News

Classes are officially finished for the year and student chapter members are on the hunt for new opportunities. Now is an excellent time to post your Fall ’24 internships (or to catch a few stragglers still for summer employment).

MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference (FLC) held May 17-19, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois, saw its largest crowd post pandemic- bringing together nearly 200 field personnel for two and a half days of leadership training and networking. With a packed room, attendees confidently left with a large network of new peers. Special thanks to MCA of Chicago for their enthusiasm & support in bringing this conference to town!

There are unsung heroes among us who use their time, gifts, and generosity to propel their communities forward. They do the things that are truly needed out of the kindness of their hearts and with a passion for making a difference. Who do you know who has stepped up and propelled their community into a better place?

Macy Deck, a May 2023 graduate who studied Mechanical Engineering at Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville, was awarded the Foster McCarl, Jr. Memorial Scholarship at MCAA23 this past March during the Awards of Excellence Breakfast. This national scholarship honors Foster McCarl, Jr.’s many contributions to advancing the mechanical contracting industry, including his efforts towards establishing what is now known as the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF). McCarl’s Inc. is the scholarship sponsor.

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

The Hill Group was recently recognized as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2022 in Size Category 5, 1,000,000+ Work Hours. The Hill Group’s robust safety culture represents their commitment to their most important asset – their people.

PFI’s piping Standards are developed and maintained to the current ASME Codes and Industry Standards by the PFI Engineering Committee, a group of engineers, quality inspectors, fabrication software consultants, and flange and fitting manufacturers who meet twice a year. The committee’s unique blend of expertise helps make PFI’s Standards the highest referenced Standard with EPCs and end users in the pipe fabrication industry.

MCAA is partnering with Dodge Construction Network on a new study on jobsite safety, and your participation is vital to its success. The purpose is to track trends in safety practices in the U.S. construction industry. This survey should take approximately 12 minutes to complete. In return for qualifying for, completing and submitting the survey, you will have the option to have a summary report of the survey findings emailed to you. Thank you for helping the industry to continue to prioritize and improve safety.

Mechanical contractors looking to eliminate or reduce risk may want to adopt more strict and formal policies regarding the issuance of purchase orders. MCAA’s Purchasing for Profit is designed to help you establish purchasing techniques that help protect your business and purchases. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

More than two dozen people from underserved populations have entered the pipe trades in the last three years through a unique partnership between Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 562, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Eastern Missouri (MCA EMO), and the Plumbing Industry Council (PIC). Now, the CHAMPIONS Initiative is preparing to launch a fourth cohort of women and minorities who will devote their summer to kick-starting an exciting new career through intensive training, formal mentorship, and job placement as a pre-apprentice with union mechanical and plumbing contractors.

We all know the plumbing industry is aging, much like our water infrastructure. The average estimated age of a master plumber is 58 years old. However, there are many young professionals entering the industry to make a difference. Plumbing & Mechanical would like to highlight these Next Generation All-Stars in their Top 20 Under 40 Contest. They will be spotlighting the young professionals that are driving the industry into the future.

Based on her book, The Curiosity Muscle, Diana Kander’s high-energy keynote shows us how we can level up our simple questions to get significantly better results and drive innovation. Diana will help participants understand that the longer they’ve been doing something, the more likely it is that their expertise has also created some blind spots. Blind spots that could be huge opportunities for growth. She will demonstrate how we struggle with additive bias (looking to add more things to our plate to solve a problem), when taking something away would be the much more optimal solution.  Diana will show how our natural desire to be right gets in the way of our learning and improvement.  

Marissa (Mesa) Kelly, one of the two recipients of the Alan P. O’Shea Memorial Scholarship. The Mechanical Contractors Association of New Jersey established these scholarships to honor the memory of Alan P. O’Shea, it’s former Executive Director, and to memorialize his many contributions to the mechanical contracting industry.

This year’s closing keynote speaker, Tara Renze, author, emotional intelligence & positive intelligence practitioner, podcaster, thought-leader, wife and mother will redefine how we unleash purpose, level up our success and create sustainable happiness and fulfillment in all aspects of our lives.

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

The technician shortage is daunting. How can your business grow, let alone keep up with demand? Industry expert Billy Marshall will share insights on three areas for improvement during this busy season: reducing the chaos of unpredictable demand work, empowering your office staff to take on more responsibility, and optimizing your technicians’ workflow. Join us on May 23, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern.

UMC was recently recognized as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2022 in Size Category 4, 450,001 – 1,000,000 Work Hours. UMC’s mental health focus and “Pride-based Safety” program set the company apart.

The AEC Best Practices Conference is a three half-day educational program comprised of the chief executive officers and their senior subordinates from the MCAA-affiliated local associations. The conference provides industry-specific education, exploring the legal, accounting, and business operation differences between non-profit organizations and other types of businesses. The AEC conference provides peer-to-peer learning and interaction with tools to manage organizations and operate them more effectively. Local association executives – register today!

McKinstry set out to gather more insight into fabrication shop productivity and enhance the connection between its Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) and Fabrication teams. They partnered with MSUITE to improve communication and better understand the costs of work, which ultimately will help them target investments and improve overall project management.

Post a job on the MCAA GreatFutures Job Board to grab the attention of our new spring graduates who are still looking for full-time employment. 

Volatility of construction material and equipment costs is greater now and in recent years than previously has been the case. That volatility and uncertainty in stable pricing and commodity availability is likely to grow worse in coming years, not stabilize. The combination of raw material and natural resource scarcity, burgeoning infrastructure demand worldwide, with concomitant commodity and construction demand in the Far East and elsewhere, and unpredictability of world political stability (and shipping infrastructure too) all argue strongly for ever- greater vigilance in commodity purchasing and price commitments in procurement planning for fixed-price construction contracts.

Stacy Johnson, Chair of the national MCAA WiMi Committee, recently welcomed more than 80 women from MCA of Western Washington to Seattle’s first local WiMi event. The gathering, held at TopGolf on May 2, consisted of a reception, dinner, networking and golf instruction/play. Additionally, guests heard from a panel featuring four women leaders from the local industry, including Stacy Johnson (Auburn Mechanical), Maria Boyer (MacDonald-Miller), Megan Miller (SJS Mechanical) and Sheri Keeley (McKinstry Co.). We are so excited to welcome MCA of Western Washington WiMI Committee!

The Trimble Future Estimator Scholarship was developed to recognize a student not only interested in mechanical contracting, but specifically for a student with an interest in being a mechanical estimator upon graduation.

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

Meet the hard working students who made Pittsburg State University the winning team of MCAA’s 2022-2023 Student Chapter Competition.

Therma’s steady growth and sterling reputation over the decades has been driven in part by its highly motivated and skilled innovators, each with their own approach to process—which also resulted in a disjointed recordkeeping system. They chose Procore’s scalable construction management platform to standardize their project processes and centralize their document management, creating seamless collaboration, complete flexibility across project types, and a single source of truth and project data accessible to all. Now, workers collaborate through a common platform with deep visibility into all the information they need, all available on mobile devices.

Postler & Jaeckle Corp. was recently recognized as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2022 in Size Category 3, 250,001 – 450,000 Work Hours. Postler & Jaeckle’s organization-wide safety approach set the company apart.

The U.S. Department of Labor announced that OSHA has begun a National Emphasis Program (NEP) to identify and to reduce hazards which are causing or likely to cause serious injuries and fatalities from falls while working at heights. Considering that falls remain the leading cause of fatalities and serious injuries in all industries, and the violation the agency cites most frequently in construction industry inspections, the agency has determined that an increase in enforcement and outreach activities is warranted.

#SafetyWeek is a wrap! But the safety & health of our workers, our teams, and each other continues to be of the utmost importance. You can view all of last week’s video clips below for tips to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of our workers below.

Job costs (labor, materials, subcontracts, lift rentals, permits, etc.) are pretty straight forward, but what are “indirect job costs” or “other direct job costs”? The problem is that there are many types of ODJCs, and tracking them individually, by project, could be very time consuming, require significant resources, and is not necessary. The bulletin identifies ODJCs and provides some options to assist in managing and understanding these costs. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The 2022-2023 MCAA Student Chapter Competition 1st Place Team, Pittsburg State University, was invited to Denver, CO on April 21st to view the real-life completed site for their proposal of the National Western Center, which included a meeting with Lynn Mueller, CEO of SHARC Energy.

Veronica Brems is this year’s recipient of the annual William A. Bianco, Jr. Memorial Scholarship. MCAA member, Kinetics, established this scholarship to honor William “Bill” Bianco (the foundation’s former President and an MCAA Distinguished Service Award recipient) for his many contributions to the industry’s continuing advancement.

It’s never too early to prepare for hiring a new intern. Use our to-do list to help you find and hire your next intern.

For Graco Mechanical of Houston, TX, Marley NC® Cooling Towers from SPX Cooling Tech, LLC proved to be the ideal solution for replacing a highrise building’s aging cooling tower in a tight space with an even tighter timeline—just one weekend. These factory-assembled, or “package,” towers allowed for faster installation than a field-erected option while meeting the building’s needs.

Tyfoom, an engagement platform for employee communication and training, today announced a partnership with the MCAA, which will give our members access to select MCAA-produced training and education material and products via Tyfoom’s video-based microlearning format. With Tyfoom’s advanced training capabilities and MCAA’s safety training content, members have everything they need to stay competitive and keep their employees safe.

Working at heights continues to be one of the most dangerous parts of construction and service. Each year falls are the leading cause of workplace fatalities and fall protection is the most cited OSHA violation. MCAA has put together a kit which includes training on Aerial Lift Safety, Fall Prevention and Protection, Ladder Safety, and Scaffold Safety. This kit also includes model programs on fall protection and fall rescue. This could be one of the most important kits of the year.

We are very pleased to announce that registration is now open for MCAA’s Collective Bargaining Conference and the UA/MCAA Labor Relations Conference this September! Through the registration process, you will have the ability to register for both conferences at once, or select an individual conference.

2022 was an historic year for the Advanced Leadership Institute (ALI) – in addition to an updated curriculum, the ALI now has a new home at UNC’s Kenan-Flagler School of Business. Check out the video for an ‘insider perspective’ on our classroom environment, and to hear from our first-ever UNC graduates about their ALI experience! A few seats remain in this year’s program and we are still accepting applications from qualified executives.

The DEWALT Patriot Scholarship, now in its second year, was created to recognize two veterans, or those who are currently serving in the United States Military, who have valiantly served their country and have chosen to enter a career in the construction industry.  Thank you to DEWALT for honoring our military and to our scholarship recipients for their service to our country.  These two special scholarships were presented at the MCAA Awards of Excellence Breakfast in Phoenix on March 29th by Jake Sullivan (U.S. Marine Corp Veteran) and Jon Howland (U.S. Navy Veteran). 

There are unsung heroes among us who use their time, gifts, and generosity to propel their communities forward. They do the things that are truly needed out of the kindness of their hearts and with a passion for making a difference. Who do you know who has stepped up and propelled their community into a better place?

This year’s WiMI Conference will be held June 12-14 in Nashville, TN at the Grand Hyatt and is packed with opportunities to learn, grow and discover all that you are capable of and what this industry has to offer. Hotel rooms are filling up fast, so register today and lock in the group rate by May 14!

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

MCAA members voted in favor of the MCAA Board of Directors recommended change to the MCAA Bylaws during the Annual Business Meeting held March 30, 2023. As a result, the MCAA Bylaws have been amended to extend the previous two-year waiting period to seek re-election to the Board of Directors to four years. The amended language appears in Article VIII—Board of Directors, Section 1.

By implementing Novarc’s Spool Welding Robot (SWR), Harder Mechanical Contractors has minimized their need for highly skilled welders and increased productivity from an average of 120 factored diameter inches (FDI) per shift to more than 200 FDI, while also achieving a repair rate of 0 percent and maximizing arc-on time. Moreover, because the SWR is a collaborative robot—or cobot—Harder Mechanical can assign less experienced welders to operate the machine, significantly improving shop productivity and resulting in high-quality welds every single time.

Time to start thinking about your summer ’24 interns! Save the date for MCAA’s GreatFutures Forum (September 28-30, 2023) in Milwaukee, WI. Conference registration (including the Friday Job Fair) is complimentary for MCAA Members, Local Association Executives and Forum Sponsors. Registration will open on June 15.

A comprehensive safety approach that involves all company employees is good for workers and a company’s bottom line. MCAA’s Proactive Safety Approach provides tips and inspiration for companies seeking to develop or improve upon such a plan. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

EMCOR Services Scalise Industries was recently recognized as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2022 in Size Category 2, 100,001 – 250,000 Work Hours. The EMCOR Services Scalise Industries safety committee’s approach of setting attainable goals to change safety culture set the company apart.

MCAA is collaborating with The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) and Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) to prevent injury and improve productivity by reducing manual material handling (MMH). Manually lifting and moving heavy construction materials can cause strain, sprain and related soft tissue injuries. Planning ahead for how materials will be stored, lifted and moved reduces manual materials handling, helps contractors of all sizes stay productive and profitable and saves workers from painful injuries. We are looking for five MCAA member contractors in each of the following states: Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Wisconsin to use a free MMH program and provide feedback through September 2023.

MCAA welcomed its newest student chapter by granting a charter to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville during the MCAA23 Awards of Excellence Breakfast on March 29th in Phoenix, Arizona.

MCAA’s Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Conference kicks off on Monday, June 12th with our Opening General Session – DISCover You. In this session led by Kathryn Crosby, attendees will complete a “style analysis” profile to produce a graph of the behavior and personality tendencies for each letter designation used in the popular DISC system specific to the attendee. This year’s WiMI Conference will be held June 12-14 in Nashville, TN. See you there!

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

Curtis Harbour has been named Brandt, a Southland Industries Company’s Vice President of Labor Relations. Curtis, who became MCAA’s Vice President / Assistant Treasurer at MCAA23, will transition to his new role effective June 1, 2023, eventually expanding that role to the enterprise level.

MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference provides field leaders with the skills they need to be business- and results-oriented managers focused on growing company profits and brand, and now there’s another reason to attend – financial assistance from the United Association’s (UA) International Training Fund (ITF) in the form of a $5,500 grant. Join us May 17-19 in Chicago, IL, August 2-4 in San Francisco, CA, or October 11-13 in Des Moines, IA.

By installing antimicrobial cooling towers from Delta Cooling, Bluegrass Hydronics and Pump helped a rural Kentucky school district qualify for a federal grant to replace a failed tower and another nearing the end of its life. The units solved the two biggest issues the school district was facing: budget constraints and the need for durable solutions.

Leibold Inc. was recently recognized as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2022 in Size Category 1, Zero – 100,000 Work Hours. Leibold Inc.’s top-down safety approach and the organization’s safety culture set the company apart.

Over 130 students from 29 chapters attended MCAA23 in Phoenix and they are back on campus and excited to learn more about our MCAA members. While the conversations from Convention are still fresh on everyone’s mind, be sure to keep the momentum rolling by posting your internship or full-time, entry-level position on the MCAA GreatFutures Job Board.

The use of permanent HVAC systems to provide temporary heat during construction introduces the possibility of indoor air quality (IAQ) issues down the line. MCAA’s Temporary Usage of HVAC Equipment explains why temporary heating, cooling and dehumidification equipment specifically designed for use during construction is preferable. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

A recent MCA of Kansas City WiMI Committee (WiMI-KC) event inspired Tiffany Oldham, a digital media specialist with P1 Group, Inc., to write an article for her company’s newsletter. Learn more about the event and how WiMI-KC is engaging, empowering, inspiring and mentoring women in Kansas City’s mechanical industry.

At the MCAA23 Awards of Excellence Breakfast on March 29th, Pittsburg State University was awarded the top prize of $10,000 and a trophy for their outstanding work on the 2022-2023 Student Chapter Competition.

The student chapter at California State University, Chico proudly nominated Marie Patterson for the MCAA 2022-2023 Educator of the Year based on her mentoring, mechanical industry knowledge, chapter activity participation, and involvement and creation of student-focused networking opportunities with their local MCAA Chapter, Northern California MCA. 

