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More than $20,000 in scholarships available to support the next generation of professionals in the mechanical contracting industry

OTTAWA, ON – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Richard McKeagan Scholarship Series, a national scholarship program that will award more than $20,000 to students and apprentices pursuing education and careers connected to Canada’s mechanical and electrical contracting industry.

“Developing the next generation of skilled professionals is essential to the future success of Canada’s mechanical and electrical contracting industry,” said Tania Johnston, Chief Executive Officer of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada. “The Richard McKeagan Scholarship Series helps remove financial barriers for students and apprentices while demonstrating the strong commitment that our members, partners, and industry supporters have toward workforce development. We are proud to invest in students who will help design, build, maintain, and advance Canada’s built environment for years to come.”

Established by the Construction Education Council in partnership with MCAC Associate Members, the scholarship program supports post-secondary students and apprentices across Canada while highlighting the wide range of rewarding career opportunities available in the mechanical and electrical contracting sector.

The scholarship series includes a diverse range of awards supporting students in engineering, plumbing, business management, computer science, sustainability, and skilled trades apprenticeship programs. Several scholarships are specifically designated for women pursuing careers in the industry, apprentices, Indigenous candidates, and students demonstrating leadership and commitment to the future of mechanical contracting.

Eligible applicants must demonstrate a connection between their field of study and the mechanical or electrical contracting industry and be either a Student Chapter Member, a relative of an employee of an MCAC member company, or an apprentice employed by an MCAC member company. Applicants must also be enrolled full-time in a recognized Canadian post-secondary institution or apprenticeship program and maintain a minimum “B” average.  

“Canada’s construction industry is creating tremendous opportunities for young people entering the skilled trades, engineering, and related professions,” added Johnston. “Through this scholarship program, MCAC and our partners are helping students pursue their educational goals while strengthening the talent pipeline our industry needs to meet future demand.”

The scholarship series is made possible through the generous support of MCAC Associate Members and industry partners from across Canada, whose contributions continue to expand opportunities for students and apprentices each year.

Applications for the 2026 Richard McKeagan Scholarship Series are now being accepted. Full eligibility requirements, scholarship descriptions, and application details are available online at – https://mcac.ca/richard-mckeagan-scholarship-series/. The current application deadline is September 18, 2026.

About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada

The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) is the national association representing Canada’s mechanical contracting industry. Through advocacy, education, workforce development, industry advancement initiatives, and collaboration with partners across the country, MCAC works to promote, strengthen, and advance the mechanical contracting sector.

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For More Information

Madeline Dowd
Industry Education and Programs Manager
Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada
madeline@mcac.ca
(613) 232-0492