What’s New

The John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) Internship Grant program will be upgraded for 2025, and will soon offer a new level of support for multiple entities involved with developing the future talent of our industry.

The MCAA student chapters at Pittsburg State University and the University of Maryland, College Park have been actively serving their communities this fall. MCAA celebrates their commitment to service by sharing their stories.

There is no time like the present, especially when it comes to hiring for interns and full-time employees post-graduation. Although May 2025 seems light-years away, it is at the forefront of students’ minds right now! MCAA resources and the GreatFutures Job Board provide inspiration and a way to connect. Read on to learn more about them and how they can benefit your company. 

Over 150 students from 34 MCAA student chapters, plus nearly 150 MCAA members and supporters attended the MCAA GreatFutures Forum in Seattle, WA at the end of September. This annual conference connects future professionals with MCAA members and the internship and full-time employment opportunities they offer. It also educates students about the ongoing changes in the field and the advantages of working in mechanical contracting.

Over 150 students from 34 chapters are registered for the 2024 MCAA GreatFutures Forum in Seattle, WA, at the end of the September. They will soon be scoping out MCAA’s GreatFutures Job Board for companies they would like to meet with onsite to discuss internships and entry-level full-time positions.

The MCAA Career Development Committee recently rolled out a new eight-part Recruitment Guide that includes tailored resources for everyone to help pitch in and support our student chapters with their recruitment efforts on campus this fall.

Registration for the 2024 MCAA GreatFutures Forum will close soon. Don’t miss this opportunity to join MCAA and our generous sponsors for this three-day event that connects MCAA members with students interested in internship and full-time opportunities in mechanical contracting. MCAA Members, Sponsors, Local Affiliate Association Executives, Students, and Faculty Advisors  all enjoy complimentary registration, so register today! All registrations and hotel bookings must be submitted by August 30th.

Aidan is a Construction Management major at Pittsburg State University with an anticipated graduation of May 2025. He is an active member of his student chapter and has served as both the Fundraising Chair and President (two terms). This summer, he is interning with MCAA Member, P1 Construction.

The MCAA Career Development Committee recently rolled out a new eight-part Recruitment Guide that includes tailored resources so everyone can pitch in and support our student chapters’ recruitment efforts on campus this fall. This resource will help you contribute to building a great future for our industry.

Enhancing year-long recruitment strategies to further the support that student chapter members feel from the MCAA membership can be the ultimate decision maker for post-graduation plans. To many of these students, that choice isn’t simply about a job. They are searching for a community of professionals where they feel welcome and engaged. There’s no better time to start connecting the dots for a Great Futures with MCAA than while they’re still in school.

Yulien is a Mechanical Engineering student at Fairleigh Dickinson University who anticipates graduating in December 2025. He is an active member of his student chapter, where he has served as both Vice President and President. He has interned with MCAA member companies Binsky & Snyder, A&A Industrial Piping, and Mid-Atlantic Mechanical.

Lauryn majored in HVAC/R at Ferris State University and graduated in the spring of 2024. She was an active member of her student chapter from 2021-2024 and served as the Community Chair for her chapter. Lauryn previously interned with MCAA Member, Limbach Company LLC, and recently started her full-time job as Limbach’s Sales Associate Representative / Small Projects Manager.

Visit the MCAA GreatFutures Universities page to browse current student chapters and to view contact information for faculty advisors or to note the sponsoring local MCAA affiliated association.

Irvin anticipates graduating from the University of Nebraska in May 2026 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He is active in his student chapter and has held the position of Recruitment Chair. This summer Irvin is interning with MCAA Member, The Waldinger Corporation.

Lauryn majored in HVAC/R at Ferris State University and graduated in the spring of 2024. She was an active member of her student chapter from 2021-2024 and served as the Community Chair for her chapter. Lauryn previously interned with MCAA Member, Limbach Company LLC, and recently started her full-time job as Limbach’s Sales Associate Representative / Small Projects Manager.

Brady is a Construction Management major at the University of Nebraska – Omaha with an anticipated graduation of May 2026. He has been an active member of his student chapter since 2022 and has served as Treasurer. This is his second summer interning with MCAA Member, Prairie Mechanical Corporation.

