News

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

As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.

JRGF Internship Grants are available for both Employers and Affiliated Associations for 2026 planned internships (employers) and support programs (associations). Click the corresponding link, fill out the form and apply for a grant to enhance the practical hands-on education of students interested in exploring a career in the mechanical contracting industry. Don’t delay, grant forms are due by April 1st.

At its July 18–19, 2025 meeting, the MCAA Board of Directors reviewed and advanced a series of proposed bylaws changes designed to modernize membership classifications and ensure the long‑term sustainability of Association funding. MCAA members will be voting on these changes at MCAA26.

Classes 11 and 12 of MCAA’s Foundations of Field Leadership (FFL) have completed eight weeks of introductory field leadership training. More than 120 students graduated from the classes. As FFL approaches its two-year anniversary this spring, we want to extend heartfelt gratitude to all our 500+ graduates since this program’s inception. Here’s what our newest grads had to say about their experience:

Companies need a way to familiarize new service staff with the industry equipment, processes and terminology they’re likely to encounter. MSCA’s HVACR 101 Workbook Series does just that in a series of 10 workbooks focused on the areas that are essential to job success. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Like a compass guiding explorers across new terrain, the WiMI Conference is designed to help attendees gain clarity about their professional direction, strengthen their sense of purpose, and build meaningful relationships with others navigating similar paths. This year’s theme — COMPASS: Charting Your Course, Connecting Your Purpose — reflects the journey many professionals take as they grow within the mechanical contracting industry. Register now to join us in Coronado as we set our direction, empower our purpose, and move forward — together.

MCAA member contractors and local affiliates are encouraged to participate in an upcoming UA organizing blitz. This is a great opportunity to share the benefits of working for a union contractor and enhance the labor/management relationship. Read on to learn more, then register for a blitz near you. Space is filling quickly!

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.

As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.

Why do some helmets reduce the risk of skull fractures by as much as 75 percent? The answer comes down to how they are tested.

Nearly 200 students from 33 MCAA student chapters will be attending MCAA26. Those still on the hunt for a summer internship or their first post-graduation full-time position are actively scoping out MCAA’s GreatFutures Job Board. Post your job today and be sure to stop by the ‘Hire Me’ Job Fair outside the Manufacturer/Supplier Exhibit to meet with potential candidates in person!

At its July 18–19, 2025 meeting, the MCAA Board of Directors reviewed and advanced a series of proposed bylaws changes designed to modernize membership classifications and ensure the long‑term sustainability of Association funding. MCAA members will be voting on these changes at MCAA26.

Unlock new business opportunities, discover breakthrough innovations, have high-level executive discussions and refine your business strategy at the Annual MCAA Converge. More than just a meeting, MCAA Converge offers a carefully curated experience tailored to meet the specific needs of your company.

Project managers ensure that work is completed on time, in accordance with contract documents, and at a profit. MCAA’s Project Manager’s Manual equips PMs with general information on project management in the construction industry, offering tips for handling day‐to‐day situations and avoiding some of the most common pitfalls. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Women in Construction Week is an important opportunity to celebrate and recognize the invaluable contributions of women in the construction industry. This week highlights their achievements, honors their dedication, and inspires future generations to pursue careers in the field. Today, we celebrate Ariel Sizemore. As a Foreman at Integrated Facility Services and the first female instructor appointed by Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562, Ariel is expanding opportunity, elevating representation, and leaving a lasting impact on the industry and her community.

If plumbing service is a core part of your business—or needs to be—this is where you need to be. The PCA Plumbing Service Conference brings together forward-thinking contractors and service leaders for two and a half focused days of practical learning, real conversations, and strategies you can put to work immediately. Join us May 4 – 6, 2026, in Indianapolis, IN. Register now!

The spring 2026 MSCA classes are on the calendar and open for registration. MSCA provides focused training programs for your operational personnel. This collection of programs, unlike any other, provide the continued training to set your employees apart in the HVACR industry.

Women in Construction Week is an important opportunity to celebrate and recognize the invaluable contributions of women in the construction industry. This week highlights their achievements, honors their dedication, and inspires future generations to pursue careers in the field. Today, we celebrate the Dallas WIMI planning group, an example of how women supporting women can spark meaningful change, foster belonging, and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Providing a safe work environment is all our duties and preventing struck by object injuries could be one of the most impactful ways to keep our workers safe. Struck by objects is a leading cause of construction injuries and deaths, and about 75% of struck by deaths involve heavy equipment. That could include struck against an object, struck by an object, caught in an object or equipment, or caught in collapsing material.