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

At the MCAA23 Awards of Excellence Breakfast on March 29th, The University of Nebraska was awarded the 2022-2023 MCAA Student Chapter of the Year for their continued achievement and overall focus on offering career opportunities in mechanical contracting to their student membership.

The 2022 MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Award winners were announced at the MCAA23 annual convention in Arizona. This award focuses on safety and health programs, safety innovations, and achievements in safety to reach a high degree of safety and health excellence. Companies are divided into five categories by number of hours worked and winners are chosen by a committee of their peers. Congratulations to all the winners!

A new, state-of-the-art hospital in New York required that John W. Danforth Company use solder connections for mechanical piping and press fittings for the plumbing, so they looked to a trusted and reliable partner, Mueller Streamline Co., a primary subsidiary of Mueller Industries, that could provide both. That decision has paid off with a smooth construction process to date, supported by building information modeling (BIM) technology that ensured accuracy for prefabrication. Mueller Industries, Inc. is a major sponsor of MCAA23.

MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference (FLC) held April 3 – 5 in Scottsdale, Arizona, hosted over 120 field personnel who gathered together to be inspired and re-energized over two and a half days of education and networking. There are three more opportunities to attend this conference this year that your field personnel cannot afford to miss: May 17-19 in Chicago, IL, August 2-4 in San Francisco, CA, and October 11-13 in Des Moines, IA. Register your field leaders today!

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a standard requirement in many project specifications. MCAA’s BIM – What Is It and Is It Right for My Company? explains what BIM is and offers tips to help companies reap the greatest benefit from this technology. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Pittsburg State University garnered the Student Chapter Competition win and $10,000 during MCAA23. Individual students and educators were recognized with a variety of scholarships and awards. The University of Nebraska was selected as the 2022-2023 Student Chapter of the Year. MCAA presented a charter to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, our newest student chapter, sponsored by the MCA of Eastern Missouri.

Did you take MCAA’s ASSE 12020: Environment of Care, Infection Control and Construction Risk Assessment Professional Qualification Standard certification class in April 2020? If so, your certification is set to expire, and MCAA has prepared a free 2-hour recertification course through ASSE International. The goal of the ASSE 12020 personnel certification is to provide end users with contractors and technicians who can work as valuable members of construction risk assessment teams. You can assist in protecting building occupants from pathogens and other potential construction hazards while at the same time preventing outbreaks. Following the course, attendees will need to pass a recertification exam. The cost of the exam is $110. ASSE will provide additional details during the webinar. Join MCAA and ASSE on Thursday, April 13 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Eastern to take the first step toward your recertification.

MCAA23 concluded a week of many moments and final thoughts from MCAA President Robert Bolton. UA General President Mark McManus joined us to talk about the strength of the UA/MCAA partnership. MCAA’s two fundraisers concluded and President Bolton awarded the prizes before recognizing MCAA’s retiring Board members and turning over the presidential gavel to new MCAA President Robert Beck. President Beck thanked Bolton for his commitment and passion over the last year and announced MCAA’s funding of the Robert H. and Alda Bolton Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $20,000. The new Executive Committee and new Board members were introduced to the membership.

Newly elected MCAA President Robert Beck shared his professional journey and his plans for the year ahead in a recent Contractor magazine article, saying “Our organization is strong and we will stay the course. My job as President of MCAA will be simple… be a great ambassador of this amazing organization, bring people together and stay out of the way!” Beck became MCAA’s president at the close of MCAA23 on March 30, 2023.

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

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that explains how the NCPWB Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) differ from the American Welding Society (AWS) Standard Welding Procedures in both application and adoption.

Breaking ground on the Rex and Alice A. Martin Softball Training Center at the University of Illinois in April 2021, A&R Mechanical Contractors, Inc., faced the unique challenges of building during the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent supply chain issues. They successfully completed the project on schedule thanks to NIBCO, which manufactures more than 90 percent of its products in the United States. “I would have to say NIBCO was very instrumental in helping A&R Mechanical get this project finished in a timely fashion,” said Chris Asklund, A&R Mechanical project manager. NIBCO is a major sponsor of MCAA23.

Worker health is at the heart of all that safety professionals do. This month the MCAA is packaging six worker safety videos and their accompanying materials with eleven worker safety resources and bringing you an infection control recertification webinar with the ASSE, the American Society of Sanitary Engineering. Members can refresh training on subjects such as Asbestos Awareness, Bloodborne Pathogens, Hexavalent Chromium, Silica, Radio Frequency Radiation Safety, Respiratory Protection as well as download guides, bulletins, and programs on each topic.

MCAA’s Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) initiative enables women in the mechanical industry to further enrich their careers through networking, educational, mentoring and career development opportunities. Join us for this year’s WiMI Conference June 12-14 in Nashville, TN to discover your potential. Register now – seats fill quickly!

The new United Association (UA) National Pharmacy Benefit Program is reducing pharmacy costs for UA members and their families across the United States.

MSCA Board of Managers Chair Rich Happel is among the contractors who spoke with ACHR News about the opportunities and challenges they expect to see in 2023. Among his predictions, “I believe that high-efficiency HVACR equipment and retrofits will continue to lead sales for 2023, as well as equipment using HFO refrigerants beginning to gain traction (based on code adoption). The movement toward electrification will also likely begin to take hold and drive equipment selections towards those available electric options instead of gas.”

In the best of circumstances, state and local tax audits of construction contractors eventually turn adversarial and are not to be treated lightly. MCAA’s Preparing for a Sales Tax Audit will help you understand the process and the rules so that you can resolve any issues with practicality and technical proficiency. 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.

Did you take MCAA’s ASSE 12020: Environment of Care, Infection Control and Construction Risk Assessment Professional Qualification Standard certification class in April 2020? If so, your certification is set to expire, and MCAA has prepared a free 2-hour recertification course through ASSE International. The goal of the ASSE 12020 personnel certification is to provide end users with contractors and technicians who can work as valuable members of construction risk assessment teams. You can assist in protecting building occupants from pathogens and other potential construction hazards while at the same time preventing outbreaks. Following the course, attendees will need to pass a recertification exam. The cost of the exam is $110. ASSE will provide additional details during the webinar. Join MCAA and ASSE on Thursday, April 13 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Eastern to take the first step toward your recertification.

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

For a new, state-of-the-art medical school campus, Maxair Mechanical saved valuable time by installing “miles of piping” using Victaulic products rather than welding and relying on Victaulic’s 3D models of the mechanical space to anticipate potential pitfalls and avoid costly delays. Streamlining processes at every opportunity, Maxair completed the project on time, despite labor and supply chain challenges. Victaulic is a major sponsor of MCAA23.

Emergencies, disasters, accidents and injuries can occur at any time, usually without warning. MCAA’s Emergency Procedures will help you develop an emergency action plan to enable you and your employees to act quickly and decisively in the event of an emergency. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

More than 10,000 serious construction-related eye injuries happen each year, yet these injuries are preventable with proper eye protection. Help workers to understand why eye protection is critical. To celebrate 20 years of safety excellence, MCAA is releasing five impactful videos in 2023 to help improve safety & health across the entire industry.

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

MCAA’s Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) initiative enables women in the mechanical industry to further enrich their careers through networking, educational, mentoring and career development opportunities. This year’s WiMI Conference will be held June 12-14 in Nashville, TN. Join us to discover your potential. Register now – seats fill quickly!

You cannot eliminate the possibility of business disruptions—but you can prepare for them. Whether the cause is a storm, a cyberattack, or another unexpected event, a sudden disruption could affect your organization at any time. To grow and thrive in an uncertain risk environment, your business needs preparation to absorb, adapt, and be resilient to disruptive events. CNA, a benefactor of MCAA23, offers a series of short podcasts (about 15 minutes each) on risk and resilience.

The groundbreaking union-sector productivity advantage report, Quantifying the Value of Union Labor in Construction Projects, funded by the MCAA/UA Mechanical Industry Advancement Fund (MIAF) and performed by Independent Project Analysis (IPA), is gaining widespread attention among local labor/management groups across the country.

Over 125 Students from close to 30 chapters are registered for MCAA23. They will soon be scoping out MCAA’s GreatFutures Job Board for companies they would like to meet with in Phoenix to discuss internships and entry-level full-time positions. Post your position(s) today and be sure to stop by the Hire Me Corner (inside the Manufacturer/Supplier Council Exhibit) on Tuesday, March 28th to meet students in person.

The shipping terms delineated in a mechanical contractor’s purchase order determine who assumes risk, claims, control and taxes. MCAA’s FOB Terms highlights the advantages and disadvantages of various shipping methods and terms to help contractors minimize liability and risk. 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.

MCAA member WennSoft (formerly Key2Act), a provider of field service management, and building intelligence solutions, has been acquired by Volaris Group. “With the strength and global scale of Volaris behind us, we envision a bright future for WennSoft,” said Joe Alvarez, CEO. “We look forward to continuing enhancement of our product suite and solidifying our long-term commitment to add value for our customers, and partners.” WennSoft will continue to operate as an independent business unit led by Joe Alvarez.

Did you take MCAA’s ASSE 12020: Environment of Care, Infection Control and Construction Risk Assessment Professional Qualification Standard certification class in April 2020? If so, your certification is set to expire, and MCAA has prepared a free 2-hour recertification course through ASSE International. The goal of the ASSE 12020 personnel certification is to provide end users with contractors and technicians who can work as valuable members of construction risk assessment teams. You can assist in protecting building occupants from pathogens and other potential construction hazards while at the same time preventing outbreaks. Following the course, attendees will need to pass a recertification exam. The cost of the exam is $110. ASSE will provide additional details during the webinar. Join MCAA and ASSE on Thursday, April 13 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Eastern to take the first step toward your recertification.

Barrier-free, accessible, and inclusive design is an important trend in building. Planning for a commercial restroom with all users in mind, regardless of ability, gender, or age, makes for a safer and more comfortable restroom that is easy for anyone to use. Contractors who embrace the concepts of inclusive design can stand out as partners who put users’ needs first, and Sloan, a benefactor of MCAA23, has innovative products to help. Inclusive design is pivotal for supporting people with disabilities and complying with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. It is also important as society’s awareness of gender identity grows.

Your field leaders are the face of your company. Are they prepared to communicate effectively, bridge conflict and personality clashes and protect your company’s image? Kevin Dougherty’s presentation at the Field Leaders Conference provides the tricks and tactics they need to get even the most difficult people eating out of their hands, plus other ideas for improving communication with crews, other subs, management and owners.

MCAA is proud to have the opportunity to spotlight so many women in our industry this week in celebration of Women in Construction Week. Cheers to just some of the amazing talent that we have within MCAA! 

Think all alumni are fresh out of school? The first MCAA Student Chapter was chartered in 1993 – 30 years ago! MCAA GreatFutures Alumni (former student chapter members) are encouraged to connect with fellow alumni through a new LinkedIn group and networking events at MCAA23 and the GreatFutures Forum.

Mechanical contractors are likely to write purchase orders to material and equipment suppliers in other states. MCAA’s Purchases and Sales of Goods Under the Uniform Commercial Code reviews some of the principal provisions of the code governing these sales to help contractors analyze the adequacy of their forms and practices. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Exposure to lung-damaging silica dust is preventable with proper respiratory protection. Help the more than 2 million workers who are exposed to silica each year learn why this protection is so critical to their health. To celebrate 20 years of safety excellence, MCAA is releasing five impactful videos in 2023 to help improve safety & health across the entire industry.

Today we spotlight one of our members that started out as a student and now sits on the national MCAA Career Development Committee! 

MCAA would like to recognize the many people that make our Women in the Mechanical Industry Initiative possible. They work hard to enable women in the mechanical industry to further enrich their careers through networking, educational, mentoring and career development opportunities takes help from women on both a national and local levels. We are so thrilled to have the support of so many!   

Karin Dahlin is a journeyman service pipefitter with Minneapolis Pipefitters local 539. She received her HVACR degree at Minneapolis College in 2018 and completed her apprenticeship with local 539 in June of 2022. She chose this trade because of the variety it offers, and she enjoys working on something new each day.  

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

JPG Plumbing & Mechanical Services’ adoption of new oil and grease interceptor monitoring technology from Zurn has significantly reduced pumping overspend and minimized the risk of backups for JPG’s customers. The increased monitoring is translating into more tank repair and replacement work as customers gain better visibility into their systems. Zurn Elkay Water Solutions is a benefactor of MCAA23.

Women in Construction Week or WIC Week celebrates and promotes the role of women in the construction industry. In 1998, NAWIC held the first WIC Week and it has grown and expanded each year since. This week, MCAA wants to celebrate the many successful women among our membership and this amazing industry. 

The MCAA Board of Directors recommended a change to the MCAA Bylaws at its annual summer board meeting held last July in Victoria, British Columbia. The recommended change would extend the current two-year waiting period to seek re-election to the Board of Directors to four years. This bylaws change will be voted on by the membership at the Annual Business meeting held during the upcoming convention on Thursday, March 30, 2023.

Technology and innovation are evolving rapidly, and it is critical that field leaders be educated to keep pace. MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference lets field leaders explore the latest offerings from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council. By asking questions, they gain a fresh understanding of how those offerings impact project performance. They return ready to share these insights to help maximize your company’s ROI. That’s just one example of how the industry-specific content gives field leaders the skills, understanding, and inspiration to positively impact their company’s bottom line. The conference will offer the same education and exhibitors in Scottsdale, AZ (April 3-5), Chicago, IL (May 17-19), San Francisco, CA (August 2-4) and Des Moines, IA (October 11-13). Register your field leaders today!

Arden Building Companies, an MCAA member, was recognized in the March issue of Rhode Island Monthly magazine as part of a series celebrating family-owned businesses. The article celebrates Arden’s nearly 70-year history, during which the company has evolved from a mechanical and general contracting group into the multi-faceted group of companies, which includes Arden Engineering Constructors, Corporate Mechanical of New England, MJ Daly, and Unique Metal Works. MCAA congratulates MCAA President Robert M. Bolton and the entire Arden team on their rich history. We look forward to seeing where the next 70 years take you!

The MCAA Innovative Technology Committee recognized Doug Smith from Dynamic Systems, Inc. as the 2023 Innovator of the Year at the annual MEP Innovation Conference hosted by MCAA, NECA and SMACNA last week in January in Austin, Texas. Smith is the director of VDC technology at Dynamic Systems, Inc., a Texas-based contractor, and leads the design and coordination process between a team of over 120 people.

Over 125 Students from close to 30 chapters are registered for MCAA23. They will soon be scoping out MCAA’s GreatFutures Job Board for companies they would like to meet with in Phoenix to discuss internships and entry-level full-time positions. Post your position(s) today and be sure to stop by the Hire Me Corner (inside the Manufacturer/Supplier Council Exhibit) on Tuesday, March 28th to meet students in person.

Mechanical contractors are likely to bear a large chunk of the responsibility for modern jobsite coordination. This can have cost implications that must be analyzed prior to making a bid. MCAA’s Jobsite Coordination highlights notable qualifications for discussion. 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.

UMC, an MCAA member, has named Development Director Troy Turpin, CEM, and Manufacturing Director Ryan Hoggatt shareholders of the firm. Both Turpin and Hoggatt have been with UMC for many years and play critical roles in the current operations and future growth of UMC.

Transform the way you lead – the way you think about leadership – by developing the skills that will take you and your team to the next level. MCAA’s Advanced Leadership Institute (ALI) is now accepting applications for Course 23, which will run October 1-4 (Week I) and November 12-16 (Week II), 2023.

To celebrate MCAA’s 20 Years of Safety Excellence, MCAA is offering monthly safety kits to benefit our contractors around the country and the mechanical industry workers they support. This month’s kit focuses on power tool and hand tool safety. Every contractor and worker use tools to do their job. Injuries from improper use and choosing the wrong tool for the job happen far too often. This month’s kit provides members with information on the most common hand and power tool injuries in the mechanical construction and service trades. The videos highlight the tools most likely to be involved in an injury incident and teach proper use of the tools to help prevent injuries. Be sure to check out the additional resources from our partner in safety, MILWAUKEE TOOL, for additional information on power and hand tool safety.