This fall, students from 30+ MCAA student chapters who are interested in a career in mechanical contracting will be looking for the perfect employment match for their summer 2025 plans. Be sure to be in the room for the most untraditional job fair around and meet students who are interested in getting out of their own backyard and exploring new parts of the country for an internship or their first position post-graduation.

Daniel graduated in May from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo with a degree in Construction Management. This summer, he jumped back into the classroom in pursuit of a Masters, this time at the University of California, Berkeley. During his time in the student chapter, Daniel served as Student Chapter President and helped his team to a second place finish for the 2022-2023 project and a first-place finish for the 2023-2024 project during his senior year. Daniel previously interned with MCAA member, Pribuss Engineering.

Jeff is studying Construction Management and anticipates graduating in May 2026 from the University of Nebraska’s Omaha campus. This summer, he is interning with MCAA Member, Mainelli Mechanical Contractors.

Summer internships are already at their midpoint. Did you remember to submit your Internship Grant applications for the lucky students spending their summer learning about mechanical contracting at your office? What could your company do with $1,000 to enhance your internship program that would create a splash around the office?

Carter anticipates graduating from Ferris State University in May 2025 with a degree in HVAC/R. He’s currently active in his student chapter and has held the position of Treasurer. This summer Carter will be interning with MCAA Member, Limbach Company LLC.

Griffin is a Construction Engineering major at Pittsburg State University with an anticipated graduation of May 2025. He served as student chapter secretary and is currently interning at P1 Construction, LLC.

Registration for the 2024 MCAA GreatFutures Forum is now open. Join us for this three-day annual conference designed to connect MCAA members with students interested in internship and full-time opportunities in mechanical contracting. MCAA Student Chapter Members, Faculty Advisors, Members, Local Association Executives and Forum Sponsors all enjoy complimentary registration, so register today!

Gina is a Construction Management major at Kent State University with an anticipated graduation of May 2025. She is an active member of her student chapter and has served as the competition chair lead and secretary. Last summer she interned with MCAA Member, Southland Industries.

Registration for the MCAA 2024 GreatFutures Forum will open on Friday, June 14th, with a registration deadline of Friday, August 30th.  Registration is complimentary for MCAA Student Chapter members, Faculty Advisors, Members, Local Association Executives and Forum Sponsors.

If your company employs one or two interns, then ways to utilize a JRGF Part 1 Internship Grant ( $1,000 for 1 intern / $2,000 for 2+ interns) are fairly obvious, such as offsetting the interns’ salary, offering a housing subsidy if they’re from out of the area, or even rewarding the interns with a bonus upon completion of a successful summer. However, distributing the funds over multiple interns can be more of a logistical challenge. The following are a few ideas to help make the most of the internship grant and to elevate the overall internship experience at your company.

Adam is studying Mechanical Engineering at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and is anticipating to graduate in May 2027. This past year was his first in the student chapter and he is planning on interning this summer with MCAA Member, CT Mechanical.

Madison is studying Mechanical Engineering at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and is anticipated to graduate in May 2027. This past year was her first year in the student chapter and she took on the role of Vice President.

The start of summer is almost here and a fresh batch of interns will soon be flowing through the doors of mechanical contracting companies across the country. You have hired your interns, but now what do you do with them? MCAA’s Internship Hot Sauce Guide answers this question with a visual display of intern-level tasks, classified by level of industry experience.

Shelby is a Construction Management major at California State University, Chico with an anticipated graduation of May 2027. She’s an active member of her student chapter and served as Vice President. Last summer she interned with MCAA Member, ACCO Engineered Systems and plans on returning to ACCO for the summer of 2024 to continue her internship experience.

Kavan is studying Construction Management at Pittsburg State University and anticipates graduating in May 2025. He is an active member of his student chapter and will intern with MCAA Member, The Waldinger Corporation this summer.

Jaden, who is studying Construction Engineering, anticipates graduating from Iowa State University in May 2025. This summer, he will intern with MCAA Member, Baker Group, as a Service Intern.

Graduation season is quickly approaching and interns are ready to step into full-time roles. Don’t forget to submit a Part 2 Internship Grant for any intern that converts to a full-time new hire at your company and was previously on a Part 1 list.

