Archives: News Items

ALI Class 24 Graduates’ Commitment to Collaborative Growth Heralds Bright Future for Mechanical Industry

On November 7th, MCAA President Rick Gopffarth joined ALI contractor-facilitators and faculty on UNC’s beautiful Kenan-Flagler executive education campus to congratulate the newest graduates of MCAA’s Advanced Leadership Institute. ALI Class 24 began as a group of strangers and rapidly evolved into a community of peers committed to collaborative learning and growth in a way that made it very apparent that the future of the mechanical industry is bright! These 34 MCAA and MSCA executives rose to every challenge as they learned and practiced leading-edge strategies to advance themselves, their teams, and their businesses.

Whether it was practicing coaching as a series of specific, measurable actions or using practical research-proven framework to explore creative solutions to industry issues like labor shortages, ALI Class 24 was there for it! The energy, engagement, and enthusiasm that these individuals brought to the classroom was remarkable. That’s not hyperbole: every single professor remarked on how impressed they were by our participants, and what a pleasure it was to teach them. While it’s true that UNC provides us a globally-ranked educational experience at a top-notch facility, it is the participants that make the Advanced Leadership Institute the unparalleled executive leadership program that it has become.

From the ALI Committee to all the graduates of Class 24: thank you, and congratulations!

Check out our ALI course video below to get a peek into the classroom and hear first-hand from past participants.

MCAA member company executives who are interested in the program can check out the ALI course page for more information, including the application release date for ALI Course 25.

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

The Manufacturer/Supplier Training area of MCAA’s website connects our contractor members with training opportunities available from the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.

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

XOi
XOi’s holistic communication tool changes the way field service companies do business by leveraging photos, videos, and smart technology to bring efficiency, transparency, and expertise to every job. In this microlearning series, you will see examples of how to automate tech checklists, learn the benefits of internal job documentation, and find some helpful preventative maintenance videos to reference.

Learn More

Ridge Tool Company
Take a deeper dive into RIDGID Diagnostics. Learn what we have to offer in terms of diagnostics, inspection & locating. Plus learn about our online business tool, RIDGIDConnect.

Learn More

Interested in More Training from Our Supplier Partners?

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

Learn More

Find the Latest from Josam Company and Marking Services, Inc. in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show

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

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

Josam Company
Josam Company is well known in the commercial plumbing industry for offering innovative engineered products to the marketplace. Our full line of drainage products offers labor-saving features and benefits with the installer in mind. With superior quality products that are easy to install and customizable to meet the demands of any drainage application.

Learn More

Marking Services, Inc.
MSI’s AIM Mobile Technology delivers on-demand 24/7 access to critical asset information. Our QR coded tags provide instant access to critical documents in the field. AIM will greatly increase productivity and efficiency in the field providing Asset and Document Management (O&M, Commissioning, Startup, Warranty, Submittals, etc.) to meet your turnover package needs.

Learn More

Need Something Else?

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

Visit the Virtual Trade Show

Speaking of Smart Solutions

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

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

Visit Smart Solutions

Connect With Additional Manufacturer/Supplier Training

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

Enhancing Pipefitter Training: A Collaboration Between NIBCO & Local 597

Recognizing the need for skilled professionals equipped with knowledge and practical experience, NIBCO, a leading provider of flow control products, has partnered with Chicago Pipefitter’s Local 597 Union to enhance its training programs. This collaboration aims to elevate the level of training and ensure that apprentices are well prepared for the field.

LEARN MORE

Looking for More Smart Solutions?

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

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

VISIT SMART SOLUTIONS

Dues Increase Coming in 2025

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

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

Resource Highlight: MCAA’s Managing Killer Contract Clauses

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.

The bulletin covers topics related to:

  • The work
  • The schedule
  • Indemnity and insurance
  • Payments
  • An assortment of other issues, including assignment, bond forms, notice of claim, attorney fees, venue and choice of law and labor harmony.
DOWNLOAD

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

Have Questions or Need Personal Assistance?

Contact MCAA’s Frank Wall.

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

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

Student Chapters in the Community: Pitt State & UMD College Park

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.

Pittsburg State University

MCAA Student Chapter members at Pittsburg State University created a Halloween costume for a local child with special needs.

