forgiveness that could prove to be significant for borrowers.

The past few months have introduced us all to a whole new set of issues impacting productivity. From additional safety and screening requirements to distancing protocols, COVID-19 is causing real and often dramatic productivity losses on the job site.  In this webinar, MCAA Project Management educator John Koontz will walk you through The Measured Mile

Alston & Bird have released their May 26 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

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.

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.

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.

Your generous donations to the MCAA Disaster Relief Fund and the UA Charitable Trust made a real difference in the lives of 360 MCAA and UA family members whose homes and cars were destroyed or damaged by Hurricane Harvey. This video will allow you to see and hear directly from some Harvey victims as to just how much your generosity meant to them.

National accounting firm Withum shares some recent developments from the IRS with respect to the ERC and one PPP development.

REVISED June 19, 2020
New information from research on COVID-19 is being generated constantly. This reality requires us to carefully monitor the new information and make updates to MCAA’s Model COVID-19 Return to Work Exposure Control Plan as necessary. MCAA’s model plan was recently updated. We recommend that you evaluate the changes to determine whether your company’s plan also requires an update.

Alston & Bird have released their April 13 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Alston & Bird have released their April 10 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

As Milwaukee Tool’s Vice President of Training and Recruiting, Jon Finch receives thousands of resumes each year. Join John and Jon (who is also Chair of MCAA’s Career Development Committee) on Friday, July 31 at 2 p.m. EST as they discuss strategies to use technology as a tool not just to help filter applicants, but also to create efficient and engaging virtual recruitment processes.

Alston & Bird have released their June 1 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Alston & Bird have released their May 15 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Faced with a tight working space, Hermanson Company took advantage of Miller Electric’s new XMT® 350 FieldPro System welder along with a custom-built pipe turner so the mechanical contractor could make hundreds of high-quality welds in a fraction of the time that hand-turning would have required. The innovative approach not only increased productivity but also contributed to a safer, healthier work environment.

MCAA’s new worker safety training video, Workplace Violence Prevention and Protection, and its accompanying materials are now available to members. The video teaches viewers to identify warning signs and take appropriate action to prevent workplace violence. It also shows viewers how to protect themselves and others if they find themselves in an active workplace violence situation.

Have you ever had a nightmare project that just won’t end? Join John as he chats with his old friend from the City of Angels, Shaabini Alford (VP of Southern California Operations, Murray Company) about the practices and pitfalls of “crisis” project management.

In a video message, UA General President Mark McManus and MCAA President Brian Helm discuss how cooperation, communication and common sense are fueling joint efforts to adapt to new working conditions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The two organizations are working together and innovating to address changing conditions while at the same time protecting our workforce and our industry’s future.

Congratulations to everyone at J.C. Cannistraro, LLC for being named PHC News magazine’s Contractor of the Year! The company, which is a member of MCAA and the New England MCA, was selected for its reputation as a leader in modular prefabrication and a very early adopter of construction technology.

Congratulations to everyone at E.M. Duggan for being named CONTRACTOR magazine’s Mechanical Contractor of the Year! The company is a member of both MCAA and the New England MCA.

National accounting firm Withum has provided MCAA with an analysis of FAQ 46, one of the more meaningful FAQs that has been received in the last few weeks addressing eligibility.

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

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

Video calls and virtual meetings are the new “normal” and likely take up most of your day. But are you getting the most out of your meetings? Are you getting distracted? Have you dusted off your nonverbal communication skills? Join us for some basics on effective virtual communication – getting started, some do’s and don’ts, and helpful tools.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released enforcement guidance for recording cases of COVID-19. Until further notice, OSHA will not enforce its record-keeping requirements to require employers to make work-relatedness determinations for COVID-19 cases, except where: (1) There is objective evidence that a COVID-19 case may be work-related; and (2) The evidence was reasonably available to the employer.

SATAURA co-founders, Beverly Holcomb and Sarah Pozdol, discuss simple strategies on how to nourish and support, not only your mental and emotional health; but also provide practical tools and guidelines that will help you strike a healthy “work-life-home-health” balance.

The NCPWB Spring Technical Committee Meeting provided a wide range of information including best practices for brazing copper joints in high-pressure HVACR application, using advanced GMAW (MIG) in the field, addressing the challenges of welding Grade 91 (9Cr-1Mo-V) Chromium-Molybdenum steel, tips for using Pipe Fabrication Institute standards. The event took place April 23-26, 2017 in San Antonio.