Daniel is a Construction Engineering student at Iowa State University and is anticipated to graduate in May 2025. He’s an active member of his student chapter, served as president, and previously interned at MCAA Member, the Baker Group. For the summer of 2024, he will be interning at MCAA Member, Harris Company as a Construction Project Manager Intern.

Although summer ’24 isn’t quite here yet, it’s already time to start the process for securing your summer ’25 interns! Save the Date for the 2024 MCAA GreatFutures Forum (September 26-28, 2024) in Seattle, WA. Conference registration, including the 9/27 Job Fair, is complimentary for MCAA Members, Local Association Executives and Forum Sponsors. Registration will open on June 14th.

Drew is studying Construction Management at the University of Nebraska and is expecting to graduate in the winter of 2025. He’s an active member of his student chapter and has interned with MCAA Member, the Helm Group.

At the MCAA24 Awards of Excellence Breakfast on March 20th, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo was awarded the top prize of $10,000 and a trophy for their outstanding work on the 2023-2024 Student Chapter Competition.

Graduation season is quickly approaching and students majoring in construction-related fields are searching for that perfect first full-time position. Many of these spring graduates have internship experience at home, but are looking to explore a new geographic location. The GreatFutures Job Board is a tool to help match these students from 40 colleges and universities across the U.S. and Canada with MCAA members looking to hire. Post your full-time, entry-level positions today to attract qualified students ready to start their career in mechanical contracting!

The student chapter members at Kent State University proudly nominated Joe Karpinski for the MCAA 2023-2024 Educator of the Year Award based on his mentoring, mechanical industry knowledge, participation in chapter activities, and involvement in the creation of student-focused networking opportunities with local mechanical contractors through the MCA/MSCA of Cleveland, Inc. In addition to a trophy, he received a $5,000 award.

At the MCAA24 Awards of Excellence Breakfast on March 20th, The University of Maryland, College Park was awarded the 2023-2024 MCAA Student Chapter of the Year for their continued achievement and overall focus on offering career opportunities in mechanical contracting to their student membership.

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo emerged as the victors for the Student Chapter Competition and returned to campus with a $10,000 prize following their Final Four presentation at MCAA24. The University of Maryland, College Park was selected as the 2023-2024 Student Chapter of the Year and Joe Karpinski, faculty advisor for Kent State University, was recognized as the Educator of the Year. Individual students were recognized with a variety of scholarships and for the first time, the combination of awards and grants distributed at an MCAA Convention totaled over $100,000!

Student chapter members have returned from MCAA24 in Orlando and many are looking to finalize their summer employment plans. Get your position noticed by posting it on the MCAA GreatFutures Job Board, which is targeted to student chapter members looking for an internship or their first job upon graduation. These students had an exceptional week at the convention and are eager to join the mechanical contracting industry. Post your job today to gather resumes of interested students.

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

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

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

The MCAA Career Development Committee recently released a set of resources focused on internships. Ever wonder when the best time is to hire an intern? Quick answer – NOW!

Just under 150 students from 30 MCAA student chapters attended the GreatFutures Forum Job Fair in Milwaukee, WI. Students were prepped with conversational tools from a variety of speakers leading up to the fair. The two keynote speakers reminded attendees to embrace wonder and ‘wow’ when visualizing their future career and offered a playbook for building a confidence skillset to open new doors (and windows) beyond their currently visualized reach. The opening panel, “Different Paths to Mechanical,” highlighted that no two career paths are ever truly identical and the best way to a GREAT future is to always keep your eyes open to the wide variety of opportunities available in our industry.

The 2023-2024 John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) scholarship and grant applications are now available and are due by December 15th (4:00 PM CST). Over $75,000 in scholarships and grants will be awarded to MCAA student chapter members during the Awards of Excellence Breakfast at MCAA24 in Orlando. Don’t miss your chance to be among the recipients!

Around 150 students from across the country and Canada will be attending the MCAA GreatFutures Forum in Milwaukee, WI on September 28-30.  One of the main conference goals is to educate these college students on the ins and outs of the mechanical contracting industry and the GREAT Future that lies ahead for them. The ultimate way for a student to gain experience and determine that mechanical is indeed the career path for them is through hands-on learning with an internship. Whether or not your company is able to attend the conference in person, use the MCAA GreatFutures Job Board to get your internships (and entry-level full-time jobs) in front of students now.

