OTTAWA, December 18, 2024 – Spearheaded by the association’s Future Leaders Advisory Council, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) announced today that registration is now open for the 2025 Emerging Leaders Conference, taking place from March 27-28, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario. The conference is once again presented by Procore.

“We are very excited to be hosting this event and look forward to building on the excitement after last year’s inaugural conference,” said Kyle Getty, Chair of the MCAC Future Leaders Advisory Council. “MCAC has made a strong commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders in our industry. The conference program looks at several industry issues that are relevant to our sector, alongside the opportunity to network with peers and colleagues from across Canada.”

Sessions for the 2025 Emerging Leaders Conference address a variety of topics, including mental health in the workplace, the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), technology and project management, contract and industry practice issues, and interactive sessions around Lean and Pull Planning.

“When we put together the program for this year’s event, we really tried to strike a balance between more traditional education sessions alongside interactive and engaging workshops,” Getty added. “Given the range of topics covered over the two-day program, there really is something for everyone.”

The conference also features a keynote presentation from author and motivational speaker Mandy Gill. Her session will focus on some of the messages from her newest book, “Reset with Resilience: A Guide to Greatness When Your Goals Go Sideways“, which is set to be released in January 2025.

More information about the conference, including registration information, is available at: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/EmergingLeaders2025/home/

At its 81st Annual National Conference, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) recognized five outstanding individuals for their contributions to the association and the mechanical contracting sector.

“We are extremely fortunate to have such a dedicated group of volunteers and industry leaders who step up to support the association and our sector,” said Tania Johnston, MCAC Chief Executive Officer. “MCA Canada is a stronger association because of their contributions and commitment to this industry. We look forward each year to recognizing some of those individuals at our conference.”

This year MCAC recognized the following individuals:

• John Makarchuk – the Gary Greig Award recognizes Associate Member representatives for their contributions to the Associate Member category and to MCAC
• Geza Banfai – the Lloyd Maclean Memorial Award is given to individuals for their volunteer contributions to MCAC and the industry
• Kyle Getty – the MCAC Next Gen Award is given to an individual for their outstanding commitment and dedication to the next generation of the mechanical contracting sector
• Jack Bavis & Del Pawliuk – the MCAC Life Membership Award is given to individuals who have given back to MCAC through their volunteer work and service at the association level

“We want to congratulate these individuals once again for their incredible support of MCAC and this sector,” Johnston added.

OTTAWA, December 3, 2024 — At its 2024 Annual General Meeting, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada elected Brad Mason of Winnipeg, Manitoba as the association’s new President and Chair, succeeding Charlie Webb of Sarnia, Ontario.

“To step into this role at such an exciting time for our industry is something that I am very enthusiastic about,” Mason said. “Not only is the mechanical contracting sector shaping up to play an increasingly important role across Canada, but our national association is taking the critical steps to ensure our members have a strong and prominent voice across the country.”

Mason’s election took place following several days of announcements for the association at its Annual National Conference.

First, the Women in Mechanical Contracting Committee announced the release of a new children’s book, entitled “Susie’s Shed.” The book is meant to showcase the trades to young women and girls, and is now on sale in Canada, the U.S. and Australia. Second, MCAC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Electrical Contractors Association of Manitoba (ECAM) to explore the feasibility of a national dual-trade association.

“This week showcased the strength of this association and its volunteers,” added Mason. “I am very optimistic about the path we’re on, and looking forward to building on all we have achieved thus far. There has never been a better time to be a part of MCA Canada.”

While there are several initiatives underway, Mason noted that the industry still faces challenges ahead.

He added that the role of a national association is becoming increasingly apparent, particularly as the industry grapples with labour shortages, productivity challenges, all the while dealing with increased construction activity across the country. There is also a federal election on the horizon where the mechanical contracting sector will want to ensure their voice is heard.

“We have our work cut out for us,” Mason said. “But I believe this association is up to the challenge. I am excited about where we are going as a national association, and as an industry.”

MCAC President Charlie Webb (front row – right) and ECAM Vice-President Paul Shack (front row – left) signed a strategic MOU between both associations along side (from left to right) MCAC Incoming Chair Brad Mason, MCAM/ECAM Executive Director Ramona Coey, MCAC Vice-President Eastern Ian Arbuckle, MCAC Secretary/Treasurer Derek Ermen, MCAC CEO Tania Johnston, MCAC Vice-President Central Joe Givens

AUSTIN, NOVEMBER 28, 2024 – At their 81st Annual National Conference, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC), together with representatives from the Electrical Contractors Association of Manitoba (ECAM), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a collaborative framework between both organizations to collaborate on the development of a dual-trade, federated, and integrated national association.

