Congratulations to Irvin Quintana, one of the two recipients of the Alan P. O’Shea Memorial Scholarship. The Mechanical Contractors Association of New Jersey established these scholarships to honor the memory of Alan P. O’Shea, its former Executive Director, and to memorialize his many contributions to the mechanical contracting industry. These scholarships were presented by Richard Tomaiko (MCA of New Jersey President) and Phillip Petillo (MCA of New Jersey Executive Director) at the MCAA24 Awards of Excellence Breakfast in Orlando on March 20th.
Irvin anticipates graduating from the University of Nebraska in May 2026 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He is active in his student chapter and has held the position of Recruitment Chair. This summer Irvin is interning with MCAA Member, The Waldinger Corporation.
“Mechanical construction can be found everywhere, from hospitals to elementary schools and affects every aspect of our lives. It appeals to me because of its complexity; from design to installation, mechanical construction requires attention to detail, consistency, and perseverance. Mechanical construction is also a large and always growing industry that provides many opportunities to learn and grow professionally as well as personally.
After graduation, I plan on working with a mechanical contractor within MCAA as a project engineer. Based on my current internship, I believe this role is essential for a better understanding of mechanical systems and the implementations of the systems. Being able to work closely with other project engineers and foremen has helped accelerate my understanding of the systems and how they operate, are installed, and are maintained.
I’ve gained a generous amount of experience and growth from my involvement with my MCAA Student Chapter. I’ve had the opportunity to work with other students who share the same mindset and ambitions as me. This has helped me push myself further as I’ve worked closely with my fellow students to help fundraise, set up community involvement, and work on our competition. Being able to attend the MCAA national convention and the GreatFutures Forum has allowed me to network with other students and contractors across the country. After I graduate, I plan on helping my student chapter by providing networking opportunities as well as sharing my knowledge and experience with future chapter members.”
MCAA and the John R. Gentille Foundation congratulate Irvin on this prestigious scholarship and thank the MCA of New Jersey for their commitment to supporting students interested in pursuing a career in the mechanical contracting industry.