Around 150 students from across the country and Canada will be attending the MCAA GreatFutures Forum in Milwaukee, WI on September 28-30.  One of the main conference goals is to educate these college students on the ins and outs of the mechanical contracting industry and the GREAT Future that lies ahead for them. The ultimate way for a student to gain experience and determine that mechanical is indeed the career path for them is through hands-on learning with an internship. 

Jason Merchant and Ryan Manuel, both faculty advisors for the student chapter at Purdue University, took advantage of the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) Faculty Continuing Education Grant to intern with MCAA member companies this summer. By working in the industry, they better understand  the challenges and opportunities that students may face and are thus better prepared to advise them. This industry experience will also help them to better teach mechanical subject matter, so the students coming out of their classes are better prepared to excel in our industry. 

College students are starting to head back to campus, which means underclassmen are starting to explore their options for summer internships and seniors are already weighing their offers for full-time employment for June 2024.  Now is the time to start the conversation and the MCAA GreatFutures Job Board is the perfect place to start!

Cole is studying Construction Engineering at Iowa State University and will be graduating in May 2024. He’s been an active member of his student chapter and has served as Recruitment Chair and Vice President. Cole previously interned with MCAA Members MMC Contractors and Baker Group.

Interns working at MCAA member companies are a win-win for our industry. Employers secure top talent and build a pipeline of future employees and students gain hands on experience, create connections and develop the skills needed to further their interest in mechanical contracting.  Snap a picture of your summer intern by a company sign, on the jobsite or in company apparel and upload it with your Internship Grant Application.  Interns and sponsoring companies will be featured on the virtual Intern Wall at MCAA24 before the Awards of Excellence Breakfast.

Morgan Fischer is studying construction management at Kent State University and is one of two recipients of the Ferguson – Women in the Mechanical Industry Scholarship. Ferguson underwrites these scholarships which recognize high-achieving female students working towards a degree relative to the mechanical industry.

Brock studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Nebraska and graduated in May 2023. He was an active member of his MCAA student chapter and served as the Fundraising Chair. Brock has been interning at MCAA Member, MMC Contractors since May 2021 and upon graduation was hired as a full-time Project Engineer.

Amaya studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Maryland – College Park and graduated in May 2023. She was an active member of her MCAA student chapter and served as both Vice President and then President. She has been interning at MCAA Member, The Poole and Kent Corporation since May 2021 and upon graduation was hired as a full-time Project Engineer.

Brodee Paul is 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. The scholarships were presented by Richard Tomaiko (MCA of New Jersey President) and Phillip Petillo (MCA of New Jersey Executive Director).

The MCAA GreatFutures Job Board is a tool to post entry-level full-time positions and internships that are directed at MCAA Student Chapter Members. Post a job now and then register for the GreatFutures Forum (student-focused conference) to meet candidates in person in Milwaukee on September 28-30th. The Job Fair is on the morning of September 29th and registration for the entire conference is complimentary for MCAA Members. Registration is currently available and closes August 30th .

Morebodi Sebadieta is the recipient of the Viega – Joe Pikus Scholarship. Upon the news that Joe would soon be retiring, Viega wanted to commemorate his passion for student learning by naming a scholarship in his honor. This new scholarship is available to an active participant of an MCAA student chapter, who is a junior or senior, majoring in construction management, with a 3.5 GPA or higher, who participated in the student chapter competition, and most importantly, who is committed to a career in mechanical contracting, demonstrated through an internship.

Alayna Trautman is studying construction management at Alfred State College and is one of two recipients of the Ferguson – Women in the Mechanical Industry Scholarship. Ferguson underwrites these scholarships which recognize high-achieving female students working towards a degree relative to the mechanical industry.

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). 

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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). 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

In 2021, the Department of Defense announced a new strategic effort to provide enhanced cyber security 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. Recently, the DoD has simplified and revised the CMMC to make it more streamlined and faster in what they are calling, “CMMC 2.0”. 

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 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.