“We are extremely proud to be signing this MOU with our counterparts at the Electrical Contractors Association of Manitoba,” explained Charlie Webb, 2023/2024 President and Chair of MCAC. “The MOU is a reflection of the many shared objectives our associations have, and the recognition that a shared and collaborative approach has the potential to create a stronger national voice for our respective sectors.”

“The Electrical Contractors Association of Manitoba is committed to ensuring our members receive value for association membership,” said Paul Shack, ECAM Vice-President and Partner at Nor-tec Group. “This MOU represents that commitment. Great things are achieved when we collaborate with liked-minded stakeholders. We look forward to exploring options with MCAC in representing the pan-Canadian mechanical and electrical contracting sector.”

As part of the MOU, both parties have agreed to work together to assess the feasibility of an integrated and federated membership structure for both electrical and mechanical contractors. The agreement also extends an invitation for ECAM members to take part in MCAC activities moving forward, including the MCAC Day on the Hill, Emerging Leaders Conference, and MCAC Annual National Conference, among others.

“As the associations representing these sectors in our respective jurisdictions, we share a common belief in advancing the best interests of our members, advocating for and on behalf of our sector, and promoting industry best practices,” explained Brad Mason, incoming MCAC President and Chair. “At MCAC, we recognize the potential this has to create one of the strongest associations in Canada’s construction industry. On job sites across the country our tradespeople are closely aligned; it only makes sense that our associations do the same.”

Among the many benefits outlined, the MOU also identifies several key areas where a dual-trade national association could benefit members across the country. These include enhanced advocacy initiatives, increased member engagement, a stronger voice on industry practice issues, and more support for the growth and development of each sector in Canada’s construction industry.

With the MOU now signed, MCAC and ECAM representatives will begin engaging on a national working group, as well as dialogue with other interested associations looking to also take part in these discussions.

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AUSTIN, November 28, 2024 – As the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) kicked off their 81st Annual National Conference, the association and its Women in Mechanical Contracting Committee (WiMC) used the opportunity to announce the publication of their first children’s book showcasing the trades to young women and girls. The idea to publish the book was first put forward by WiMC Chair Judy-Lynn Mason as a way to reach out to the next generation.

“We were so excited to announce and launch ‘Susie’s Shed’ in front of our conference delegation this morning,” said Mason. “This book has been a goal of our committee, and it is wonderful to see it come to fruition. It is a beautifully illustrated book that tells a fun story about girls undertaking the exciting trades on a construction project.”

The book, for sale through Amazon and through MCA Canada, was written by Ken Lancastle, Chief Operating Officer of MCAC, and illustrated by Michael Roy. It is the first in a series of books the association intends to publish, as well as colouring books and other interactive elements featuring the Susie character.

“One of the main messages that we wanted to share with ‘Susie’s Shed,’ and with future projects, is that girls can do anything they set their minds to,” Mason continued. “Susie is one way that we are showcasing to girls and parents – as well as teachers and counsellors – that the construction sector is an exciting career opportunity for anybody.”

In addition to MCAC, the development of the book was supported by Mechanical Contractor Associations across the country. MCAC will be dedicating the sales of the project to supporting future Women in Mechanical Contracting initiatives.

“The MCA community was extremely enthusiastic to support this initiative,” explained Charlie Webb, Chair of MCA Canada. “Once the ball started rolling on the project, our partner associations across Canada were ready to step up to see the book come to fruition.”

For more information about Susie’s Shed, please visit www.susiebuilds.ca.

“A significant majority of mechanical contracting firms in Canada are considered small- or medium-sized companies, or SMEs. As a trade contractor association, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) is concerned with any taxation policy that would negatively impact its members, as well as the potential to attract new individuals and investment to the mechanical contracting industry. The Canadian economy is faced with many challenges in the years ahead that will require a strong and robust mechanical contracting sector. It is as important as ever to ensure a business environment exists that allows mechanical contractors to thrive so that we can continue to build the Canada of tomorrow.”

OTTAWA, March 8, 2024 – With March 11 marking World Plumbing Day across the globe, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) is encouraging its members and all Canadians to take a moment to reflect on the important role plumbing plays in their day-to-day lives.