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

At its July 18–19, 2025 meeting, the MCAA Board of Directors reviewed and advanced a series of proposed bylaws changes designed to modernize membership classifications and ensure the long‑term sustainability of Association funding. MCAA members will be voting on these changes at MCAA26.

Women in Construction Week is an important opportunity to celebrate and recognize the invaluable contributions of women in the construction industry. This week highlights their achievements, honors their dedication, and inspires future generations to pursue careers in the field. Today, we celebrate Courtney Borja, a star apprentice who is now leading the way as a Foreman at Therma.

2026 JRGF Student Chapter Internship Grants—totaling $69,000—are being awarded to 18 MCAA Student Chapters this spring for their work encouraging students to seek internships and full-time employment within the mechanical contracting industry.

MCAA’s Safety Statistics & Awards program rewards MCAA members’ safety performance, because safety is your top priority. All applicants receive a valuable benchmarking report that will allow them to compare their own 2025 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 qualify also receive a certificate of commendation. Apply today! Applications are due by close of business on March 20, 2026.

As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.

ASME Section IX compliance requires more than technical knowledge — it requires a skilled, well-trained workforce that understands quality, documentation and precision. Andrew Brown of Trades Media will open the 2026 NCPWB Technical Conference with a keynote focused on one of the industry’s biggest challenges: building and sustaining the next generation of welding professionals.

Service technicians may work on their own without ready access to assistance. MCAA’s Lone Worker Safety Model Program helps contractors identify risks and hazards and ensure adequate systems are in place to protect those workers. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

A new video from the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) takes a direct look at one of the most important safety questions facing construction today: What is the real difference between Type I and Type II helmets — and does it matter?

If plumbing service is a core part of your business—or needs to be—this is where you need to be. The PCA Plumbing Service Conference brings together forward-thinking contractors and service leaders for two and a half focused days of practical learning, real conversations, and strategies you can put to work immediately. Join us May 4 – 6, 2026, in Indianapolis, IN. Register now!

If you want to fast-track your new and aspiring field leaders, MCAA has just the program! Once a week for 8 weeks, FFL students spend 90 minutes online with an experienced field leader, who will walk them through best practices and practical strategies of running work and running a crew. From Planning to Leadership, from Documentation to Safety: our instructors break down the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of things that every foreman must understand to be successful.

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.

Nearly 200 students from 33 MCAA student chapters will be attending MCAA26. Those still on the hunt for a summer internship or their first post-graduation full-time position are actively scoping out MCAA’s GreatFutures Job Board. Post your job today and be sure to stop by the ‘Hire Me’ Job Fair outside the Manufacturer/Supplier Exhibit to meet with potential candidates in person!

At its July 18–19, 2025 meeting, the MCAA Board of Directors reviewed and advanced a series of proposed bylaws changes designed to modernize membership classifications and ensure the long‑term sustainability of Association funding. MCAA members will be voting on these changes at MCAA26.

In Part 2 of the Construction Helmet Research Program video series, we take a closer look at the partnership behind the data.

U.S. union membership remained essentially unchanged in 2025, with 10.0 percent of wage and salary workers belonging to a union, according to data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The total number of union members stood at 14.7 million, well below the 17.7 million recorded in 1983, the first year of comparable data.

Service leaders may lack clear, data‑backed insight into whether their operations, pricing, staffing, and technology choices are competitive—causing missed revenue, weaker margins, and inefficient growth decisions. The MSCA 2025 Benchmark Survey provides valuable insight into key performance indicators (KPIs), business practices, sales, and trends across the mechanical service industry. This is one of the most powerful tools available to see how your company compares, identify growth opportunities, and guide future planning. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

If you want to fast-track your new and aspiring field leaders, MCAA has just the program! Once a week for 8 weeks, FFL students spend 90 minutes online with an experienced field leader, who will walk them through best practices and practical strategies of running work and running a crew. From Planning to Leadership, from Documentation to Safety: our instructors break down the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of things that every foreman must understand to be successful.

