News

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting to explore the innovations shaping the future of pipe welding. You will experience cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Don’t miss out…register today!

In their haste to sign contracts, contractors may overlook clauses that could pose significant risk to both company and personal assets. MCAA’s Contract Clauses highlights many of the most dangerous clauses to ensure that contractors are fully aware of the pitfalls they can present. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Join MSCA Board member Drew Harrison and a panel of industry experts to learn how heat pumps can help grow your business and improve profits. MSCA and the UA have been working with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (in support of the US Department of Energy) to boost heat pump and heat pump water heater training and recruitment as massive federal incentives become available.

The Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Conference is your platform for building lasting connections and fostering a supportive community. Networking opportunities abound, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences, and collaborate on strategies for success.

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.

Today the White House announced a historic program targeting opioid overdoses. The White House Challenge to Save Lives from Overdose calls attention to construction industry efforts, including those of MCAA and our safety alliance partners at the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), and The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC).

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

Over 150 students from 28 MCAA student chapters are registered for MCAA24. They will soon be scoping out MCAA’s GreatFutures Job Board for companies they would like to meet with in Orlando to discuss internships and entry-level, full-time positions. Post your job today and be sure to stop by the ‘Hire Me’ Job Fair in the foyer outside the Manufacturer/Supplier Council Exhibit on Tuesday, March 19th to meet with potential candidates in person.

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.

At some point, contractors are likely to require a technology investment to remain efficient and competitive. MCAA’s Getting Started on Making a Technology Investment walks through the process of making such an investment and provides tips to help contractors ensure that they make the right investment for their company’s size and ambition. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Sales Basecamp is where it begins for entry-level service sales personnel. In this competitive and uncertain business landscape, the rules of sales and customer engagement have changed. Get the training you need to excel. Register today!

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Ed Kommers, former executive director of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Western Washington (MCAWW). Ed equips those new to negotiations with the tools and knowledge needed for effective multiemployer bargaining as a unified team.

Bill Erickson Received IAPMO’s George Kauffman Lifetime Achievement Award

Bill Erickson of C.J. Erickson Plumbing Co., an MCAA member, received IAPMO’s George Kauffman Lifetime Achievement Award during IAPMO’s annual Education and Business Conference in San Antonio, TX. The award recognizes Bill’s nearly two decades of foundational leadership during a period of unprecedented growth. Congratulations, Bill, and thank you for everything you have done for our industry!

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

Shannon Paciorek Has Joined the MCAA Staff

MCAA is pleased to welcome Shannon Paciorek, our new Associate Director, Meetings & Events. Shannon previously planned meetings and webinars for the Association of Cancer Care Centers and its Oncology State Societies. Her background in television production includes an Emmy Award win for sports. A member of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), Shannon enjoys running and trying out new restaurants. She is married with two daughters and two dogs. On the weekends, you can find her on a soccer field or at a dance competition. MCAA is pleased to welcome Shannon and her family to the MCAA family.

Join your MCAA and MSCA peers for this year’s Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Conference. Experience an array of captivating educational sessions, inspiring speakers, and invaluable networking opportunities designed to empower and uplift women at every stage of their careers.

MCAA invites you to participate in the 2024 National Issues Conference for a deep-dive into the key regulatory and legislative issues affecting the union construction industry. Along with our partners in the Construction Employers of America (CEA), we will host regulators and representatives from Congress for their expertise and insights on a variety of topics. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the latest information that impacts your business from the nation’s capital! Register today!

ServiceTitan is the latest addition to the growing list of software platforms partnering with MCAA. The company is actively working to bring MCAA’s safety and health resources into ServiceTitan to make it easier for contractors to use and access, joining existing partners like Tyfoom and MCAI.

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting to learn from a case study highlighting recent advancements in adaptive welding. You will experience cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Don’t miss out…register today!

To protect themselves from risk, contractors need to be keenly aware of how their contracts define ownership of property at every stage of construction. MCAA’s Builder’s Risk and Installation Floater Insurance explains what this insurance covers and provides steps to help contractors ensure that their company’s best interests are protected. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Terry and Lee Resnick, partners in Resnick Succession Group. Terry and Lee teach business owners how to enhance, preserve, and ultimately transition their companies as well as non-business assets in the most tax and cost-efficient manner.

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.

