What’s New

New workers are often the most vulnerable to accidents and injuries. MCAA’s New Worker Safety & Health Resources assist contractors in providing training 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. These are just a few of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

In a landmark event, the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) along with the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA), and The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC) officially signed a strategic alliance agreement on July 10, 2024. The importance of all four associations coming together emphasizes the combined commitment to collaboration and innovation through all facets of the construction and maintenance industry.

Members Can Now Join a MCAA Peer Group

Participating in industry peer groups not only offers a valuable platform for fostering relationships and exchanging expertise within a supportive community but also represents a proven best practice adopted by many successful MCAA contractor members. These groups provide professionals with an opportunity to benchmark their performance, exchange best practices, address common challenges, and gain strategic insights from industry peers.

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

Cybersecurity risks rank as a top concern for companies worldwide. CNA, a supporter of MCAA24, offers Risk Control e-Talks, a series of short podcasts (about 15 minutes each) on risk and resilience. Season 3 focuses on cyber resilience. It offers insights into current cyber attack trends, cyber risk management approaches, and solutions to manage this significant threat to business resilience.

We are excited to announce our newest educational offering: an 8-week online program created for new and aspiring field leaders working for MCAA member companies. Foundations of Field Leadership (FFL) is taught by senior field leaders with extensive experience running mechanical jobs. The program is based on the input of 42 mechanical field leaders from MCAA member companies across the country. The topics covered in this course were identified by these 42 experts as being the most important things for new field leaders to learn.

The program for the 2024 MCAA Fabrication Conference, held in Milwaukee, is now complete. Our exhibit hall is packed with the latest industry innovations, and we have exciting tours lined up at JM Brennan’s mechanical, piping, and sheet metal facilities, as well as MILWAUKEE TOOL’s new Redline facility. This is your chance to join an event that’s both informative and inspiring.

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.

Standards and requirements that affect specifications are continually evolving to reflect new technologies and changing circumstances. Dave Lazear, director of commercial sales for NIBCO INC. (an MCAA24 major sponsor), pointed out, “If you have not reviewed and modified your specifications in the last two years, chances are your information is outdated.”

Indianapolis played host to MCAA’s 2024 Converge meeting, a pivotal event bringing together Manufacturers, Suppliers and Contractor industry leaders under one roof. Held from June 24-26 at the home of the Indianapolis Indians, this year’s meeting marked a significant convergence of ideas, innovations, and collaborations aimed at shaping the future of mechanical contracting, through executive-to-executive meetings. Each attendee worked hard in preparing for this meeting through completing profiles and pre-meetings to arrive and have more intimate conversations in person.

Each year, thousands of workers suffer from heat illness while working in high temperatures, direct sun, and humid conditions; dozens even die. Many mechanical contractors spend part of their working day in hot environments, both indoors and outdoors. Workers performing physical labor are often exposed to hazardous heat conditions that can have severe safety and health outcomes. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

MCAA is partnering with the Lean Construction Institute and Dodge Construction Network to study the national utilization of Lean in design and construction. The 12-15 minute survey will reveal important benchmarking data to determine the progress of Lean use throughout the industry, and we invite you to participate.

The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) have published final regulations regarding the prevailing wage and registered apprenticeship (PWA) requirements that taxpayers must satisfy to receive five times the base tax credit or deduction amounts with respect to certain clean energy facilities, properties, projects, technologies, or equipment under the Internal Revenue Code (the Code), as amended by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA).

Members Can Now Join a MCAA Peer Group

Participating in industry peer groups not only offers a valuable platform for fostering relationships and exchanging expertise within a supportive community but also represents a proven best practice adopted by many successful MCAA contractor members. These groups provide professionals with an opportunity to benchmark their performance, exchange best practices, address common challenges, and gain strategic insights from industry peers.

The Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA), the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), and The Association of Union Contractors (TAUC) are thrilled to announce the inaugural Safety & Health Conference, sponsored by MILWAUKEE TOOL, scheduled for January 13-16, 2025, at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach in Fort Lauderdale, FL., poised to be the biggest construction safety event of the year. 

Thirteen years after releasing the first independent safety ratings for varsity football helmets, the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab is expanding into the construction industry. This summer, researchers will begin an 18-month study to develop the first ratings system for hard hats using their five-star scale. This project is being funded and guided by the John R. Gentille Foundation, ELECTRI International, the American Society of Concrete Contractors, and The Association of Union Constructors in an effort to reduce the number of head injuries in our industry.

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

With a large project on the horizon and more on the way, AMS Industries, Inc. invested in a Watts Specialties, LLC pipe cutting machine and immediately reaped benefits. “Pipe cuts that were previously taking one man 40 hours to complete are now being cut in 8 hours—including olets!” said Beth Thullen, fabrication shop superintendent at AMS.

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 2024 MCAA Safety Statistics & Awards program highlights a consistent and stable cohort of safety performance across MCAA contractor membership. This year the MCAA Safety Excellence Initiative is proud to recognize 62 MCAA member companies. All applicants receive a valuable benchmarking report that will allow them to compare their own 2023 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.

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

With help from Morris Group International® (MGI) and its AcornVac® vacuum plumbing system, Matt Davenport of Southland Industries designed portable toilets that are easy to transport and use less water than other options, saving the company money and time. Portable toilets are notorious for their unpleasantness, and Davenport, Southland’s project constructability lead, found them downright “inhumane.” MGI is a major sponsor of MCAA24.

MCAA Member Sloan received a United States Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED Silver plaque at a June 11 event. The plaque honors the company’s sustainability efforts at its Chicago Fulton Market District flagship showroom and office space. MCAA congratulates the entire Sloan team on this achievement.

Mental health awareness and suicide prevention are a priority across the construction and service industries. MCAA member ServiceTitan recently amplified the conversation with a special episode of its ‘Toolbox for the Trades’ podcast. The hour-long podcast, hosted by Jackie Aubel, features a dialogue between the United Association’s (UA) Jennifer Massey and MCAA’s Raffi Elchemmas.

Members Can Now Join a MCAA Peer Group

Participating in industry peer groups not only offers a valuable platform for fostering relationships and exchanging expertise within a supportive community but also represents a proven best practice adopted by many successful MCAA contractor members. These groups provide professionals with an opportunity to benchmark their performance, exchange best practices, address common challenges, and gain strategic insights from industry peers.

MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show connects our contractor members with 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.

Add your voice to the 2025 MEP Innovation Conference and submit your education session information today for the January 28-30, 2025 event in Los Angeles, CA. Built by MCAA, NECA, and SMACNA, the MEP Innovation Conference joins thought leaders across the electrical, mechanical and sheet metal trades to improve MEP contractors’ profitability and productivity. The deadline for proposals is June 20, 2024.

Just a few spots remain for the 38th Annual MSCA Education Conference taking place September 22-25, 2024, in Colorado Springs, CO. This year, our theme is all about exploration – pushing the boundaries to envision what lies ahead for our industry. You won’t want to miss what promises to be an unforgettable event. Register today!

Every company, regardless of size, will face succession planning issues at some time. MCAA’s Estate Tax Planning and Succession addresses the issues and possible strategies related to estate planning and succession to help ensure a smooth transition. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

Members Can Now Join a MCAA Peer Group

Participating in industry peer groups not only offers a valuable platform for fostering relationships and exchanging expertise within a supportive community but also represents a proven best practice adopted by many successful MCAA contractor members. These groups provide professionals with an opportunity to benchmark their performance, exchange best practices, address common challenges, and gain strategic insights from industry peers.

MCAA has joined forces with BuildOps, an MCAA member and a provider of all-in-one field service and construction management software tailored for the modern mechanical contractor. This pivotal partnership will integrate MCAA’s extensive safety training resources directly into the BuildOps platform, granting all MCAA member companies using BuildOps unprecedented access.

