News
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.
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.
As its presence in Eastern Iowa continues to grow, MCAA member Baker Group has promoted Jeff Jordan to the position of Vice President, Cedar Rapids Branch. In this role, Jordan will be responsible for the financial performance, client experience, team management, and representing the Cedar Rapids Branch on Baker Group’s leadership team.
Darnelle Everett is MCAA’s new Associate Director Dues Management. Darnelle will support MCAA’s new dues software, which will streamline the collection and management of dues from our members. Please join us in congratulating Darnelle on his new role!
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
MCAA’s first Field Leaders Conference of 2024 brought together 135 field personnel from across the country to network, exchange knowledge, and discuss emerging trends and how to be a better leader. Attendees heard from industry experts who sparked lively discussions and inspired a transformative approach to leadership.
As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.
Modern construction projects require expertise in multiple forms of scheduling to account for proper work sequencing, resource allocation, and production planning. MCAA’s Scheduling Best Practices offers tips for adapting and improving skill and competency at scheduling. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.
The Manufacturer/Supplier Training area of MCAA’s website connects our contractor members with training opportunities available from the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.
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!
The AEC Best Practices Conference provides MCAA affiliated association executives with a valuable platform for sharing innovative strategies and insights to enhance organizational effectiveness. Attendees gain actionable takeaways and forge meaningful connections, fostering collaborative growth within the Association Executive Council (AEC) community. All local association executives are strongly encouraged to attend. Register today!
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.
BMWC Constructors, Inc. was selected as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2023 in Size Category 5, 1M+ Work Hours. BMWC Constructors, Inc. earned this prestigious designation because their relentless commitment to “Zero Injuries” through culture, programs and performance makes safety and health a priority.
Randy Drennen will become the Rocky Mountain MCA’s (RMMCA) next Executive Director on July 9, 2024. He brings over 25 years of experience to the role, most recently as Vice President of the Colorado Contractors Association. He has also worked with national heavy highway and civil contractors in Colorado. Randy served on the Thornton City Council and chaired the E-470 Public Highway Authority Board of Directors. An announcement from the RMMCA Board of Directors notes, “We believe Randy has both the personal and professional expertise to lead our organization into a new dimension.”
MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show connects our contractor members with the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.
If you have a top-notch PM with 3+ years of experience, sign them up today for MCAA’s longest-running mechanical project management program. Participants will spend 2 weeks in Austin, TX (one in October, and one in January) honing their skills in planning, scheduling, change order negotiation, job cost control, and a whole lot more.
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.
Kyla anticipates graduating from the University of Nebraska in December 2025 with a degree in Construction Engineering. She is currently serving her chapter as the Student Chapter President and has previously held the roles of Community Service Chair and Vice President. She previously interned with Ray Martin Company and is interning this summer with MMC Contractors. Both companies are MCAA members.
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.
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!
Mechanical contractors face an uncertain insurance market. MCAA’s Captive Insurance explores the use of captive, or privately held, insurance as a way to mitigate risk and provide greater cost control relative to a contractor’s insurance premiums. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.
MCAA’s 2023 film on Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention has been selected as a winner of a highly prestigious Telly Award.
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.
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.
UMC, Inc. was selected as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2023 in Size Category 4, 450,001-1,000,000 Work Hours. UMC, Inc.’s exceptional worker safety and health program has won this prestigious award two years in a row, and four of the last seven years.
MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show connects our contractor members with the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.
By specifying a new Marley® MH Element™ Fluid Cooler from SPX Cooling Tech, LLC, Letsos Company provided a more efficient, more sustainable alternative to repairing the deteriorating existing cooler of an historic Houston building while maintaining a similar footprint, simplifying the installation process.
MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference gives field leaders at all levels the skills, understanding, and inspiration to positively impact your company’s bottom line. This is an investment that will pay off throughout their careers with your company. Can you afford not to send them? Register your field leaders 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.
As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.
Mechanical, electrical, plumbing and sheet metal (MEP/SM) contractors are normally at the forefront of Building Information Modeling (BIM) activities on a construction project. Substantial BIM cost and time overruns have occurred on many projects due to the fluid boundaries between coordination and design. MCAA’s Identifying, Quantifying and Preventing BIM Related Cost and Time Impacts Management Methods Bulletin explores the factors that contribute to these overruns, allowing contractors to better plan for them. The bulletin is now included in a 2024 edition of MCAA’s Change Orders, Productivity, Overtime—A Primer for the Construction Industry. MCAA members can download both resources free as a benefit of membership. Printed copies of the Change Orders resource are also available for purchase.
Anthony (Tony) Saporito, Executive Vice President of the MCA/MSCA of New York, Inc. (MCANY), has announced his upcoming retirement. He said, “I had a great time in this industry, and I look forward to continuing the journey in other realms.” His last day will be June 30, 2024. MCAA wishes Tony a fruitful journey no matter where life takes him next.