“On World Plumbing Day, we celebrate and recognize just how important the plumbing industry is in Canada and throughout the world,” said Charlie Webb, President and Chair of MCAC. “Plumbing serves as the backbone to our public health infrastructure. Whether it is clean drinking water or proper and efficient sanitation systems, plumbing should continue to be celebrated for safeguarding Canadians and the wellbeing of our communities.”

Beyond the immediate health implications in Canadian homes, schools, hospitals and businesses, the plumbing and mechanical contracting sector is a vital contributor to the Canadian economy. Across the country, plumbing and mechanical contractors are relied on in all aspects of Canada’s economy, as well as supporting the various sectors that rely on reliable water and sanitation systems.

“While we often take for granted the role that plumbing plays in our daily lives, World Plumbing Day provides an opportunity to celebrate this essential industry,” Webb continued. “I would encourage all Canadians to take a moment today to ‘Thank a Plumber’ and to recognize how fortunate we are to have a vibrant and capable plumbing and mechanical contracting sector in Canada.”

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“Any and all steps taken to encourage greater participation in the trades is welcomed by our industry and our association,” said MCAC CEO Tania Johnston. “We would also encourage the government to look at other creative ways to make the trades a more inclusive career choice. Last year we recommended that the government adopt tax deduction programs to reduce the often-higher cost of gender-specific PPE. This would help support the government’s goal of recruiting and retaining Canadians to the skilled trades, and help fill the labour shortage facing our sector.”

Cost and accessibility of gender-specific personal protective equipment (PPE) is a significant safety issue for women in the trades. A 2022 report from the CSA Group found that:

• 58 per cent of women use PPE that is the wrong size at least some of the time;
• 28 per cent don’t wear all the required PPE because of fit issues; and
• 38 per cent use a workaround to make their PPE fit.

In addition to the challenge of proper-fitting PPE, there is often an economic hardship: gender-specific PPE for women can cost up to twice as much as equipment for their male counterparts.

MCAC urges the federal government to implement a program modeled after the federal tradesperson’s tools expenses deduction, specifically aimed at women in the skilled trades, to help improve occupational health and safety and remove a barrier to entry for women seeking careers in the skilled trades.

“The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada was pleased to see the Government of Canada’s announcement today on the 9-8-8 suicide crisis helpline.

Health and safety remains of critical importance to our industry, and mental health is no different. An accessible phone number that provides immediate support for those in crisis is welcomed by our industry.

We all have a role to play in removing the stigma around mental health, and to share the message that ‘it’s okay to not be okay.’”

At its 2023 Annual General Meeting, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) elected Charlie Webb, President and CEO of Anderson Webb Limited in Sarnia, Ontario, as President and Chair of the MCAC Board of Directors for 2023-2024. He is preceded by Derek Ermen of Moncton, New Brunswick.

“I am very excited to be stepping into the role of MCAC President during this busy and transformative time for the mechanical contracting sector in Canada,” said Webb. “Across the country our industry is dealing with unique challenges alongside exciting opportunities. Our sector has an essential part to play for a healthy Canadian economy, and our association is well-positioned to maximize that role on behalf of our members.”

Prior to its Annual General Meeting, the MCAC Board of Directors – alongside management of provincial and local mechanical contractor associations – undertook several days of strategic planning for the association. While there is still work being done on the new strategic plan, the themes of advocacy, growth, and innovation stood as critical pieces for MCAC moving forward.

As well, the association has recognized the significant challenges ahead with respect to availability of a skilled workforce, the need to advocate for and promote best practices in the industry, and the need to understand and educate how the transition to net zero will impact the mechanical contracting sector in the years ahead.

“What was clear during our strategic planning was that there is a significant role that MCAC will need to play in the years ahead,” Webb added. “As President and Chair, I am looking forward to seeing that planning process continue, and mapping out a clear strategy for the association moving forward. At the same time, we have a tremendous opportunity to raise the profile of our sector and the critical work we do across the country, and I am excited to take that on.”

Another important initiative highlighted by Webb was the role the association can play to elevate the value of Canada’s mechanical contracting sector, citing several key partnerships as a place to begin.

“As a national association, we are fortunate to have a number of organizations as partners that we can rely on and work closely with for the betterment of our industry,” he noted. “By working with these stakeholders – including government, labour, and industry associations—we can help to ensure that MCAC members are recognized as leaders, not just in our sector, but in the construction industry at large.”