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

The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) and the American Water Works Association (AWWA) have published the AWWA/IAPMO Manual-2022: Manual of Recommended Practices for the Safe Closure and Reopening of Building Water Systems. This manual of recommended practice is intended to provide expert guidance on building water system safety. It provides sound and effective risk management practices for preparing water systems when buildings must be shut down or put into low-use modes, “exercising” building water systems during periods of no or low use, and evaluating and prepping water systems for reopening.

April will be here before we know it, and so will our first Field Leaders Conference of the year. Those who attend will return with the skills they need to be business- and results-oriented managers focused on growing company profits and brand. Grow your field leaders’ skill set while at the same time supporting the Arizona MCA, our host and MCAA’s newest affiliate. Register your team today!

Every year the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council join together to form the leading exhibit in the industry at the MCAA Annual Convention. The exhibit at MCAA23 will be no exception. Register today!

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average age of a construction worker is 42, and nearly 20% of the workforce is over the age of 55. Finding and recruiting young workers into the trades remains a challenge for contractors. Angie Simon of Western Allied Mechanical, an MCAA member, and the past President of SMACNA decided to do something about it.

A successful mechanical contracting company constantly seeks ways to enhance its business operations by encouraging honest feedback from customers. MCAA’s Listening to Our Customers explores customer types and offers tips and suggested questions to get customers talking. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Exposure to hearing-damaging hazardous noise is preventable, yet only 50% of construction workers wear hearing protection. To celebrate 20 years of safety excellence, MCAA is releasing five impactful videos in 2023 to help improve safety & health across the entire industry.

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

Many in the field may not realize how their daily job impacts the people they work with and the bottom line. At the MCAA Field Leaders Conference, your field team can benefit from the know-how of someone who has experienced it all in The Foreman’s Impact on Profitability session led by MCAA member Mark Rogers. Rogers began his career as a Steamfitter Apprentice in 1986 with Local 420 in Philadelphia, went on to start his own mechanical contracting company in 1996 and served as MCAA President in 2011. He volunteers around the country presenting his “Real Cost of a Man Hour” and has given the talk over 125 times to over 20,000 UA Members. Rogers is passionate about education for everyone in the industry and tailored his presentation at the Field Leaders Conference specifically so those in the field can better understand and appreciate their overall role and impact on a job.

MCAA23 is one stop shopping for all your educational needs. From navigating the threat of a recession to ensuring your company is ready and able to handle a cyber-attack, the offerings at MCAA23 are there to educate everyone from the novice to the most seasoned mechanical contractor. Register today!

Customers are demanding greater value, technology is evolving rapidly, and the resulting need to increase productivity is driving profound changes in how mechanical contractors execute their scope of work. MCAA’s Integrated Project Delivery explores the IPD methodology rooted in the idea of truly integrating all parties in the planning, design, and construction process at the earliest possible moment to help contractors understand the benefits of this approach. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Curious about the locations of our MCAA student chapters? Check out the GreatFutures Universities page to easily search for schools by state or alphabetically. If you don’t have a chapter in your area (or even if you do), head over to the GreatFutures Job Board to post an entry-level, full-time job or internship to the entire network of nearly 50 student chapters.

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.

Your foremen didn’t get where they are by coasting. They’re good at what they do, and they can get even better by cultivating the attributes of great foremen. Greg Fuller, whose career spans from apprentice to company president and MCAA President, will lead a discussion of the top 10 attributes of great foremen. He will inspire your field leaders with new ideas and energy, to look at their role differently through an important professional lens, so they come back highly motivated to strive for greatness.

MCAA’s Convention provides so many important moments and we are determined to make each attendee’s experience great. Over the course of the week there will be opportunities to hear from inspiring speakers on the topics that matter.

Mechanical industry project managers (PMs) are often confronted with aggressive schedules and incomplete construction documents. In this environment, managing a project to a profitable outcome is predominantly about controlling change and implementing resourceful and efficient strategies to minimize cost. MCAA’s Project Forecasting offers tips to help PMs accurately and regularly measure progress, leading to improved results. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Kristy Stephens, Executive Director of the MCA of Eastern Missouri, an MCAA affiliate, recently reported on the progress she and her team have made since she came aboard nearly 6 years ago. The board and the staff have embraced the challenge to guide the organization through systemic transformation, and it shows in their results.

Hand injuries are preventable with proper hand protection, yet 70 percent of workers don’t properly protect their hands. To celebrate 20 years of safety excellence, MCAA is releasing five impactful videos in 2023 to help improve safety & health across the entire industry.

The Construction Labor Research Council (CLRC), a longstanding partner of MCAA, has released its 2022 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. In addition to a general overview, the report provides various detailed data cuts, including by geographic region and specific craft. For additional information, contact Carey Peters, Executive Director, at 202-347-8440 or clrc@clrcconsulting.org.

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

Whether your goal is to leave MCAA23 with new implementations to increase the success of your company, with fun memories that will last a lifetime or both, we’ve got you covered. Register today!

Congratulations to this year’s graduates of the Advanced Institute for Project Management!

Our industry will change more in the next 5 years than it did in the last 50. Are your field leaders equipped to evolve along with it? Chris Haslinger served his apprenticeship with UA Local 50 and has held various roles throughout his career with the UA. With a career focused on education and training, Chris has seen the evolution of how jobs are performed first-hand. He has played a primary role in developing UA projects that embrace new technologies, including sustainable technology programs, energy audits and retrofits, CAD/BIM programs and technology in supervisory roles.

MCAA members can quickly post an entry-level, full-time job or internship to a network of close to 50 student chapters as a benefit of membership. These student members are enrolled in programs such as construction management, mechanical engineering, construction engineering, architectural engineering, HVAC, and other similar courses of study that are designed to prepare them for careers in the mechanical contracting industry. Post your jobs on the MCAA GreatFutures Job Board today!

New ANSI fall protection standards go into effect in 2023 – are you prepared? Subject matter expert, George Stallings, answers some of the most pressing questions about the changes and discusses how MCAA contractors can prepare their companies. MCAA’s Executive Director of Safety, Health and Risk Management, Raffi Elchemmas moderates the Q&A with our speaker and audience.

Mechanical contractors that work cooperatively with owners, design teams, suppliers and subcontractors tend to have more successful and cost advantageous projects. MCAA’s Working with Owners provides information to assist you in doing just that by developing guidelines for an effective and cooperative work environment, establishing responsibilities up front, and scheduling regular meetings to discuss progress. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

To celebrate MCAA’s 20 Years of Safety Excellence, MCAA is offering monthly safety kits to benefit our contractors around the country and the mechanical industry workers they support. This month’s kit focuses on personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE is the last line of defense, and sometimes all you need to prevent and injury or save a life. Preventable injuries impact our safety culture, company morale, and our bottom
lines. This month’s kit includes our newest videos on hearing protection, head protection, eye protection, respiratory protection, and hand protection. These videos are a candid look at what happens when you don’t wear PPE, and how easily you can help yourself and others by wearing these lifesaving pieces of personal protection.

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 and MILWAUKEE TOOL congratulate Ricky Reams, the 2022 Safety Professional of the Year award winner. Ricky has been a passionate safety leader for many years and his work to advance mental health is without equal. Ricky is the VP of Safety and Quality at Murphy Company in St. Louis, MO. The award was announced at MCAA’s 2023 Safety Conference in San Diego, CA in January. The award is presented annually to a mechanical industry safety and health professional who has led his or her company to achieving an exceptionally high degree of safety excellence. Ricky has been invited to MCAA23 in Phoenix, AZ in March to receive the award on stage during the Awards of Excellence Breakfast. MCAA and MILWAUKEE TOOL congratulate Ricky and thank him for his commitment to safety.

Safety is the top priority for MCAA contractors, and attendance at the 2023 MCAA Safety Conference proved it. The 2023 conference was the largest safety event in MCAA history, bringing together over 350 professionals to focus on safety and health in San Diego, CA.

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

3M has notified the industry of a potential issue that could result in some construction and vest style harnesses not performing properly. This condition results in the adjuster not being able to be adjusted or not locking in place after adjustments have been made. This manufacturing issue will result in the harness not performing properly in the event of a fall, which could result in severe injury or death. Protect your workers – read the inspection notice below.

Businesses and their insurers have experienced catastrophic losses resulting from incidents involving terrorism, environmental impacts, mold, asbestos and defective workmanship. Consequently, pressure has increased on business insurers to limit the availability of certain coverages, substantially increase the cost of others and reduce claims. MCAA’s Insurance for Catastrophes provides information about various coverages along with solutions to help contractors protect their businesses. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

April will be here before we know it, and so will our first Field Leaders Conference. Field leaders who attend the April 3-5, 2023, event in Scottsdale, AZ, will return with the skills they need to be business- and results-oriented managers focused on growing company profits and brand. Grow your field leaders’ skill set while at the same time supporting the Arizona MCA, our host and MCAA’s newest affiliate. Register your team today!

Twenty-two MCAA Student Chapters submitted a proposal for the National Western Center Campus Energy project.  Congratulations to the Final Four and Merit Award teams. The teams will present their proposals on the afternoon of Tuesday, March 28th at MCAA23 in Phoenix, AZ.

MCAA member Ridge Tool Company’s RIDGID® brand is celebrating 100 years of designing and building innovative tools trusted on jobsites around the world and handed down from generation to generation. To commemorate the occasion, RIDGID is celebrating the trades, their impact on our world, and the brand’s legacy. MCAA congratulates everyone at Ridge Tool Company on achieving this milestone.

Your field leaders are professionals who build people as much as they do projects. Do they have the skills needed to motivate people, use influence over authority and mentor, coach and empower their crews? Mark Breslin’s presentation at the Field Leaders Conference offers new ideas, strategies and tools to help them enhance crew performance. Your field leaders will leave Mark’s presentation with a new level of energy and vision for their future.

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

Join us and register today for NCPWB’s Annual Technical Conference/Committee Meeting to learn about the new developments in pipe welding, as well as network with friends, colleagues and new acquaintances. This year’s conference will take place at Sonesta Resort on Hilton Head Island, SC, April 23-25, 2023. 

The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC) invites MCAA members to participate in its 2023 Union Craft Labor Supply Survey, the industry’s only union-specific survey focused on construction and maintenance. The survey is once again being conducted in conjunction with the Construction Labor Research Council (CLRC).

The spring 2023 MSCA classes are on the calendar and open for registration! MSCA provides focused training programs for your sales and operational personnel. This collection of programs, unlike any other, provide the continued training to set your employees apart in the HVACR industry.

There’s a reason that MCAA’s Institute for Project Management (IPM) team love what they do: it’s the students. The members of classes 83 and 84 were no exception. Seventy-two participants from MCAA member companies consistently brought their A-game to every class: from Negotiation to Cost Control, from Scheduling to Change Order Negotiation. With enthusiasm and curiosity, they studied and practiced tried-and-true strategies taught by our seasoned contractor-instructors, asked great questions, and learned as much from each other as from our expert instructors. Congratulations to our newest IPM graduates!

Union representation rates in the construction industry fell slightly in 2022, decreasing to 12.4%, with 1,076,000 of the 8,671,000 workers “represented” by unions, down from 13.6% in 2021 (1,112, 000 of the 8,157,000 employed).  Among those 1,076,000 represented by unions, 1,019,000 were classified as union members, leaving some 57,000 (roughly 5%) of the remainder classified as represented by unions (covered by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) but not reported as union members.

To compete successfully in today’s marketplace, mechanical construction, mechanical service and plumbing contractors need to market their businesses and the products and services they offer to existing and potential customers. To be effective in those efforts, they need to know the basics about planning, developing and using a marketing program. MCAA’s Guide to Marketing Your Business provides those basics to help contractors conceive ideas and assemble them into a successful plan that will help their businesses grow and thrive. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

A student from Northern Kentucky University was recently hired by U.S. Engineering after using the new GreatFutures job board to find a internship. Congratulations to Logan Ocker and U.S. Engineering!

With modern building practices, MEP contractors must coordinate precisely in their design and building for jobs to be profitable. In Austin, Texas, members from MCAA, NECA and SMACNA extended that collaboration at the MEP Innovation Conference. Members of the three associations came together to learn from each other on how new technologies are impacting their businesses.

The MCAA Innovative Technology Committee recognized Doug Smith from Dynamic Systems, Inc. as the 2023 Innovator of the Year at the annual MEP Innovation Conference hosted by MCAA, NECA and SMACNA last week in Austin, Texas. Smith is the director of VDC technology at Dynamic Systems, Inc., a Texas-based contractor, and leads the design and coordination process between a team of over 120 people.

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.

High employee turnover of professional staff is a major issue facing the mechanical contracting industry today. It can have a massive impact on a contractor’s productivity and bottom line. MCAA’s Retention of Professional Staff outlines specific strategies that contractors can implement to increase their ability to retain employees as well as metrics that can be used to measure the effectiveness of these initiatives. 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 Kathryn Crosby, owner and founder of C2 Consulting, Inc. Kathryn’s newest course gives project managers an inside look at how their projects impact company finances. Her other courses share the good operational practices and solid procedures field and office leaders need to deliver less problem prone projects, reduce duplication of effort, and allow companies to measure tangible results.

Baker Group, an MCAA member, is celebrating 60 years in business. Founded as a small plumbing contractor in 1963 on the east side of Des Moines, Baker Group now provides design, installation and servicing solutions to commercial, industrial and institutional building clients. MCAA congratulates the entire Baker Group team on achieving this milestone.

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

Only three weeks remain to register for MCAA23 and secure the Early Bird rates! Your convention registration gets you full access to all MCAA23 has to offer including: all major general sessions, education seminars, the Manufacturer/Supplier Council product display and trade show, social events and, of course, a private concert with MatchBox Twenty! However there are also some major unadvertised perks included such as impeccable networking opportunities, the chance to expand your contact list and the opportunity to turn business relationships into friendships that last a lifetime. Register today!

Phil Petillo is the MCA of New Jersey’s (MCANJ) new executive director. Phil has been the association’s education director for 10 years. During that time, he has made many improvements to the association’s instructional programs. He was also an integral part of communicating industry-related information, scheduling, planning, labor relations and working with MCAA. In making the announcement, MCANJ President Richard Tomaiko noted that, “Phil has demonstrated his ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and cordially. His personality and determination will undoubtedly lead to the continued success and development of the MCANJ and the Industry.” Marty Drobny will continue working with MCANJ during the transition period.

Every company should have plans to deal with emergencies and disasters. Well-executed plans can save lives, minimize the loss of assets, and even save the entire business. MCAA’s Disaster Recovery: Getting Your Business Back in Operation After a Disaster provides tips to help you develop and manage your company’s emergency response so that a disaster does not result in catastrophic losses for your business. 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.

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that explains what is required to qualify a welding operator and how to properly complete the QW-484 form.

To celebrate MCAA’s 20 Years of Safety Excellence, MCAA is offering monthly safety kits to benefit our contractors around the country and the mechanical industry workers they support. To kick off the year, we are focusing on new workers. New workers are often the most vulnerable to accidents and injuries. In this month’s kit we have videos, programs, and manuals, including a New Worker Safety Orientation video and several accompanying resources.

College students across the country are gearing up to go back to school for the spring semester. Following a relaxing winter break, their #1 priority will be to secure a summer internship or full-time position. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to put your company in the spotlight! Post your entry level, full-time job or internship today and successfully growing your workforce.

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

We hope that you enjoyed the holidays with your families. Together, we made it through 2022 and the challenges it presented. As we jump into 2023, let’s look at all we accomplished together in 2022.

MCAA has realigned some staff responsibilities for the future. Sean McGuire is the new Executive Director, JRGF (John R. Gentille Foundation). He continues in his role as Executive Director, Innovation Technologies & Fabrication. Sean has turned over his Plumbing Contractors of America (PCA) role to Teresa Pezzi, who also handles the Mechanical Service Contractors of America (MSCA), a natural fit since mechanical and plumbing service frequently go hand in hand. Teresa’s Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) role has transitioned to Michaela Mueller, who continues as Director, Special Projects & Initiatives. Please join us in congratulating them on their new roles!

Savvy mechanical contractors pay strict attention to the language in standard, preprinted contract forms and make modifications to protect themselves. MCAA’s Managing Killer Contract Clauses provides examples of killer contract clauses and suggestions for modifying the language to eliminate unnecessary risk. 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 wants to hear about all of your mechanical contracting interns and has revised the internship grant application process to ensure program success is being rewarded and celebrated.  

