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Apr 28
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From Ottawa to Victoria: MCABC Advances Industry Priorities with Coordinated Advocacy

By Advocacy, Latest, News Releases, Skilled Trades

Victoria, B.C. — Advocacy is taking centre stage this spring — with MCABC’s integrated government relations strategy in full flight.

After our recent successful engagement with the City of Burnaby, the focus turned this past week to the provincial and federal levels, with MCABC leaders advancing industry priorities at MCAC’s Day on the Hill in Ottawa and MCABC’s Day on the Leg in Victoria.

 

Federal Advocacy: MCAC’s Day on the Hill

Collaboration was front and centre on Tuesday, April 21, as MCAs from across Canada gathered in Ottawa for MCAC’s Day on Parliament Hill, with industry leaders participating in more than 50 meetings with federal decision‑makers.

These meetings brought mechanical contractors together with Ministers, Members of Parliament, Senators, and senior staff — including the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure; the Honourable Duncan Wilson, Senator; Jenny Kwan, MP; and Parm Bains, MP — to reinforce the industry’s shared priorities at the national level.

MCABC leaders played an active role throughout the day, bringing a strong British Columbian perspective to federal discussions on the evolving needs of the industry. MCABC was represented by CEO Kim Barbero; Board Chair and MCAC Director, Kyle Wisniewski; Board Vice-Chair, Brittany Manulak; and Board Director and MCAC Women in Canadian Contracting Chair, Maddie Davidson.

 

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Provincial Advocacy: MCABC’s Day on the Leg

Building on this federal momentum, MCABC returned to Victoria for its annual Day on the B.C. Legislature on Monday, April 27, engaging directly with provincial leaders on the policies and priorities shaping B.C.’s mechanical contracting industry.

The MCABC delegation included CEO Kim Barbero and Manager of Communications & Stakeholder Engagement, Conor Dunne, alongside Board Chair, Kyle Wisniewski; Vice‑Chairs Keith Pearce and Brittany Manulak; and Board Directors Steve Robinson and Simon Miller.

A Collaborative Start: BC NDP Government Breakfast

The day began with MCABC hosting a BC NDP Government Breakfast, providing an opportunity to engage directly with government cabinet ministers in a collaborative, solutions‑focused setting. In attendance were the Honourable Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure; the Honourable Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Labour; the Honourable Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions; the Honourable Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction; Jennifer Blatherwick, MLA, Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity; Sunita Dhir, MLA, Parliamentary Secretary for International Credentials; and a number of ministry staff.

Addressing attendees, CEO Kim Barbero highlighted the essential role mechanical contractors play in British Columbia’s economy and communities. She noted that the industry accounts for more than 53,000 jobs, employs more than 25,000 skilled tradespeople, is responsible for $3 billion in wages, and contributes, directly and indirectly, $10 billion to the province’s GDP — over a quarter of construction’s total contribution — all while delivering the systems that ensure clean air and water; energy efficiency; and safe, comfortable, functional buildings across the province.

Discussions throughout the morning reflected a shared understanding of both the opportunities and challenges facing the industry, with Ministers and MLAs expressing strong interest in continued collaboration to strengthen workforce capacity, uphold trade standards, and support delivery of the province’s infrastructure priorities.

Focused Ministerial Engagement

Following the breakfast, the MCABC delegation took part in a series of targeted meetings with Ministers and senior ministry staff, allowing for deeper discussion on specific policy and workforce issues impacting B.C.’s mechanical contracting industry.

During a meeting with the Honourable Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure, the focus was on prompt payment and MCABC’s active role in shaping regulations that are practical, enforceable, and aligned with industry realities.

The delegation also met with the Honourable Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth, as well as the Ministry of Post‑Secondary Education and Future Skills, where the emphasis was on modernizing skilled trades training, upholding trade certification scopes and standards, and workforce development solutions.
Across all meetings, there was a shared understanding of the critical role mechanical contractors play in delivering British Columbia’s housing, healthcare, and infrastructure priorities — and the need for action that supports the industry’s ability to meet growing demand.

Recognition in the Legislative Assembly

Later in the day, the MCABC delegation was formally introduced in the Legislative Assembly by the Honourable Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Labour, further recognizing the essential role mechanical contractors play in British Columbia’s communities and economy.

Overall, this year’s Day on the Leg was marked by a strong, collaborative tone. Ministers, MLAs, and ministry staff demonstrated a clear understanding of the mechanical contracting industry’s importance and a shared interest in working together to address workforce and policy challenges.

As demand for housing, healthcare, and infrastructure continues to grow across the province, MCABC remains committed to engaging with all levels of government, sharing industry expertise, and contributing to practical, long‑term solutions that support both the industry and all British Columbians.

We would like to thank the Government of B.C. for their continued engagement and collaboration, as well as our Advocacy Pillar Partner, Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services, who supports our powerful advocacy program and integrated government relations strategy.

 

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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 14
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Help Drive Change: Join the MCABC Advocacy Committee

By Advocacy, Latest

Are you passionate about strengthening the mechanical contracting industry—securing and growing its labour force and modernizing skilled trades training? Are you keen to move prompt payment past the start line?