(Pictured: Griffin Souder, the Heilman Family, Tabitha Watson, Aidan Wolownik – MCA Student Chapter President)

The 7-year-old elementary school student uses a walker, which limits the kind of costume he can wear. His mother entered a contest offered by Walkin’ & Rollin’ Costumes, a nationwide network of volunteers, sponsors and donors that provides costumes to children with special needs.

Aidan Wolownik and his classmates took on the task of creating an excavator costume for the child, who loves to be outside with his papa’s tractors. After spending two weeks working on the costume, the students delivered it and saw firsthand how the costume would change the family’s Halloween festivities.

“What I liked most about this project was seeing the joy it brought to the student. It was incredibly rewarding to create something that allowed him to express what he really likes. I also enjoyed the challenge of designing something unique that met his needs, and it was a great opportunity to be creative while making a positive impact.” (Aidan Wolownik)

University of Maryland, College Park

(Pictured: Gabriella Anthony and Francis T. Evans Elementary School students)

The University of Maryland, College Park student chapter read a construction-themed book, Grit Leads to Greatness, to third-grade students at Francis T. Evans Elementary School. Their goal: inspire the next generation to consider careers in the construction industry. This is the chapter’s second year reading to the school, and they plan to make the event an annual tradition.

(Pictured: Darell Payne – Assistant Principal, Gabriella Anthony – MCA Student Chapter VP, Rafiya Senghor – School Counselor)

The student chapter furthered their relationship with the school by donating $1,200 for much needed gym equipment and school supplies.

Share Your Story or Get Help Getting Involved

Congratulations to all of the MCAA Student Chapters that are assisting their local communities through volunteer work and charitable or educational projects.

  • Have an inspirational student chapter involvement story to share? Email MCAA Director of Career Development, Michele Hoffman (mhoffman@mcaa.org) with photos and details. 
  • Need help creating a service project or getting involved with the community? Reach out to your Local Association Executives and Industry Advisors to set up a meeting. They will be happy to discuss community-based opportunities and ways to collaborate with local MCAA Members.

MCAA looks forward to sharing your story next!

Nominate a Safety Professional as the 2024 MCAA/MILWAUKEE TOOL Safety Professional of the Year

Nominations are due by close of business on December 5, 2024. 

Nominations are open for the 2024 MCAA/MILWAUKEE TOOL Safety Professional of the Year award. This award is presented annually to a mechanical industry safety and health professional who has led his or her company to achieve an exceptionally high degree of safety excellence. Six individuals have received the award since its inception in 2018. Nominate someone today and they could be number seven!

To nominate someone from your company, or from another company, please complete the nomination form below and submit it by close of business on December 5, 2024. 

The 2024 MCAA/MILWAUKEE TOOL Safety Professional of the Year award will be presented at the 2025 MCAA | SMACNA | TAUC Safety & Health Conference on January 13, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

The winner will also be invited to the MCAA25 convention in Austin, TX, in March to receive the award onstage during the Awards of Excellence Breakfast. Airfare, lodging, and registration will all be complimentary.

NOMINATION FORM
SAFETY & HEALTH CONFERENCE

MCA of Houston Commits $100,000 to Help Those Impacted by Hurricanes Helene & Milton

The MCA of Houston’s Board of Directors has authorized a $100,000 donation to the MCAA Charitable Fund in support of those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The donation will support Convoy of Hope’s relief efforts in the affected areas. MCAA thanks the MCA of Houston for its generosity. If you would like to join them in providing hope and support for those affected by these storms, use the button below to make a donation. Your generosity can make a lasting difference in their recovery.

Inside MCAA: The Blueprint for Mechanical Contracting – Ep. 4 on MCAA’s Association Executives Council

Welcome to Inside MCAA, The Blueprint to Mechanical Contracting, the podcast dedicated to unveiling the strategies and resources that power success within the Mechanical Contractors Association of America. Hosted by renowned Customer Experience Coach and NEI Instructor Frank Favaro, each episode dives deep into the wealth of educational tools, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts that define MCAA.

Monthly we will explore how MCAA supports its members with cutting-edge insights and industry updates, helping navigate the dynamic landscape of mechanical contracting. From legislative advocacy to fostering trusted partnerships, Inside MCAA offers a behind-the-scenes look at the initiatives driving innovation and growth in the field.

