Archives: News Items

Dues Increase Coming in 2025

The 2025 dues rates for MCAA and MSCA member construction and service hours will increase to $.10 per labor hour effective January 1, 2025. The minimum dues assessment is based upon 12,000 hours ($1,200) per branch office, and the maximum assessment is 300,000 hours ($30,000) per branch office. New dues reporting forms will be provided in advance of the January 1 date. Watch MCAA.org and the National Update for an announcement.

National Service and Maintenance Agreement (NSMA) signatory contractors’ contribution rate will also increase to $.10 per labor hour effective January 1, 2025. The minimum of 8,000 hours ($800) per office will remain the same. There is no maximum for NSMA signators.

Find the Latest from Ridge Tool Company and Miller Electric Mfg. Co. in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show

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

Participating companies highlight and link to new products, product lines, services, solutions or web pages of particular interest. Here are just a few of the recent additions:

Ridge Tool Company
For more than 100 years, RIDGID has been providing certainty and efficiency to the professional trades by delivering innovative plumbing, mechanical and HVAC tools.

Miller Electric Mfg. Co.
Simplified and optimized for pipe fabrication shop welding, the PipeWorx 400 Welding System’s streamlined set-up with one touch welding, quick process changeover, and Pulsed and Modified Short-Arc MIG processes, makes training and turn-around times faster than ever before.

Need Something Else?

Find many more smart solutions in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show!

Speaking of Smart Solutions

Visit the Smart Solutions Case Studies area of our website to learn how other mechanical contractors found their win-win with cost-saving and productivity-enhancing applications from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

This section of our website also includes tips and ideas to help your company save money and enhance your productivity. Don’t miss it!

Connect With Additional Manufacturer/Supplier Training

Save yourself time and let MCAA connect you to the latest Manufacturer/Supplier member’s training opportunities. Visit the Manufacturer/Supplier Training area of the Resource Center to get started. 

Growth Up 25% In One Year with ServiceTrade & Hurst Mechanical

Since adopting ServiceTrade, Hurst Mechanical experienced 25 percent growth in a single year, a testament to the efficiencies gained through the platform. In addition, using ServiceTrade to streamline preventive maintenance (PM) scheduling and management led the company to increase PM volume by 20 percent.

Looking for More Smart Solutions?

Visit the Smart Solutions Case Studies area of our website! You’ll see how other mechanical contractors found their win-win with productivity-enhancing and cost-saving applications from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

Plus, you’ll find tips and ideas on other ways you and your company can save money and enhance your productivity.

MCAA Needs More Submissions for Industry-Wide BIM Survey – Help Shape the Future of Our Industry

On October 2, MCAA began a nationwide survey of select MCAA firms regarding current customs and best practices to account for and mitigate BIM-related risks. This topic is crucial and urgent for our industry, and MCAA is proud to take a leadership role to benefit our members and the industry as a whole. The survey was sent to randomly selected MCAA members by the researchers to increase statistical validity and reduce costs and time associated with sampling the entire MCAA membership. In order to gather more information, we are now sending the survey to our entire membership.

We are half-way home! In order to start the survey analysis on BIM risk strategies, the researchers we have retained need to receive a certain number of responses to validate the analysis. As of today, 95 MCAA members have completed the survey, which is deeply appreciated. Another 30 firms started the survey but have not yet finished the survey. Of course, a large number of MCAA firms have not started or completed the survey. We need as many of you as possible to respond to the survey so we can reach our response goal and ensure the statistical validity of the results.

It is critically important that we get as many firms as possible to respond to the survey. Start with the link below that will download a copy of the data entry sheet to make completing the survey as easy and quick as possible. Please fill out the data entry sheet before starting the survey. When you have acquired the needed data, please use the link to the survey below:

If you prefer, copy and paste the URL below into your Internet browser:
https://unlcorexmuw.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vVOwRE1lYcFPg2?Q_DL=setJgVHz6pF9bqE_0vVOwRE1lYcFPg2_CGC_2nrgvsoxTOuxeE4&Q_CHL=emai

Once the survey is started it must be completed before exiting.

As mentioned previously, participating in an industry-wide survey is more than just ticking boxes; it’s your chance to shape the future of our industry. By taking a few moments to complete this survey, you’re not just contributing data—you’re making a difference. Let’s take this step together to build a better tomorrow for our industry!