Around 150 students from 28 MCAA student chapters are registered for MCAA24. They will soon be scoping out MCAA’s GreatFutures Job Board for companies they would like to meet with in Orlando to discuss internships and entry-level, full-time positions. Post your job today and be sure to stop by the ‘Hire Me’ Job Fair in the foyer outside the Manufacturer/Supplier Council Exhibit on Tuesday, March 19th to meet with potential candidates in person.

MCAA invites you to participate in the 2024 National Issues Conference for a deep-dive into the key regulatory and legislative issues affecting the union construction industry. Along with our partners in the Construction Employers of America (CEA), we will host regulators and representatives from Congress for their expertise and insights on a variety of topics. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the latest information that impacts your business from the nation’s capital! Early-bird registration discounts end March 1. Register today!

Registration for this year’s Pre-IPM classes is open! These introductory-level project management programs begin the week of May 20th, and space is limited. 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!

Technology is changing every day, but the need to secure company data remains constant. MCAA’s Things and Must Do’s to Protect/Secure Your Company’s Data reviews the basic steps contractors should take to keep intruders out and company data secure. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Robert Beck Explores the Value of Relationships on The People Business Podcast

MCAA President Robert Beck joined Frank Favaro for The People Business podcast on February 22, 2024. Listen as he delves into the significance of continually forging and solidifying relationships. He sheds light on the power of influence and its role in serving the greater good for everyone involved. Amid the earnest conversation, Robert also highlights the importance of infusing fun into all aspects of the day.

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

As highlighted at the MCAA Industry Funds Conference in December, 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.

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting to learn about breakthroughs in orbital welding technology for med gas. You will experience cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Don’t miss out…register today!

MCAA24 is a can’t miss opportunity to prepare your company for the year ahead. Space is running out, register today!

Unanticipated price escalations in construction materials after the contract is executed have caused concern to owners and contractors. MCAA’s Recovery of Material Escalation Costs Arising From Steel and Aluminum Tariffs addresses the approaches contractors may assert to recover under fixed priced contracts for the price increases resulting from new tariffs on imported steel and aluminum. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA congratulates Ryan Hoggatt, UMC, Inc.’s Director of Manufacturing, on being our MEP Innovator of the Year. The award recognizes his outstanding contributions to the construction industry in the areas of efficiency, productivity, and innovation. His efforts have improved UMC, Inc.’s operations and encouraged others to adopt innovative practices.

Registration for this year’s Pre-IPM classes is now open! These introductory-level project management programs begin the week of May 20th, and space is limited. 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!

Sales Basecamp is where it begins for entry-level service sales personnel. In this competitive and uncertain business landscape, the rules of sales and customer engagement have changed. This two-day highly interactive program will prepare recent hires or employees new to a sales position with all the relevant skills necessary to confidently sell HVACR and plumbing services while creating added value for the customer. Register today!

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 National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Frank Favaro, founder and President of ServeCentric Coaching in Cleveland, OH. Frank teaches sales employees where other companies drop the ball when it comes to customer interactions, relationships, and service and how to avoid those same mistakes.

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

Operating a vehicle in any weather condition involves a variety of risks. Winter weather requires extra care and attention to minimize risk to both companies and drivers. CNA, an MCAA member and longtime supporter of MCAA’s Safety Excellence Initiative, shares tips to minimize risk and keep everyone safe on the road.

Over the last four years, the MEP Innovation Conference’s success and popularity have continued to skyrocket. The 2024 conference drew record-breaking attendance, with more than 725 participants in attendance. Together, MCAA, NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association), and SMACNA (the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association) have grown this meeting into one of the premier construction events of the year.

CEA National Issues Conference Will Focus on Key Regulatory & Legislative Issues

The Construction Employers of America (CEA) invites you to participate in the 2024 National Issues Conference, which will take place May 6–8, 2024, at the Royal Sonesta Washington, DC Capitol Hill. This event will focus on key regulatory and legislative issues affecting the union construction industry today. As with previous in-person conferences, the CEA will host both regulators and representatives from Congress for their expertise and insights on a variety of topics. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the latest information that impacts your business from the nation’s capital! Early-bird registration is now available!

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting for a showcase of cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Register today!