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

At its July 18–19, 2025 meeting, the MCAA Board of Directors reviewed and advanced a series of proposed bylaws changes designed to modernize membership classifications and ensure the long‑term sustainability of Association funding. MCAA members will be voting on these changes at MCAA26.

Pre-IPM is back for another season! This year’s classes will begin April 29th: if you have Assistant Project Managers, Project Engineers, new hires, or people transitioning to the office from the field or Estimating, this online course is for them!

MCAA’s Safety Statistics & Awards program rewards MCAA members’ safety performance, because safety is your top priority. All applicants receive a valuable benchmarking report that will allow them to compare their own 2025 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 qualify also receive a certificate of commendation. Apply today! Applications are due by close of business on March 20, 2026.

As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.

The John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF), in partnership with ELECTRI International, The Association of Union Constructors, and American Society of Concrete Contractors, has released the results of a major construction helmet research initiative conducted with the Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings lab.

This report provides a comprehensive overview of MCAA’s 2025 programs, initiatives, and achievements across all subsidiaries and focus areas. The year was marked by record participation, expanded educational offerings, strengthened industry partnerships, and impactful volunteer leadership. From capacity‑filled conferences and innovative training programs to significant scholarship investments, legislative progress, and collaboration across the mechanical, service, plumbing, safety, and career development sectors, these efforts reflect MCAA’s ongoing commitment to advancing member success and supporting the industry. Together, these highlights illustrate the momentum carrying the organization into 2026 and beyond.

Angie Simon, founder of Heavy Metal Summer Experience, was named the 2026 MEP Industry Advocacy Award recipient for her leadership in addressing the construction workforce shortage. Rather than talk about the problem, Simon built a solution. Heavy Metal Summer Experience brings high school students into hands-on summer camps where they weld, bend conduit, install piping, and experience real careers in the trades alongside industry mentors.

The plumbing service industry is evolving rapidly, with new technologies, best practices, and customer expectations shaping the way contractors do business. PCA—the Plumbing Contractors of America—is MCAA’s premier resource for plumbing contractors. The 6th annual PCA Plumbing Service Conference (May 4 – 6, 2026, in Indianapolis, IN) is a must-attend event for contractors looking to strengthen service operations, drive profitability, and embrace innovation.

The spring 2026 MSCA classes are on the calendar and open for registration. MSCA provides focused training programs for your operational personnel. This collection of programs, unlike any other, provide the continued training to set your employees apart in the HVACR industry.

While some injuries happen instantly from a single event, others develop slowly over time from ongoing exposure(s) to hazards. These long-term exposures can cause damage that equals or exceeds the impact of sudden events. Because exposures occur gradually, they are often not felt until its too late and serious harm has occurred. MCAA’s Health Hazards in Mechanical Construction Safety Training Video offers tips to protect workers from these hazards, which may affect hearing, breathing, or the ability to move. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

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.

If you want to fast-track your new and aspiring field leaders, MCAA has just the program! Once a week for 8 weeks, FFL students spend 90 minutes online with an experienced field leader, who will walk them through best practices and practical strategies of running work and running a crew. From Planning to Leadership, from Documentation to Safety: our instructors break down the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of things that every foreman must understand to be successful.

As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to register, here’s the good news: there’s still time to attend the 2026 MCAA Annual Convention—and every reason to do so.

Rob Cross of Baker Group was named MCAA’s 2026 Innovator of the Year for leading a companywide operational scale-up—expanding fabrication, automating production, strengthening logistics, and implementing formal quality controls—to meet growing project demand. His people-first approach empowered teams to drive innovation, improving throughput, coordination, and predictability across larger, more complex projects.

A nationwide winter storm swept across much of the country as this year’s MEP Innovation Conference began, disrupting flights and forcing last-minute travel changes. Even so, more than 600 contractors, technology leaders, and operations executives made it to Austin, Texas, filling ballrooms and breakout rooms with a clear purpose: figure out how to build smarter and faster in a market that isn’t slowing down.