If you have any questions regarding the survey, please feel free to reach out to Tim Brink, MCAA CEO.

Nominations for MCAA’s Board of Directors Are Due January 13

The future of MCAA is fundamentally linked to the quality of the individuals who serve on its Board of Directors. MCAA members who would like to be considered for one of five vacancies are encouraged to learn more and complete the application. Applications should be returned no later than January 13, 2025. Candidates and their spokespersons will be scheduled for interviews at the 2025 MCAA Annual Convention. Those who are selected will begin their terms in March 2025.

Resource Highlight: MCAA’s Employee Reviews

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.

The bulletin covers:

  • Benefits of the review process
  • Preparing for the review
  • The two types of reviews
  • Conducting the review
  • Guidelines to help ensure productive and beneficial reviews
  • Legal considerations

It includes examples of:

  • Open-ended questions
  • A management driven rater review
  • A management driven exploratory review
  • An employee self-evaluation questionnaire

To learn more about MCAA’s Advanced Leadership Institute mentioned in this bulletin, visit the Advanced Leadership Institute page.

For a full list of available Management Methods Bulletins, visit the Management Methods Bulletins page.

Have Questions or Need Personal Assistance?

Contact MCAA’s Frank Wall.

MCAA and Partners Launch Industrial Head Protection Study – Your Participation Can Help Save Lives

Workplace head injuries remain a significant concern in the construction industry. To address this, the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF), ELECTRI International, the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC), and The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC) have partnered with the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab on a study to improve industrial helmet safety. The success of this research depends on industry participation to provide real-world data on workplace head injuries for use in developing test protocols. Help advance helmet technology, reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries, and make a lasting impact on worker safety. Take the survey today!

Survey Will Provide Valuable Industry Insights

To conduct tests representative of real-world head impacts experienced in an industrial setting, researchers need to learn how industrial workers get injured on a job site. Information such as the injuries incurred, approximate fall height, fall surface, head impact location, and the head impact surface are crucial in reconstructing these scenarios in a laboratory setting. This information is being collected in a short survey that allows individuals to anonymously describe workplace injuries and “near-misses” that will provide us with the data necessary to perform laboratory testing. We ask that you help us by distributing the survey to your workforce to help us collect this information. 

We understand this information is extremely sensitive, and companies or individuals may be reluctant to share their experiences. As such, the entire survey will remain completely confidential and anonymous. No identifiable personal (i.e., name, date, contact information, location) or company information will be collected, and all data will be stored securely at Virginia Tech. Further, Virginia Tech researchers will not know which companies and organizations that JRGF, TAUC, ASCC, and Electri distributed this memo and survey to. JRGF, TAUC, ASCC, and ELECTRI International will not have access to the survey responses. Survey responses will go directly to Virginia Tech, and no data will be shared outside of the researchers involved in the study. 

If you, the company or organization, are willing to share additional information or data about workplace injuries; specifically, accident reports, images, or surveillance video of workplace injuries would be extremely valuable to the research. Any shared report or video would be completely de-identified and treated as highly confidential. If willing, please use this form to submit files. 

Thank you for your consideration and help with this important research that will ultimately reduce traumatic brain injuries and deaths in the workplace. 

Survey Available in English and Spanish

The survey is available in both English and Spanish to reach as many workers as possible. Help advance helmet technology, reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries, and make a lasting impact on worker safety. Take the survey today!

Connect With the Latest Training from SLOAN and Ridge Tool Company at MCAA.org

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.

Participating companies highlight and link to new webinars and training opportunities across their product lines, services, solutions or web pages. Here are just a few of the recent additions:

SLOAN
There are a number of power supply options available to run Sloan touch-free sensor faucets. Learn about all of the options to find the best choice for your facility.

Ridge Tool Company
RIDGID JobSite Live: New RP 251 Overview
RIDGID gives a full overview of the RP 251 Press Tool and highlights the innovative features that will benefit users in the field.

Interested in More Training from Our Supplier Partners?

Be sure to visit the Manufacturer/Supplier Training area for all the latest offerings.

MCAA25 – The Final Day

MCAA25 will wrap on Thursday, March 6 with the Closing General Session, Changing of the Guard and featured speaker Kevin Griffin.

MCAA President Rick Gopffarth will pass the gavel to his successor President-elect Brian Hughes and MCAA will recognize its outgoing and incoming Board of Directors and new officers.