On a Design-Assist project, specialty contractors participate in a project’s design. They can provide input that maximizes system efficiencies, reduces costs, and potentially limits design errors or omissions. While the process has many benefits, it also presents risks that are not inherent in other forms of delivery. MCAA’s Design-Assist Management Methods bulletin offers tips for mitigating those risks. 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.

Sloan, an MCAA member, has joined the International WELL Building Institute’s (IWBI) Works with WELL offering. The move makes Sloan the only commercial restroom manufacturer in the program and one of only 40 early adopting companies. Works with WELL is a new product licensing program designed to help product manufacturers validate and showcase how their products align with WELL strategies based on IWBI licensing criteria.

On February 2, membership dues packets were emailed to the primary contact at each member company that pays its own dues. The email contains the 2024 dues reporting form and instructions, which may also be downloaded below. The 2024 dues rates for construction and service hours remain unchanged at $.09 per labor hour. The minimum dues assessment is based upon 12,000 hours ($1,080) per branch office, and the maximum assessment is 300,000 hours ($27,000) per branch office. The next dues increase will be January 1, 2025. At that time, dues will increase to $.10 per labor hour.

One highlight of the MCAA Annual Convention is always outstanding education seminars. MCAA24 is on point to continue the tradition of superior education for its members to create a well-rounded and memorable convention experience.

A study of mechanical and electrical projects conducted by MCAA and NECA showed that significant delays in construction and distortions in planned schedules cannot be anticipated in bids. When they occur, they have a devastating effect on construction costs, particularly labor. MCAA’s Effects of Job Schedule Delays on Construction Costs highlights the results of the study to help contractors understand the implications of project and schedule delay. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

An accident on a jobsite is everyone’s worst nightmare, but most accidents are preventable. MCAA’s new video helps supervisors conduct an accident investigation, so it doesn’t happen again. The video reviews the three steps of an accident investigation: Investigate, Find the Cause, and Act. It also teaches supervisors what to look for during the investigation and how to access accident investigation templates.

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.

Althoff Industries credits their switch to ServiceTitan software with an improvement in customer service that contributed to an increase from $8.5 million in revenue in 2021 to $11.4 million in 2022. Althoff went live with the software in July 2021 after spending decades on a server-based customer relationship management system. It was such a momentous occasion for Blake Wiltshire, director of residential services at Althoff, that an empty bottle of champagne sits on his shelf to commemorate the moment.

All 2023 internship grant applications must be submitted by January 31, 2024. Part 1 internship grant applications are $1,000 for 1 intern or up to $2,000 for 2+ interns. Then once you hire an intern full-time, come back and submit a Part 2 internship grant for a $500 gift card to present to your new hire. Keep in mind, the more interns you submit for Part 1, the more you’ll have eligible for Part 2 once they graduate. We want to hear about ALL of your interns, not just 2!

Safety & Health was in the spotlight last week in Tucson, AZ, at the 2024 Safety & Health Conference. In front of a sold-out crowd, MCAA President Robert Beck highlighted contractors’ commitment to worker safety and health and MCAA leadership in guiding the way.

It is critically important for contractors to address consequential damages when planning a project. Failure to do so will place the contractor at substantial risk should equipment fail or an incident occurs that causes a significant delay or the project to fail. MCAA’s Understanding and Managing Risks Associated with Consequential Damages helps contractors avoid or manage the risks that arise when an unexpected disruption in a project result in a substantial financial impact. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

What do you get when you take 41 of the industry’s best Senior Project Managers, Project Executives, and Operations Managers and bring them together for a week in Austin, TX? Two things, that are technically one and the same: 1) a pretty incredible learning community; and 2) MCAA’s 20th Advanced Institute for Project Management!

The spring 2024 MSCA classes are on the calendar and open for registration. MSCA provides focused training programs for your operational and personnel. This collection of programs, unlike any other, provide the continued training to set your employees apart in the HVACR industry.

Orlando is a magical place. MCAA24 will build on that magic, offering learning, networking and discoveries throughout the week. Whether this is your first convention or you’re a seasoned veteran, whether you’re just starting out in the industry or starting to think about retirement, MCAA24 is a place where everyone comes together to share knowledge, best practices and connections.

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 2023 for union craft workers in the construction industry. The findings appear in the CLRC 2023 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.

Watts Water Technologies, an MCAA member, is celebrating its 150th anniversary. Since 1874, Watts has been delivering innovative water technologies that make the world’s most precious resource safe and accessible. As Watts enters their 150th year in business, they would like to extend their most sincere “thank you” to their customers, representatives, employees, and stakeholders for being an integral part of the company’s journey.