Through a preventative maintenance program, F.W. Webb Company found and fixed oil leaks at a New Hampshire power plant that could have caused major problems. Instead of a long shutdown that could have affected electricity customers across New England, F.W. Webb completed repairs during a planned two-week plant closure.

Steve Richman, who spent 17 years at the helm of MCAA member Milwaukee Tool, has been promoted to the role of chief executive officer Techtronic Industries (TTI), Milwaukee’s Hong Kong-based parent company. MCAA congratulates Steve on his new role and looks forward to seeing what’s next for him, TTI, and Milwaukee Tool.

A Federal Trade Commission (FTC) rule banning non-compete clauses is set to go into effect on September 4, 2024. Under the rule, non-competes are broadly defined as any arrangement that prohibits, penalizes, or functionally prevents a worker from getting a new job or starting a business after leaving their employment, even if the agreements are not labelled as non-competes. In short, the rule bans employers from entering into non-competes with workers covered by the rule. It also imposes an obligation on businesses to notify former employees and contractors with whom they previously entered into non-competes, that these agreements are now unenforceable. There is an exception for agreements with senior executives related to the bona fide sale of a business and for situations where a dispute arose about whether the non-compete was breached before the effective date of this rule.

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.

Miscommunication and excessive administrative efforts led Modern to adopt MSUITE technology to manage their fabrication operations in unison with other departments. “MSUITE helps prioritize the work for our shop managers to make sure we’re on the right track,” said Jim Tedrow, piping operations leader.

Registration is open for the 38th Annual MSCA Education Conference where we will journey into uncharted territories, set against the stunning backdrop of Colorado Springs, CO, September 22-25, 2024. With a theme of exploration, the conference invites attendees to push the boundaries of our industry and envision what lies ahead. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect…

Add your voice to the 2025 MEP Innovation Conference and submit your education session information today for the January 28-30, 2025 event in Los Angeles, CA. Built by MCAA, NECA, and SMACNA, the MEP Innovation Conference joins thought leaders across the electrical, mechanical and sheet metal trades to improve MEP contractors’ profitability and productivity. The deadline for proposals is June 20, 2024.

Sloan, an MCAA member, has earned LEED Silver and WELL Gold certifications for its flagship showroom and office space in Chicago’s Fulton Market District. The venue, which opened in May 2022, is the world’s first commercial plumbing showroom to be both LEED and WELL certified. MCAA congratulates the Sloan team on achieving this milestone.

Members Can Now Join a MCAA Peer Group

Participating in industry peer groups not only offers a valuable platform for fostering relationships and exchanging expertise within a supportive community but also represents a proven best practice adopted by many successful MCAA contractor members. These groups provide professionals with an opportunity to benchmark their performance, exchange best practices, address common challenges, and gain strategic insights from industry peers.

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

To meet the tight timeline for a new multimillion-dollar casino and hotel, The Severn Group leveraged the Victaulic grooved copper system’s design flexibility and on-site fabrication capabilities to manage the project’s most critical aspects. As a result, The Severn Group was ahead of schedule on every portion of their scope of work. Victaulic is a major sponsor of MCAA24.

The 38th Annual MSCA Education Conference promises an exciting journey into uncharted territories, set against the stunning backdrop of Colorado Springs, Colorado. With a theme of exploration, the conference invites attendees to push the boundaries of our industry and envision what lies ahead. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect…

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.

Members Can Now Join a MCAA Peer Group

Participating in industry peer groups not only offers a valuable platform for fostering relationships and exchanging expertise within a supportive community but also represents a proven best practice adopted by many successful MCAA contractor members. These groups provide professionals with an opportunity to benchmark their performance, exchange best practices, address common challenges, and gain strategic insights from industry peers.

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

On-the-job safety hazards are a constant risk for mechanical contractors, with some of the most frequently reported injuries coming from routinely used tools and equipment. A few simple precautions can go a long way toward helping maintain health, say the experts at Ridge Tool Company.