Kevin Griffin will take the stage to share the lessons from his new business parable The Greatest Song: Spark Creativity, Ignite Your Career and Transform Your Life.

This will mark the close to a wonderful week that you won’t want to miss! Register today to experience all MCAA25 has to offer.

Find the Latest from MIFAB, Inc. and Metraflex Company in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show

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

Participating companies highlight and link to new products, product lines, services, solutions or web pages of particular interest. Here are just a few of the recent additions:

MIFAB, Inc.
MIFAB’s revolutionary Quick Hub No Hub Couplings are now NSF approved! Quick Hub Couplings are much faster than traditional couplings, yet they are still held to the same high standards.

Metraflex LPD-Y Strainer

Metraflex Company
Metraflex energy-saving LPD-Y-Strainer dramatically reduces pressure drops. ROI within 1 year. Larger screen with more holes. Re-engineered to reduce turbulence.

Need Something Else?

Find many more smart solutions in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show!

Speaking of Smart Solutions

Visit the Smart Solutions Case Studies area of our website to learn how other mechanical contractors found their win-win with cost-saving and productivity-enhancing applications from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

This section of our website also includes tips and ideas to help your company save money and enhance your productivity. Don’t miss it!

Connect With Additional Manufacturer/Supplier Training

Save yourself time and let MCAA connect you to the latest Manufacturer/Supplier member’s training opportunities. Visit the Manufacturer/Supplier Training area of the Resource Center to get started. 

The Complete Package: Saving Time and Money on Hospital Project with Zurn Elkay Water Solutions & John W. Danforth Company

John W. Danforth Company wanted a lean jobsite for its new hospital project, so it worked closely with Zurn on packaging materials and delivery schedules long before any materials were needed, saving time and money in the process. The new Wynn Hospital of Utica, NY, part of the Mohawk Valley Hospital System, opened in October 2023 on time and on budget.

Looking for More Smart Solutions?

Visit the Smart Solutions Case Studies area of our website! You’ll see how other mechanical contractors found their win-win with productivity-enhancing and cost-saving applications from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

Plus, you’ll find tips and ideas on other ways you and your company can save money and enhance your productivity.

Dues Increase Coming in 2025

The 2025 dues rates for MCAA and MSCA member construction and service hours will increase to $.10 per labor hour effective January 1, 2025. The minimum dues assessment is based upon 12,000 hours ($1,200) per branch office, and the maximum assessment is 300,000 hours ($30,000) per branch office. New dues reporting forms will be provided in advance of the January 1 date. Watch MCAA.org and the National Update for an announcement.

National Service and Maintenance Agreement (NSMA) signatory contractors’ contribution rate will also increase to $.10 per labor hour effective January 1, 2025. The minimum of 8,000 hours ($800) per office will remain the same. There is no maximum for NSMA signators.

Don’t Miss Out: Final Call to Book Your Hotel for the Safety & Health Conference!

Time is running out to secure your spot at the inaugural Safety & Health Conference, taking place January 13-16, 2025, at the stunning Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage in critical conversations on mental health, risk management, and dozens of other pivotal topics shaping the future of safety and health.

About the Conference

Brought to you by the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA), the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), and The Association of Union Contractors (TAUC), this premier event promises an unparalleled experience for safety professionals.

Attendees will benefit from:

  • Insightful Presentations on safety leadership, fall protection, machine guarding, and the role of artificial intelligence in safety.
  • Hands-On Learning with top manufacturers and exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge safety technology and innovations.
  • Networking Opportunities with industry leaders and peers in an engaging, family-friendly setting.

Conference Highlights

  • Beach Party Celebration: Kick back and relax at our beach party featuring live music by the Milwaukee Tool Shed Band, sponsored by MILWAUKEE TOOL.
  • Blood Drive: Join us in making a difference during our first-ever blood drive on Tuesday and Wednesday, helping to address the national blood shortage.

This event is not just a conference—it’s a chance to learn, connect, and celebrate with safety professionals from across the country. Act fast—time is limited to secure your spot!

MCAA Supports the Nomination of Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer to be Secretary of Labor

The Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) applauds President-elect Trump for his nomination of Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer to be the next Secretary of Labor. Given the impact of the Labor Department on a wide range of critical issues, we urge the U.S. Senate to act quickly next year to confirm Chavez-DeRemer to this important leadership position.