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

Twenty-four MCAA Student Chapters submitted a proposal for the Kansas City Zoo Aquarium project.  Congratulations to the Final Four and Merit Award teams.  Final Four teams will present their proposals on the afternoon of Tuesday, March 19th at MCAA24 in Orlando, FL.

When their out-of-date software started slowing them down in the office and the field, Northwest Mechanical Group switched to the BuildOps platform, simplifying and streamlining data management so they could grow their business. “Before we knew it, we were seeing quicker turnaround times on job closeout and a huge improvement in the time it took for quotes to be accepted by our customers,” said Chris Howard, owner and CEO.

Want to improve your business relationships, gain product knowledge and leverage your business strategy? Join us for MCAA Converge. More than just a meeting, MCAA Converge is a meticulously crafted experience designed to address the unique needs of your company. Picture executive-to-executive meetings, a melting pot of strategic discussions, and an atmosphere buzzing with innovation.

Congratulations are in order for the first IPM graduates of 2024! Classes 87 and 88 of the Institute for Project Management certainly started the year off strong. The unexpectedly frigid temperatures in Austin during the second week of their programs did nothing to dampen the great energy and enthusiasm they brought to the classroom each day!

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting for a showcase of cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Register today!

Managing through an economic downturn and coming out whole on the other side requires planning, savvy business decision making, execution of a plan and, frankly, a little luck. MCAA’s Tips to Help Contractors Manage Through an Economic Downturn provides information to help contractors think about survival and manage risk. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

This week, at the annual Safety & Health Conference in Tucson, AZ, MCAA and MILWAUKEE TOOL announced the winner of the 2023 Safety Professional of the Year as Mark Rook of AMS Industries.

MCAA has long touted a 20-year track record of safety excellence and loudly voiced a commitment to make job sites safer for the mechanical industry and all construction workers nationwide. In an effort to bring awareness to and elevate the topic of Mental Health, MCAA shares one of its most impactful videos with the industry and general public, Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention.

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.

Glenn Rex received a slice of MCAA history when Jim Reynolds gave him the very first copy of MCAA’s Labor Estimating Manual (LEM), precursor to today’s WebLEM. The book bearing Serial No. 0001 was issued to Jack Thompson of the George Linsky Company in Dallas, the first chair of MCAA’s Labor Estimating Manual Committee. Formed in 1968 to develop the manual, the committee achieved their task when the first LEM was published in 1971. Jack’s contributions to those efforts earned him the MCAA Distinguished Service Award in 1980.

Over the last decade, the MCAA Safety Excellence Initiative has seen a lot of changes. The industry has changed, PPE has changed, and even the rules we follow from OSHA have changed, but at MCAA one thing has remained constant, Tracy Haus. Tracy joined MCAA’s national Safety & Health Committee years ago and has led this committee as its chair for over a decade.

MCAA joined a large coalition of trade associations and industry groups in urging U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to narrow the scope of the International Trade Commission’s (ITC) ongoing antidumping duty (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) investigations regarding aluminum extrusions. The effort was spearheaded by the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) at the request of its Aluminum Extrusion Task Force. The investigation’s goal would be to level the playing field for American manufacturers but would create problems for our industry especially in the HVAC sector.

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

Since they implemented ServiceTrade software in 2021, Western Allied Mechanical’s service department has been able to cut their quote delivery time in half and send invoices three times faster, while also providing clients a better overall experience with more visibility. ServiceTrade allowed Western Allied to streamline their operations and improve thecustomer experience while sticking with their existing accounting software and processes. In this Q&A, Western AlliedVice President Jeremy Goodland talks about how the company has been improving operations, customer experience, and sales since implementing ServiceTrade.

MCAA and long-time safety partner CNA bring you the prestigious MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards Program. The annual awards honor MCAA member companies’ successful safety programs and innovative safety initiatives because nothing is more important than the health and safety of our workers. Take a moment to celebrate your company’s successes – apply today!

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your company or local association thanks to instructors like John R. Koontz, MCAA’s Director, Project Management Education. He gives project managers and field leaders a grounding in planning and time management, cost controls, scheduling documentation, and people management skills to help them run more productive and profitable jobs.