In the final episode of the season, John will once again welcome a key MCAA player – our Immediate Past President, Mike Brandt (President & CEO, Smith and Oby Company, Inc.). Don’t miss our LAST Coffee with Koontz on Friday, August 28 at 2 p.m. EDT. Register today!

What do Steve Wozniak, Geena Davis, Joe Montana and Captain Richard Phillips have in common? You can see – and hear from – all of them at MCAA2020. You won’t want to miss this line-up! Visit mcaaconvention.org to register and mark your calendars now!

MCAA’s Fire Safety Training Video will teach your workers to recognize common causes of jobsite fires and how to prevent them. Accompanying materials are also available to assist you in highlighting key training points, documenting worker training and confirming that workers understand the training concepts.

Dominick Florentine, director of virtual design and construction at Renick Brothers, was skeptical that Trimble SysQue MEP software would improve productivity, but since trying it out, he admitted, “I’m working smarter because of the features and functionality of the software.” Trimble is a sponsor of MCAA’s 2021 Virtual Education Conference.

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

Alston & Bird have released their May 22 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

The Small Business Administration (SBA), in consultation with the Department of the Treasury, intends to provide timely additional guidance to address borrower and lender questions concerning the implementation of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), established by section 1102 of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act or the Act). Borrowers and lenders may rely on the guidance provided in this document as SBA’s interpretation of the CARES Act and of the Paycheck Protection Program Interim Final Rule (“PPP Interim Final Rule”). Published on April 6, 2020.

MCAA recently added information to its safety bulletin and model program on confined spaces in construction to emphasize that even when employers are in compliance with OSHA’s confined spaces in construction standard, they are still required to comply with applicable parts of the agency’s welding and cutting standard.

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

National accounting firm Withum shares some new information regarding the new PPP loan forgiveness application, as well as a new Bill introduced in Congress.

The Colorado Association of Mechanical and Plumbing Contractors has shared their Paid Leave Eligibility chart with MCAA’s members to help determine an employee’s paid sick leave, paid family medical leave and unemployment insurance eligibility. This chart has been reviewed by CAMPC’s legal team.

On April 1, 2020, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued temporary regulations implementing the paid leave requirements under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). The DOL has also been adding new guidance to its more informal Questions & Answers webpage. Alston & Bird has been monitoring the DOL webpage, and shared their Updated FAQs for Employers Regulated by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

Using a range of Sioux Chief Manufacturing Company products, Murphy Company dramatically cut down its installation time of plumbing products for a new high-rise in St. Louis. Murphy also turned to Sioux Chief for custom products, which were rapidly produced in nearby Kansas City, MO, ensuring the project stayed on schedule.

When used correctly, the MCAA factors can be an invaluable resource in both forward pricing change orders and retroactively determining cumulative impacts.

All the way from beautiful balmy Buffalo NY, Robert Beck (CEO of J.W. Danforth Company) joins the show as our very first guest! Among the many changes brought about by COVID-19 is the normalization of working from home.

MCAA presents an interactive roundtable session, hosted by John Koontz (MCAA Director of Project Management), to explore best practices for dealing with operational issues in these unprecedented times. Panelists Mark Rogers (COO, West Chester Mechanical Contractors) and Greg Fuller (CEO, North Mechanical) leverage their combined expertise to address current industry challenges. Greg, Mark, and John have first-hand experience in everything from the field to the office to the executive suite. They provide insights based on decades of experience in the mechanical industry, tailored to specific issues that you are currently facing.

Alston & Bird have released their April 8 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Alston & Bird have released their May 29 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Cash is the lifeblood of any business. In good times, cash management may slip to the back burner, but with the current pandemic and companies delaying payments, now is not the time to be casual about your money. NEI and UA training instructor, Kathy Crosby, discusses how to keep delayed payments from getting out of control, protecting your rights, and how to measure your company’s cash flow in order to better manage it.

The team from Colorado State University won the final round of the Student Chapter Competition at MCAA18, taking home the first prize and $10,000 for their efforts. Their proposal for the renovation of a New York City steakhouse beat out proposals from the Fairleigh-Dickinson University, the University of Washington and the Wentworth Institute of Technology.

