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Dunne, Conor Brendan

Dec 12
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MCABC Hosts Skilled Trades Roundtable With the Honourable Minister Sunner

By Advocacy, Latest, Skilled Trades

Vancouver, B.C. – Yesterday we welcomed the Honourable Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, to the MCABC office for a forward-looking roundtable focused on expanding and modernizing skilled trades training in B.C.

Following the Province’s recent announcement of a $241-million investment to boost trades training, the roundtable brought together representatives from the Mechanical Contractors Association of BC (MCABC), BC Food and Beverage (BCFB), New Car Dealers Association of BC (NCDABC), Core Education & Fine Arts Early Learning Centre (CEFA), Concrete BC, the Minister and her staff, and MCABC’s strategic partner, Bluestone Government Relations, who moderated the meeting.

The session kicked off an important dialogue, with industry leaders sharing their challenges regarding skilled trades shortages, and the Minister seeking input on how her Ministry can most effectively deploy this landmark investment.

Despite the diversity of associations present, several common themes emerged, including the need for workforce development reform, the shift from traditional worksites and practices to high-tech ones, and the concern that inaction will exacerbate the current productivity and affordability crises.

MCABC Board Chair Kyle Wisniewski, Past Chair/Secretary Treasurer Trevor Hildebrand, and CEO Kim Barbero reiterated the same key asks we made of the Honourable Premier Eby when we toured him around a cutting-edge mechanical job site in September.

Kyle stressed the need to modernize trades training – both the curriculum, to keep pace with industry advancements, and its delivery, to embrace opportunities for online learning. He also reaffirmed MCABC’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with the Ministry to help develop and support the necessary reforms.

Trevor emphasized the importance of upholding trade certification standards, such as the Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Mechanic (RACM) trade, to ensure safe, efficient, and durable installations. He proposed strengthening upskilling pathways as a partial solution to the ongoing labour shortage, thus leveraging the skilled trades expertise already available within the province.

Kim called attention to the critical role of mechanical contractors, noting that improving access and training is essential if the Province wants to meet its future infrastructure goals and provide stable, well-paid careers for British Columbians.

Minister Sunner welcomed MCABC’s collaboration and noted alignment with a number of her Ministry’s priorities, including:

  • increasing per-seat funding and clearing waitlists
  • rebuilding the skilled trades certification system
  • strengthening retraining and upskilling pathways
  • exposing more young people to the trades
  • integrating new technologies and AI
  • continuing consultation with industry stakeholders

The roundtable reinforced the power of cross-industry collaboration and the shared commitment to building a stronger, more resilient workforce.

MCABC will continue working alongside our government and industry partners to support the expansion and modernization of trades training – helping deliver the skilled mechanical workforce B.C. needs for the decade ahead.

Thank you, Minister Sunner, for your continued interest in our industry. We are encouraged by yesterday’s roundtable and look forward to furthering this important work together.

 

About

The Mechanical Contractors Association of B.C. (MCABC) is the dedicated representative of the mechanical contracting industry in British Columbia – the industry with the largest share of skilled trades workers in the construction sector. As the connection to industry excellence for our diverse membership, we deliver education and professional development programs that enable high standards of practice and business success. Through advocacy and strong industry partnerships, we influence policy and regulatory development at all levels of government, advancing the interests of our industry and improving its ability to meet B.C.’s growing infrastructure demand.

 

Media Contact

Conor Brendan Dunne
Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement

cdunne@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058

 

Dec 05
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Prompt Payment Becomes Law: Key Takeaways and What’s Next

By Advocacy, Latest

On November 27, the Construction Prompt Payment Act received Royal Assent and was officially enacted as law.

This milestone brings B.C.’s construction industry one step closer to a standardized payment system – keeping cash flowing, crews working, and projects moving forward.

But what will it mean for contractors on the ground and what happens next?

Key Takeaways

Now that the Act has passed through the House and received Royal Assent, we know that the following key provisions will form part of its legal framework:

Regular and Proper Invoicing

1. Contractors will be required to submit a proper invoice to owners on a monthly basis unless otherwise specified in the contract, e.g. milestone-based invoicing (s.5).

2. Proper invoices must include the information specified in s.7(1)(a) and will be deemed proper unless the owner objects, in writing, within 7 days after the invoice date (s.7).

Prompt Payment

1. Owners must pay contractors within 28 days after the invoice date (s.9)(1)(a)).

2. Contractors must pay subcontractors within 7 days after they receive payment from the owner or before the subcontractor’s payment due date – whichever comes first (s.9).