One of the most important videos in the MCAA Safety & Health resource collection is now available in Spanish. Over the last several years, MCAA members have increasingly requested our safety videos in Spanish, and that comes as no surprise. Data shows that 34% of construction workers are Spanish speakers, the largest of any industry in the U.S. The fatality rate for Hispanic construction workers remains higher than that for non-Hispanics, but with resources like these MCAA is working to bridge that gap.

MEP contractors are constantly challenged with new rules and requirements from clients with differing understandings and expectations relative to BIM. For those new to the BIM environment, the spatial coordination process can seem overwhelming. MCAA’s Achieving Spatial Coordination through BIM – A Guide for Specialty Contractors provides guidelines to clarify the process. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA has joined forces with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to offer resources and tools customized and curated to specifically address and mitigate risks related to electrical safety posed to MCAA members, including physical, compliance and financial risks. Crafted by NFPA’s trusted subject matter experts, this content will provide actionable information and strategies to help you and your team keep pace with the ever-changing regulatory environment, identify potential hazards and shortfalls, and markedly improve safety for your employees, customers, and their workplaces and communities.

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

The stunning JW Marriott and Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes Orlando will serve as the backdrop of MCAA24 to be held March 17 – 21, 2024. We have an incredible line up of general session speakers that you won’t want to miss as well as a wide array of education seminars that will attract the convention veteran and the convention newbie alike.

Michigan-based Andy J. Egan Co., Inc., relies on MSUITE software to improve their fabrication operations, which has enabled the company to grow exponentially as it carves out a niche in the energy industry. For example, Egan credits MSUITE with helping them shave three weeks off a major power utility upgrade project.

Want to improve your business relationships, gain product knowledge and leverage your business strategy? Join us for MCAA Converge. More than just a meeting, MCAA Converge is a meticulously crafted experience designed to address the unique needs of your company. Picture executive-to-executive meetings, a melting pot of strategic discussions, and an atmosphere buzzing with innovation.

Time is running out to secure your spot at the MEP Innovation Conference! With over 650 attendees confirmed, registration is getting extremely close to being sold out.

As we welcome 2024, let’s take a moment to reflect on all the great things that the MCAA family accomplished in 2023.

Nominations for MCAA’s Board of Directors Are Due January 12

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 four vacancies are encouraged to learn more and complete the application. Applications should be returned no later than January 12, 2024. Candidates and their spokespersons will be scheduled for interviews at the 2024 MCAA Annual Convention. Those who are selected will begin their terms in March 2024.

In 2020, the Department of Defense announced a new strategic effort to provide enhanced cybersecurity efforts for their building projects going forward. The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) will ensure accountability for companies to implement cybersecurity standards to protect sensitive data during the design, build and operations of DoD facilities. Through research grants by the John R. Gentille Foundation and ELECTRI International, a video series, along with official DoD CMMC documentation, has been produced by MCAA’s Chief Security Fanatic, Nick Espinosa to provide ongoing updates on CMMC changes as the standard evolves and in-depth tutorials on all 110 CMMC Level 2 security controls.

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.

Over a span of 32 hours, a city of about 20,000 people in upstate New York suffered 13 residential water main breaks. After making temporary emergency repairs, the Department of Public Works (DPW) turned to F.W. Webb, which supplied thousands of feet of HDPE pipe within weeks.

New NCPWB Technical Bulletin Highlights Modifications to NCPWB’s Brazing Procedure Specifications

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that highlights revisions to the NCPWB Brazing Procedure Specifications (BPSs). NPCWB members may continue to use the old BPSs for work that is already in process under existing contracts. Members must begin to use the revised version for contracts that begin after January 1, 2024.

When called upon to produce plans for older buildings, contractors may need to take measurements for pipes and ductwork that are not easily accessed. MCAA’s Laser Scanning explains how laser scanning may be able to help facilitate this work. 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 and long-time safety partner CNA bring you the prestigious MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards Program. The annual awards honor MCAA member companies’ successful safety programs and innovative safety initiatives because nothing is more important than the health and safety of our workers. Take a moment to celebrate your company’s successes – apply today!