As the President-elect noted in announcing the nomination, Rep. Chavez-DeRemer has worked tirelessly with both business and labor to support America’s workforce. Through her positions on the House Education & the Workforce and Transportation & Infrastructure Committees, she has been a respected voice on meaningful policy that impacts our members specifically and the U.S. economy more broadly. She has been a strong advocate for the construction industry, serving as a key member of the Congressional Building Trades Caucus and the Congressional Apprenticeship Caucus, and as Co-Chair of the Yes In My Backyard Caucus to improve housing supply in the United States. As an organization that recognizes the importance of utilizing alternative energy sources for electricity generation, heating, and cooling, MCAA also appreciates Rep. Chavez-DeRemer championing legislation to streamline the development of natural gas and the federal permitting process—such as the “Full Responsibility and Expedited Enforcement (FREE) Act.”

At a time when the construction and maintenance sectors are struggling to expand their skilled workforces to meet the growing demands for new infrastructure, Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer is the right choice for the job at the right time. We sincerely appreciate President-elect Trump’s thoughtful decision to nominate a well qualified candidate who understands and values both business and labor. MCAA looks forward to Chavez-DeRemer serving the nation as the 30th Secretary of Labor.

The Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) represents more than 2,700 members and 90 local affiliates in every state across the country delivering top-quality, high-tech services to their public and private sector clients on mechanical system, plumbing, fire sprinkler, HVAC, and refrigerant system projects in new construction as well as on existing facility maintenance and service contracts. 

Don’t Miss Your Chance to Save on the 2025 MEP Innovation Conference!

January 27-30, 2025 | Los Angeles, CA

The holidays are a time for giving, and MCAA has something special for you: an extended Black Friday discount on MEP Innovation Conference registration. Now until December 31, 2024, save $200 when you lock in your spot at the 2025 MEP Innovation Conference. Secure your spot today and kick off 2025 with the tools, knowledge, and connections to thrive.

The 2025 conference is packed with value. By attending, you will gain access to real-life case studies, cutting-edge discussions about the evolution of construction technology, and strategies to integrate these innovations into your business. Company CTOs and CIOs will learn how to lead their organizations into the future of digital transformation.

Why Act Now?

  • Extended Savings: Register now and take advantage of the $200 Black Friday discount – but only until December 31.
  • Unbeatable Education: Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned leader, the conference offers insights tailored for you.
  • Future-Ready Networking: Meet and collaborate with peers who are redefining the construction industry.

Join the premier event for forward-thinking contractors at a price that’s too good to pass up. Secure your discounted registration today and kick off 2025 with the tools, knowledge, and connections to thrive.

Use this discount code at registration: MEPV!PM6AA

Beacon Economics Report Offers a Strategic Decision-Making Tool for Service

The 2024 Beacon Economics Market Report for MSCA is here! This essential report delivers up-to-the-minute insights and data-driven analysis tailored for mechanical service contractors. Uncover updated key trends for 2024, including market shifts and economic forecasts that directly impact your business. This study is an invaluable resource for looking at market trends that will help guide strategic decisions and keep you competitive. Don’t miss out on this powerful tool—download the new report today!

Resource Highlight: MCAA’s Factors to Consider in Establishing, Operating and Maintaining a Fabrication Shop

Whether you’re establishing a new fab shop or looking to keep yours operating at peak performance, MCAA’s Factors to Consider in Establishing, Operating and Maintaining a Fabrication Shop provides tips to enhance your company’s productivity and profitability. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The bulletin explains the benefits of prefabrication and offers tips for:

  • Locating the facility
  • Material handling
  • Physical and workstation requirements
  • Considerations such as gas services to support the cutting and welding process
  • Planning the fabrication process to maximize cost control
  • Potential quality control documentation requirements

It also addresses potential setbacks of fabrication that should be considered in advance of setting up shop.

For a full list of available Management Methods Bulletins, visit the Management Methods Bulletins page.

Have Questions or Need Personal Assistance?

Contact MCAA’s Frank Wall.

MCAA25: Thank You to Our Sponsors

The MCAA25 convention wouldn’t be the same without the 31 sponsoring companies that have partnered with MCAA to ensure an excellent member experience. We extend a heartfelt thank you to these companies. We couldn’t do it without you!