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 extends a warm welcome to Michele Hoffman, who will be joining the staff starting January 1, 2022. She will be MCAA’s new Director, Career Development as Megan Walsh moves back to full time responsibilities in the Events Department. Michele comes to us from MCA-Omaha, where she spent 13 years working with their local board and committees, and in event management and communications roles. During that time, she served as the Industry Advisor for the University of Nebraska Student Chapter, which was named MCAA Student Chapter of the Year in 2015, 2019, and 2020. She has been a member of MCAA’s Career Development Committee since 2018. Michele is originally from central Illinois, a graduate from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (Advertising Major), and currently resides in Omaha. MCAA is pleased to welcome Michele to the staff, and her husband Eric and their two children to the MCAA staff family.

Since 1996, the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) has presented their annual Industry Partner Award to individuals or organizations who are allied with the electrical construction industry. This year, NECA presented and recognized MCAA with the 2021 NECA Industry Partner Award at their annual Convention in Nashville.

The project was released this afternoon to the student chapters participating in MCAA’s 2021-2022 Student Chapter Competition. The project this year, provided by Mollenberg-Betz, Inc. in Buffalo, NY, will require students to work through a lot of logistical challenges as they contribute to a Lake Placid Olympic Center Revitalization job.

In the 26th episode of MCAA’s Sponsor Spotlight series, Brian Helm, MCAA’s Immediate Past President is joined by Mark Wilke, AVP – Construction Segment for CNA.

In the 25th episode of MCAA’s Sponsor Spotlight series, Brian Helm, MCAA’s Immediate Past President was joined by Chris Peppler, Sr. Director, Marketing and Product, MEP Division for Trimble.

In the 24th episode of MCAA’s Sponsor Spotlight series, Timothy Brink, MCAA’s CEO is joined by Matt McGrath, Global Channel & Distribution Manager, Sporlan Division for Parker Hannifin.

We are excited to finally open registration for the MSCA Annual Education Conference (October 14-17) and the MCAA GreatFutures Forum (October 17-19) at the J.W. Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn & Resort. We will share experiences, explore new innovations, and connect with potential employers and employees. Reservations are processed on a first-come-first-serve basis and rooms are limited! Together, we will mingle, meet, and collaborate on a brighter future this October in Arizona! Register today before we sell out!

In keeping with its commitment to funding the mechanical contracting industry’s most critical human resource needs, the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) underwrites many of the activities of the MCAA Career Development Initiative. Chief among these is an internship program that allows MCAA members to identify and evaluate potential full-time hires for their companies. 

We heard you. We know you’re eager to get together with other students and with contractors from around the country. And, honestly, we can’t wait to see you, too! So, we thought, let’s not wait. Let’s all come together. And what better place than in conjunction with the highly anticipated, in-person MSCA21 Conference this October. Students and contractors can meet, inspire, hire, share ideas, and generally have a great time.

As we wrap up our Beyond the Classroom series, we wanted to highlight the endless opportunities the mechanical contracting industry has to offer. Scott Hinton, Vice President of Harrell-Fish, Inc. and a member of MCAA’s Career Development Committee and MCAA’s Board of Directors, describes the unique nature of mechanical contracting saying, “People do not seem to get stuck in roles. They get more opportunity to advance and continue advancing throughout their careers.”

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 are in the mail. Whichever version you choose to use, the directory is free as a benefit of membership.

In the twentieth episode of MCAA’s Sponsor Spotlight series, Robert Beck, MCAA’s Senior Vice President/Treasurer welcomes Greg Lowman, Vice President and Managing Director, North America for Baltimore Aircoil Company. Join us on May 14, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. ET.

Congratulations to Hailey Brennan, the outstanding recipient of the annual Josam Endowed Scholarship. Josam Company has established an annual scholarship to a sophomore in a MCAA Student Chapter, pursuing a degree in construction management, mechanical engineering or a similar field. Provided that all qualifications are met each year, the yearly recipient will continue to receive the scholarship in their sophomore, junior and senior year.

Sarah Galan, a junior majoring in Mechanical Engineering at Wentworth Institute of Technology, has been awarded one of the two Ferguson-Women in the Mechanical Industry Scholarships. Ferguson underwrites these scholarships, which recognize high-achieving female students working towards a degree relative to the mechanical industry.