A clear, written credit policy is a vital part of every well-run mechanical contracting business. MCAA’s Credit Policy Criteria explores the essential ingredients of a credit policy to assist contractors in developing or fine-tuning their own policies. 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 use of permanent HVAC systems to provide temporary heat during construction introduces the possibility of indoor air quality (IAQ) issues down the line. MCAA’s Temporary Usage of HVAC Equipment explains why temporary heating, cooling and dehumidification equipment specifically designed for use during construction is preferable. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Bassett Mechanical, an MCAA member, announced several leadership promotions that position the company for continued growth as well as delivering on its vision of Creating Customers for Life®. Jerod Steigenberger will become President of the 86-year-old family enterprise. Kim Bassett will assume the role of Chairperson of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, and Bill Bassett will become Chairman Emeritus. Patty Van Ryzin will be the Chief Human Resource Officer.

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

The MSCA Sales Leadership Symposium is taught by leading service contractors and designed for HVACR service sales leaders who are responsible for any aspect of sales in their company. Attendees will learn new ways to drive revenue growth, enhance the sales team’s productivity, and ensure employee retention. There are still a few spots left, so don’t delay! 

MCAA will be hosting four Field Leaders Conferences in 2023 to welcome as many field personnel as possible. Help your field personnel become leaders by sending them to Scottsdale, AZ (April 3-5), Chicago, IL (May 17-19), San Francisco, CA (August 2-4) or Des Moines, IA (October 11-13). We will offer the same education in all four locations, ensuring your team receives high-quality education at the date and location most convenient for your company. Register your team today!

Employees working in warehouses and tool rooms manage tens of thousands of tools used in the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing and mechanical systems. MCAA’s Bluetooth for Tool Management provides an overview of Bluetooth technology to assist those considering a move to a Bluetooth tool management solution. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

College students across the country are finishing up finals and heading home for winter break. Following a few days of post-finals rest, their #1 priority will be to secure a summer internship or full-time position. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to put your company in the spotlight during the golden weeks between semesters! Post your entry level, full-time job or internship today and ring in the new year to successfully growing your workforce.

Did you know that the MCAA currently has more than 50 worker and supervisor safety training videos? Each year MCAA’s Safety Excellence Initiative produces several new training videos, programs, guides, posters, toolbox talks and other resources. Our recently updated safety resource page helps members quickly identify the newly produced videos and resources to stay up to date with regulations and ahead of the curve with safety and health.

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.

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 13, 2023. Candidates and their spokespersons will be scheduled for interviews at the 2023 MCAA Annual Convention. Those who are selected will begin their terms in March 2023.

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

Mechanical contractors may benefit from Employee Stock Ownership Plans, innovative planning devices allowing for tax-favored transfers of stock ownership in a closely held business. MCAA’s Employee Stock Ownership Plans reviews the benefits and disadvantages of these plans to assist in strategic planning. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Mental health awareness is a growing priority in the mechanical industry. At the 2023 MCAA Safety Conference, hear from Josh Rizzo, a Bronze Star Medal recipient and longtime construction industry expert, on how to lead while taking care of yourself and the teams you serve. Join us January 17-19, 2023, in San Diego, CA. Register 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 best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Frank Favaro, 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.

Winger Companies tackled two challenges—the growing scale of its fabrication projects and a tight labor market—with Watts-Mueller machines that allowed them to do more with fewer people. General Manager Mike Smith said, “We increased our finished fabrications while cutting the cost of both consumables and manhours.”

Head injuries are preventable…all 50,000 per year! To celebrate 20 years of safety excellence, MCAA is releasing five impactful videos in 2023 to help improve safety & health across the entire industry.

To maintain project schedules and costs, mechanical contractors must purchase major equipment and materials as soon as they receive the notice to proceed. MCAA’s Why Mechanical Contractors Should be Paid for Materials Stored On and Off the Jobsite explains the importance of prompt payment for material storage, insurance and handling in maintaining working capital. 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 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.

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 on track to have the highest number of safety professionals in one place in over 20 years at MCAA’s 2023 Safety Conference. The event will include 50+ hours of education and training, keynote speeches on safety leadership, and a celebration of safety. We will once again be joined by our partners in safety, the United Association. Join us January 17-19, 2023, in San Diego, CA. Register today!

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

Ohio-based mechanical contractor Geauga Mechanical Company keeps projects on track and recoups more than 750 office hours annually through eSUB CLOUD’s project management and time tracking software. Prior to transitioning to eSUB, the contractor’s paper-based system of time reporting required field employees to call in to the office weekly or submit written time sheets that had to be reviewed, approved, and then manually entered into the accounting system.

We are thrilled to congratulate this year’s graduates of MCAA’s Advanced Leadership Institute. On November 17th, the 36 members of ALI Class 22 received their diplomas, and joined the ranks of those who have completed MCAA’s premier executive leadership program. MCAA’s President Bob Bolton (ALI graduate, Class 16) and CEO Tim Brink (ALI graduate, Class 1) joined our ALI contractor-facilitators to celebrate and recognize the accomplishments of this year’s graduating class. They, much like the UNC faculty who led our sessions, were repeatedly impressed by the incredible dedication, enthusiasm, and engagement of the ALI participants.

Mechanical contractors must protect their company’s interests when hiring subcontractors to assist with projects. MCAA’s Suggested Subcontract Form reviews terms and conditions commonly used in subcontract agreements as a starting point for discussions with your company’s legal representatives. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA, NECA and SMACNA’s 2023 MEP Innovation Conference in Austin, TX on January 11-13, 2023 is almost sold out! This three-day event will include innovative presentations, collaborative roundtable discussions, and hands-on exhibitor demonstrations highlighting the recent technologies that can improve MEP contractors’ productivity and profitability. Be sure to register by December 1st to receive our early bird pricing!

MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference is proving to make a lasting impression on those who attend based on the overwhelming amount of positive feedback. Three Field Leaders Conferences were held this year, bringing a total of 474 field personnel through the program in Rochester, NY (May), Indianapolis, IN (October) and Kansas City, MO (November). Read on to hear from those attendees, and find out where and when our 2023 conferences are planned, then watch mcaa.org for registration information in the next month.

On Tuesday, November 15, 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced that it will begin accepting applications from states for $250 million in funding for energy efficiency upgrades and retrofits of commercial buildings. States may apply to DOE for seed money to start their own energy efficiency revolving loan fund that can be used to fund energy efficient upgrades or retrofits in the state. If a state already has an energy efficient revolving loan fund, this money can be used to bolster existing programs. Once state programs are set up, these monies will ultimately provide low or no cost funding to potential customers of MCAA members seeking to make energy efficient upgrades to their facilities.

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like James McCarl, a nationally recognized speaker and strategist. James helps senior management, owners, foremen and project managers strategically manage risk. He provides insights into proven methods for developing effective strategic plans and key factors to implement and maintain them.

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 13, 2023. Candidates and their spokespersons will be scheduled for interviews at the 2023 MCAA Annual Convention. Those who are selected will begin their terms in March 2023.

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

Facing a tight labor market, Warwick Mechanical Group turned to XOi for technology solutions that make it easy for less-seasoned technicians to get information and communicate with supervisors and customers quickly. Warwick’s revenue reached around $115 million in 2021, and Ron Clark, vice president of Service, credits solutions like XOi with contributing to that success.

MCAA’s 2022 Fabrication Conference showcased how mechanical contractors are adopting and innovating in the built environment. McKinstry Company, headquartered in Seattle, Washington, hosted the tour this year and demonstrated to attendees how integrated digital design, collaboration and fabrication are creating a path for contractors that leverages combined productivity into profitability.

Worker safety and health is a top priority for mechanical contractors. MCAA’s Company Safety Programs reviews ten basic components that should be covered in every company safety program, regardless of company size, giving contractors food for thought as they review their own company’s program. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

NEMCA’s WiMI New England committee hosted its inaugural meeting on Friday, October 14, 2022. The group is committed to championing women in the mechanical industry by providing professional development, support, advocacy and networking opportunities for females across the region.

The clock is ticking on end of the year to-do lists. Have you secured your summer intern for 2023? While this may seem like an item that can be pushed to the bottom of your list, most students are already committing to summer plans before 2022 comes to a close. This is especially true for May graduates looking for full time employment. MCAA recently updated its Job Board to make posting internships and entry level full-time positions easy. Take the first step to filling those openings – post your positions today!

On October 29, 2022, JPG Plumbing and Mechanical Services, Inc. teamed up with Kingdom Investors and Kids Against Hunger to donate and package meals for thousands suffering from starvation and malnutrition. Kids Against Hunger partners with organizations like JPG in bringing people together to make a difference feeding starving children and their families throughout 70 countries. JPG employees, their family members, friends, and vendor partners packaged more than 42,000 meals for distribution by Convoy of Hope to feed families in Haiti. This is the second year JPG has partnered with Kids Against Hunger, and they will continue to make this an annual event.

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 Kevin Dougherty, who uses his industry experience to provide tangible solutions to today’s problems in an easy-to-listen-to style.

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

MCAA’s 2023 Safety Conference includes 50+ hours of education from subject matter experts, plus inspiring keynote speakers like Connie Podesta. Connie will take you inside the minds of your most difficult employees and give you the tools to turn negative attitudes into positive, entitlement into accountability, complacency into productivity, complaining into solutions and “that’s not my job” into ownership. Join us January 17-19, 2023, in San Diego, CA. Register today!

Close collaboration between IMI TA, a branch of IMI Hydronic Engineering, and building designers led to a 23-percent savings in annual energy consumption (equivalent to $19,341) for an Oklahoma public building. The Lawton Public Safety Facility in Clay Coe, OK, is a 100,000-square-foot, four-story building with 350 working stations. The original design strategy for the facility included proportional control valves with no balancing valve on each terminal and a variable speed pump (VSP) differential pressure (DP) sensor.

The John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) has partnered with ELECTRI International (NECA) and the New Horizons Foundation (SMACNA) to assess and produce a detailed report on construction contracting best practices. Our collaboration is meant to provide industry-wide data that supports our members’ contract negotiations and guidance on better contract language to reduce liability. With better practices in place, risk can be shifted away from trade contractors to the appropriate party, leading to a more profitable industry overall.

A student from Ball State University was recently hired by U.S. Engineering after using the new GreatFutures job board to find a summer internship. Congratulations to Reece Manning and U.S. Engineering!

The HVACR industry is faced with a labor shortage, rapidly changing technology, and the emerging challenge of building electrification. With that in mind, Daikin, the largest manufacturer of HVACR equipment and the United Association are joining forces to tackle these challenges. On October 25, 2022, a new training lab was opened for business at the Steamfitters Technology Center in Harmony, PA.

While direct purchasing appears to offer advantages, hidden pitfalls may increase costs and delay project completion. MCAA’s Why Mechanical Contractors Should Furnish Equipment examines these advantages and pitfalls, giving contractors a well-rounded perspective on owner concerns and how best to address them. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Each year, MCAA provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for senior project managers, project executives, and operations directors to come together and hone their skills at our Advanced Institute for Project Management.This 5-day intensive program will take place January 29 – February 2, 2023, in Austin, TX, and only a few seats remain. Don’t delay – register today!

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized Sloan, an MCAA member, with a 2022 WaterSense Excellence Award for helping people save water. In recognition of its commitment to promoting WaterSense and water efficiency in 2021, Sloan was honored during the WaterSmart Innovations (WSI) Conference and Exposition October 6 in Las Vegas along with 33 other awardees – utilities, manufacturers, builders, retailers, and other organizations that partner with WaterSense to promote water-efficient products, homes, and programs. Congratulations to the entire Sloan team!

Keeping up with the latest and greatest mechanical innovations is a daunting task for contractors. Finding the time to research, test and implement new technologies feels like an impossible task. One of the only ways to keep up is to learn from others. The 2023 MEP Innovation Conference is constructed around that concept – learning from others. Register now to join us January 11-13, 2023, in Austin, Texas!

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Nancy Bandy, Managing Director of TRAINSITIONS Consulting Group LLC. Nancy provides service contractors and employees with the skills they need to build on the company’s relationships and success.

When Sacramento-based Air Systems Service & Construction (ASSC) began shopping for new software, their main priority was improving customer experience. Within eight months of adopting ServiceTrade’s commercial service software in 2021, ASSC was already seeing significant improvements in customer communication and increasing efficiency.

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

HVACR service companies that are thinking about adding plumbing to their company’s service offerings will benefit from MSCA’s new Plumbing Service 101 resource. In a series of five modules, Plumbing Service 101 highlights the benefits of offering plumbing service and investment challenges to consider before taking the leap. It also provides tips and resources that may be of interest to those with existing plumbing service operations.

Thank you to everyone who attended MSCA22 … it was a resounding success! We enjoyed the always sunny Huntington Beach, California, with sunset views over the ocean. We heard from inspiring keynote speakers on the topics of organizational and personal growth and making the impossible possible. We celebrated an Everyday Hero, welcomed new leaders, explored the latest products and services, and gave back to the community, all while having a lot of fun.

A new report by Independent Project Analysis (IPA), an independent international construction project engineering and research firm, shows that union mechanical contractors were 15% more productive than non-union contractors, with a more than 40% reduction in risks of cost and schedule overruns. It further reveals that the total cost of union projects was 4% less than non-union projects. The report is based on an analysis of 1,550 capital projects on industrial facilities across the United States over the past 20 years.

Faced with limited space in a new fabrication shop, Shinn Mechanical workers designed an articulating weld boom. MCAA’s Articulating Weld Boom provides details about this innovative device that lets fabricators perform any type of welding, including TIG, without any cords or hoses on the floor. 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.

Limbach Company LLC of Eastern PA, an MCAA and MSCA member, has been recognized as one of Philadelphia’s Top Workplaces by the Philadelphia Inquirer. This is the company’s fourth year in a row on the list. This year’s list recognizes 178 companies and organizations in Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley. “We are being recognized for something I have always known about this branch: we really do live out our core value of ‘we care’ – collectively and individually. We care about the work we do, the people we are, and those that we serve. This award goes to each of you for caring so deeply about our family here at Limbach,” Andy Wiegand, the company’s Vice President & Branch Manager, said to the team. MCAA congratulates everyone at Limbach.

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs 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 less problem prone projects, reduce duplication of effort, and allow your company to measure tangible results.

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

For decades, plumbing contractors have used inflatable or plumbing test balls to perform drain, waste, and vent (DWV) testing for new pipe installations, as required by plumbing code. But those traditional DWV testing systems often slow the plumber’s job down and can put them at risk of physical harm. In today’s world of labor shortages, plumbers and contractors need the best technologies available to get the job done efficiently and safely.

Retention of company records is critical for many reasons, especially the potential for litigation involving a construction project. MCAA’s Records Retention provides guidelines for establishing or refining a company’s records retention policy. 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 C. Richard Barnes and Casey Elford, experienced mediators and trainers. Richard and Casey help emerging and high potential leaders build the skills they need to succeed in mechanical contracting.

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 13, 2023. Candidates and their spokespersons will be scheduled for interviews at the 2023 MCAA Annual Convention. Those who are selected will begin their terms in March 2023.

F+F Mechanical Enterprises, an MCAA member, has been recognized as one of Connecticut’s Top Workplaces by the Hearst Connecticut Media Group. This is the company’s first year on the list, which includes 59 employers in a variety of sectors. Recognition is based on employee feedback. The survey results determine whether an organization makes the list and where it ranks on the list. “We are honored to receive this recognition and want to thank all our employees for their continued support and dedication to our mission of customer satisfaction,” said John Ferrucci, LEED AP, the company’s Vice President and MCAA board member. MCAA congratulates the entire F+F team.

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

National accounting firm Withum’s thought leaders will explore relevant topics to help your business stay agile and dynamic in the fast-changing business world during Withum’s Business and Finance Symposium: Future-Proofing your Business in an Era of Unknowns (November 9 and 16, 2022, from 1:00 – 5:00 PM ET). The online program will cover trending Tax and A&A concepts and discuss cryptocurrency, supply chain, transaction readiness, navigating turnover, and more.