All 2023 internship grant applications must be submitted by January 31, 2024. Part 1 internship grant applications are $1,000 for 1 intern or up to $2,000 for 2+ interns. Then once you hire an intern full-time, come back and submit a Part 2 internship grant for a $500 gift card to present to your new hire. Keep in mind, the more interns you submit for Part 1, the more you’ll have eligible for Part 2 once they graduate. We want to hear about ALL of your interns, not just 2!

Each contractor approaches its work differently, but there is one thing we all have in common – the desire to gain a competitive advantage. MCAA’s Why Contractors Should Do LEAN explains how LEAN construction can help contractors deliver better projects faster and at less cost by improving productivity and eliminating wasted resources. 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.

Confidence in your installation and its reliability are important to any contractor, but labor shortages and economic constraints can often make you feel like you have to choose between speed, cost, and quality. Balancing all three can be a challenge, especially when it comes to water heater installations. Water heater supports, in particular, often get cobbled together using leftover jobsite materials or other makeshift methods in hopes that they will keep the unit stable in the long run. While this may be the cheapest solution in the moment, it is not the best choice for your budget or your reputation.

December 31 marks the deadline for Early Bird registration for the 2024 MCAA Annual Convention, so register today to take advantage of the discounted rates.

Looking to manage company operations and identify potential bottlenecks, DPW, Inc. developed a software solution that streamlines day-to-day work and is scalable for growth. MCAA’s Managing Office Operations with PaperVault provides an overview of the system to assist others in pursuing a similar project. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA, in collaboration with NECA and SMACNA, is excited to showcase cutting-edge technology and innovations in all three industries. Join us January 29 – 31, 2024, for engaging educational sessions, interactive roundtable discussions, a bustling trade show floor, and insightful contractor tours. The designated hotel room block at Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek will close on Thursday, January 4. Secure your spot and room for the 2024 MEP Innovation Conference today!

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

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our world class education to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Kathryn Crosby, owner and founder of C2 Consulting, Inc. Kathryn gives field and office leadership teams the good operational practices and solid procedures they need to deliver higher performing projects, reduce duplication of effort, and allow your company to measure tangible results. Her newest classes demystify construction and service finance.

Join us from June 24 – 26, 2024, at one of America’s “Best Minor League Ballparks” for an event that transcends the ordinary. MCAA Converge isn’t just a meeting; it’s a meticulously crafted experience designed to address the unique needs of your company. Picture executive-to-executive meetings, a melting pot of strategic discussions, and an atmosphere buzzing with innovation.

Like every contractor, Western Allied Mechanical is always looking for innovative ways to get ahead in their market and deliver projects better, faster, and cheaper for their clients. Also like every contractor, Western Allied is facing the nationwide shortage of qualified welders. By adopting Novarc’s spool welding robot (SWR), they have not only increased productivity dramatically, they also increased capacity and are taking on bigger jobs.

Nominations Are Open for MCAA’s Board of Directors

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 four vacancies are encouraged to learn more and complete the application. Applications should be returned no later than January 12, 2024. Candidates and their spokespersons will be scheduled for interviews at the 2024 MCAA Annual Convention. Those who are selected will begin their terms in March 2024.

In today’s ever-changing MEP industry, innovation is key. The MEP Innovation Conference is the go-to event for professionals looking to stay up-to-date. Amidst the conference’s buzz, it’s the contractors’ practical experiences and insights that lead the way to innovation. We’ll explore how contractor case studies drive progress and collaboration among peers, making this event a hub for groundbreaking solutions in the construction industry for MEP contractors. Join us in sunny Orlando, Florida, from January 29 – 31, as we bring together the best innovators in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing industry. Register today!

All 2023 internship grant applications must be submitted by January 31, 2024. Part 1 internship grant applications are $1,000 for 1 intern or up to $2,000 for 2+ interns. Then once you hire an intern full-time, come back and submit a Part 2 internship grant for a $500 gift card to present to your new hire. Keep in mind, the more interns you submit for Part 1, the more you’ll have eligible for Part 2 once they graduate. We want to hear about ALL of your interns, not just 2!

Seeking consistent, repeatable pipe cuts, Air Masters Corporation (now Integrated Facility Services) developed a solution combining existing components and custom-designed software. MCAA’s CNC Pipe Fabricator provides highlights of the cost-effective solution to help others interested in pursuing a similar project. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA member NEFCO, a premier specialty supply partner to the professional construction trades, has announced its acquisition of FASCO, a Houston-based specialty construction supply distributor. This strategic move marks NEFCO’s tenth acquisition since 2017 and expands its branch network to 37 locations, including two locations in Texas – Dallas and Houston – reinforcing its commitment to be the single best partner to contractors wherever they build.