Kimberly Sikkema, a junior at Ferris State University, has been awarded one of the two Ferguson-Women in the Mechanical Industry Scholarships. Ferguson underwrites these scholarships, which recognize high-achieving female students working towards a degree relative to the mechanical industry.

Congratulations to Parker Filius, one of the two recipients of the Alan P. O’Shea Memorial Scholarship. The Mechanical Contractors Association of New Jersey established the scholarships to honor the memory of Alan P. O’Shea, its former Executive Director, and memorialize his many contributions to the mechanical contracting industry.

Congratulations to Jakob Cimino, one of the two recipients of the Alan P. O’Shea Memorial Scholarship. The Mechanical Contractors Association of New Jersey established the scholarships to honor the memory of Alan P. O’Shea, its former Executive Director, and memorialize his many contributions to the mechanical contracting industry.

Congratulations to Masen Dinklage, this year’s recipient of the annual Reilly Family Memorial Scholarship. John W. Danforth Company, an MCAA member company, established the scholarship to commemorate the memory of its leadership, the Reilly Family. Kevin “Duke” Reilly served as Danforth’s Chairman/CEO. Wayne, Patrick and Emmett Reilly contributed a combined 128 years of commitment and loyalty to their company and the industry. This national scholarship symbolizes the Reillys’ many contributions to the mechanical contracting industry.

Congratulations to Luke Bennett, MCAA’s 2020 recipient of the William A. Bianco, Jr. Memorial Scholarship. MCAA member, Kinetics, established the annual scholarship to honor Mr. Bianco and his many contributions to the industry’s continuing advancement.

Ahmed Seck, a junior at the University of Maryland, College Park, has been awarded the Foster McCarl, Jr. Memorial Scholarship for 2020. This national scholarship honors Foster McCarl, Jr.’s many contributions to advancing the mechanical contracting industry, including his efforts toward establishing what is now known as the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF). McCarl’s Inc. (Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania) is the scholarship sponsor.

The student chapter at Ball State University proudly nominated Dr. Sherif Attallah to be MCAA’s 2020 Educator of the Year because they believed he is more than qualified and deserving of this prestigious award, and MCAA’s Career Development Committee agreed. Here’s why.

As a student, Adam Crnkovich really enjoyed participating in MCAA’s Student Chapter Competition as it gave him incredible exposure to technical aspects that contractors work on, as well as played a huge role in his understanding of the industry as a whole. Adam is currently a Project Manager at the Ray Martin Company and a previous member of the University of Nebraska- Lincoln student chapter.

MCAA’s Career Development Committee proudly awarded The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Student Chapter as MCAA’s 2020 Student Chapter of the Year for their continuously outstanding achievement as an organization of students who are planning careers in the mechanical construction industry.

MCAA’s first Virtual Education Conference from March 22-25, 2021 featured top quality education seminars and an interactive exhibit, honored award winners, thanked retiring Board members and welcomed new leaders.

MCAA is so excited that our Virtual Education Conference (VEC) is almost here! Next week starts off with MCAA’s Annual Student Chapter Competition on Monday, March 22nd from 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. ET and you will not want to miss it. Congratulations to our final four teams – Fairleigh Dickinson University, Kansas State University, Missouri State University and Virginia Tech, Blacksburg Campus. Get to know the final four teams before the big competition!

In the sixteenth episode of MCAA’s Sponsor Spotlight series, Brian Helm, MCAA President is joined by Gary Moore, Victaulic Executive Vice President.

In the fifteenth episode of MCAA’s Sponsor Spotlight series, MCAA CEO, Tim Brink is joined by Jon Howland, Marketing Director, Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

In the fourteenth episode of MCAA’s Sponsor Spotlight series MCAA Co-Vice President/Assistant Treasurer, Rick Gopffarth welcomes Dean Taylor, Executive Vice President Sales for Anvil and Smith-Cooper International.

Ted McHugh left college with an education geared more towards a career in general contracting, with limited knowledge of the mechanical industry. However, he applied for a job at West Chester Mechanical Contractors, Inc. and quickly gained experience in various roles within the company.