Since the beginning of 2022, Har-Con has played a crucial part in a school expansion project, using MIFAB’s Quick Hub couplings and fixture carriers to stay on track. “The quick coupling is a great product that has saved Har-Con time and money through material cost and labor savings,” said Travis Welch, Har-Con project estimator.

As we make the final arrangements for the MCAA 2022 Fabrication Conference, we want to take a moment and announce the volunteer event details and pre-conference session schedule as a new option this year.

Nearly 70 volunteers from the Madison Area Mechanical and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (MSC) and United Association (UA) Steamfitters Local 601 serviced the homes of 59 veterans during the 34th Annual Heat’s On event on Saturday, October 8, 2022. The annual event ensures the safety of those who served our country.

Joint ventures share project control, management, profits, and losses. MCAA’s Joint Ventures provides guidance to help contractors determine when a joint venture may be beneficial. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA is celebrating 20 years of safety excellence with our 20th anniversary safety conference. New this year, an extended learning (add-on) course will prepare safety professionals for the Board of Certified Safety Professionals’ Certified Safety Professional (CSP) exam. The course, which is limited to 20 students, is sponsored by MCAA’s newest Manufacturer/Supplier Council member, ClickSafety.

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 Woody Woodall, the managing principal of Customer Focused Solutions, Inc. Woody focuses on the building blocks of what makes a healthy and successful service company, with an emphasis on customer service, team-building and effective communication.

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

Join the MCAA family and Make Your Moments with us at MCAA23! MCAA23 will be held at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Arizona, March 26 – 30, 2023. For those wanting a little more space away from the eye of the storm, we also have rooms at the nearby all-suite Marriott McDowell Mountain Resort. Register today to ensure your preferred room at your preferred property.

MSCA conducted a 2022 comprehensive benchmark survey to obtain current data on key performance indicators (KPIs) in the HVACR and plumbing service industry. The results were very insightful and sure to be beneficial to all MSCA members. The full report is now available, results are presented in two formats, one is overall results and the second is broken down by company size which can provide specific insight relevant to your company.

Mark Caudle, shop foreman of W.E. Bowers, estimated saving at least $35,000 per year and 20–­30 hours of labor per week by taking full advantage of the PypeServer software that came with one of its CNC pipe profilers. W.E. Bowers, a mechanical construction, service, and repair firm serving Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC, operates a 42,000-square-foot steel shop with six overhead cranes, CNC pipe profilers from both Watts and Vernon (each running PypeServer Enterprise), and 11 pipe turners and automated welding stations, each with a certified welder and a shared fitter.

It is said that imitation is the best form of flattery. In construction, imitation is the best form of profitability. Learning how innovative contractors have applied new technologies, processes and concepts is not only the first step in improving your company, but also an essential time and frustration saver. The 2023 MEP Innovation conference will help you do just that with peers from across the MEP trades. You won’t want to miss it! Register now to join us January 11-13, 2023, in Austin, Texas!

Planning is essential to the successful completion of any job. MCAA’s Pre-Job Conferences outlines the importance of the pre-job conference as a planning tool and includes a sample agenda for use at these meetings. 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 Greg Fuller, Owner and CEO of North Mechanical Contracting, Inc., North Mechanical Services, Inc., NewJac Industrial, LLC, and Integrated Modular Construction, LLC. Greg provides a comprehensive look at fabrication that is ideal for anyone interested in starting or expanding their fabrication process.

Checkout MCAA’s newly revised job board to find open positions across the country. These positions are posted by MCAA member companies looking to hire students specifically affiliated with an MCAA student chapter.

Still looking for an intern or full-time new hire? Checkout MCAA’s newly revised job board to post your open positions to a network of student chapter members from close to 50 student chapters from across the U.S. and Canada.

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that explains how to protect welders from exposure to welding fumes and minimize health risks.

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

Registration opens for the 2023 MCAA Annual Convention in seven days, and we’re going to give you seven reasons to mark your calendar to register on October 10.

In September 2020, the MCA of New Jersey’s leadership decided to donate the funds from its annual golf fundraiser to two nonprofit organizations: Convoy of Hope and Fulfill Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean counties. What began in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic has since become an annual act of goodwill that is celebrated among the association’s membership. To date, MCANJ has donated $150,000 to the organizations.

Training is key in driving desired systematic improvement in any organization. Yet many businesses see training as an optional cost rather than as a necessary investment with a significant return. Consequently, training often drops to the very bottom of companies’ priorities. Prioritizing training, however, makes your employees more productive, more profitable while at work, and more committed to your organization.

The Advanced Institute for Project Management (AIPM) is a unique, once-a-year educational experience designed for individuals with 8+ years of project management experience. Senior Project Managers, Project Executives, and Operations Directors are invited to attend this 5-day intensive program, which will take place January 29 – February 2, 2023, in Austin, TX. Register your project leaders today!

Congratulations are in order for the students of IPM Classes 81 and 82, who have just become the newest graduates of the MCAA’s Institute for Project Management! They join the ranks of the more than 2,600 project managers who have completed this two-week program designed specifically for the mechanical industry.

Subcontractors are often required to enroll in “wrap-up” insurance and loss control programs that cover the owner, general contractor (GC) and all subcontractors on a project. MCAA’s What Are the Pros and Cons of OCIPs and CCIPs? explains the benefits and drawbacks of two commonly used types of wrap-ups: the Owner Controlled Insurance Program (OCIP) and the Contractor Controlled Insurance Program (CCIP). 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 Mark Rogers, President of West Chester Mechanical Contractors, an HVAC, service and plumbing contractor that serves the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area. Mark sheds light on how interactions and decisions made in the field impact all areas of a company.

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.

Your field leaders are the face of your company. Are they prepared to communicate effectively, bridge conflict and personality clashes and protect your company’s image? Kevin Dougherty’s presentation at the Field Leaders Conference provides the tricks and tactics they need to get even the most difficult people eating out of their hands, plus other ideas for improving communication with crews, other subs, management and owners.

MCAA is excited to open registration for our 20th Annual Safety Conference. As the longest running skilled trade safety conference, we will be offering over 50 hours of training and education, including three incredible keynote speeches on safety leadership, mental health, and safety management. The conference will also include a special 20th anniversary celebration at PETCO Park hosted by MCAA’s Board of Directors. Join us January 17-19, 2023 in San Diego, California.

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

W.D. Manor Mechanical Contractors devised a better, safer dialysis box plumbing system, and now they are partnering with Whitehall Manufacturing, a division of Morris Group International, to manufacture and market the system. The W.D. Manor All-In-One Modular Dialysis Box by Whitehall® (model numbers 8193 and 8194) is easier and faster to install than traditional systems. Banner University Medical Center of Phoenix, AZ, installed the All-In-One Modular Dialysis Boxes in a major expansion project, saving hundreds of hours compared with traditional dialysis systems.

Looking for an intern or full-time new hire? Checkout MCAA’s newly revised job board to post your open positions to a network of student chapter members from close to 50 student chapters from across the U.S. and Canada.

Employee reviews are powerful tools in the performance improvement process. MCAA’s Employee Reviews provides guidelines and samples to help ensure a productive and beneficial review process for employees and their managers. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

National accounting firm Withum shares information to help you understand the tax implications of the recent Internal Revenue Service (IRS) ruling addressing the proper treatment of improperly forgiven paycheck protection program (PPP) loans. The IRS ruled that the PPP loan forgiveness amount is not tax-free, even if the Small Business Administration (SBA) and lender granted the borrower full loan forgiveness, if the taxpayer did not satisfy the factual requirements for loan forgiveness.

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.

The Mechanical Contractors Association of Chicago hosted its first Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) meeting on August 29, 2022. The Mechanical Contractors Association of Chicago is proud to host its own WiMI committee and provide these resources to the women in its membership, such as professional, networking, and educational events.

Many in the field may not realize how their daily job impacts the people they work with and the bottom line. At the MCAA Field Leaders Conference, your field team can benefit from the know-how of someone who has experienced it all in The Foreman’s Impact on Profitability session led by MCAA member Mark Rogers. Rogers began his career as a Steamfitter Apprentice in 1986 with Local 420 in Philadelphia, went on to start his own mechanical contracting company in 1996 and served as MCAA President in 2011. He volunteers around the country presenting his “Real Cost of a Man Hour” and has given the talk over 125 times to over 20,000 UA Members. Rogers is passionate about education for everyone in the industry and tailored his presentation at the Field Leaders Conference specifically so those in the field can better understand and appreciate their overall role and impact on a job.

2023 might seem like a far way off, but early registrants are not only taking advantage of the early-bird rate for the 2023 MEP Innovation Conference, but also spots in the facility tours. After a week of registrations, contractors have nearly filled the first release of tours at MCAA and SMACNA member Dynamic Systems Inc. The tours will include an explanation of DSI’s VDC operations and its integration to its sheet metal, plumbing and piping fabrication. More tours are to come. Register now to network with peers from multiple trades across the country and learn about industry advancements for the future of the MEP trades, January 11-13, 2023, in Austin, Texas!

As fabrication progresses towards manufacturing, a new approach is being taken that mirrors industrial manufacturing. For mechanical and plumbing contractors, this new approach involves a network of fabrication facilities, VDC resources and jobsite construction crews that work together to design and build projects as efficiently as possible. The 2022 MCAA Fabrication Conference, powered by MSUITE will be hosted by McKinstry Company, who will share insight into their network of shops approach. Registration is temporarily sold out while we secure additional hotel rooms. If interested, sign up for the waitlist.

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

Gain knowledge of what Industry Funds are, the best way to use them, and even what not to do with them when you join us for MCAA’s Industry Funds Conference (IFC) November 30 – December 2, 2022, in Longboat Key, FL. The IFC, formerly the Industry Improvement Funds Conference, will address geofencing, tied in with marketing; discuss how to better involve future leaders; and highlight how diversity is linked to the funds. We will hear from legal representatives, as well as CNA ‘s cybersecurity and insurance expert. If you collect or contribute to industry funds, you won’t want to miss it. Register today!

MCAA’s Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Initiative wants to give a big shout out to WiMI Vice Chair Wendy Glauber! She was recently named a 2022 Women of Influence Honoree in the Executive Category through Buffalo Business First.

Having interns working at MCAA member companies is a win-win for the mechanical contracting industry. Employers get top talent and build a pipeline for future employees. Students gain experience, create connections, develop skills and further their interest in mechanical contracting. Internship grants funded by the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) reward both the hiring company and the student.

General Piping, Inc. counted on NIBCO grooved butterfly valves to meet the strict deadlines of a high school renovation project. “NIBCO’s grooved butterfly valves were easy and fast to install, and they’ve performed well,” said Justin Richardson, project manager, who led the renovation of Lawrence Central High School in Indianapolis, IN.

MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference gives field leaders at all levels the skills, understanding, and inspiration to positively impact your company’s bottom line. This is an investment that will pay off throughout their careers. Can you afford not to send them? The conference will offer the same education in Indianapolis, IN (October 12-14, 2022) and Kansas City, MO (November 2-4, 2022). Register your field leaders today!

Unit prices are difficult to establish and even more difficult to utilize to establish a fair and equitable price for changes to contract work. MCAA’s Unit Pricing highlights the pitfalls of this pricing method and provides guidelines to help you avoid them. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The 2022-2023 John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) scholarship and grant applications are now available and are due on December 15th. Over $65,000 will be awarded to MCAA student chapter members during the Awards of Excellence Breakfast at MCAA23. Apply 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 Tom Williams, a retired mechanical contractor who shows contractors how to prosper while adding value to the complete construction process.

Your foremen didn’t get where they are by coasting. They’re good at what they do, and they can get even better by cultivating the attributes of great foremen. Greg Fuller, whose career spans from apprentice to company president and MCAA President, will lead a discussion of the top 10 attributes of great foremen. He will inspire your field leaders with new ideas and energy, to look at their role differently through an important professional lens, so they come back highly motivated to strive for greatness.

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 13, 2023. Candidates and their spokespersons will be scheduled for interviews at the 2023 MCAA Annual Convention. Those who are selected will begin their terms in March 2023.

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

Technology and innovation are evolving rapidly, and it is critical that field leaders be educated to keep pace. MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference lets field leaders explore the latest offerings from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council. By asking questions, they gain a fresh understanding of how those offerings impact project performance. They return ready to share these insights to help maximize your company’s ROI. That’s just one example of how the industry-specific content gives field leaders the skills, understanding, and inspiration to positively impact their company’s bottom line. The conference will offer the same education in Indianapolis, IN (October 12-14, 2022) and Kansas City, MO (November 2-4, 2022). Register your field leaders today!

Plumbing a new Sloan showroom comes with high expectations, so Great Lakes Plumbing and Heating Company placed a priority on early coordination and constant communication with Sloan and its construction company, Skender, throughout the project. That partnership paid off when the project faced some roadblocks, which Great Lakes Plumbing resolved using Sloan products.

Effective written communication is focused, clear and aims to accomplish a purpose. MCAA’s Business Writing for Success provides guidelines to help you consider and deliver messages that achieve the desired result. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Once again, MCAA has partnered with NECA and SMACNA to host the MEP 2023 Innovation Conference. This three-day event will include innovative presentations, collaborative roundtable discussions and hands-on exhibitor demonstrations highlighting the recent technologies that can improve MEP contractors’ productivity and profitability. Register now to network with peers from multiple trades across the country and learn about industry advancements for the future of the MEP trades, January 11-13 in Austin, Texas!

Construction is a hard and high-stress profession and has one of the highest rates of suicide in the nation. This month, MCAA has joined forces with NECA, SMACNA and TAUC to acknowledge those affected by suicide, help raise awareness about mental health and connect individuals with treatment services. Our four trade associations are uniting behind fixing this problem and shining a light on the importance of your mental health. Together we have released a chip with the new suicide and crisis prevention number; #988.

Our industry will change more in the next 5 years than it did in the last 50. Are your field leaders equipped to evolve along with it? Chris Haslinger served his apprenticeship with UA Local 50 and has held various roles throughout his career with the UA. With a career focused on education and training, Chris has seen the evolution of how jobs are performed first-hand. He has played a primary role in developing UA projects that embrace new technologies, including sustainable technology programs, energy audits and retrofits, CAD/BIM programs and technology in supervisory roles.

Don’t miss out on the MCAA Converge, a unique and intimate event that offers customized executive-to-executive meetings tailored to meet your company’s needs. The approach brings together top decision-makers from MCAA contractor and MCAA Manufacturer/Supplier Council members, engaging in strategic and innovation-based discussions. Don’t delay – register today for the November 14 – 16, 2022, event in Arlington, TX. Registration closes September 16, 2022.

Enhance your strategic supply chain with the five newest 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 Chip Mitchell, a senior level executive with more than thirty years of combined business and legal experience in the construction industry. Chip helps contractors better understand the risks imposed on their company throughout a contract and how to handle those risks.

The R-22 phaseout is fast-approaching… are you prepared? Are your customers? The key is to start planning now. Watch MSCA’s Phaseout Webinar, hosted by BuildOps.

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

MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference has earned rave reviews for its industry-specific content that gives field leaders at all levels the skills, understanding, and inspiration to positively impact their company’s bottom line. Learn what past attendees have to say and see how the conference content will benefit your field leaders and your company. The conference will offer the same education in Indianapolis, IN (October 12-14, 2022) and Kansas City, MO (November 2-4, 2022). Register your field leaders today!

In the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Waldinger Corporation had several projects delayed or cancelled, while the John W. Danforth Company needed additional detailing support. Using GTP Services’ STRATUS software, they successfully collaborated on a large project, to the benefit of both companies. STRATUS allowed the contractors to share resources and also digitize their paper-based workflow, eliminating mistakes and increasing productivity.

Cohen Seglias reports that a new bill has been signed into law in Virginia that prohibits the use of contingent payment provisions on construction projects. The new law amends VA ST §§ 2.2-4354 and 11-4.6 and provides that “[p]ayment by the party contracting with the contractor shall not be a condition precedent to payment to any lower-tier subcontractor, regardless of that contractor receiving payment for amounts owed to that contractor.” In other words, Virginia will no longer permit “pay-if-paid” provisions in construction contracts.