3. Notices of non-payment from owners to contractors must be given within 14 days after the invoice date (s.11(2)(b)(i)).

4. Notices of non-payment from contractors to subcontractors must be given within 7 days after the contractor receives a notice of non-payment from the owner or before the subcontractor’s payment due date – whichever comes first (s.11(2)(b)(ii)).

5. If a contractor receives partial payment more than 7 days before the subcontractor’s payment due date, the contractor must pay the subcontractor rateably from the amount of the partial payment and within 7 days after they receive it (s.10).

6. Interest will begin to accrue on unpaid amounts after the payment due date at the rate specified in the contract or the prescribed rate – whichever is higher (s.15).

Adjudication

1. Notices of adjudication regarding owner-contractor contracts must be given within 90 days after a contract is completed, abandoned, or terminated (s.19(2)).

2. An adjudicator must be appointed by the adjudication authority within 7 days after a request is made by one or more of the parties (s.23)(2)).

What’s Next?

Currently the Act exists as a legislative framework – it needs to be fleshed out before it can begin being implemented and enforced.

In this next phase, the regulatory phase, the Ministry of Attorney General will work closely with industry stakeholders to develop the regulations needed to implement the law. This phase is expected to last between 12 and 18 months.

“MCABC was the first organization in B.C. to call for this reform over a decade ago,” says CEO Kim Barbero.

“Commitment and collaboration are what have gotten us to this point, and we look forward to partnering with government and other stakeholders on development of the regulations which, I expect, will further strengthen the mechanical contracting industry.”

As the regulatory process takes shape, we’ll be sharing updates and member-focused guidance so you know what to expect and how to prepare for the changes ahead.

Watch this space!

 

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Read the Act in Full: https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/lc/billscurrent/1st43rd:gov20-3

 

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About

The Mechanical Contractors Association of B.C. (MCABC) is the dedicated representative of the mechanical contracting industry in British Columbia – the industry with the largest share of skilled trades workers in the construction sector. As the connection to industry excellence for our diverse membership, we deliver education and professional development programs that enable high standards of practice and business success. Through advocacy and strong industry partnerships, we influence policy and regulatory development at all levels of government, advancing the interests of our industry and improving its ability to meet B.C.’s growing infrastructure demand.

 

Media Contact

Conor Brendan Dunne
Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement

cdunne@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058

 

Nov 17
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2025 Year in Review

By Latest

As 2025 comes to a close, we’re proud to look back on a year that strengthened MCABC’s voice, impact, and community.

Everything we achieved this year happened because our members continue to show up, participate, and push the industry forward.

Watch the Year in Review video above to revisit the highlights — and join us as we carry this momentum into an even bigger year ahead.

 

*  *  *

 

About

The Mechanical Contractors Association of B.C. (MCABC) is the dedicated representative of the mechanical contracting industry in British Columbia – the industry with the largest share of skilled trades workers in the construction sector. As the connection to industry excellence for our diverse membership, we deliver education and professional development programs that enable high standards of practice and business success. Through advocacy and strong industry partnerships, we influence policy and regulatory development at all levels of government, advancing the interests of our industry and improving its ability to meet B.C.’s growing infrastructure demand.

 

Media Contact

Conor Brendan Dunne
Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement

cdunne@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058

Nov 12
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Chill & Cheer in the Okanagan

By Photo Galleries
Oct 29
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Member Survey 2025: We Asked, You Answered, We Heard

By Latest

This summer, we invited you – our members – to participate in our comprehensive Member Survey.

The survey gave you the opportunity to tell us how we’re doing and what you believe MCABC’s priorities should be going forward.

Watch the video above to hear MCABC CEO, Kim Barbero, discuss key findings from the survey and outline how the Association will use this data to inform our future direction, strategy, and decision-making.

We asked, you answered, and we heard you loud and clear!

Oct 15
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Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services is MCABC’s Advocacy Pillar Partner

By Advocacy, Latest, Statements

Vancouver, B.C. – MCABC is pleased to announce that Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services (WMB) has secured a Pillar Partnership with MCABC. This exciting, landmark partnership will enable MCABC members to access exclusive and customized insurance and surety bonding savings and opportunities. It will also elevate building best practices and advance prevention initiatives that directly influence industry standards.