Companies need a system of checks and balances to ensure their internal systems are working as expected. MCAA’s Quality Assurance Manual guides mechanical contractors through the process of developing or fine tuning their QA processes and documenting system. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.
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.
The AEC Best Practices Conference provides MCAA affiliated association executives with a valuable platform for sharing innovative strategies and insights to enhance organizational effectiveness. Attendees gain actionable takeaways and forge meaningful connections, fostering collaborative growth within the Association Executive Council (AEC) community. All local association executives are strongly encouraged to attend. 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.
The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) is proud to announce the establishment of a new NCPWB chapter in Arizona, marking a significant development for the local contractors. This move is set to ensure seamless handling of welder certifications and continuity records, replacing PIPE, the previously responsible local group that no longer offers the services.
Donnelly Mechanical Corp. was selected as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2023 in Size Category 3, 250,001-450,000 Work Hours. Donnelly Mechanical Corp. boats an incredible Experience Modification Rate (EMR) that reflects their commitment to safety and health. They are one of New York City’s safest contractors.
MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show connects our contractor members with the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.
Former service technician Kevin Harris started Preferred Mechanical Group (PMG) 4 years ago with two technicians; now PMG employs 52 technicians and an office staff of 26—and Harris projects continued growth over the next few years. ServiceTrade talked with Harris about his company’s impressive growth and how the service software helped him build an efficient, technician-centric company.
Technology and innovation are evolving rapidly, and it is critical that field leaders be educated to keep pace. MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference lets field leaders explore the latest offerings from members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council. By asking questions, field leaders gain a fresh understanding of how those offerings impact project performance. They return ready to share these insights to help maximize your company’s ROI. That’s just one example of how the industry-specific content gives field leaders the skills, understanding, and inspiration to positively impact their company’s bottom line. Your lead field personnel cannot afford to miss this conference. Register them today!
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.
The UA & the MCAA hosted the first Future Leaders Program, in which participants were nominated by their local union and contractor to attend. The program was held May 20-25, 2024, in the UA’s Education and Conference Center at the UA Headquarters. This groundbreaking program provided extensive training focused on the skills needed to become a successful and productive leader in the mechanical industry. Congratulations to all who participated!
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.
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.
Limbach, Inc- New England was selected as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2023 in Size Category 2, 100,001- 250,000 Work Hours. Limbach, Inc- New England’s approach to “beyond zero thinking” has changed how they view safety and transformed the company culture. Their submission notes that, “Safety culture is a journey, not a goal.”
MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show connects our contractor members with the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.
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.
Your field leaders are professionals who build people as much as they do projects. Do they have the skills needed to motivate people, use influence over authority and mentor, coach and empower their crews? Mark Breslin’s presentation at the Field Leaders Conference offers new ideas, strategies and tools to help them enhance crew performance. Your field leaders will leave Mark’s presentation with a new level of energy and vision for their future.
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.
As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.
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.
Welding professionals need to understand the types of defects found in weldments and how they appear in a radiograph to ensure the projects they deliver will not fail. NCPWB’s Radiograph Interpretation Technical Resource provides both written and visual examples of discontinuities to simplify the process. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.
In today’s competitive landscape, demonstrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) awareness is no longer optional—it’s essential for business growth. As MCAA members, embracing ESG practices can significantly impact your success.
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 AEC Best Practices Conference provides MCAA affiliated association executives with a valuable platform for sharing innovative strategies and insights to enhance organizational effectiveness. Attendees gain actionable takeaways and forge meaningful connections, fostering collaborative growth within the Association Executive Council (AEC) community. All local association executives are strongly encouraged to attend. 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.
Goshen Mechanical Contractors, Inc. was selected as the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winner for 2023 in Size Category 1, Zero – 100,000 Work Hours. Goshen Mechanical Contractors, Inc.’s commitment to incorporating safety into their day-to-day activities and family-run business approach set the company’s safety culture apart.
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…
Field leaders have many responsibilities, including growing and mentoring our industry’s future workforce and future leaders. Chris Haslinger’s presentation at the Field Leaders Conference will review how our industry has traditionally grown and trained our workforce. It will also provide tips for incorporating mentoring into on-the-job education. Provide your field leaders with the tools they need to ensure your company’s access to future talent. Register them before May 24 and save with early bird rates!
Mechanical service contractors face unique challenges when it comes to the safety of their workers. MSCA’s Safety Resources for Mechanical Service address these challenges through a combination of worker training and guides, manuals, and model safety programs that support your safety program. These are just a few of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.
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.
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.
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.
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 and CNA, our long-time partner in safety, congratulate the MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards winners for 2023. These five companies exhibited exceptional safety leadership and safety culture throughout the year. Company representatives joined MCAA President Robert Beck on stage during MCAA24 in Orlando to accept their awards.