The UA and its signatory contractor partners are experiencing unprecedented labor and construction demand, helping them grow union market share. Maintaining this market share requires access to reliable, cost-effective resources for resolving jobsite and bargaining disputes. The UA/MCAA’s Utilizing the Industrial Relations Council to Effectively Resolve Labor-Management Disputes explains how the Industrial Relations Council can be used to effectively resolve labor-management disputes. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The Construction Labor Research Council (CLRC), a longstanding MCAA partner, reports an average increase of 4.7 percent in the first year of new settlements reached in 2025 for union craft workers in the construction industry, the same as in 2024. The findings appear in the CLRC 2025 Year End Settlements Report. The report covers the first year of newly bargained settlements to assist readers in understanding current trends. It also covers all years of negotiated settlements to assist in projecting future labor costs.

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

MCAA’s Safety Statistics & Awards program rewards MCAA members’ safety performance, because safety is your top priority. All applicants receive a valuable benchmarking report that will allow them to compare their own 2025 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 qualify also receive a certificate of commendation. Apply today! Applications are due by close of business on March 20, 2026.

As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.

MCAA is saddened to share that Ed Kahalley, Executive Director of Mobile MCA, Inc., has suddenly passed away. MCAA extends its deepest condolences to Ed’s family, friends, and colleagues.

MCAA is saddened by the loss of Allen “Al” Cyril Stone Jr., who died January 24, 2026 in his home at the age of 90. Our thoughts are with Maureen, Kathleen, David, Susan C., Stephen, Susan M., Tom, Sharon and the extended Stone family during this difficult time.

Year after year, electrocutions remain one of the top four leading causes of death among the construction trades. MCAA’s Electrical Safety for the Mechanical Construction and Service Industry Safety Training Video highlights the ways in which workers can protect themselves. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

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.

New NCPWB Technical Bulletin Explores ASME PCC-1 Guidelines for Pressure Boundary Bolted Joint Assembly

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that delves into ASME standard PCC-1, Guidelines for Pressure Boundary Bolted Joint Assembly. The bulletin explains what PCC-1 is, and shares lessons learned to help contractors maximize the probability of a leak-free joint. The bulletin also includes requirements for an industry standard certification program for bolted joint assemblers and a troubleshooting guide to assist should a leak occur.

If you want to fast-track your new and aspiring field leaders, MCAA has just the program! Once a week for 8 weeks, FFL students will spend 90 minutes online with an experienced field leader, who will walk them through best practices and practical strategies of running work and running a crew. From Planning to Leadership, from Documentation to Safety: our instructors break down the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of things that every foreman must understand to be successful.

As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.

Congratulations to the first IPM graduates of 2026! After two weeks of intensive and immersive education, the students of Classes 95 and 96 have joined the ranks of the more than 2,750+ IPM alumni from MCAA member companies across the country.

When properly organized and operated, Industry Improvement Funds (IIFs) are effective, efficient, and equitable tools for strengthening market conditions, competitiveness, and labor and employment initiatives across the mechanical contracting industry nationwide. MCAA’s Industry Improvement Fund Operations Guide offers mechanical contractors, association leaders, and fund administrators practical, legally grounded guidance on organizing, administering, and maximizing the impact of IIFs—helping them manage funds with confidence and clarity. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Twenty-nine MCAA Student Chapters submitted a proposal for the MCAA Water Park project. Congratulations to the Final Four and Merit Award teams. Final Four teams will present their proposals on the afternoon of Tuesday, March 17th on the main stage at MCAA26 in Phoenix, AZ.

Ensure your company is ready to roll with your summer employment needs by posting internship and full-time new hire positions each month to the MCAA GreatFutures Job Board. A variety of positions can be posted, not just project management!

More than 450 safety and health professionals from across the construction industry convened in Austin for the 2026 Safety & Health Conference, hosted jointly by the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA), the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), and The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC). Over several days, attendees reaffirmed a shared commitment to elevating safety, protecting workers, and strengthening collaborative industry partnerships.

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

The Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) has announced a strategic realignment of key staff roles designed to strengthen member service and support the Association’s long-term strategic objectives. These leadership changes align staff expertise with organizational priorities to enhance engagement, operations, education, and advocacy efforts.

MCAA and long-time safety partner CNA bring you the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards Program—one of the most prestigious recognitions in our industry. These annual awards honor MCAA member companies for outstanding safety programs and innovative safety initiatives, because nothing is more important than protecting the health and safety of our workforce. Take a moment to showcase your company’s success—apply today!

As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.