Outside advisors can help a company gauge management performance, answer operations questions, assist with planning for the future, arbitrate internal differences, and keep management alert to relevant changes in the external world. MCAA’s Corporate Structure: Using Outside Advisors/Directors offers tips for finding and involving these outside advisors. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Your field leaders are professionals who build people as much as they do projects. Do they have the skills needed to motivate people, use influence over authority and mentor, coach and empower their crews? Mark Breslin’s presentation at the Field Leaders Conference offers new ideas, strategies and tools to help them enhance crew performance. Your field leaders will leave Mark’s presentation with a new level of energy and vision for their future.

Ensure your chapter has access to the bid documents by e-mailing Michele Hoffman your team member names and e-mails, plus identify one team leader.

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 fall is the best time to hire for both summer internships and full-time employment. Join us at the MCAA GreatFutures Forum, September 29 – October 1, at the Boston Marriott Newton. 

South Florida’s weather poses many challenges, so Nagelbush Mechanical, Inc. relied on EVAPCO cooling towers to withstand the heat, sea air, and high winds for residents of the luxurious three-tower Park Grove complex along the shores of Biscayne Bay in South Florida.

Give your field leaders the skills they need to focus on growing company profits and brand when you send them to the Field Leaders Conference. They will return with an action item list, a fresh perspective on the latest tools and construction resources, and a network of other jobsite leaders to offer advice and provide support long after the class is over. The conference will be held in Kansas City, MO, November 2-4, 2022. Register your field leaders now!

Have you wanted to start a local Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) committee in your area, but weren’t quite sure where to start? The MCAA WiMI Committee has put together a comprehensive list of ideas and instructions that can be tailored to the specific needs of your area. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to wimi@mcaa.org.

With drought conditions stressing potable drinking water sources, jurisdictions are looking into the option of rainwater catchment and treatment for non-potable uses. MCAA is working as part of a coalition that includes the Plumbing Industry Leadership Council and the American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association to understand how the industry is using rainwater catchment on projects. If you are a contractor that has worked on or is working on rainwater catchment projects, please take a moment to complete a short survey. Your responses will help the industry coalition understand current treatment procedures, uses and services.

The last lecture is over, the last homework assignment submitted, the last quiz completed. So, congratulations are in order for this year’s Pre-IPM graduates! Classes 15-20 of MCAA’s newest national education program have just completed their 12 weeks of online introductory project management training. How did it go? Here’s what our recent grads had to say.

Standard manufacturers’ warranties can expose contractors to unexpected exposures. MCAA’s Understanding Manufacturers’ Warranties explains potential exposures and offers tips for minimizing them. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Mark your calendars! MCAA’s 2022 Safety Conference will be celebrating 20 years in San Diego, CA, Jan. 17-19, 2023.

National accounting firm Withum shares information to help you understand the potential impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act, which was signed into law on August 16, 2022. They note that the act, which includes $80 billion of increased funding for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), will meaningfully increase IRS audit rates, but the impact won’t happen overnight.

MCAA congratulates our very own Michele Hoffman on her selection as the recipient of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Education Foundation’s Carol A. Kueker Construction Education Visionary Award. The annual award recognizes an individual who has worked aggressively to promote construction as a viable career path, and Michele certainly fits the bill. MCAA CEO Tim Brink said, “Michele’s accomplishments are the result of years of hard work and dedication. I’m proud to have her as a member of the MCAA team.”

Congratulations to MCAA member Harrell-Fish Inc. (HFI) on being named Plumbing & Mechanical’s 2022 Mechanical Contractor of the Year. The firm’s commitment to its employees, its dedication to improving the industry by educating everyone, and its eagerness to be adopt technology and innovation earned HFI the title.

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

Give your field leaders the skills they need to focus on growing company profits and brand when you send them to the Field Leaders Conference. They will return with an action item list, a fresh perspective on the latest tools and construction resources, and a network of other jobsite leaders to offer advice and provide support long after the class is over. The conference will offer the same education in two locations: Indianapolis, IN (October 12-14, 2022) and Kansas City, MO (November 2-4, 2022). Choose your preferred city to learn more and register your field leaders now!

For contractors interested in how to establish and optimize their plumbing service operations, the 2022 PCA Plumbing Service Conference is the perfect opportunity! The conference scheduled for September 14-15 in Kansas City, Missouri, combines contractor-led presentations, roundtable discussions and a facility of Lexington Plumbing’s Kansas City headquarters.

Properly drafted corporate minutes that reflect the actual intentions of the corporate directors and shareholders can be, and frequently have been, the factor that tips the scales in the taxpayer’s favor during disputes with the Internal Revenue Service. MCAA’s How to Set Up Tax-Wise Corporate Minutes explains the bottom-line importance of these important business documents. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA member XOi Technologies, a leading provider of technician-focused technology solutions, has formed a partnership with the United Association (UA) that delivers XOi’s innovative AI-based tech-enablement solution to HVACR instructors and registered service apprentices across the United States.

Registration is now open for the 2022 MCAA Fabrication Conference, powered by MSUITE. The conference is returning to Seattle, November 2-4, 2022 with a tour of one of the country’s most dynamic mechanical contractors – McKinstry Company. It will feature how innovative contractors are integrating digital information throughout their fabrication process by using a “Model-to-Machine” approach.

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.

Stacy Zerr will become the MCA of Kansas City’s (MCAKC) next Executive Director on October 31, 2022. She brings over 24 years of mechanical contracting experience to the role, most recently as the Director of Pre-Construction Services for The Waldinger Corporation in Des Moines, Iowa. Stacy is active in MCAA as Chair of the Innovative Technologies Committee and as a member of both the Project Managers Education Committee and the Women in the Mechanical Industry Steering Committee. “We look forward to the leadership and professionalism that Stacy will bring to the association, and we’re excited to have her join our team at the end of October,” said Greg Stanger, MCAKC President.

MCAA has partnered with the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) for Safe + Sound Week, August 15-21, 2022. This nationwide event, held each August, recognizes the successes of workplace health and safety programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America’s workers safe.

New workers are often the most vulnerable to accidents and injuries. To help, MCAA produced a New Worker Safety Orientation video and several accompanying resources including, a pocket guide, documentation sheet, test, and answer key. This package of resources is meant to train new workers on how to identify common hazards in the mechanical industry, and how to protect themselves from those hazards. Topics covered include: stop work authority, pre-task planning, PPE, working at heights, fall protection, fall prevention, power tool safety, hazard communication, housekeeping, and emergency procedures.

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has fully endorsed the 2020 edition of MCAA’s Change Orders, Productivity, Overtime—A Primer for the Construction Industry. ASHRAE’s endorsement joins those of the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), and the American Subcontractors Association (ASA), making the guide an industry standard for the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) industries.

Equipment leasing may provide attractive advantages, however much consideration should be given to the overall costs and benefits before making this important decision. MCAA’s Purchase vs. Lease Considerations helps contractors consider the overall costs and benefits before making this important decision. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Those working in the field come to MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference prepared to discuss their companies, their projects and the challenges they face, but they leave with a new network of peers. In sharing their own experiences and listening to others, attendees build new relationships that allow them to exchange advice and support long after they leave. The conference will be offered in both Indianapolis, IN (October 12-14, 2022) and Kansas City, MO (November 2-4, 2022). Register your field leaders today!

Thermal Energy or Clean Energy is the reduction or elimination of carbon dioxide from energy sources. For example, heat pumps are a clean energy source for water heating and comfort cooling and heating. We will be joined by subject matter expert on geothermal HVACR technologies, Jay Egg. Join us on Thursday, August 18th at 3:00 p.m. Eastern.

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

MCAA Member Arden Building Companies recently hosted an Intern Day to familiarize new interns with the company and the industry. The event was hosted by Robert Bolton, CEO of Arden Building Companies and MCAA’s President, John Puniello, President of Arden Engineering Constructors, and Ciara Fusaro, HR Manager for Arden Building Companies. It included a mix of fun and games and serious learning about the industry, including a demonstration of Arden’s new Spool Welding Robot and a tour of the Unique Metal Works sheet metal fabrication facility. Arden’s interns are learning from the teams at Arden Engineering Constructors in Pawtucket, RI, Corporate Mechanical of New England in Woburn, MA, and MJ Daly in Waterbury, CT, all MCAA members.

The MCAA Field Leaders Conference provides those working in the field with the skills needed to be business and results oriented leaders who focus on growing company culture, brand and profits. During this intensive conference, attendees will learn from industry experts including facilitators who have been in their shoes and worked their way through the ranks to become successful business owners and from their peers from around the country as members of breakout session teams. The conference will be offered in both Indianapolis, IN (October 12-14, 2022) and Kansas City, MO (November 2-4, 2022) this fall. Register your field leaders today!

Longevity in business is rare. According to Harvard Business Review, the average lifespan of businesses has fallen by 80% in the last 80 years (from 67 to 15 years). With this in mind, the staying power of MJ Daly is that much more impressive. This year, MJ Daly, LLC of Waterbury, Conn. is celebrating 140 years of providing mechanical contracting services to commercial and industrial buildings across New England.

MCAA’s Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) initiative was launched in 2018 to enable women in the industry to further enrich their careers. One woman who has been a role model for this initiative is President of Peterson Service Co and Past President of MCANJ, Renee Fiorelli. As the first female president of MCANJ in it’s 100-year history, Fiorelli is no stranger to being one of the few women in the room. But she is also no stranger to this industry.

The MCAA Fabrication Conference, powered by MSUITE, is going to Seattle this November 2-4 with a tour of one of the country’s most dynamic mechanical contractors – McKinstry Company. This conference is one of MCAA’s most popular conferences and it sells out quickly. Registration is limited to 2 people per company, including those with multiple locations. Register now!

The same project management team that deals with day-to-day jobsite problems will also necessarily be the first to react to a crisis. MCAA’s Mechanical Contractor’s Guide to Crisis Management will help your company develop or fine-tune its crisis management plan. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The PCA has partnered with Lexington Plumbing of Kansas City to host the 2022 PCA Plumbing Service Conference from September 14 – 15, 2022. The event will center around a hosted facility tour of Lexington Plumbing’s commercial plumbing service operations. Registration is now open. Space is limited to 65 participants, so don’t delay – 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 Virtual Trade Show connects our contractor members with the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

With the overlapping work many MCAA and MSCA members have, clarifying the differences of low-slope roof work between Mechanical Service (1910 Standards) and Mechanical Construction (1926 Standards) is important. MCAA has created a poster to be printed and posted on jobsites to help your workers quickly understand the OSHA requirements, and ultimately create safer jobsites.

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.

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

The MCAA Field Leaders Conference provides those working in the field with the skills needed to be business and results oriented leaders who focus on growing company culture, brand and profits. During this intensive conference, attendees will learn from industry experts including facilitators who have been in their shoes and worked their way through the ranks to become successful business owners and from their peers from around the country as members of breakout session teams. The conference will be offered in both Indianapolis, IN (October 12-14, 2022) and Kansas City, MO (November 2-4, 2022) this fall. Register your field leaders today!

In 2021, 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 Foundation, a video series has been produced by MCAA’s Chief Security Fanatic, Nick Espinosa to provide an update on the process. Recently, the DoD has updated their timeline for CMMC and plan on publishing their initial requirements in March 2023 for the 60-day review and comment period. Once completed, the first phase of CMMC compliance will go into effect with a self-assessment that must be completed by every contractor working on a DoD project.

The PCA has partnered with Lexington Plumbing of Kansas City to host the 2022 PCA Plumbing Service Conference from September 14 – 15, 2022. The event, which is modeled after MCAA’s Fabrication Conference, will center around a hosted facility tour of Lexington Plumbing’s commercial plumbing service operations. Registration is now open. Space is limited to 65 participants, so don’t delay – register today!

Join us September 29-October 1 at the Boston Marriott Newton for MCAA’s GreatFutures Forum! We’re getting back to the basics this year and focusing on all the things that make mechanical contracting such an exciting career choice. Registration is complimentary for all students, faculty, local affiliates, and MCAA members.

The use of permanent HVAC systems to provide temporary heat during construction introduces the possibility of indoor air quality (IAQ) issues down the line. MCAA’s Temporary Usage of HVAC Equipment explains why temporary heating, cooling and dehumidification equipment specifically designed for use during construction is preferable. 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.

At MCAA’s Field Leaders Conferences, you will hear from the best of the best. MCAA will be holding two 2022 Field Leaders Conferences: Indianapolis, IN (October 12-14) and Kansas City, MO (November 2-4). It’s a conference your lead field personnel cannot afford to miss and we hope to see them there!

Congratulations to Autodesk Inc., MILWAUKEE TOOL and Hilti for making Glassdoor’s list of 100 Best Places to Work in 2022.

Lien laws protect subcontractors and suppliers by securing payment for work performed on privately-owned real property, even in the absence of a direct contract with the property owner. MCAA’s Protecting Lien Rights provides an overview of lien laws and how to protect against loss of lien rights. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA and its partners in safety, CNA & MILWAUKEE TOOL, offer resources to help protect workers from heat stress.

Having interns working at MCAA member companies is a win-win for the mechanical contracting industry. Employers get top talent and build a pipeline for future employees. Students gain experience, create connections, develop skills and further their interest in mechanical contracting. Internship grants funded by the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) reward both the hiring company and the student.

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

MCAA is pleased to be hosting two Field Leaders Conferences this Fall. The same conference is being presented in two different cities to welcome as many field personnel as possible. We will be in Indianapolis, IN (October 12-14) and Kansas City, MO (November 2-4). Help your field personnel become leaders and register them today!

Site conditions may significantly impact productivity on the job. Poor site conditions can affect material handling as well as the actual time required for installation of pipe and equipment. MCAA’s Minimizing the Risk of Poor Site Conditions provides a site conditions checklist to help mechanical contractors address potential issues early in 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.

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Kevin Dougherty, who uses his industry experience to provide tangible solutions to today’s problems in an easy-to-listen-to style.

Don’t miss out on early bird registration for MSCA22 beyond! You still have a few days left to take advantage of all that the MSCA22 Education Conference has to offer at our early bird rate.

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

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that explains what welders are allowed to weld in production based on the test conditions.

Many employees are more comfortable using their own mobile devices on the job. MCAA’s Bring Your Own Device – Is It Right for Your Company? explores the advantages and disadvantages of a bring your own device (BYOD) policy to help mechanical contractors decide whether to adopt such a policy. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The MCA of Chicago elected Jim Jacobsen, Jr., of DePue Mechanical, Inc.as its president during the association’s June 16, 2022, annual meeting. Jim is taking over from past president Charlie Usher of Ideal Heating Company.

From sales to dispatch to service management and supervision, MSCA provides education to build your knowledge and skills to take your career to the next level and help your company succeed. Registration is now open for all classes. Class size is limited, so register today!

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

The Construction Labor Research Council’s (CLRC) new report, Contractor’s Cost Conundrum, explains some of the economic and staffing challenges faced by contractors. The report shows that recent increases in material prices dwarf the cost of living. It also explains variability and shows that extreme variability over time results in unpredictability in the cost of construction commodities and spending on construction and employment, making it difficult for contractors to plan.

MCAA’s Safety Statistics & Awards program recognized 90 MCAA members’ safety performance in 2021. All applicants received a valuable benchmarking report that will allow them to compare their own 2021 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 qualified also received a certificate of commendation. Congratulations to all!

Modern construction projects require expertise in multiple forms of scheduling to account for proper work sequencing, resource allocation, and production planning. MCAA’s Scheduling Best Practices offers tips for adapting and improving skill and competency at scheduling. 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.

Since 2010, MSCA has partnered with Convoy of Hope during the Annual MSCA Education Conference to support a local organization in the community where the conference is being held with needed supplies and hands-on assistance. In 2022, we will support the Community Action Partnership Orange County, a charity that has worked to enhance the quality of life in their community since 1965 by seeking to end and prevent poverty. $50,000 is a lofty goal, but now is the time to go above and beyond.

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

3M has notified the industry of a potential manufacturing issue that could result in some lanyards not performing properly in the event of a fall. This could result in severe injury or death. Select 3M™ DBI-SALA® ShockWave™2 Arc Flash Shock Absorbing Lanyards are impacted and should be removed from service. See the recall notice for details and information about replacements.