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.

Limbach Makes Forbes List of Top 100 Small Cap Companies

Forbes has recognized Limbach, an MCAA member, as one of America’s Most Successful Small Cap Companies. This is Limbach’s first time receiving the recognition, which is based on an independent study conducted by Forbes.

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

The MCA of Western Washington (MCAWW) has appointed Robin Cowper as its Executive Director effective January 1, 2024. “Robin is well positioned and well qualified for this role and I cannot be more happy or proud,” said current MCAWW Executive Director Ed Kommers. He noted that Robin has been with MCAWW since 2005 and is a Certified Association Executive (CAE), a credential presented by the American Society of Association Executives.

Preventive maintenance is crucial for ensuring the reliability and efficiency of pumps and motors, which are essential components of commercial HVAC applications. An effective maintenance program can reduce unplanned downtime, decrease maintenance costs, and extend asset life. All of these drive business value, which is especially important in today’s competitive and challenging commercial building environment, when building operation teams are being asked to do more with less.

December 31 marks the deadline for Early Bird registration for the 2024 MCAA Annual Convention, so register today to take advantage of the discounted rates.

Looking to gain efficiencies, the BP Group undertook a high-level process reengineering process that resulted in the development of an online tool. MCAA’s PIPES (PROCESS INFORMATION PORTAL ENABLING SUCCESS) provides details of the solution to inspire others looking to undertake a similar project. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Employers with positive safety cultures are often the safest contractors around. Excellent safety culture starts at the top and can have profound impact on your company’s bottom line. Alternatively poor safety culture can cripple a contractor and lead to serious injuries and violations. This month’s kit includes resources for workers and supervisors, and highlights three supervisory videos on safety leadership, safety management, and safety conflict resolution.

Learn How Your Peers Are Advancing at the 2024 MEP Innovation Conference

The MEP Innovation Conference is renowned for selling out every year, and with good reason – it’s co-produced by three industry pillars: MCAA, NECA, and SMACNA. Join us in sunny Orlando, Florida, from January 29 – 31, as we bring together the best innovators in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing industry. Our sessions are peer-focused, offering real-world case studies from contractors just like you. Explore multiple learning opportunities through sessions, workshops, breakouts, facility tours, networking, and exhibits. Don’t let this opportunity slip away. Secure your spot now and stay ahead of the game in the ever-evolving MEP industry. Register today!

The Madison Area Mechanical & Sheet Metal Contractors Association (MSC) and Steamfitters Local 601 hosted their 35th Heat’s On event on October 21, 2023. More than 50 area steamfitters volunteered a day of labor to inspect and service heating systems in the homes of 69 veterans throughout Dane County.

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

Harris saw an immediate return on investment (ROI) from their Watts Specialties automated pipe cutter, with improved efficiency in cutting and handling and no need for hand-cutting for olets or saddles. Based in St. Paul, MN, Harris has 15 regional offices with more than 300,000 square feet of fabrication shops.

UA & MCAA Announce Mechanical Industry Future Leaders Institute

United Association (UA) General President Mark McManus and MCAA President Robert Beck announced the creation of the Mechanical Industry Future Leaders Institute in a letter to their memberships. The new three‐day program will provide leadership education to future field leaders. The joint initiative is a key part of the UA/MCAA Strategic Planning Committee’s efforts to proactively position our industry for continued success and growth. The first session will take place in May 2024. See the attached letter for details and the nomination form. The deadline for submissions is January 12, 2024. This course is completely separate from the MCAA Fundamentals of Field Leadership online course that will start in Q2 of 2024.

MCAA Government Affairs Committee Chairman Jim Gaffney and former Congressman Earl Pomeroy, MCAA’s government relations consultant, testified on MCAA’s behalf at the November 21, 2023, Internal Revenue Service hearing. The hearing addressed proposed rules requiring prevailing wages and apprentice utilization for enhanced tax credits under the Biden Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) energy projects available for the next 10 years.

Subcontracts frequently include indemnification clauses to transfer risk from the general contractor (GC) to the subcontractor. MCAA’s Indemnification Clauses explains what these clauses are and what mechanical contractors can do to mitigate their effects. 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 welcomed its newest student chapter by granting a charter to Riverside City College during the MSCA23 Opening General Session on October 23rd on Marco Island, Florida.