EPISODE 4: Valerie Pope, MCA of Central Ohio and John Rayburn, MCA of Chicago

Join us as we sit down with two leading voices from the MCAA’s Association Executives Council, John Rayburn from the MCA of Chicago and Valerie Pope from the MCA of Central Ohio. The two association executives share how they got started in the industry and reflect on their collective experiences. From building relationships between contractors and labor to helping them find solutions and pathways forward on projects, the two expand on the challenges and rewards of bringing both parties together. Valerie and John discuss how they help their members connect with MCAA resources, like project management training, peer groups, the AEC Talk email group, and much more. Tune in for a conversation that will elevate your understanding of MCAA’s Association Executive Council.

Follow Inside MCAA on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

MCAA National Committee Nominations are Due November 4

MCAA is accepting recommendations for individuals to serve on national committees in the coming year. If you are interested in serving, review the committee descriptions below, then contact your local association executive to express your interest. Their recommendations are due to MCAA no later than November 4, so don’t delay!

If you have questions about, or need clarification of committee activities or functions, please call Jan Grillo or Tim Brink at the national office at (301) 869-5800.

COMMITTEE DESCRIPTIONS
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION INFORMATION & FORM

Be Inspired During the MCAA25 Lunch Featuring Kendall Toole

You asked and we listened! Back for a second year in a row is the Monday featured lunch. This lunch is open to all attendees who are trying to grab a quick bite between the morning and afternoon education seminars. At MCAA25 we will have the pleasure of listening to and learning from Kendall Toole as we enjoy our lunch.

Kendall Toole is a lightening rod of energy, natural-born fighter and dynamic athlete who knows how to harness the collective attention in any room. She is passionate about destigmatizing mental health and stands as a change-maker for how society approaches 360 wellness. Kendall motivates those around her to find their voice and believe in their inner strength.

Special thanks to SLOAN for sponsoring this lunch!

Register for MCAA25 today to hear Kendall’s uplifting and meaningful message.

CONVENTION WEBSITE

Find the Latest from Raken and Morris Group International in MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show

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

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

Raken
Crews in the field can record quantities of materials with cost codes from any mobile device. They can also add photos and notes to track progress in the field while the office sees the data in real-time.

Learn More

Morris Group International
The MGI ConTrols® Omega® Mixing Valve is installed at point of use to temper water for sinks, baths, showers, and lavatories. MGI ConTrols is a Morris Group International brand.

Learn More

Need Something Else?

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

Visit the Virtual Trade Show

Speaking of Smart Solutions

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

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

Visit Smart Solutions

Connect With Additional Manufacturer/Supplier Training

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

Boosting Mechanical Revenue 30 Percent

After making the transition from paper recordkeeping to BuildOps software, “our revenue has grown by 30 percent, we’ve doubled the number of tickets that we can handle, and we’re working more efficiently than before,” said Scott Fuksa, president of Jackson Mechanical Service.

LEARN MORE

Looking for More Smart Solutions?

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

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

VISIT SMART SOLUTIONS

Unlock New Business Opportunities at the 4th Annual MCAA Converge

June 23-25, 2025 | Minneapolis, MN

Join us for an extraordinary opportunity to propel your business forward at the 4th Annual MCAA Converge, from June 23-25, 2025. This isn’t just another conference—it’s an expertly curated experience designed to address the unique needs of your organization, offering high-level executive discussions, cutting-edge innovations, and breakthrough strategies.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of The Lofton Minneapolis Hotel and the iconic Target Center, MCAA Converge 2025 promises to redefine industry engagement. This exclusive event brings together top executives from 30 leading manufacturer/supplier companies and 45 contractor companies, fostering meaningful connections and strategic collaborations.

At this year’s Converge, we’ll tackle pressing industry topics, including current and future market trends, major upcoming projects, emerging technologies, and the crucial art of building lasting relationships. Expect dynamic conversations and a collaborative environment where fresh ideas flourish.

Secure your company’s spot or arrange a personalized meeting to explore the opportunities ahead. Be part of this innovative event by completing the survey and reserving your place today.

Visit www.mcaaevents.org/converge to learn more and complete the survey.

