MCAA26 helped attendees see ‘Beyond the Horizon’ in Phoenix, Arizona, with an unforgettable week of inspiration, education, and connection.
President Brian Hughes expressed gratitude to the United Association (UA), General President Mark McManus, UA leadership, affiliated local association executives, and manufacturer and supplier members for their unwavering support and integral role in MCAA.
The week featured key remarks from UA General President McManus, who emphasized the strength of the UA/MCAA partnership. Main stage speakers, including Drew Brees, Zack Kass, Mike Massimino, Inky Johnson, and Ken Schmidt, provided valuable insights and entertainment. Education seminars equipped members for the year ahead, while the Manufacturer/Supplier Council Exhibit facilitated networking and industry collaboration.
Following Wednesday night’s closing dinner, Grammy Award-winning trio Lady A treated attendees to an energetic concert that included hit after hit of their trademark blend of country, rock and pop.
On Thursday, MCAA’s Political Action Committee awarded a Lady A autographed guitar to Beni Monaco after successfully raising more than $26,000 through a raffle.
President Hughes recognized the contributions of retiring MCAA Board of Directors members, stating, “Each of these Board members has contributed tremendously to strengthening this industry, and we want to recognize their service and thank them.”
Honorees and retiring Board of Directors members:
- Kat Unger, First Graduate of the AEC Training Program
- John P. Geiling, Independent Strategic Advisor
- Rick Moreno, President, Astro Mechanical Contractors
- Rick Gopffarth, Senior Vice President, Dynamic Systems, Inc. and an MCAA Past President
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During the Closing General Session, President Hughes delivered his final remarks before passing the MCAA presidential gavel to his successor, Curtis Harbour. Harbour expressed his gratitude, stating, “Brian, I am honored by this opportunity, and I will do my best. We promise to build on what you have done for MCAA.” As a token of appreciation, MCAA made a donation to The YMCA of Haiti, an organization the Hughes family volunteered with in recent years.
President Harbour acknowledged the national officers serving on MCAA’s Executive Committee and introduced the newest members of the Board of Directors.
Joining President Hughes on the Executive Committee are:
- President‑Elect: Michael Russo, Fresh Meadow Mechanical Corporation
- Senior Vice President and Treasurer: Scott Hinton, Enerfab
- Vice President and Assistant Treasurer: Chris Carter, Murphy Company
- Immediate Past President: Brian Hughes, Hughes Environmental Engineering
The newest contractor members of MCAA’s Board of Directors, elected to three-year terms, are:
- Dan Heichelbech, Southland Industries
- Mindy Rocha, CJ Industries
- Adam Wallenstein, Neptune Plumbing & Heating Co.
In his address, President Harbour opened with a nod to the importance of being together in Phoenix, noting, “It’s good to be here with you in Phoenix,” and tying the event’s theme — “Beyond the Horizon” — to the direction the industry is heading. He emphasized that the progress on display was no accident, crediting MCAA leadership and staff who “did the hard work to make this happen.” The remarks set a confident tone focused on momentum, resilience, and a shared vision for the future.
President Harbour went on to highlight the contributions of Brian Hughes, praising him as someone who “has led this association the right way — locally, regionally, and nationally.” He explained that Hughes’ leadership ensured MCAA’s strategic plan “works both directions,” aligning national priorities with real conditions on the ground. Even in a challenging year, he noted, the industry “didn’t slow down,” underscoring the strength and determination of its members.
President Harbour then turned toward the future, identifying education and partnership as the two priorities of his term as MCAA president. He pointed to major tech companies investing “real money behind the future” as a sign of both opportunity and urgency. Importantly, he reaffirmed that “MCAA isn’t just for the biggest contractors — and it never should be,” emphasizing that mid‑size and small companies benefit because the association “creates opportunities.” His message underscored a commitment to inclusivity, growth, and shared success across the entire industry.
Save the Date: MCAA27
Looking ahead, MCAA27 will take place in San Diego, California, from March 7-11, 2027. Mark your calendars and join us for another impactful convention.
