Inside MCAA – The Blueprint to Mechanical Contracting- Ep. 11 Building Careers, Connections, and the Future of Mechanical Contracting

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

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

Inside MCAA – The Blueprint to Mechanical Contracting- Ep. 11 Building Careers, Connections, and the Future of Mechanical Contracting

In this episode of Inside MCAA, host Frank Favaro welcomes Andrew Palcan, Project Manager at Helm Group and Chair of MCAA’s Career Development Committee, and Michele Hoffman, MCAA’s Director of Career Development. Together, they dive into the dynamic programs and powerful connections shaping the next generation of mechanical contracting professionals.

Andrew shares his early journey as a student chapter competition team member at Milwaukee School of Engineering to a career-launching handshake at the annual MCAA convention. Michele reflects on how her passion of working with student chapters led to a national role influencing thousands of rising professionals.

Throughout the conversation, Andrew and Michele highlight the pivotal role of the Career Development Committee in:

• Connecting students with contractors through hands-on events, competitions, and unconventional job fairs
• Offering unique programs like the “Marco Polo” networking icebreaker and themed industry tours
• Breaking down industry barriers for students of all backgrounds by showcasing the many paths within mechanical
• Promoting peer-to-peer networks that extend far beyond graduation and help form a lifelong professional community

They also preview the upcoming 2025 MCAA Great Futures Forum in Salt Lake City, which features complimentary registration, contractor/student job matchmaking, Olympian speakers, and an immersive mechanical site tour.

The episode wraps up with heartfelt encouragement to students: get involved, take chances, and talk to people—you never know where one conversation might lead.

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