Alston & Bird have released their April 6 COVID-19 update, including the latest news on emergency funding, administrative and regulatory actions, workplace and home issues, and many other topics, as well as to links to all their past updates.

Cybercriminals often take advantage of significant current events to increase activity. The entire world is experiencing such an event and cybercriminals have found more opportunities. The sudden increase in teleworking expands the target for bad guys to strike. This course explores social engineering attacks.

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

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently released guidance to its regional administrators outlining enforcement discretion to permit the use of filtering facepiece respirators and air-purifying elastomeric respirators that are certified under certain standards of other countries or jurisdictions. The guidelines also address enforcement discretion to permit use when the equipment was previously certified under the standards of other countries or jurisdictions, but are beyond their manufacturer’s recommended shelf life.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently released guidelines to help combat supply shortages of disposable N95 filtering face piece respirators. The agency’s guidelines address alternatives to N95s, and extended use and reuse of the respirators. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which is the research arm of OSHA, also released N95 guidelines addressing extended use and reuse of the respirators, specifically for healthcare settings.  

What happens if some of your employees are not consistently using this protective equipment?

The full-featured digital version of MCAA’s Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide enhances the look and feel of our printed directory. Download your copy for digital-only benefits that help you stay connected throughout the year. Printed copies are in the mail. Whichever version you choose to use, the directory is free as a benefit of membership.

The UA/MCAA Labor Relations Conference will be held at The Mirage in Las Vegas, November 14-15. The theme of this year’s Labor Relations Conference will be “Highlighting Best Practices.” Want to join us? It’s still not too late to make your hotel reservation.

Whenever it’s feasible, it’s best to hire a reputable third party to perform facility cleaning and disinfection services. However, if it will be necessary for you or someone else from your company to perform the cleaning and disinfection service, the following guidelines may help protect that person from exposure to COVID-19.

A panel of leading contractors discuss important strategies to help companies deal with the current coronavirus situation. Panelists will discuss the role of HVACR/plumbing companies as essential services, crucial safety issues, impact on customers, the financial realities and a number of technical recommendations for mechanical/plumbing systems. This webinar was recorded Friday, April 10, 2020.

The mechanical contracting industry provides many career paths, and that includes the opportunity to work for an MCA local affiliated association. This summer, MCA of Chicago has two interns, Judie Prophete and Ervin Prophete. They are learning about how an association is managed and how the MCA of Chicago provides resources and education to its members.

The new Family First Coronavirus Response Act took effect April 1, 2020 and with it comes temporary requirements that will impact MCAA member companies who employ 500 or fewer employees. Katie Amin and Michael Kreps, both principals of Groom Law Group, along with John McNerney, MCAA general counsel, discuss which employers must adhere and who

MCAA members can now access some of our more recent bulletins on current topics from their desktop computers on our new WebBook platform. You will be able to read new Management Methods Bulletins, take notes, print sections, and share with colleagues. And most importantly, when we have updated content, unlike a downloaded pdf, our WebBooks will be updated behind the scenes while your notes are preserved securely on your computer.

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

Returning to work during the COVID-19 pandemic will require many employers to screen their workers regularly, including taking body temperatures.

Panelists Paul Stynchcomb, CCM, PSP, CFCC, of The Ibbs Consulting Group, Professor William Ibbs, Ph.D. of The Ibbs Consulting Group and Douglas L. Patin, a partner at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, a national construction law firm that serves mechanical trades, discuss ways to maneuver through contract clauses and analyses of various impacts that may arise

Experts from Withum’s SBA Financial Services and Tax Services teams navigate through the myriad of provisions included in the more than 5,000 page legislative package finalized mid-December

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.

The UA, MCAA, ASSE and IAPMO have joined forces to bring our collective memberships information to be able to understand the risks of COVID-19 and show you the best ways to help prevent the spreading the virus among our pipefitters, plumbers, service technicians, sprinklerfitters, steamfitters and apprentices.

In the third webinar of this series, our panelists discuss ways to prepare staff to work remotely, what work can be prioritized to be done remotely and how to utilize fabrication space safely to keep projects progressing.

If you have an iPad or iPhone, it’s easy. Follow these simple steps to customize your MCAA.org experience by making, for example, the Safety Excellence Initiative or MSCA.org an app on your home screen.

In the second webinar of this series, Jeff Sample guides you through the deluge of information during this difficult time for all businesses. As many organizations struggle to understand their new reality in managing current jobs and taking on new work, Sample talks through available options on software platforms you’re likely already using and shows off other technologies that can be leveraged free of charge.