WMB, in collaboration with its partners at Aviva, Liberty Mutual, and Intact Insurance, is working closely with MCABC’s Board of Directors to create and deliver exclusive benefits for MCABC members, including:

A preferred MCABC Insurance Program – tailored to the specialized needs of the mechanical contracting industry in B.C., WMB is in the final stages of formalizing this program which will be led by an MCABC-dedicated team negotiating best pricing for members.

An MCABC Surety Panel – whether members are establishing their first bonding facility or enhancing an existing bonding legacy, this panel of top-tier surety underwriters and brokers will offer a dedicated and priority service.

“Our client-centric approach, combined with our deep understanding of the challenges faced by mechanical contractors, is what sets us apart in the insurance landscape,” says Mathew Binkle, Managing Partner at WMB.

As MCABC’s Advocacy Pillar Partner, WMB will be a key funding party that further enhances and elevates MCABC’s general advocacy strategy and efforts, including a continued focus on prompt payment legislation. This collaboration will enable the MCABC team to continue with its focused provincial and municipal advocacy program while providing for additional opportunities to influence policy and regulatory change and advancements.

“We know how critical insurance and surety services are to our members,” says MCABC CEO Kim Barbero. “MCABC is laser focused on driving member value. Aligning our pillars with key business services that support our members’ business growth and profitability are key to continued industry growth.”

In addition to providing sector specific bonding and insurance programs, the partnership with WMB will ensure MCABC members have access to resources that enable informed decision-making. Informative programming will be shared and hosted by MCABC and WMB, and personalized guidance will also be delivered by WMB by request.

“Insurance can be daunting,” says Nikki Keith, Principal at WMB, “but it doesn’t have to be. We’re here to guide MCABC members through the what’s, the how’s, and the why’s to help them safeguard their businesses, protect profitability, and keep projects moving forward on time and on budget.”

WMB will be leading November’s #CoffeeTalk, a must-attend for MCABC members who want to dig deeper, learn beyond the broker experience and understand the mindset of the insurance underwriter.

About WMB

Since 1981, WMB has been a trusted partner to mechanical and plumbing contractors across Western Canada. WMB has built a reputation for understanding the unique risks and operational realities of the trades that keep buildings operating, from piping systems and plumbing infrastructure to HVAC to fire protection.

The WMB team brings decades of hands-on experience in construction insurance and surety bonding, with a strong focus on mechanical and plumbing sectors. The company has worked with contractors of all sizes, from startups securing their first bonding facility to legacy firms optimizing coverage for complex projects, helping them navigate the insurance landscape with confidence.

With over 300 employees across 15 offices, WMB offers tailored solutions that reflect the specific needs of mechanical and plumbing contractors, including:

  • Surety bonding programs designed for trade contractors.
  • Customized liability and wrap-up coverage for mechanical scopes
  • Risk management strategies for service and maintenance operations
  • Claims support from professionals who understand construction timelines and pressures

About MCABC Pillar Partnerships

MCABC is leading the change in the mechanical contracting industry. We’re guided by six pillars that provide the framework for the Association’s strategic direction, decision-making, and actions:

  • Advocacy
  • Education
  • Leadership
  • Collaboration
  • Skilled Trades
  • Innovation

The Pillar Partnership program is uniquely tailored to the individual partner, with each one being carefully selected as a non-industry ally that is committed to accessing and supporting the mechanical industry in a true partnership format.

Interested in becoming a MCABC Pillar Partner? Reach out to our Director, Member Experience, Leesa Butler, at lbutler@mcabc.org and start the conversation today!

Media Contact

Conor Brendan Dunne
Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement

cdunne@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058 ext. 3244

Oct 07
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MCABC Statement on the Introduction of Prompt Payment Legislation

By Advocacy, Latest, Statements

Prompt payment is a historic step forward for B.C.’s $28-billion construction economy

MCABC applauds government leadership and calls for strong implementation to ensure lasting impact across one of the province’s most vital sectors.

Vancouver, B.C. – The Mechanical Contractors Association of British Columbia (MCABC) welcomes the Government of British Columbia’s announcement today introducing prompt payment legislation — a long-awaited reform that, once passed, will strengthen the province’s construction economy by keeping housing and infrastructure projects moving, cutting unnecessary and hidden costs and making it faster and more affordable to build across B.C.