MCAA’s GreatFutures Job Board connects MCAA members with the talented young people they need to ensure their companies’ future competitiveness.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has provided guidance to help employers implement strategies to navigate the impact of COVID-19 in the workplace. This publication identifies established ADA and Rehabilitation Act principles to answer questions frequently asked about the workplace during a pandemic.

In the twelfth episode of MCAA’s Sponsor Spotlight series Bob Bolton, MCAA Senior Vice President/Treasurer welcomes Greg Christopher, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Mueller Industries. Mueller Industries, Inc. is an industrial manufacturer that specializes in copper and copper alloy manufacturing while also producing goods made from aluminum, steel, and plastics.

Thank you to all students who submitted applications for the 2020 John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) Scholarships, the Student Chapter of the Year Award, and who nominated an Educator of the Year! All award winners will be announced on Thursday, March 25th from 11:00 am-12:00 pm EST during MCAA’s Virtual Education Conference.

JRGF offers several scholarships as part of its commitment to funding the next generation of mechanical contracting leaders. The Student Chapter of the Year Award recognizes an MCAA student chapter for outstanding achievement as an organization of students who are planning careers in the mechanical construction industry. The Educator of the Year Award recognizes MCAA student chapter faculty advisors for exceptional accomplishment as advisors, educators, and mentors of students who plan to develop a professional career with the mechanical construction industry. Today is your last day to apply and nominate your faculty advisor!

A Notre Dame graduate in Mechanical Engineering, Anne Finerfrock was unsure which direction she wanted to take her career in. She knew she did not want to sit behind a desk but had no answers to an important question: is that a viable career option? Investing her time to seek out answers resulted in an internship and her first step into the industry.

One of the most important elements of an internship is integrating classroom knowledge with practical application and skill development. Kayley Wright, Mass Maritime student recently participated in this important learning process as she interned with Corporate Mechanical of New England, LLC, an Arden Building Company.

MCAA’s Career Development Committee would like to thank all 19 student chapters that participated in MCAA’s 2020-2021 Student Chapter Competition. MCAA congratulates the four chapter finalists and extends its sincere appreciation to MCAA Past President, Mark Rogers, and MCAA Career Development Committee member, Ted McHugh, both of West Chester Mechanical Contractors, Inc. for arranging the use of this project and providing the information and accompanying technical drawings.

Technology can enable a business to grow or create severe detrimental external competitive pressures! Join MCAA’s Virtual Education Conference, March 22-25, to learn more from software developer and construction technology expert, Brett Young.

Join the conversation between Steve Richman, MILWAUKEE TOOL Group President, and Brian Helm, MCAA President, as they discuss Milwaukee Tools’ business adventure and their unprecedented growth! Register today and join your MCAA friends and colleagues online for MCAA’s first Virtual Education Conference, March 22-25, 2021.

In the ninth episode of MCAA’s Sponsor Spotlight series, Tim Brink, MCAA CEO connects with Jeff Drees, Executive Vice President, Sales, Service, Aftermarket, Marketing for Daikin Applied Americas.

MCAA’s Virtual Education Conference | Essential Learning for Unconventional Times, March 22-25, 2021, is not just another meeting, but an opportunity to network with your MCAA peers, participate in a variety of interactive education seminars, see the latest and greatest in the two-day virtual exhibit and watch the next generation compete in our annual student chapter competition.

In the nineteenth episode of MCAA’s Sponsor Spotlight series, MCAA’s CEO, Timothy Brink welcomes Johnson Controls’ General Manager – HVAC, Fire and Security for Texas Area, Brandon Jackson.

In a hyper-connected world, the ability to get connectivity to the jobsite is absolutely critical, especially now! Join MCAA’s Virtual Education Conference, March 22-25, 2021, and hear how to stay connected from James Benham, CEO of JBKnowledge.

In the seventh episode of MCAA’s Sponsor Spotlight series, Rick Gopffarth, MCAA Co-Vice President/Treasurer welcomes Andrew Windsor, Senior Vice President, Sales for Watts Water Technologies.