MCAA is pleased to share that SMACNA leadership has selected Frank Wall as its next Chief Executive Officer as the organization moves in a new direction at the CEO level.

MCAA is delighted to announce three new hires who will strengthen its safety, training, and project management offerings: Michael (Mike) Nahas will lead the association’s Safety Excellence Initiative as Executive Director of Safety, Health & Risk Management; Grant Campbell will oversee and expand national education programming as Director of MSCA Training; and Sarah Davis will manage and deliver MCAA’s in‑person project management programs as Associate Director of Project Management Education.

During the annual Safety & Health Conference in Austin, Texas, MCAA and Milwaukee Tool announced the 2025 winner of the Safety Professional of the Year: Calvin Clark of Enerfab.

Collective bargaining is inherently challenging because it requires navigating complex negotiations with unions, managing legal risks such as antitrust exposure and unfair labor practice claims, and balancing competitive business needs with long term labor management stability. MCAA’s 2025 Collective Bargaining Guide and Legal Analysis provides practical information to help mechanical contractors prepare properly for bargaining, understand what to expect, avoid common pitfalls, and achieve better results. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

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.

The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA) created an above-the-line federal income tax deduction for “qualified overtime compensation.” This applies to overtime mandated by the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) time-a-half requirements triggered by an employee working over 40 hours in a week. It is available for tax years 2025 through 2028. Below is a general outline of the deduction and its requirements and limitations.

The NCPWB Technical Conference returns April 26–28, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort in San Antonio, Texas, with a renewed focus on the real-world welding challenges mechanical contractors face—particularly those related to compliance with ASME Section IX. What began years ago as a primarily technical gathering has evolved into a broader, more dynamic conference that reflects the changing needs of today’s industry.

MCAA Sponsorship Opportunities Available

The MCAA Sponsorship Prospectus is here! Explore exclusive ways to connect with contractors, leaders, and decision-makers throughout the year. This prospectus gives you everything you need for planning the year ahead for MCAA exhibits, brand visibility, and supporting the future of our industry.

As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.

MCAA is pleased to announce the nominees for the 2026 MEP Innovator of the Year Award, recognizing individuals who are advancing the mechanical contracting industry through innovation, leadership, and the practical application of technology.

In today’s competitive landscape, sustainable business transformation—and business growth—begins by demonstrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) awareness. MCAA’s Management Methods Bulletin, Making a Sustainable Business Transformation, explores why ESG matters and provides five steps to assist in your business’s sustainable journey. This new educational resource is free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

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 three vacancies are encouraged to learn more and complete the application. Applications should be returned no later than January 15, 2026. Candidates and their spokespersons will be scheduled for interviews at the 2026 MCAA Annual Convention. Those who are selected will begin their terms in March 2026.

The 2026 JRGF Internship Grant program provides valuable support directly to MCAA student chapters, employers and affiliated associations. Applications are currently available for all three categories. Click the corresponding link, fill out the form and apply for a grant to help support internship programming.

Arden Building Companies, an MCAA member, has announced a series of strategic leadership transitions designed to enhance operational consistency, support continued expansion, and drive the company’s long term growth strategy.

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

The MCAA Hub is your one-stop destination for everything MCAA has to offer. From upcoming conferences and association initiatives to industry best practices, the Hub connects you to the full spectrum of MCAA events and educational opportunities. Whether you’re looking to expand your skills, grow your network or simply discover all the resources available to you, the Hub makes it easy to explore, engage and stay informed.

After using MILWAUKEE TOOL’s cordless M18 FUEL™RINGER™ Roll Groover from start to finish on a recent project, 1901 Inc. of Madison, WI, estimated saving 40–50 hours of labor, thanks to faster setup time and easier mobility compared with traditional electric grooving machines. Jeremy Baillies, a steamfitter foreman at 1901 Inc., said, “It’s way more efficient, much faster, much safer; it saves all kinds of time.”

MCAA and long-time safety partner CNA bring you the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards Program—one of the most prestigious recognitions in our industry. These annual awards honor MCAA member companies for outstanding safety programs and innovative safety initiatives, because nothing is more important than protecting the health and safety of our workforce. Take a moment to showcase your company’s success—apply today!