When working on multistory apartment complexes or other large commercial buildings, you may be tasked with installing firestop products or materials around service penetrations, which can be a daunting task involving dozens or hundreds of units and a plethora of floorplans. You will also likely encounter a wide variety of pipe types and sizes along with slab heights. You will need versatile, efficient, and reliable options to cover the range of pipe penetrations for the job, while also keeping in mind firestop and building codes. Here are some tips for selecting the best cast-in-place firestop sleeve for the job.

More workers are killed or injured in and around excavations than in any other phase of construction work. MCAA and safety partner CNA offer resources that reinforce the importance of trench protective systems to keep your team safe during Trench Safety Stand-Down Week June 20 – 24, 2022 and every day.

Markups provide funds to cover overhead costs, a fair and reasonable profit, and some cushion in case estimated costs are exceeded. MCAA’s Service Markups vs. Construction Markups discusses the elements of a job estimate that may be considered for markups. 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.

The full-featured digital version of MCAA’s Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide enhances the look and feel of our printed directory. Download your copy for digital-only benefits that help you stay connected throughout the year. Printed copies will mail in the next few weeks.

Tolin Mechanical of Denver, CO, adopted the XOi Vision app to streamline data capture and communication among its technicians and customers, improving customer satisfaction, decision making, and repeat business. Tolin is a full-service facility management company that works with commercial, industrial, institutional, and government organizations to maintain safe, healthy, and energy-efficient building operations.

MCAA thanks everyone who attended the second annual Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Conference in Austin. It was a time to come together, to learn from peers in the industry, to expand networks, and to grow this incredible initiative. We are proud to have brought together such a dynamic group of women! Take a look at how the attendees spent the three jam packed days.

The layout of a construction job site and its corresponding security plan often make the difference between controlling losses and suffering costly thefts. MCAA’s Contractor’s Equipment: A Guide to Better Security provides general guidelines for improving security. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The AEC Best Practices Conference is the place to be to help your association succeed. Join us July 24 – 27, 2022, in Savannah, GA, to find out what’s new at MCAA and the United Association (UA), get apprenticeship selection best practices, and learn about Construction Labor Research Council (CLRC) reports that will keep you on the cutting edge of bargaining trends and settlements. You will also find out how to guide your association to heathier trust funds, get tools for navigating strikes and work stoppages, learn how the Labor Management Compliance Council is helping CPMCA yield market growth through effective government affairs, and learn about your peers’ experiences with MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference. There will be plenty of time to network and share ideas, so don’t miss out. Register today!

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) fall protection standard Z359.14-2021, Safety Requirements for Self-Retracting Devices for Personal Fall Arrest and Rescue Systems, will go into effect on February 1, 2023. When it does, MCAA member companies will face several changes and additional testing requirements in an area that is among the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) most frequently cited violations. Prepare your company now by familiarizing yourself with the changes and purchasing equipment that meets the new standard.

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.

Join us for the 36th Annual MSCA Education Conference where we will push beyond the boundaries to look at where our industry is headed in the future. Collectively we go beyond what we can do as individuals, and when we share our knowledge, our expertise, and our ideas, we move beyond what we can do on our own to something extraordinary. We look forward to seeing you October 16 – 19, 2022, in Huntington Beach, CA!

Nashville Machine Company took on the complicated task of removing and replacing an aging water heating system so large it would not fit through the mechanical room doors. Installing a new system from Lochinvar went smoothly thanks to the flexibility of the Lochinvar products, which also promised excellent energy efficiency, making them the ideal choice for the project.

Insurance is a costly but integral part of a contractor’s business. MCAA’s Insurance Punch List helps contractors understand how and why premium dollars are spent and when insurance is needed. 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.

A&R Mechanical Contractors, Inc. credits PypeServer software with dramatically improving efficiency in its fabrication shop; pipe cutting tasks that used to take hours can now be done in 10 minutes or less. Justin Powers, A&R’s virtual design and construction (VDC) and fabrication business unit manager, oversees work across the spectrum from contract award to field installation. He described his company’s typical workflow and tools and the impact of integrating PypeServer software.

MCAA and MCAC have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), confirming the long-standing partnership and collaboration between the two associations. In addition to the promotion of the mechanical contracting sector, the MOU also sets out guidelines on the sharing of educational resources, industry best practices, as well as attendance at MCAA and MCAC events.

When a customer files bankruptcy, mechanical contractors face legal and other pitfalls that may affect their business relationship with that customer. MCAA’s Doing Business with a Customer in Bankruptcy reviews each of these to help contractors preserve relationships and protect their bottom line. 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 sure your service techs have the up-to-date safety training they need to protect themselves from arc flash and electrical shock hazards while working on equipment pushing 480 volts or less. The session covers all applicable OSHA requirements, NFPA 70E provisions, best practices, and real-world accident information.

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

MCAA recently submitted comprehensive comments in support of the Biden Administration’s proposed comprehensive modernization of the Davis-Bacon and Related Acts regulatory provisions. The comments confirm the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) goal of modernizing the Davis Bacon regulations, citing the accretion of regressive policy implementation over the years that sought to avoid giving proper weight to collective bargaining rates in the Davis Bacon wage survey and wage determination process.

Ongoing supply chain and project timeline issues continue to be challenges for many companies. This makes it more important than ever for contractors to find ways to improve efficiency and make up for lost time on projects. Get tips to improve productivity and save time on projects from Miller Electric Mfg. Co.

Join us for the 36th Annual MSCA Education Conference at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa on October 16-19, 2022. As always, the program will be packed with four days of remarkable educational offerings, current industry trends, and connecting with friends! Registration opens June 6 with early bird registration of $1,600 for members and $650 for partners.

Thanks to MCAA member contributions, an additional $5,750 has been donated to The MCAA Charitable Fund for Ukrainian relief. These donations will be added to $46,250 in member contributions and $25,000 from MCAA previously donated to support the work of the International Committee of the Red Cross, which is actively saving and protecting the lives of victims of armed conflict and violence in Ukraine. MCAA will continue to forward additional donations to the International Committee of the Red Cross. Please consider making a donation using the link on the MCAA website.

Many projects involve team members from the start, before working plans and specifications are developed. MCAA’s Team Management in Construction explains what teams are, how they are formed, and how they operate to prepare mechanical contractors to be effective team members. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC) has released its 2022 Union Craft Labor Supply Report. The industry’s only union-specific report focused on construction and maintenance shows great confidence in the industry’s growth prospects.

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

In today’s high-tech world, when people talk about tool timesavers they tend to focus on the latest Bluetooth technology or the newest gadget. Yet, technology is not the only way to cut down time on a jobsite: tools that allow you to work smarter, not harder, can help any professional get to the next jobsite more effectively and efficiently.

MCAA partnered with The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC), the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), and the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) to investigate how third-party pre-qualification requirements affect members’ businesses. An article in The Constructor User reports the findings.

Companies that let employees use company vehicles may face liability should an accident occur. MCAA’s Avoiding Potential Liability from Employees’ Use of Company Vehicles describes the most common types of liabilities and offers tips to help reduce them. 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.

Missouri’s C.E. Jarrell Mechanical Contracting Co. Inc. finished an extensive project ahead of the fast-track completion date by using CerroPress® press-to-connect domestic water fittings and CerroTube™ copper plumbing tube from Cerro Flow Products LLC®. Press fitting saved time and labor compared with sweating or soldering joints. Without a need for flame, Jarrell did not need a fire watch or special permits. They installed CerroPress copper fittings in sizes 1/2” to 2 1/2” throughout the facility.

Thank you to all who participated in the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction! MCAA members from all over the country took part in daily Safety Stand-Down events hosted by our national partners – MILWAUKEE TOOL, TYFOOM, Little Giant Ladders, CLICKSAFETY, and CNA.

MCAA is conducting a membership survey to gather data to support our claims that improvements in the administration of the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Davis-Bacon rules will improve competitive conditions in the markets for those projects and overall project performance. Please take 10 minutes to support your association’s efforts in this important area of federal construction policy. Survey responses are due by May 9, 2022.

Managing retainage has become a significant issue for a mechanical contractor’s cash flow strategies. MCAA’s Managing Retainage – A Critical Component of Effective Cash Flow offers ideas for effectively managing retainage. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Now, More Than Ever, is the year to attend the WiMI Conference, June 6–8 in Austin, TX. This year’s agenda includes riveting educational sessions.

Transform the way you lead – the way you think about leadership – by developing the skills that will take you and your team to the next level. The recently refreshed curriculum of the Advanced Leadership Institute provides the very best in executive education, hosted in beautiful Chapel Hill, NC.

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

The performance of any health care building is linked to the HVAC ecosystem, as accurate indoor temperature and air quality are critical in health care settings. However, each project comes with its own set of challenges. IMI Hydronic Engineering has over 300 years of combined experience on hydronic systems.

MCAA is pleased to welcome Carlos Arias to the MCAA staff. Carlos, who is originally from Guatemala, will be the new voice answering the phones at MCAA starting May 2, 2022. Carlos began his service career in the hospitality industry with many years at several major Washington, DC hotels. He has spent the past 16 years working in property management in Gaithersburg, MD, a suburb near the MCAA office. On weekends Carlos spends time with family and friends at cookouts, enjoying music and dancing, and traveling to the beach. Join us in welcoming Carlos and his family to the MCAA staff family.

To survive and grow in today’s marketplace, mechanical contractors must become better managers and business professionals. MCAA’s The Management Audit: Peer Group Guidelines explains how informally organized groups of non-competing contractors can assist each other through idea exchange to run their respective businesses more professionally and more profitably. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

This year’s National Safety Stand-Down will take place May 2-6, 2022.  The goal of the Stand-Down is to raise awareness to fall hazards and reinforce safe work practices that help prevent fatalities and injuries related to falls. MCAA has partnered with industry leaders to bring you daily trainings and education events, across the county.​

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.

Dormatech Mechanical Systems of Northern California faced a familiar litany of challenges using multiple software platforms to manage its business. After switching to an integrated BuildOps software solution, Dormatech rapidly increased revenue by 50 percent.

A company’s employee manual sets expectations and delivers information. MCAA’s Guide to Human Resources Policies provides guidance on human resources policies to help MCAA members design their own employee manuals. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Three powerful, motivating and dynamic women – Sara Ross, Valorie Burton and Michelle Poler – will inspire women at all stages of their careers during the 2nd Annual WiMI Conference in Austin, TX, June 6-8. Don’t miss it – register today!

MCAA has partnered with industry leaders to bring you daily trainings and education events across the county.​ Register now for MCAA’s daily offerings presented by MILWAUKEE TOOL, TYFOOM, Little Giant Ladders, CLICKSAFETY, and CNA.

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

Founded in 1975, Auburn Mechanical of Auburn, WA, has decades of experience taking on large, complex projects, but internal processes—communication, documentation, record keeping, and information sharing—can pose the biggest challenges. Justin Pritchett, construction division manager at Auburn Mechanical, points out that the more manual steps involved in such processes, the higher the risk that those steps will not be completed. Procore’s integrated, fully mobile digital construction management solution puts Auburn Mechanical’s voluminous project information literally at the fingertips of craft labor in the field, streamlining processes and reducing the risk of lost, missing, or incomplete data.

The education MCAA members and local affiliates depend on just got a little less expensive thanks to a new program that offers a 20% rebate on instructor fees for select National Education Initiative (NEI) classes, up to $5,000 per class. This benefit is available only to MCAA members and local affiliates in good standing who book courses via the NEI Initiative portal.

Understanding the elements of a basic financial statement is a must for anyone in business. MCAA’s Guide to Financial Statements demystifies the process of preparing and analyzing the financial information that is essential to your company’s success. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

New field supervisors often lack essential management and leadership training. MSCA’s Growing and Developing Service Supervisors fills that gap with the management and leadership training these team members need to confidently tackle today’s business challenges. The May 16-17, 2022, program will advance leadership, coaching, planning, time management, communication, and motivation skills, giving supervisors and their companies a competitive edge. Register today!

In response to popular demand, we have added one final Pre-IPM class to our 2022 training roster. 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!

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.

Labor Secretary Marty Walsh joined Vice President Kamala Harris April 12, 2022 to announce a first-ever Occupational Safety and and Health Administration (OSHA) National Emphasis Program (NEP) to protect workers from indoor and outdoor heat hazards. The NEP lists construction among the industries expected to have high exposures to heat-related hazards resulting in illnesses. MCAA is representing our members’ interests with OSHA because we know there is nothing more important than the health and safety of our workers, and you’re invited to join us.

The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that explains how to determine the number of test coupons required to meet the minimum weld length for radiographic examination under ASME Section IX.

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

Called on to help a Chicago condominium that was having repeated pump failures, AMS Mechanical Systems determined the cause to be metal debris in the pumps. Metraflex Company’s LPD Mag, a high-efficiency, low-pressure-drop Y-strainer with a neodymium magnet, proved to be the perfect solution. AMS found the new, low-cost strainers were easy to install and effectively fixed the problem.

MSCA’s Growing and Developing Service Supervisors fills the knowledge gap for field supervisors who are new to the role or lack management and leadership training. The May 16-17, 2022, program will advance leadership, coaching, planning, time management, communication, and motivation skills, giving supervisors and their companies a competitive edge. Register today!

MSCA Sales Masters is the preeminent Sales Course to prepare your sales team for future success. NOW is the time to provide this relevant and important training to your sales employees to ensure their skills and abilities are focused, fine-tuned and far-sighted.

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like C. Richard Barnes and Casey Elford, experienced mediators and trainers. Richard and Casey help emerging and high potential leaders build the skills they need to succeed in mechanical contracting.

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

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

Tight timelines are a constant in building, but supply chain disruptions triggered by the COVID pandemic have complicated matters further. Olson Plumbing turned to Josam Company for drainage products that could meet the specifications and timing required for a new Colorado hospital. Josam’s packaging, labeling, and shipping method saved Olson Plumbing time onsite, cutting labor costs.

Now, More Than Ever is the time to get involved with Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI). The WiMI Conference is back, and it’s filled with information and inspiration, exceptional networking, and crucial conversations to empower you to succeed. Networking and social events will help you enhance your professional network. From industry newcomers to executives, and everyone in between, this is the event to attend for all women in the mechanical contracting industry. Register now for the June 6-8 event in Austin, TX. Space is limited.

MCAA extends a warm welcome to Noreen Cournoyer, who will be joining the staff as MCAA’s new Associate Director, Conference Services starting April 4. Noreen previously planned events for the New Jersey Association for Justice and the National Association of Attorneys General. She graduated from Northeastern University in Boston, MA, and has since earned the Digital Event Strategist (DES) and Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credentials. She holds leadership roles with the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Capital Chapter and the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Research Foundation. MCAA is pleased to welcome Noreen to the staff and to the MCAA family.

MCAA’s National Education Initiative (NEI) Seminars bring our best programs to your local association or your company thanks to instructors like Chip Mitchell, a senior level executive with more than thirty years of combined business and legal experience in the construction industry. Chip helps contractors better understand the risks imposed on their company throughout a contract and how to handle those risks.

MCAA’s Multi-Employer Defined Contribution Plans – Are You Liable for Another Contractor’s Delinquency? offers strategies to help you minimize potential liability for uncollected contributions in a multi-employer defined benefit pension plan. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

As construction-related claims become more frequent and expensive than ever before, new trends have emerged in the types and causes of losses. CNA offers tailored coverages to help construction companies mitigate these risks, along with resources to help keep projects and workers safe.

Are you looking to re-energize your Foreman or Superintendent so they can better lead the team? Do you see your Journeyman or Apprentice as a future leader? If so, register them today for MCAA’s upcoming Field Leaders Conference, May 11-13 in Rochester, NY. 

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.

MCAA has joined forces with the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) to create an even more robust guide to equipment recovery costs for mechanical, electrical, line and other construction contractors. The guide offers insights on contractor-owned equipment to ensure industry professionals have the most updated costs to inform internal estimating, project proposals for new and potential customers, and cost accounting efforts.