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.
MCAA member contractors and local affiliates are encouraged to participate in an upcoming UA organizing blitz. This is a great opportunity to share the benefits of working for a union contractor and enhance the labor/management relationship. Read on to learn more, then register for a blitz near you.
#SafetyWeek is a wrap! But the safety & health of our workers, our teams, and each other continues to be of the utmost importance. You can view all of last week’s video clips below for tips to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of our workers below.
Your field leaders are the face of your company. Are they prepared to communicate effectively, bridge conflict and personality clashes and protect your company’s image? Kevin Dougherty’s presentation at the Field Leaders Conference provides the tricks and tactics they need to get even the most difficult people eating out of their hands, plus other ideas for improving communication with crews, other subs, management and owners. Register them today!
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.
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…
Savvy contractors know that safe workers are productive workers who bring jobs in on time and on budget. MCAA’s 700+ Safety & Health Resources offer a robust library to support your safety program, from training to model programs and resources that keep you up to date with regulations and ahead of the curve with safety and health. 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.
Registration is now open for the 2024 AEC Best Practices Conference. The conference provides MCAA affiliated association executives with a valuable platform for sharing innovative strategies and insights to enhance organizational effectiveness. Attendees gain actionable takeaways and forge meaningful connections, fostering collaborative growth within the Association Executive Council (AEC) community. All local association executives are strongly encouraged to attend. Register today!
MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show connects our contractor members with the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.
Crockett Facilities Services uses XOi to improve customers’ experience, which translates into more confidence in Crockett’s recommendations and repairs. XOi also provides Crockett’s technicians with easy access to a knowledge database, repair manuals, and expert guidance, so they can make well-informed decisions, and repairs are done right the first time. Happy customers and efficient, effective technicians help Crockett be more productive.
The NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting showcased advancements and innovations in the field of welding technology. Attendees learned about the latest developments in pipe welding techniques and the application of orbital welding technology in medical gas systems. A case study on adaptive welding demonstrated its practical implementation and recent advancements, highlighting its potential in various industries. The importance of education and automation for future business success was emphasized, underscoring the need for continuous learning and technological integration. High-purity tube welding was discussed, addressing the unique challenges and advancements in this specialized area. Additionally, the conference covered the intersection of welding and additive manufacturing, exploring both the progress and remaining hurdles in this evolving field.
Your foremen didn’t get where they are by coasting. They’re good at what they do, and they can get even better by cultivating the attributes of great foremen. Greg Fuller, whose career spans from apprentice to company president and MCAA President, will lead a discussion of the top 10 attributes of great foremen. He will inspire your field leaders with new ideas and energy, to look at their role differently through an important professional lens, so they come back highly motivated to strive for greatness.
Join MCAA and our partners at the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training for the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction. The partnership gives MCAA members access to a variety of resources, which MCAA will augment with a little help from our friends in the Safety Alliance and MCAA members DEWALT, MILWAUKEE TOOL, and ServiceTitan. Working together, we can help prevent falls and improve safety in our industry.
As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.
Falls are the leading cause of workplace fatalities and fall protection is the most cited OSHA violation. MCAA’s Fall Prevention & Protection Resources provide training to keep workers safe when using aerial lifts, fall prevention and protection devices, ladders, and scaffolds to support contractor training efforts during the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction and every day. They’re just a few of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.
Arden Engineering Constructors, an MCAA member, was named one of the 2024 Best Places to Work in Rhode Island by Providence Business News (PBN) and Best Companies Group. The awards program identifies, recognizes, and honors businesses that benefit the state’s economy, workforce, and businesses. MCAA congratulates MCAA Past President Robert M. Bolton and the entire Arden Engineering Constructors team.
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.
The Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Conference is your platform for building lasting connections and fostering a supportive community. Networking opportunities abound, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences, and collaborate on strategies for success. Register today!
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.
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.
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.
MCAA’s Field Leaders Conference is where field leaders realize their importance and value as professionals and members of the management team. When your field leaders join us in June, they will learn the skills they need to be business, and results, oriented managers focused on growing company profits and brand. Register them today!
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.
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.
Today’s successful contractors realize that each new project presents an opportunity to pre-fabricate, enhancing both productivity and profitability. PCA’s Pre-Fabrication Operations Guide for Plumbing provides an overview of pre-fabrication, including tips for contractors at every stage of pre-fabrication adoption. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.
The Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Conference is your platform for building lasting connections and fostering a supportive community. Networking opportunities abound, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences, and collaborate on strategies for success. 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 is honored to join the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training as a Premier Partner for the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction. The partnership gives MCAA members access to a variety of resources, which MCAA will augment with a little help from our friends in the Safety Alliance and MCAA members DEWALT, MILWAUKEE TOOL, and ServiceTitan. Working together, we can help prevent falls and improve safety in our industry.