MSCA is partnering with Convoy of Hope during the annual MSCA educational conference to support a local organization in the community where the conference is being held, with needed supplies and hands-on assistance. Over the years these organizations have included food banks, homeless shelters, rescue missions and women’s shelters. Thanks to the generosity of our members and local associations, we have been able to provide over $700,000 in products and services to these organizations.

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.

Thanks to photos and videos captured onsite by OpenSpace technology, U.S. Engineering fixed an error during construction that would have required expensive rework if it had not been caught early. With OpenSpace, U.S. Engineering managers are keeping tabs on projects remotely, saving hours of travel time and costs.

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

LAARS, a Bradford White Company (and a benefactor of MCAA24), is working closely with MCAA and the United Association (UA) toward a shared vision of continuous support for a trained, skilled workforce that is committed to safety, quality, and productivity. LAARS and the UA have established more than 50 advanced water heater and boiler training labs across the United States, with many more in development.

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

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently issued the first-ever national, legally enforceable drinking water standard against per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals.” Prolonged exposure to PFAS has been linked to some serious safety and health issues, including cancers and impact to critical organs.

Distracted driving kills thousands of people each year and seriously injures hundreds of thousands more according to the National Safety Council. MCAA’s distracted driving resources arm mechanical contractors with the resources needed to educate their workers during Distracted Driving Awareness Month and throughout the year. These are just a few 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 has joined forces with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to offer resources and tools customized and curated to specifically address and mitigate risks related to electrical safety posed to MCAA members, including physical, compliance and financial risks. Crafted by NFPA’s trusted subject matter experts, this content will provide actionable information and strategies to help you and your team keep pace with the ever-changing regulatory environment, identify potential hazards and shortfalls, and markedly improve safety for your employees, customers, and their workplaces and communities.

Murphy Company adopted MILWAUKEE TOOL’s latest M18 FUEL™ ½” Drill/Driver because it has the power and speed to keep them productive on the job, but also because of an enhanced safety feature that prevents injuries caused by over-rotation. The drill’s AUTOSTOP™ Control Mode senses over-rotation in a bind-up and automatically shuts off the drill, providing more control and reduced kickback. MILWAUKEE TOOL is a benefactor of MCAA24.

Construction is a demanding, high-stress profession with one of the highest suicide rates in the nation. Providing training and connecting people with treatment services can be hard. MCAA’s Mental Health Awareness resources simplify the process. These are just a few 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.

Accidents/incidents impact worker safety and morale, as well as a company’s bottom line. MCAA’s Model Accident/Incident Investigation Program provides a methodical process to help contractors prevent similar repeat accidents/incidents, underscore the company’s commitment to safety, and save money. 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 invites you to participate in the 2024 National Issues Conference for a deep-dive into the key regulatory and legislative issues affecting the union construction industry. Along with our partners in the Construction Employers of America (CEA), we will host regulators and representatives from Congress for their expertise and insights on a variety of topics. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the latest information that impacts your business from the nation’s capital! Register today!

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

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

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

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

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

Bill Erickson Received IAPMO’s George Kauffman Lifetime Achievement Award

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

Shannon Paciorek Has Joined the MCAA Staff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Registration for this year’s Pre-IPM classes is open! These introductory-level project management programs begin the week of May 20th, and space is limited. If you have Assistant Project Managers, Project Engineers, new hires, or people transitioning to the office from the field or Estimating, this online course is for them!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Registration for this year’s Pre-IPM classes is now open! These introductory-level project management programs begin the week of May 20th, and space is limited. If you have Assistant Project Managers, Project Engineers, new hires, or people transitioning to the office from the field or Estimating, this online course is for them!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

When called upon to produce plans for older buildings, contractors may need to take measurements for pipes and ductwork that are not easily accessed. MCAA’s Laser Scanning explains how laser scanning may be able to help facilitate this work. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.