For decades, engineers have relied on a formula dating from 1940 to estimate peak water demand, a key factor in specifying the smallest pipe size that will provide sufficient water pressure for every fixture in a building to function normally. Sloan’s chief scientist, Kay Herbert, Ph.D., has developed a new formula that yields more accurate water demand estimates— which can save costs, reduce water use, and prevent bacteria growth. (Sloan is a benefactor of MCAA22.) The new formula is ideal for modern engineers grappling with green technology, touch-free fixtures, and hygiene concerns in the post-COVID-19 era.

MCAA’s Fraud Prevention provides guidance to assist you in considering the sources of fraud and establishing policies and procedures to prevent its occurrence as much as practically possible. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The student chapter at Missouri State University proudly nominated Jacob Nelson for the MCAA 2021 Educator of the Year based on his mentoring, mechanical industry knowledge, chapter activity participation, and involvement and creation of student-focused networking opportunities with their local MCAA Chapter, MCA of Greater Springfield, Missouri.

An integral part of MSCA’s Sales Institute, the Sales Masters program is meticulously tailored for intermediate to advanced HVACR and plumbing sales professionals looking to take their careers to the next level. The intensive nine-day program will provide industry-specific training not found in any other sales program. Individualized feedback and step-by-step involvement of the attendee’s sales manager/leader will ensure that attendees reach or exceed all personal expectations and goals.

MCAA applauds Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, Wage and Hour Division Acting Administrator Jessica Looman, and all U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) policy leaders for their work developing well-considered regulatory procedures modernizing U.S. prevailing wage protections for construction workers, responsible employers, government agency construction agencies and programs, and the taxpayers generally. The proposed regulations were published in the Federal Register on March 18, 2022.

At the MCAA22 Awards of Excellence Breakfast on March 16th, The University of Maryland, College Park was awarded the 2021 MCAA Student Chapter of the Year for their continued achievement and overall focus on offering career opportunities in mechanical contracting to their student membership.

At our National Convention, newly appointed MCAA President Bob Bolton (Arden Building Companies) identified small contractor education as a focal point of his presidential agenda for the coming year. MCAA recognizes that for small to medium sized member companies, sometimes sending a project manager away for a week or more of offsite training simply isn’t practical. The Preparatory Institute for Project Management is designed to provide an accessible, strong foundation in mechanical project management education – delivered in weekly 90-minute sessions, without a PM even having to leave their desk.

At the MCAA22 Awards of Excellence Breakfast on March 16th, McMaster University was awarded the top prize of $10,000 and a trophy for their outstanding work on the 2021-2022 Student Chapter Competition.

Congratulations to Larry Fisher, the winner of the Statue of Liberty painting created by internationally recognized artist Erik Wahl during the MCAA22 Closing General Session. MCAA members contributed $46,250 to The MCAA Charitable Fund to be added to MCAA’s $25,000 donation for Ukrainian relief. All donations will support the work of the International Committee of the Red Cross, which is actively saving and protecting the lives of victims of armed conflict and violence in Ukraine.

Mark Rogers, President of the John R. Gentille Foundation, announced the recipients of the following scholarships at the Awards of Excellence Breakfast at MCAA22.  He noted that the students receiving scholarships were selected for their academic performance, leadership skills, interest in developing a career in the mechanical industry, work ethic, and technical abilities. 

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

MCAA22 concluded a week of reuniting and learning with final thoughts from MCAA President Armand Kilijian. UA Assistant General President Mike Pleasant joined us to talk about the power of the UA/MCAA partnership. Armand recognized outgoing Board members, then turned over the presidential gavel to new MCAA President Bob Bolton, who thanked Armand for his service and announced MCAA’s donation of $20,000 to the Homenetmen Western US Region to establish the Kilijian Family Scholarship Fund. The Executive Committee and new Board members were introduced, then Erik Wahl inspired us while painting. In addition to MCAA’s $25,000 donation, MCAA raffled Erik Wahl’s Statue of Liberty painting to raise money for the Ukrainian Relief Fund.

Way Engineering, Ltd. partnered with Victaulic to provide the HVAC mechanical work for a new Houston, TX, highrise, saving the contractor money and time throughout the complex project. Thanks in part to Way Engineering and Victaulic, the 1.14-million-square-foot Texas Tower successfully achieved LEED® Platinum status, WiredScore Platinum Certification (for digital infrastructure), and WELL™ Building Standard certification. Victaulic is a major sponsor of MCAA22.

If you are interested in learning and sharing knowledge on the impact of supply chain chaos on welding; improving your welding business through technology; safe pressure testing of piping systems; building a digital manufacturing fab shop — not to mention networking with friends, colleagues, and new acquaintances — then don’t miss the NCPWB Annual Technical Conference! Register today and join us April 24 – 26, 2022.

MCAA’s The Next Generation of Data Security provides guidance and insight on current tools and techniques to protect your data and operations. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA celebrated members’ and future professionals’ achievements during the MCAA Awards of Excellence on March 16, 2022. We welcomed our newest local affiliate, the Greater Boston PCA, and a new student chapter, the MCAA Student Chapter at SUNY Buffalo State College, sponsored by the Western New York Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors. Two new scholarships also made their debut: the Thomas J. Wanner Scholarship and the DeWalt Patriot Scholarship.

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.

MCAA President Armand Kilijian announced that the MCAA Charitable Fund will make a $25,000 contribution to help Ukraine and invited everyone to add their own donations to that amount using the link on the MCAA website.

MCAA President Armand Kilijian kicked off MCAA22 with an inspirational speech highlighting the value of MCAA. “Most of all,” he said, “the MCAA gives us the opportunity to network with our colleagues who share their time and good advice. There’s no price tag for that kind of colleague-to-colleague experience.” The session also included a tribute video honoring John Gentille’s 24 years as MCAA’s CEO and the presentation of the Distinguished Service Award, MCAA’s highest honor, to Brian Helm.

After losing a large project because they did not work in Revit, icon Mechanical made the switch to Revit, later adding Trimble SysQue. Tim Riedle, vice president of engineering for icon, credits the addition of SysQue with helping icon get ahead of schedule on their projects. (Trimble is a benefactor of MCAA22.)

MCAA’s How to Find, Hire and Manage Student Interns will help companies develop a successful strategy for recruiting and managing student interns to ensure that every internship is rewarding for both the student and the company. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA’s Safety-Talk email listserv puts the collective brain trust of a network of safety professionals at your fingertips. MCAA members are invited to join in – ask questions, share information, and be in the know about all things safety. Contact MCAA’s Raffi Elchemmas to join or learn more.

Be on the lookout for student chapter members wearing HIRE ME pins during MCAA22! Stop by our newest event on Tuesday morning for a geographical spin on finding your next hire. During Networking and Recruiting 360: Find Your Next Employee, students and members will connect in a reception-style environment to discuss full-time, internship and co-op opportunities in your area. Exchange your completed color-coded map for a small gift and to be entered into a drawing for a $500 gift card.

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

Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot announced the roll-out of the Maryland Vendor Information Electronic Warehouse (MD-VIEW), one of the first of its kind in the nation, at a press conference held on February 28, 2022. The payment portal provides real-time, prime contractor payment transparency to empower Maryland contractors with the information they need to better manage cash flow, an issue that for decades has had a particular disparate impact on small and minority contractors. MCA-Maryland and MCAA members played a part in making this happen.

Renovating an active hospital is challenging in the best of times; to complete a transplant hospital’s new unit in the midst of a global pandemic, Rand Construction needed products that could be delivered on time and installed quickly and safely. Gruvlok® grooved couplings and fittings from ASC Engineered Solutions were the perfect fit. ASC is a major sponsor of MCAA22.

MCAA’s United Association National Labor Agreement Summary and Comparison bulletin provides a list of the current UA National Agreements along with a summary of their provisions, labor groups affected, and the jurisdictions covered. This information will prove particularly helpful for contractors facing upcoming labor negotiations. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

For twenty years, MCAA member companies have been sending their executives to the ALI to develop the skills and networks of those who lead their organizations. This fall, the ALI will have a refreshed curriculum and a new home. The University of North Carolina’s Kenan-Flagler School of Business, located in Chapel Hill, NC, is ranked #2 in the country for Custom Executive Education.

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.

The sales world has evolved over the last two years to meet the challenges of today. The MSCA Sales Masters classes have been updated to better prepare sales teams for future success. NOW is the time to provide this relevant and important training to your sales employees to ensure their skills and abilities are focused, fine-tuned and far-sighted. Registration is open for our next two-part class. Week 1 will take place May 1-5, 2022 in Itasca, IL (near Chicago). Week 2 will be held November 6-11, 2022 in Houston, TX. Don’t delay – register today!

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

Gallo Mechanical, the Gulf Coast’s leading mechanical and plumbing contractor, saw an opportunity to eliminate paper and automate its fabrication shop with advanced technology. After a competitive bid, Gallo selected MSUITE’s FabPro for its ability to integrate with TigerStop and track time and production in the fab shop. “From the start, the integration between MSUITE and TigerStop saved our firm $4,000,” said Ray McDonald, Gallo’s general manager and fabrication coordinator.

As President Biden and our western allies level sanctions on Russia, options for cyberwarfare against Russia are being planned and executed against Moscow. Official Russian government websites have already experienced outages and disruptions and the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is warning of retaliatory cyber-attacks on U.S. infrastructure and businesses. Now is the time for your business to prepare for this possibility.

NCPWB’s General Welding Guidelines provide background information and supplementary instructions to contractors and welders who are using National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau Welding Procedures Specifications (WPS). 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.

When University Health System in San Antonio, TX, invited Brandt to bid on the mechanical and plumbing contract for their new facility, they requested the same systems and products—including NIBCO valves—that Brandt had used on a smaller project with University Health a few years earlier. “The best sales tool is performance,” said Kyle Holmes, senior vice president at Brandt. In addition, Brandt welcomed the opportunity to use NIBCO pressed fittings for the job, saving labor and avoiding the risks of welding. NIBCO is a major sponsor of MCAA22.

This updated program will help new and experienced dispatchers understand their vital role in their companies and advance their careers by enhancing their ability to contribute to your company’s success. Register now for the April 12-13, 2022 event in Denver, CO.

Attendees at MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference will hear from dedicated industry professionals who will share their real-life tips and tools for success on the job site, including ways to professionally control crucial job site conversations. Those who attend will leave this 3-day conference with actionable education. Learning from some of the industry’s best, they will be inspired to take this knowledge and apply it to better themselves at work, and in life. Register today and join us May 11 – 13 in Rochester, NY.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s Business Transition Options for the Mechanical Contractor bulletin and podcast, which reviews the various options for transferring ownership of a company and showcases the advance planning and analysis needed for a successful transfer.

Ali Brown has joined the staff at MCA-Omaha as the Associate Executive. She replaces Michele Hoffman, who is now MCAA’s Director, Career Development. Ali’s background made her a good fit for the role. MCA-Omaha Executive Vice President Kelsey Johnson said, “I am so excited to have Ali fill the role of Associate Executive at MCA-Omaha. It was an amazing opportunity to “go full circle” with a member of our student chapter. Ali has the first-hand knowledge and expertise from being a long-time and active member, and she will no doubt bring new and creative ideas to the already successful program.”

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.

THE CROSBY GROUP has issued a remove from service and arrange for return and replacement notice for a selection of screw pin anchor shackles. These shackles may have a condition that can reduce the ultimate load capacity from the published catalog values. The shackle bow may have a previously undetected indication, and continued use may result in loss of load, property damage, severe injury, or death.

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

Early February saw the release of the first report related to Executive Order (EO) 14025, White House Task Force Report on Worker Organizing and Empowerment. MCAA and the UA provided joint input for the report. MCAA and the Construction Employers of America (CEA) also filed an amicus brief with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on the topic of worker misclassification. February also marked the publication of an EO requiring project labor agreements (PLAs) on direct federal construction projects. MCAA’s partnerships ensure our members’ voices are heard.

Beyond the Classroom videos showcase how MCAA student chapter members and MCAA members alike are benefiting from the program. They also share the opportunities available to students who choose careers in the mechanical industry.

MCAA is pleased to welcome Amanda Haneke to the MCAA staff. Amanda is the new voice answering the phones at MCAA. She took over the role from Melanie Thompson-Ott, who is now the Assistant Director, Registration and Conference Services. Amanda previously worked for Starbucks and Severn Bank (now Shore Bank). She lives on a farm in Davidsonville, MD (20 minutes from Annapolis) with her grandmother. When she isn’t busy taking care of her grandmother or five chickens, she is an avid gardener and canner. She grows vegetables and herbs and makes pickles, relish, jams, and other treats. Her passion is baking custom cakes. Join us in welcoming Amanda and her family to the MCAA staff family and congratulating Melanie on her new role.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s Scheduling Best Practices bulletin and podcast, which look at how contractors can adapt and improve skill and competency at scheduling, which is necessary to deliver the value that customers expect on time.

The Industrial Relations Council (IRC) for the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry gathered recently to thank outgoing council member Scott Strawbridge for 22 years of faithful service.

If you are interested in learning and sharing knowledge about all things NCPWB related, this is the event for you. Register today and join us April 24 – April 26, 2022!

Struck-by incidents are a leading cause of injury and death in the construction industry. MCAA has partnered with CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s (NIOSH) National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) Work Group on Preventing Struck-By Injuries to research factors that contribute to struck-by incidents and ways to prevent them. Please consider participating in this meaningful research initiative to protect construction workers and prevent struck-by injuries and fatalities.

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

The MCAA 2021 MEP Innovator of the Year award goes to Jeff Elwell, Director of Innovation and Technology from E.M. Duggan Company in Boston, MA.

After last year’s hiatus, the MCAA is thrilled to offer congratulations to graduates of the first-ever double-class of the Advanced Institute for Project Management! Registration for the January 2023 AIPM classes will open on October 1st, 2022.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MCAA’s Exposed: Keeping Your Data to Yourself After an IT Breach. This resource explains what company executives can do to protect their companies if their website is hacked and defaced, their files are held for ransom, or their Data Center goes offline with no estimate for restoration.

MCAA’s first Field Leaders Conference of 2022 will be held in Rochester, NY, May 11-13. Registration is now open!

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.

Watch the video to see highlights from the 2022 MEP Innovation Conference.

Each week, MCAA will highlight one or more of the educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership. This week, we focus on MSCA’s Plumbing Service 101 webinars and workbooks. These resources cover fundamental plumbing concepts for mechanical service contractors thinking about entering the plumbing service business.

Union representation rates in the construction industry inched up slightly in 2021, increasing to 13.6%, with 1,112, 000 of the 8,157,000 workers “represented” by unions, up from 13.4% in 2020 (993,000 of 1,050,000 employed).  Among those 1,112,000 represented  by unions, 1,024,000 were classified as union members, leaving some 88,000 (roughly 8%) of the remainder classified as represented by unions (covered by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA)) but not reported as union members.

MCAA and MILWAUKEE TOOL congratulate Don Campbell, our 2021 Safety Professional of the Year award winner. Don is a longtime safety leader and vice president at P1 Group in Kansas City, MO, and a member of MCAA’s Safety & Health Committee. The award was announced at MCAA’s Safety Directors’ Conference in Florida. The award is presented annually to a mechanical industry safety and health professional who has led his or her company to achieving an exceptionally high degree of safety excellence.

The Construction Labor Research Council (CLRC), a longstanding partner of MCAA, has released its 2021 Year End Settlements Report and associated video. 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. In addition to a general overview, the report provides various detailed data cuts, including by geographic region and specific craft. For additional information, contact Carey Peters, Executive Director, at 202-347-8440 or clrc@clrcconsulting.org.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has withdrawn the COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard on vaccine mandates as an enforceable emergency temporary standard. OSHA remains committed to pursuing a proposed rule through the formal process. Both MCAA and the UA continue to strongly encourage the vaccination of workers against COVID-19.

Last week the MCAA presented one of the most exciting Safety Directors’ Conferences ever. The first in-person conference in two years brought together safety professionals from around the country for world-class education on best practices and safety and health issues specific to the mechanical industry. Participants also heard keynotes on safety leadership from Capt. Richard Phillips, Olympian Vince Poscente, and longtime safety advocate Regina McMichael during the January 18 – 20, 2022, event in sunny Florida.

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