If making a positive impact and advocating for the issues that matter most to our industry is important to you, consider joining a group of industry changemakers working to move these priorities forward.

MCABC’s Advocacy Committee is seeking enthusiastic member volunteers to help influence direction and drive meaningful change. As part of the committee, you’ll collaborate with Board Directors, staff, and our Advocacy Pillar Partner, Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services, contributing to discussions, initiatives, and actions that support and strengthen the industry.

Through this work, you’ll play a role in advancing key priorities and ensuring the perspectives of mechanical contractors are represented where it matters most.

To be considered, please contact CEO Kim Barbero at kbarbero@mcabc.org

Recent Advocacy Updates

From Ottawa to Victoria: MCABC Advances Industry Priorities with Coordinated Advocacy

From Ottawa to Victoria: MCABC Advances Industry Priorities with Coordinated Advocacy

Advocacy Update: Changes Anticipated to Recent Plumbing Permit Fee Increases in Burnaby

Advocacy Update: Changes Anticipated to Recent Plumbing Permit Fee Increases in Burnaby

Skills Training Attributed to Securing BC’s Future

Skills Training Attributed to Securing BC’s Future

The Unintended Consequences of Increased Plumbing Permit Fees in Burnaby

The Unintended Consequences of Increased Plumbing Permit Fees in Burnaby

MCABC Hosts Skilled Trades Roundtable With the Honourable Minister Sunner

MCABC Hosts Skilled Trades Roundtable With the Honourable Minister Sunner

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

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

MCABC Statement on the Province’s Trades Training Investment

MCABC Statement on the Province’s Trades Training Investment

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

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

MCABC Statement on the Introduction of Prompt Payment Legislation

MCABC Statement on the Introduction of Prompt Payment Legislation

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

Kim Barbero
CEO

kbarbero@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058

 

Mar 03
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Advocacy Update: Changes Anticipated to Recent Plumbing Permit Fee Increases in Burnaby

By Advocacy, Latest

Burnaby, B.C. – In early February, MCABC met with Mayor Mike Hurley and City of Burnaby staff to discuss the unintended consequences of plumbing permit fee increases that had taken effect on January 1, 2026.

During the meeting, representatives from MCABC illustrated how projects priced and tendered under previous fee structures were now exposed to substantial cost increases – increases that could not have been accounted for at the time of bid.

Stuart Morrison, Principal, Northland Mechanical Contracting; Kim Barbero, MCABC CEO; City of Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley; and Trevor Hildebrand, MCABC Past Chair/Secretary Treasurer and President, Phase Mechanical

 

Following the meeting, City of Burnaby staff prepared and brought forward an Administrative Report for Burnaby City Council’s consideration on February 24, 2026. The Report,  ‘Burnaby Consolidated Fees and Charges Bylaw – Plumbing Permit Fees Amendment’, includes the following proposals:

1. a six-month grace period for plumbing permits (non-residential R1) issued on or before June 30, 2026, such that these permits will be subject to 2025 permit fees plus a CPI increase of 3.79%

2. refund availability for plumbing permits (non-residential R1) issued between January 1, 2026 and March 10, 2026, such that these permits will be subject to 2025 permit fees plus a CPI increase of 3.79%

It is anticipated that Council will grant final adoption to the amended Fees and Charges Bylaw on March 10, 2026. In this case, the grace period and refund availability options could be effective as of March 11, 2026.

This ongoing engagement with the City of Burnaby offers yet another example of MCABC’s powerful advocacy program in action – working with members, partners, and key government stakeholders to solve real industry issues.

Thank you, Mayor Mike Hurley, Burnaby City Council, and City of Burnaby staff, for your collaboration on – and attentiveness to – this issue.

Read the full Administrative Report

See the Report being brought before Burnaby City Council

 

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

 

Feb 17
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Skills Training Attributed to Securing BC’s Future

By Advocacy, Latest, Statements

Victoria, B.C. – MCABC CEO Kim Barbero was in Victoria for today’s Budget 2026. While the province’s deficit was top of mind, as were the protection of investments for core services and cuts in government staffing, the below highlights subjects that have direct relevance to MCABC members in their capacity as owners and leaders in the mechanical contracting industry.

Skills training attributed to securing B.C.’s future

“Construction continues across the province,” says Minister of Finance Brenda Bailey,

When it comes to planning for the future, skilled trades secured strong recognition in the 2026 provincial budget, following health care, education, and public safety.  While the government’s focus on skilled trades wasn’t new “news” for the mechanical contracting industry – the announcement of a $241M injection into skilled trades training pre-empted the budget with its own announcement in November 2025 – its high standing in the budget reinforced their impact throughout BC.