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 three vacancies are encouraged to learn more and complete the application. Applications should be returned no later than January 15, 2026. Candidates and their spokespersons will be scheduled for interviews at the 2026 MCAA Annual Convention. Those who are selected will begin their terms in March 2026.

Effective cash management can mean the difference between success and failure for the mechanical contractor. MCAA’s Cash Flow explains how contractors can manage their cash flow to maximize profits and growth. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

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 saddened by the loss of Julia “Judy” Loretta (Hynes) Durr, who died December 27, 2025, at the age of 92. Our thoughts are with Kathryn, Robert Jr., Kenneth, and Jennifer and the extended Durr family during this difficult time.

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

Speed and accuracy are critical in the design phase of construction, and building information modeling (BIM) has improved teamwork and visibility throughout projects. However, support system layout remains a challenge. Despite significant advances in BIM workflows, contractors lose time and productivity because of inefficient manual processes in placing and coordinating hangers and supports. Software solutions like MSUITE Hangers can accelerate BIM modeling efficiency and transform MEP coordination through automation.

MCAA, SMACNA, and TAUC have come together to bring you a conference full of educational opportunities, led by industry professionals for industry professionals.

The John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) Internship Grant program was upgraded in 2025 to offer a new level of support for the multiple entities involved with developing the future talent of our industry.

The transition from traditional threaded rod hangers to steel wire suspension hangers represents a significant opportunity for plumbing and mechanical contractors to optimize their workflows and improve project outcomes. MCAA’s Management Methods Bulletin, Exploring the Use of Wire Hangers in Mechanical Construction, explores how adopting suspension wire hangers can help contractors reduce labor costs, enhance flexibility, and streamline project timelines, leading to more efficient and cost-effective construction practices. 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.

MCAA, SMACNA, and TAUC have come together to bring you a conference full of educational opportunities, led by industry professionals for industry professionals. This event fosters collaboration, facilitates the sharing of best practices and important resources, and drives collective progress toward the future of the industry. This action-packed conference offers up to 50 hours of education and networking, 30+ speakers, and up to 19 CEU hours.

As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.

When the Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club™ committed to making improvements to its ballpark, now known as American Family Field™, the organization looked to its long-term partner Johnson Controls to help provide fans with an outstanding experience while ensuring the ballpark operates at peak performance and efficiency. As a result, the team increased attendance significantly.

The mechanical contracting industry is one of the most complex sectors in construction—marked by multifaceted team structures, tight margins, variable project scopes, and a rotating workforce drawn from multiple unions. MCAA’s Management Methods Bulletin, Mechanical Contracting: An Industry Overview, provides a grounding in how mechanical contracting businesses truly operate to help our members better understand their business and lead with clarity. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

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.

P1 Construction, LLC replaced its outdated legacy enterprise resource planning (ERP) system with Access Coins ERP and quickly started saving money, increasing productivity, and improving service delivery. Morgan Lassise, P1 Construction accounting manager, explained, “Access Coins has been perfect for us because it meets all the needs that we have as a contractor. We’re seeing increased job productivity across the board.”

At the 2026 Safety & Health Conference, January 12–15 in Austin, Texas, industry leaders will explore how organizations can elevate safety from a regulatory requirement to a core value. Among the highlights is a keynote session by renowned safety and risk management expert David Ward:
“The Humanistic Side of Safety.”

Join your colleagues for an engaging opportunity to explore the newest products, tools, and technologies transforming the mechanical contracting industry. Representatives from MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council will be onsite to showcase their solutions and share insights into how they’re helping contractors save time, reduce costs, minimize errors, and enhance overall efficiency.

MCAA and long-time safety partner CNA bring you the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards Program—one of the most prestigious recognitions in our industry. These annual awards honor MCAA member companies for outstanding safety programs and innovative safety initiatives, because nothing is more important than protecting the health and safety of our workforce. Take a moment to showcase your company’s success—apply today!

If you want to fast-track your new and aspiring field leaders in 2026, MCAA has just the program! Foundations of Field Leadership begins in January: once a week for 8 weeks, students spend 90 minutes online with an experienced field leader, who will walk them through best practices and practical strategies of running work and running a crew.

As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.

MCAA member Harrell-Fish Inc. (HFI), a leading provider of mechanical installation and maintenance services, has announced a strategic partnership with New State Capital Partners (New State), a private investment firm based in New Rochelle, NY. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in HFI’s journey as it positions itself for accelerated growth and expanded market reach in the mechanical contracting sector.