Masen Dinklage, a member of the MCAA Student Chapter at the University of Nebraska, is spending his third consecutive summer as a Project Management intern with The Waldinger Corporation. Through a variety of activities, he is gaining industry knowledge and building relationships that will help him succeed in his great future.

In March, as a majority of the country slowed down, the MCAA Government Affairs Committee continued to work tirelessly meeting with countless Congressional and Senate office’s remotely to push our agenda forward. The committee has been working on COVID-19 cost increases on Federal projects, change orders in the NDAA, pension issues, and the PBGC just to mention a few.

Arden Engineering Constructors, LLC, internships prepare students for careers in the construction industry. That guidance has paid off for both the company and three recent graduates who accepted full-time positions within the Arden Building Companies family of businesses. Congratulations to Natalie Mansson, Andrew Basile and Alex Appolonia on finding their great futures with Arden.

Murphy Company interns Jacob Reed and Morgan Hanley have been onsite project engineering interns for the University of Missouri-Columbia’s NextGen Precision Health Institute. The opportunity has given them a first-hand look at what it takes to build a job on their college campus.

MCAA connects students with MCAA members through networking and employment opportunities that help to cultivate the next generation of industry leaders. The MCAA Career Development Committee is exploring new ways to make these connections virtually. Please help us meet your needs by taking a quick hiring survey.

This year, $500 MCAA Internship Grants are being offered to students who accept internships or full-time positions thanks to funding from the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF). MCAA members can use these grants to help them attract much-needed talent, and new interns will appreciate the investment in their success. Apply today!

The Student Chapter of the Year Award recognizes an MCAA student chapter for outstanding achievement as an organization of students who are planning careers in the mechanical construction industry. The award recognizes exceptional achievement in governance and leadership, membership recruiting, fundraising, community involvement, and career development. University of Nebraska Student Chapter is sponsored by the MCA of Omaha. The chapter’s faculty advisor is, Vishnu Reddi, Assistant Professor of Practice with the Durham School College of Engineering. The student chapter takes a unique approach to fundraising, community service and networking opportunities with local MCA members.

Colin Hindman has accepted a second summer internship with MCA of Indiana member, Harrell-Fish, Inc. Colin is a junior studying Construction Management Technology at Purdue University where he is the President of the MCAA Student Chapter. Colin says, “being a part of MCAA has both reinforced and built upon concepts I have learned in class, but most importantly on the job. My excellent experience working with HFI gave me a certain advantage when approaching the competition project. Conversely, the MCAA Student Chapter Competition taught me some valuable lessons that I’ve already been able to apply back in my internship.

Congratulations to Mike Brandt and everyone at Smith & Oby for being named 2019 Mechanical Contractor of the Year by Plumbing & Mechanical magazine! Imagine that!

Members have access to a full-featured digital version of our Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide. This online version enhances the look and feel of our printed directory with digital-only benefits. Printed directories are in the mail and will arrive to members within the next two weeks.

Our association’s leading women kicked off our Women in the Mechanical Industry forum with a networking reception. During the event, women learned how the forum will further enrich their careers through networking, educational, mentoring and career development opportunities beyond those already offered through membership in MCAA and MSCA. Women in the Mechanical Industry also sponsored a special session on two proven career advancement strategies measured to have the strongest payoff for women professionals.

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 the Mechanical Contracting Education & Research Foundation (MCERF). Past summer intern, Jonathan Dang said, “one of the things that made a career in the mechanical industry so appealing is the investment in students and their futures.” Use the internship grant as an opportunity to show your company’s investment in young talent. Help build our industry’s GreatFuture – apply for a grant!

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. Be the next internship success story!

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 reflects on his experience as a student chapter member saying, “I am always blown away by the fact that MCAA is willing to invest much of their resources in college students like me.”

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.

Members have access to a full-featured digital version of our Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide. This online version enhances the look and feel of our printed directory with digital-only benefits. Printed directories will be sent to members in the next few weeks.

As we all know, the coronavirus has created a lot of uncertainty. While we have information and instructions on how we can continue to try and stay safe, we really don’t know what we are dealing with or for how long. That said, MCAA will be hosting a series of webinars over the coming weeks to help our members adjust accordingly. Stay tuned!