“Prompt payment is a historic step forward for B.C.’s $28-billion construction economy — one that MCABC has championed for over a decade,” said Kim Barbero, CEO, Mechanical Contractors Association of British Columbia. “Mechanical contractors are at the heart of how B.C. builds — delivering the air, water and energy systems that keep our province moving. This reform will strengthen that foundation by bringing greater efficiency and stability to one of B.C.’s largest economic engines — ensuring contractors can pay their workers, invest in training and technology and deliver the housing and infrastructure our communities urgently need.”

Prompt payment legislation sets predictable timelines and clear dispute-resolution processes to ensure funds move efficiently through every level of the construction supply chain — from owners to subcontractors.

With $158 billion in major projects underway and another $173 billion on the horizon — covering housing, infrastructure, industrial and energy developments — B.C. is in one of the largest building cycles in its history. Predictable payment will help sustain that momentum by keeping capital circulating, lowering financing costs and keeping projects on schedule — making the entire system more efficient and resilient.

“Prompt payment isn’t just an industry issue — it’s about people,” said Kyle Wisniewski, Chair of the MCABC Board of Directors and General Manager, Black & McDonald Limited. “Predictable cash flow gives contractors the confidence to keep crews working, bring on apprentices and invest in the next generation of tradespeople. When money moves on time, so do projects — and that’s what delivers more homes and builds stronger communities across B.C.”

“Confidence is what drives investment, innovation and growth,” said Trevor Hildebrand, Past Chair & Secretary-Treasurer of the MCABC Board and President of Phase Mechanical Systems. “Prompt payment creates that confidence, unlocking contractors’ ability to modernize how we work — adopting new technology, improving efficiency and keeping skilled workers in the industry. It’s about building capacity for the long term — strengthening B.C.’s competitiveness and making our industry more productive, resilient and better positioned for growth.”

As the legislation moves forward, MCABC will continue working with government and industry partners to ensure its implementation delivers meaningful, measurable results.

“Prompt payment is only as strong as its execution,” Barbero added. “Implementation must align with how construction actually works — with clear timelines, practical enforcement and accountability across the chain. That’s how we’ll ensure the benefits reach the people building B.C., and ultimately, the communities and industries that rely on them.”

&

About MCABC

The Mechanical Contractors Association of BC is the connection to industry excellence. We deliver education and professional development programs and services that enable high standards of professional practice and business success for mechanical contractors and their sub-trades. Through advocacy and strong industry partnerships, MCABC influences policy discussion and development in a sector that comprises the largest percentage of the construction industry’s skilled trades workforce. We also represent suppliers and affiliates associated with the mechanical trades and maintain strong alliances with industry manufacturers.

Media Contact

Conor Brendan Dunne
Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement

cdunne@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058 ext. 3244

Sep 09
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Premier Joins MCABC Tour Spotlighting Industry Advancements

By Latest

Vancouver, B.C. – Earlier this morning MCABC CEO, Kim Barbero, and MCABC Board Chair, Kyle Wisniewski, had the opportunity to demonstrate for The Honourable David Eby, Premier of British Columbia, how mechanical contractors in B.C. are advancing traditional construction practices.

The Premier was introduced to the concept of Virtual Design Construction (VDC) technology and given an overview of the pre-construction process, including Building Information Modelling (BIM) and off-site Pre-Fabrication. He then toured a state-of-the-art data centre currently under construction in the Spencer Building in downtown Vancouver.

MCABC member, Black & McDonald, is playing a key role in the first phase of this project, which involves the installation of three large chillers and an extensive network of interior piping to support the data centre’s cooling system.

The group first visited the future data centre, where Kyle presented the cutting-edge virtual design tools that were used to model and pre-fabricate the installations. He explained to the Premier how the mechanical trades are leading the change in this space, leveraging new technologies to minimize error, reduce waste, increase safety, and drive efficiency.

As the group moved through the tour, visiting the chillers and other installations,  Kyle stressed the need for modernization in trades training and education, to reflect and support the changing industry landscape.

“This project is a prime example of how the mechanical contracting industry is innovating to meet B.C.’s present and future infrastructure needs,” says Kim. “MCABC and its members are at the forefront of this new wave, where tools like BIM are redefining the way traditional trades operate.”

“But,” she cautions, “to keep delivering on these projects, mechanical contractors need access to a workforce that meets the rapidly advancing technological demands of the industry. That’s why the training and education piece is so critical.”

The tour concluded at one of the building’s completed data centres, where the group discussed the future of construction and infrastructure in B.C.