Benefactor Sponsors

  • Aalberts IPS – Apollo Valves – Convention WIFI
  • Daikin Group – Wednesday Night Closing Dinner & Concert Beverages
  • DEWALT Industrial Tool Company – Hotel Room Key Cards & Refreshment Break
  • EVAPCO, Inc. – Souvenir Photos & Education Seminar Handouts
  • Ferguson – Tuesday Brunch Featuring James Lawrence
  • Johnson Controls, Inc. – Bento Lunchboxes
  • LAARS, a Bradford White Company – Convention Souvenir Bags
  • MILWAUKEE TOOL – Wednesday Awards of Excellence Breakfast & Reception
  • Procore Technologies, Inc. – Souvenir Western Hats
  • SLOAN – Monday Lunch Speaker Kendall Toole
  • GF Uponor – Sunday Night Opening Party Dinner
  • Viega – Student Chapter Activities
  • Watts Water Technologies – Wednesday Night Closing Dinner
  • Zurn Elkay Water Solutions – Thursday Closing General Session Speaker Kevin Griffin

Major Sponsors

  • ASC Engineered Solutions – Annual 5K Fun Run & 1-Mile Walk and Weekend Austin Vibes Live Music
  • Baltimore Aircoil Company, Inc. – Education Seminar Speakers
  • BuildOps – Wireless Charging Mouse Pad
  • Carrier Corporation – Annual Golf Tournament Co-Sponsor – Avery Ranch Golf Club
  • Morris Group International – Convention Lanyard
  • Mueller Industries, Inc. – Closing Breakfast
  • NIBCO INC. – 48th Annual Round Robin Tennis & 4th Annual Pickleball Tournament and Convention App
  • ServiceTitan – Program-at-a-Glance
  • SIEMENS – Sunday Night Opening Party Beverages
  • Victaulic – Annual Golf Tournament Co-Sponsor – Falconhead Golf Club
  • Weldbend – Convention Souvenir Journal
  • Winsupply – Sunday Night Turndown Gift

Supporter Sponsors

  • Aquatherm LP – Convention Souvenir
  • Charlotte Pipe & Foundry – Convention Souvenir
  • nVent – Convention Souvenir
  • Trane – Refreshment Break
  • Tyler Pipe & Coupling – Convention Souvenir

Thank you to all MCAA25 sponsors!

Want to enjoy the experience these sponsors are helping to create? Join us at MCAA25, March 2 – 6, 2025 in Austin, TX. We look forward to seeing you there!

Find the Latest from Hilti, Inc. and QuoteSoft by ConstructConnect in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show

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

Participating companies highlight and link to new products, product lines, services, solutions or web pages of particular interest. Here are just a few of the recent additions:

Hilti, Inc.
Gone are the days of sitting under the anchor point and rotating the threaded rod into place. Kwik Cast Connect (KCC) anchors are ideal for contractors installing pre-assembled hanger assemblies, allowing users to push the threaded rod into the anchor for quick and easy installation.

QuoteSoft by ConstructConnect
QuoteSoft BIM and Estimating Solutions – Increase Takeoff speed and bottom line with cost and labor estimating software for mechanical and HVAC contractors. Call for web demo today!

Need Something Else?

Find many more smart solutions in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show!

Speaking of Smart Solutions

Visit the Smart Solutions Case Studies area of our website to learn how other mechanical contractors found their win-win with cost-saving and productivity-enhancing applications from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

This section of our website also includes tips and ideas to help your company save money and enhance your productivity. Don’t miss it!

Connect With Additional Manufacturer/Supplier Training

Save yourself time and let MCAA connect you to the latest Manufacturer/Supplier member’s training opportunities. Visit the Manufacturer/Supplier Training area of the Resource Center to get started. 

Increasing Weld Speed with Novarc Technologies & Kleeberg

Despite an industry-wide shortage of skilled welders, Kleeberg has increased productivity by partnering with Novarc Technologies and adopting the Spool Welding Robot (SWR™). The SWR is a welding cobot designed specifically for pipe, small-pressure vessels, and other types of roll welding. With the cobot, Kleeberg has increased welding speed by three to four times on larger pipes.

Looking for More Smart Solutions?

Visit the Smart Solutions Case Studies area of our website! You’ll see how other mechanical contractors found their win-win with productivity-enhancing and cost-saving applications from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

Plus, you’ll find tips and ideas on other ways you and your company can save money and enhance your productivity.