Congratulations to Kolten Plekes and Gonzalo Ceja, the first recipients of the new MSCA Barbara Dolim Scholarship. The scholarship is named for Barbara Dolim, former Executive Director of MSCA, in honor of her efforts in promoting and ensuring future support for the mechanical service industry.

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

It is clear that artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing fast and coming into everyday use. In the near-future, AI systems will be paired with established technology, such as 3D laser scanning for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) applications. What many do not appreciate is that AI is still largely only as good as the quality of data fed into the system, either by human operators or through technology that gathers and organizes information, such as 3D laser scanners and cloud-based data platforms.

MCAA President Robert Beck joined ALI contractor-facilitators and Kenan-Flagler faculty under Carolina blue skies on November 16 to congratulate the newest graduates of MCAA’s Advanced Leadership Institute. Over the course of the program, these 36 mechanical executives learned and practiced leading-edge strategies and frameworks to advance themselves, their teams, and their businesses.

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Leah Gutmann, owner of First Forward Consulting, LLC. Leah teaches instructors to enhance their skills, managers to build leadership skills, and finance teams to meet company objectives. Her newest classes focus on building the fundamental leadership skills of our industry’s field leaders, service leaders, and project managers.

MCAA member contractors are occasionally required to demonstrate ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance in their bids. To further our commitment to developing ESG compliance resources, we kindly request your participation in a survey on the topic. The collected data will support the creation of an ESG presentation for the MCAA24 Annual Convention in March and an MCAA Resource Center to assist members in obtaining the information they require on this subject.

Looking to reduce paperwork costs, H.T. Lyons, Inc. had service mechanics, project managers, and dispatchers work internally to create service software. MCAA’s Serviceeye provides details of the affordable solution to inspire others faced with the need to develop or customize software. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Nominations are open for the 2023 MCAA/MILWAUKEE TOOL Safety Professional of the Year award. This award is presented annually to a mechanical industry safety and health professional who has led his or her company to achieve an exceptionally high degree of safety excellence. Five individuals have received the award since its inception in 2018. Nominate someone today and they could be number six!

MCAA President Robert Beck & Trane Discuss Industry Collaboration & Innovation

MCAA President Robert Beck, CEO of John W. Danforth Company, recently sat down with Trane’s Kristie Upton and Terry Dugan to discuss what they foresee for the coming year, and how manufacturers and contractors can work together to solve the industry’s most pressing issues, including the ongoing talent crunch.

Beacon Economics Study Will Help Service Contractors Thrive in Our Evolving Economy

The 2023 Beacon Economics study, commissioned for MSCA, delves into the critical economic dynamics shaping the mechanical service industry today. This analysis scrutinizes the impact of the real estate market, inflation, and labor shortages, among others, shedding light on how these factors will influence the economy and help MSCA members navigate and thrive in an evolving economic landscape.

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

Human error is often misinterpreted as solely a human issue. However, it predominantly arises from system flaws within organizations. We inadvertently create systems that tolerate poor processes for the sake of rewarding outcomes, leading to constraints and errors. To effectively prevent and mitigate human error, it is crucial to shift our focus towards understanding the systemic factors at play. Tyfoom explains why and explains how to foster a learning organization.

The safety landscape is evolving. Is your company’s safety and health program keeping pace? Jennifer McNelly, CEO of the American Society of Safety Professionals, and Alex Kopp, Director of Safety for The Association of Union Constructors, will help answer that question and inspire you to evolve your company’s safety and health program during MCAA’s 2024 Safety & Health Conference. Their sessions are just two reasons to attend MCAA’s 2024 Safety & Health Conference (January 16-18, 2024, in Tucson, AZ). Register today!

Registration for MCAA24 in Orlando is in full swing and MCAA student chapter members are already making their plans to participate in the Job Fair during the Manufacturer / Supplier Council Exhibit on Tuesday, March 19th.  New this year, students and potential employers will also be encouraged to network throughout the week at the Connection Corner during convention downtime. Why wait until March to secure your interns? Start the conversation now and post on the MCAA GreatFutures Job Board for upcoming Summer 2024 internships and entry-level positions geared towards our graduating seniors.