Kyle noted that the days of trades being only about hammers and nails are gone. He added that while the industry is grounded in core practices that are essential, a new era demands advancement – the Spencer Building project being an example of how exciting and stimulating a career in the mechanical trades is today.

As the tour came to a close, Kyle reiterated to Premier Eby the same key asks that Kim brought before the B.C. Standing Committee in June, namely:

  1. Modernizing trades training in B.C. to align with industry advancements
  2. Funding programs that introduce and promote the mechanical trades to K-12 students

“As the champion of technological innovation in the mechanical contracting industry in B.C.,” says Kim, “MCABC is committed to working closely with the provincial government to identify and advance these key opportunities.”

“This will ensure our members can keep delivering the modern infrastructure that is crucial for the future health and wellbeing of all British Columbians.”

Thank you, Premier Eby, for your continued interest in the mechanical contracting industry in B.C. We are inspired by today’s conversations and we look forward to continued collaboration.

About MCABC

The Mechanical Contractors Association of BC is the connection to industry excellence. We deliver education and professional development programs and services that enable high standards of professional practice and business success for mechanical contractors and their sub-trades. Through advocacy and strong industry partnerships, MCABC influences policy discussion and development in a sector that comprises the largest percentage of the construction industry’s skilled trades workforce. We also represent suppliers and affiliates associated with the mechanical trades and maintain strong alliances with industry manufacturers.

Media Contact

Conor Brendan Dunne
Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement

cdunne@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058

Jun 11
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MCABC Leadership Conference 2025

By Events, Latest

Relive all the epic highlights from MCABC’s Leadership Conference 2025 in Nanaimo!

 

About MCABC

The Mechanical Contractors Association of BC is the connection to industry excellence. We deliver education and professional development programs and services that enable high standards of professional practice and business success for mechanical contractors and their sub-trades. Through advocacy and strong industry partnerships, MCABC influences policy discussion and development in a sector that comprises the largest percentage of the construction industry’s skilled trades workforce. We also represent suppliers and affiliates associated with the mechanical trades and maintain strong alliances with industry manufacturers.

 

Media Contact

Conor Brendan Dunne
Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement

cdunne@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058

Apr 01
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BC Hydro is MCABC’s Education Pillar Partner

By Education, Latest, Statements

Vancouver, B.C. – MCABC is excited to announce that BC Hydro has signed on as MCABC’s first Pillar Partner.

As MCABC’s Education Pillar Partner, BC Hydro will be a key funding partner in supporting the ongoing execution and delivery of high-quality educational programs and training for our members. This collaboration will enable the MCABC team to continue providing valuable training and education while creating additional opportunities for our members through enhanced resources and support.

“Through these important strategic partnerships, the mechanical contracting industry in B.C. will continue to advance and grow,” says Kim Barbero, MCABC CEO. “We have enjoyed a strong and collaborative relationship with BC Hydro and this next step demonstrates their commitment to continued delivery of high-quality education programs and regular engagement with mechanical contractors in B.C.”

BC Hydro delivers electricity to 95 per cent of British Columbians, serving more than five million people. MCABC’s members and the mechanical contracting industry in BC rely on BC Hydro’s services to operate their corporate locations, in the field and in their homes.

MCABC’s integrated approach to education and professional development will further enhance, strengthen and advance our shared knowledge in the mechanical contracting industry. In addition to this partnership with BC Hydro, MCABC will also continue to work with its regional, provincial, national and international network of education partners to initiate, design, facilitate and deliver customized programming that strengthens core competencies and develops new, leading-edge practices.

“BC Hydro has consistently prioritized education within its business model so this feels like a natural fit,” says Barbero. “MCABC is grateful to BC Hydro’s commitment to the success of the mechanical contracting industry.”

 

About MCABC Pillar Partnerships

MCABC is leading the change in the mechanical contracting industry. We’re guided by six pillars that provide the framework for the Association’s strategic direction, decision-making, and actions:

  • Advocacy
  • Education
  • Leadership
  • Collaboration
  • Skilled Trades
  • Innovation

The Pillar Partnership program is uniquely tailored to the individual partner, with each one being carefully selected as a non-industry ally that is committed to accessing and supporting the mechanical industry in a true partnership format.

Interested in becoming a MCABC Pillar Partner? Reach out to our Director, Member Experience, Leesa Butler, at lbutler@mcabc.org and start the conversation today!

 

Media Contact

Conor Brendan Dunne
Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement

cdunne@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058 ext. 3244