Participating Manufacturer/Supplier Companies:
Aquatherm, ASC Engineered Solutions, Baltimore Aircoil, BuildOps, Carrier Corporation, nVent/CADDY, Daikin, DEWALT, EVAPCO, Inc., Ferguson, LAARS Heating Systems, MILWAUKEE TOOL, Morris Group International, Mueller Industries, NEFCO, NIBCO, Inc., ServiceTitan, SLOAN, STRATUS, Trimble, Uponor, Victaulic, Viega LLC, Watts Water Technologies, Zurn Elkay Water Solutions.

LEARN MORE

Help Save Lives at the 2025 Safety & Health Conference Blood Drive!

January 13-16, 2025  |  Fort Lauderdale, FL 
Register now to receive early bird pricing! 

As we gather for the inaugural Safety & Health Conference this year, we’re called to take action for a critical cause—the national blood shortage. Earlier this year, the American Red Cross declared a national emergency, underscoring the urgent need for donations. Blood supplies across the country are at dangerously low levels, and every donation counts in helping hospitals and emergency centers provide life-saving care.

We’re teaming up with OneBlood to host a blood drive on-site, offering you a chance to make a tangible difference. Please set aside some time on Tuesday or Wednesday at the 2025 Safety & Health Conference to visit the mobile blood donation truck at the front of the hotel. Your donation could help save a life—and as a token of appreciation, every donor will receive a special gift from OneBlood.

This is an opportunity to make a significant impact while attending the conference. Together, we can help combat this shortage and contribute to a healthier future for our communities.

Let’s show the strength of our construction industry by stepping up and donating! 💪🩸 Find a time that works with your schedule and sign up today!

SIGN UP FOR BLOOD DRIVE

The 2025 Safety & Health Conference will take place from January 13-16, 2025, at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach, a family-friendly, oceanside resort in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

REGISTER NOW

Help Those Impacted by Hurricanes Helene & Milton

The MCAA Charitable Fund is collecting donations to help communities affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. All donations will support Convoy of Hope’s relief efforts in the affected areas. Let’s unite as a community to provide hope and support for those affected by these storms. Your generosity can make a lasting difference in their recovery.

The 2024 Industry Funds Conference Is On! Register Now!

December 4, 2024 – December 6, 2024 | Longboat Key, FL

Join us for the MCAA Industry Funds Conference at the beautiful Resort at Longboat Key Club in Florida! The resort has fully recovered from the recent hurricanes and is eager to welcome MCAA for the usual high-caliber experience. This essential event will cover key topics such as the Do’s & Don’ts of Industry Funds, Mental Health, a JRGF Update, Legal Perspectives on Expenses & Documentation, and an Economic Update. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed, gain insights, and network with industry leaders. Register now to secure your spot!

Resource Highlight: MCAA’s Change Orders, Productivity, Overtime—A Primer for the Construction Industry

Unplanned events, circumstances and factors may impact a construction project’s outcome, productivity and schedule. MCAA’s Change Orders, Productivity, Overtime—A Primer for the Construction Industry assists contractors in identifying obstacles to a successful project, and proactively managing these obstacles to mitigate or eliminate their impact to the bottom line. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

The primer covers key topics in each of the title areas:

Change Orders

  • How to Identify and Manage Change Orders
  • How to Organize and Submit a Claim
  • Integrated, Cooperative, and Collaborative CPM Scheduling…a Roadmap to Success
  • The Importance of Obtaining the Prime Contractor’s Native CPM Scheduling Files
  • Time Impact Analysis—Measuring Project Delay
  • Identifying, Quantifying and Preventing BIM-Related Cost and Time Impacts NEW
  • Concurrent Delay

Productivity

  • Maintaining Control of Labor Productivity
  • Factors Affecting Labor Productivity
  • Connecting the “Cause” and “Effect” in Loss of Productivity Claims
  • How to Use the MCAA Labor Factors
  • How to Apply the Measured Mile Method of Productivity Analysis
  • How to Estimate the Effects of Cumulative Impacts

Overtime

  • How to Estimate the Impacts of Overtime on Labor Productivity
  • Shift Work and its Effects on Productivity

MCAA members can download it free as a benefit of membership. Printed copies are also available for purchase.

    DOWNLOAD

    All content was developed by MCAA’s Management Methods Committee with assistance from industry experts. The committee also publishes a series of Management Methods Bulletins. Visit the Management Methods Bulletins page to explore the full range of available content.

    Have Questions or Need Personal Assistance?

    Contact MCAA’s Frank Wall.