Mechanical contractors face an uncertain insurance market. MCAA’s What is a Captive Insurance Plan/Group and What Can It Do For Your Company? explores the use of captive, or privately held, insurance as a way to mitigate risk and provide greater cost control relative to a contractor’s insurance premiums. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Merit Brass Co., an MCAA member and a family-owned manufacturer of pipe nipples and master distributor of related pipe, valves, flanges and fittings, has been named the 2025 inductee into the prestigious PVF Ring of Honor. The announcement is featured in the December issue of Supply House Times magazine.

MCAA is saddened by the loss of Francis Henry Norton III, who died peacefully at his home on November 27, 2025. Our thoughts are with Claire, Kara, John and the extended Norton family during this difficult time.

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 three vacancies are encouraged to learn more and complete the application. Applications should be returned no later than January 15, 2026. Candidates and their spokespersons will be scheduled for interviews at the 2026 MCAA Annual Convention. Those who are selected will begin their terms in March 2026.

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

In commercial plumbing and mechanical systems, material selection is far more than a matter of preference or budget—it directly impacts system performance, longevity, and reliability. Standards offer a framework, but truly effective practice requires that you match the materials to the specific demands of the application.

The 2026 MEP Innovation Conference, hosted by MCAA, NECA and SMACNA, will take place January 26-28 at the Austin Marriott Downtown in Austin, Texas.

Did you know that over 35 student chapters will be represented at MCAA26? We know everyone has a busy convention schedule, so MCAA is making it easier for members to connect with students at the Student Chapter Connection Corner.

The 2026 Safety and Health Conference, hosted by MCAA, SMACNA, and TAUC, will take place January 12–15 at the Austin Marriott Downtown in Austin, Texas.

If you want to fast-track your new and aspiring field leaders in 2026, MCAA has just the program! Foundations of Field Leadership begins in January: once a week for 8 weeks, students spend 90 minutes online with an experienced field leader, who will walk them through best practices and practical strategies of running work and running a crew.

The 2025 Industry Funds Conference brought together industry leaders, fund administrators, and association executives for two days of education, networking, and strategic insight from December 3–5 at the Resort at Longboat Key Club in Longboat Key, Florida.

When choosing which projects to bid on, mechanical construction contractors must evaluate several factors to ensure the project is a good fit for the company and has a high probability of success. MCAA’s Management Methods Bulletin, How Do I Pick a Project?, explores the factors that go into making an informed decision that will increase your company’s chances of successfully winning the bid and completing the project. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

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.

Make it a priority to set your company up for success in 2026 by securing your interns and full-time new hire employees before 2025 comes to a close. Students will soon be heading home for winter break and have extra time to brush up their resumes, scroll job boards and schedule interviews. Don’t miss out on finding your company’s ideal new team member during winter break.

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

Designed in-house, ProCAM software leverages HGG Profiling Equipment Inc.’s 40 years of 3D profiling knowledge and synthesizes it into a software system designed to maximize throughput and material usage, saving users time and money. ProCAM and ProCAM Lite are the only software specifically designed for HGG profiling machines.

The upcoming 2026 Safety and Health Conference is more than an industry event—it’s a movement to protect and empower the people who build our world. Among this year’s featured keynote speakers is Dr. Justin Azbill, PhD, a national leader in construction safety, mental health advocacy and organizational leadership.

The early bird registration rate for MCAA26 expires December 31. Register today to secure the most favorable rate—all registration categories will increase on January 1, 2026.

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 three vacancies are encouraged to learn more and complete the application. Applications should be returned no later than January 15, 2026. Candidates and their spokespersons will be scheduled for interviews at the 2026 MCAA Annual Convention. Those who are selected will begin their terms in March 2026.

Social media should bring opportunities to develop positive relationships with customers and employees, promote your products, boost traffic and conversions, and improve your reputation. MCAA’s Management Methods Bulletin on Using Social Media in Your Business provides simple guidelines to ensure that your use of social media platforms truly benefits your company. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA) General President Mark McManus and Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) President Brian Hughes issued a joint statement on November 25 following the tragic murder of welder Amber Czech in Minnesota.

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