As we, the MCAA family, look back on 2020 we see a year that has forced us all to change, to adapt and to overcome some of the biggest challenges to face our industry in decades. MCAA with its volunteer leadership, led by President Brian Helm and the rest of the Executive Committee, the MCAA Board of Directors, our contractor members, our manufacturer/supplier members and partners, local affiliates, volunteers who sit on our committees and Foundation and the national staff have taken the COVID-19 challenge head on. Sharing vision, talent and expertise the MCAA family has come together during 2020 to help each other like never before.

Innovation is around every corner…prefabrication, modularization, robotics, autonomous equipment, 4D and 5D design, and more! Join MCAA’s Virtual Education Conference, March 22 – 25, 2021, to learn more and preview what Construction 2.0 looks like from FMI Consulting’s expert Lee Smither.

Do you have the fundamentals needed to start or improve your service business’ performance during turndowns in the construction market? Join MCAA’s Virtual Education Conference and hear the answers from members of the MCAA Board of Directors, Chris Carter, Brian Hughes & Steve Harvey, March 22 – 25, 2021.

Experts from Withum’s SBA Financial Services and Tax Services teams navigate through the myriad of provisions included in the more than 5,000 page legislative package finalized mid-December

Register today for MCAA’s first Virtual Education Conference, March 22-25, 2021. As part of our Virtual Education Conference (VEC) Essential Learning for Unconventional Times, you will gain knowledge through the experience of this presentation by Landon Funsten, Chairman of FMI Corporation.

Colten Lovejoy’s interest in the mechanical construction industry may have stemmed from watching his father work in the industry for 25 years, but he was quick to create his own experiences. Colten graduated from Pittsburgh State University in May and is now a full-time employee at MMC Contractors.

Currently two internship opportunities and two full-time positions are available on http://mcaagreatfutures.org/. MCAA member companies know we have the best of the best student talent and actively update their openings on MCAA’s GreatFutures Job Board as they seek to fill positions.

Register today and join your MCAA friends and colleagues online at MCAA’s first Virtual Education Conference (VEC) Essential Learning for Unconventional Times, March 22 – 25, 2021. The VEC isn’t “just another meeting in front of your computer” but an opportunity to network with your MCAA peers, participate in interactive education seminars and see the latest and greatest from the companies that comprise MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council Governing Board in the two-day virtual exhibit.

On behalf of the John R. Gentille Foundation and MCAA’s Career Development Committee, we are pleased to announce the recipients for the 2020 Emerging Chapter Grants and the 2020 Chapter of Excellence Grants. Congratulations to all recipients and many thanks for your continued interest and participation in MCAA’s Student Chapter program.

University of Missouri-Columbia mechanical engineering major Kylie Nedelka first learned about the MCAA GreatFutures program after hearing the association president speak to her class a few years ago. It was here Kylie realized the many benefits of being involved with the program. “Networking is by far the best thing you can do in your career,” Kylie said while stressing the importance of building a professional network.

In this month’s Beyond the Classroom video, hear about the power of networking from former Wentworth Institute of Technology student, Nolan Rochler.

On Monday, December 7th, all student chapter competition projects are due in Procore. All student chapters will be provided with their project results on Friday, January 15th. MCAA will then work with each of the Final Four teams to prepare for the Final Four presentations, including a technology requirement review and a thorough rehearsal.

Frank Wall has joined the MCAA staff as the association’s Executive Director, Operations. Frank is no stranger to MCAA. He was the Executive Director of the Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors Association of Oregon for 12 years, followed by two years as the Executive Vice President of the M&SCA of Eastern Pennsylvania. During that time, he was also Chair of MCAA’s Association Executives Council. “I am personally excited to work with such a professional staff,” Frank said.

JRGF provides funding through grants to help chapters cover the costs of projects, participation in the annual MCAA Student Chapter Competition, field trips, scholarships and travel to MCAA events. Completed Chapter of Excellence Grant and Emerging Chapter Grant applications are due to Megan Walsh by Monday, September 14th.

Please join us in saying thank you to the MCAA members who have given to the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) in 2020. Their support enables the JRGF to identify and work to solve the issues that confront the organized mechanical construction and service industry, challenges such as future workforce, productivity and technology.

In this month’s edition of Beyond the Classroom, Peter Gebert, a Washington State University student, talks about the highlights of being involved in his student chapter and how that involvement has led to more learning opportunities, hands-on experience, and ultimately two internships with McKinstry.