What today’s budget offered the mechanical contracting industry is clarity. It has also introduced considerations important for business owners:

  • $283 million in trades training funding over three years – this includes:
    • the $241 noted announced in November which is anticipated to create up to 5,000 seats
    • $12 million to enhance the employer training grant
    • $30 million to upskill highly qualified professionals by adding specialized streams to existing programs, including engineering, geology, computer science, biology and aerospace
  • Effective April 1, a new temporary Manufacturing and Processing Investment Tax Credit for investing in new buildings, machinery and equipment;
  • A strong commitment to continued infrastructure development in the capital plan, including, but not limited to, funding to support construction on: 17 major hospitals and acute care facilities, 66 K-12 school additions and improvements, and key transit and transportation expansions; a continued focus on housing investments (and a noted $1.4 billion reallocation of the fiscal plan); and an increase in investment in the maintenance, repair and renewal of provincially-owned infrastructure.
  • PST has been expanded for services including, but not limited to: accounting and bookkeeping; architectural; engineering and geoscience; rental property and strata management. Note: The PST on architectural, engineering, and geoscience services will apply to 30 per cent of the purchase price of the services subject to the tax.

Read the government’s announcement here.

See the full budget and highlights here.

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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

Kim Barbero

Chief Executive Officer

kbarbero@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058

Feb 02
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The Unintended Consequences of Increased Plumbing Permit Fees in Burnaby

By Advocacy, Latest

Burnaby, B.C. – Today, MCABC welcomed the opportunity to meet with Mayor Mike Hurley and City of Burnaby staff to highlight the critical role the mechanical contracting industry plays in Burnaby and across British Columbia. The discussion focused primarily on the significant impact of 2026 plumbing permit fee increases on projects that were previously tendered.

Effective January 1, 2026, the City of Burnaby implemented increases to plumbing permit fees intended to align with those of other municipalities. However, for mechanical contractors, these changes have created unintended consequences. Projects priced and tendered under previous fee structures are now exposed to substantial, unanticipated cost increases that were not—and could not have been—accounted for at the time of bid.

During the meeting, Kim Barbero, MCABC CEO; Trevor Hildebrand, MCABC Past Chair/Secretary Treasurer and President, Phase Mechanical; and Stuart Morrison, MCABC member and Principal, Northland Mechanical Contracting, illustrated the magnitude of the issue, citing one project that experienced an 80% increase in permit costs between December 2025 and early January. Such sudden and significant increases place an extraordinary burden on Contractors.

Stuart Morrison, Principal, Northland Mechanical Contracting; Kim Barbero, MCABC CEO; City of Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley; and Trevor Hildebrand, MCABC Past Chair/Secretary Treasurer and President, Phase Mechanical

 

The Mayor and City staff were receptive to MCABC’s input and expressed appreciation for the practical example provided. MCABC and the City of Burnaby have committed to ongoing collaboration, particularly around improving communication and ensuring that future policy changes consider downstream impacts on industry stakeholders.

This engagement with the City of Burnaby is another example of MCABC’s integrated government relations strategy in action—advocating on behalf of the mechanical contracting industry at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels to support fair, predictable, and transparent regulatory frameworks.

 

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 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!

 

*  *  *

 

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 15
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MCABC Statement on the Province’s Trades Training Investment

By Advocacy, Latest, Statements

MCABC welcomes B.C.’s $241-million commitment to expand trades-training capacity and support the province’s growing mechanical workforce

 

Vancouver, B.C. – The Mechanical Contractors Association of British Columbia (MCABC) welcomes today’s announcement by the Province of British Columbia regarding a $241-million investment to expand trades training. Increasing access to training seats and strengthening certification pathways will help more British Columbians build stable, well-paid, family-supporting careers and support the workforce needed to meet B.C.’s housing targets and deliver major infrastructure projects across the province.

Mechanical contractors face some of the most significant workforce pressures in construction, including in plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration and fire protection, as well as the full range of specialized mechanical trades—work essential to every new home, hospital, school, industrial facility and clean-energy project in B.C. Together, mechanical trades represent roughly 24 per cent of B.C.’s total construction output, employing more than 28,000 British Columbians directly and supporting another 25,000 indirect jobs.

Long wait times for training programs and regional shortages in skilled trades have been consistent barriers for employers and for people seeking to start or advance their mechanical trades careers. With more than three-quarters of B.C.’s mechanical contractors employing fewer than 10 people, these workforce pressures are often more acute for small companies that rely on timely access to skilled workers and on training pathways that help existing employees upgrade their skills. Across the wider construction sector, employers will need to recruit more than 60,000 workers by 2035 to replace retiring workers and keep pace with growth—reinforcing the importance of expanding training capacity today.

Today’s investment is an important step toward addressing these challenges by improving access and strengthening the training system across the province. Mechanical trades account for more than one-quarter of all apprenticeship registrations and certifications in B.C., reinforcing the need for expanded training capacity as demand continues to grow.

As government expands the trades-training system, MCABC encourages continued collaboration to ensure programs reflect the realities of today’s mechanical job sites—including the shift toward heat pumps, advanced control systems, modern HVAC technologies and the decarbonization requirements shaping both new construction and retrofit work. Ensuring people entering the trades, those growing their skills in the sector and the employers who rely on them all have the supports needed to succeed will be critical.

MCABC looks forward to working with government and other partners across the skilled trades sector to support expanded training and help grow the diverse, highly skilled mechanical workforce needed for the decade 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

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.”

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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