Over 390,000 women work in the construction industry, up significantly over the past decade. Despite this tremendous growth, many women still face challenges, including safety and health. All workers deserve a safe workplace and to return home at the end of the day in the same shape as when they got there. MCAA’s Safety Excellence and Women in the Mechanical Industry initiatives are pleased to bring you these tips for creating safer workplaces for women.
MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show connects our contractor members with the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.
As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting your livelihood and setting the stage for a bright future, MCAA has secured the services of Longbow Public Policy Group to advise our MCAA Government Affairs Committee (GAC). GAC Chair, Jim Gaffney will be passing along information relative to our industry on a regular basis.
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.
In today’s competitive landscape, demonstrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) awareness is no longer optional—it’s essential for business growth. As MCAA members, embracing ESG practices can significantly impact your success.
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.
Project managers ensure that work is completed on time, in accordance with contract documents, and at a profit. MCAA’s Project Manager’s Manual equips PMs with general information on project management in the construction industry, offering tips for handling day‐to‐day situations and avoiding some of the most common pitfalls. It’s just one of MCAA’s educational resources that are free to MCAA members as a benefit of membership.
The Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Conference is your platform for building lasting connections and fostering a supportive community. Networking opportunities abound, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences, and collaborate on strategies for success. Register today!
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.
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.
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 Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Conference is your platform for building lasting connections and fostering a supportive community. Networking opportunities abound, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences, and collaborate on strategies for success.
The Manufacturer/Supplier Training area of MCAA’s website connects our contractor members with training opportunities available from the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.
The National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) has released a new Technical Bulletin that highlights the basics of GMAW (MIG) and FCAW welding. The bulletin describes the technical aspects of GMAW, explains how the metal gets from the wire to the workpiece (transfer modes), and highlights what contractors need to pay attention to when bringing the process into their shop or field fabrication site.
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.
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.
MCAA is committed to stemming our industry’s high suicide rates by breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. Over the last year, MCAA partnered with the UA, NECA, SMACNA, and TAUC to distribute over 100k 988 awareness hard hat stickers and chips. At the same time, we built a comprehensive mental health program that includes dozens of toolbox talks and a world-class mental health awareness and suicide prevention video.
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.
This year MCAA presented its highest award, the Distinguished Service Award, to Michael Mack. The DSA award celebrates a legacy of service and dedication to improving the mechanical contracting industry. During Mack’s career, he played a pivotal role in redeveloping MCAA’s Institute for Project Management, advancing its mission and dedicating years to its progress. Mack’s family joined him onstage at the opening general session of MCAA24 for the surprise.
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.
Newly elected MCAA President Rick Gopffarth shared his hopes for MCAA, his passion for developing the next generation of mechanical industry leaders, and the need to help members navigate the industry’s ongoing labor issues in a recent Contractor magazine article. Asked what one message he would share with his fellow contractors, he said, “Work hard, surround yourself with great people, lean on your friends and relationships, but more than anything, have fun. We are part of the greatest industry in the world. Embrace it, own it and enjoy the ride!” Gopffarth became MCAA’s president at the close of MCAA24 on March 21, 2024.
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.
MCAA’s Virtual Trade Show connects our contractor members with the members of MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council.
MCAA24 concluded a week of being enriched, engaged and enchanted in Orlando, Florida. MCAA President Robert Beck shared his final remarks from the main stage during the closing general session. Before passing the gavel, President Beck said, “Your attendance and engagement throughout the week is what makes this convention such an incredible experience for everyone. This past year, I have been awed by your level of passion. Sincerely, thank you for all you do for our association.”
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!
During the recent convention, MCAA’s Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and President Advisory Council Partners teamed up for a charity activity to support One Heart for Women and Children, a local charity aiding struggling families in Central Florida and beyond.
MCAA extends a warm welcome to Ron King, who joins the staff starting April 1, 2024, as MCAA’s new Executive Director, WebLEM and NCPWB. Ron will take over for Nick Nikpourfard upon his retirement in June. Ron joins us after a 17+ year career in the MEP division of Trimble, where he was most recently the Association Relationship and Business Development Director. Prior to joining Trimble, Ron worked for GEM Inc., a leading single-source contractor in Toledo, Ohio. He served as co-chair of the MCAA WebLEM Committee since 1998. MCAA is pleased to welcome Ron to the staff, and his significant other, Susan Hall, to the MCAA staff family.
Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the forefront of welding technology! Join us at the NCPWB Technical Conference/Committee Meeting to explore the innovations shaping the future of pipe welding. You will experience cutting-edge presentations that delve into the latest innovations and challenges in the welding industry. Don’t miss out…register today!
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.