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Education

Jun 23
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Recap: 2026 Leadership Conference

By Advocacy, Education, Events, Latest, Skilled Trades

Vancouver, B.C. — Making its Vancouver debut at the Westin Bayshore on June 10–11, the 2026 MCABC Leadership Conference brought B.C.’s mechanical contracting industry together for a day-and-a-half of expert insight, high-impact networking, and forward-looking conversation.

A pre-Conference Profitability Bootcamp set the tone with a focused, practical exploration of the fundamentals of running a stronger business—from risk management and financial controls to HR practices, performance management, and navigating contract changes and delay claims.

That momentum carried straight into the Opening Night Reception. An immersive tradeshow, food stations from around the world, and an interactive Games Night—including a crowd-favourite giant Jenga setup that rarely sat idle—ensured the evening struck a strong balance between high-energy entertainment and meaningful connection.

Day two promised the meat and potatoes of this year’s standout educational agenda—and it did not disappoint. Bridging big-picture thinking and actionable takeaways, a future-forward approach was reflected not only in the topics explored, but in the voices leading the discussion.

The morning kicked off with opening keynote Anna Sainsbury (GeoComply), one of two globally recognized Vancouverites bookending Thursday’s sessions. Anna cut through the hype around AI, reframing it as a practical tool every business can leverage to drive performance, before moderating an industry panel where the emphasis was on real-world applications and success stories.

From there, the focus widened to the broader forces shaping the industry. Linda Nazareth (Macdonald-Laurier Institute) provided clarity on navigating economic uncertainty while Laura Lurz (SkilledTradesBC) outlined what B.C.’s recent $241M trades training investment means for the future workforce. Keith Baldrey (Global BC) added clear-eyed political context, followed by a timely session with representatives from the Ministries of Infrastructure and Attorney General on the Prompt Payment Discussion Paper and how industry can help shape the Act’s regulations.

During breaks, attendees could be found deep in conversation while MC Adam conducted live interviews with Tradeshow and Tech Table exhibitors, helping attendees discover innovative solutions, emerging technologies, and new ideas shaping the future of the industry. Meanwhile, champion soccer freestyler Grayson Allen helped maintain a lively atmosphere throughout the day.

Opportunity was the throughline post-lunch, with Jacqueline Spray (BC Hydro) leading a session on how evolving capital and energy plans are opening doors for mechanical contractors. This same lens carried into the discussion on workforce development, where Lucy Griffith (Vancouver Community College)’s presentation and panel explored modernised apprenticeship pathways and industry’s role in shaping a more responsive, future-ready training system.

The Conference came to a powerful close with Mark Brand (Upward Kitchens), who brought the focus back to people in a way that felt both timeless and urgent.  His reflections on leadership, community, and radical collaboration made it clear that prioritizing people isn’t just an effective leadership strategy—it’s part of how our industry can solve its workforce challenges. The standing ovation that followed spoke to how Mark’s simple but impactful message truly hit home.

A sense of connection carried naturally into the Closing Reception, where conversations continued, new ones began, and the energy of the past day-and-a-half lingered into the evening. It was a fitting finish—one that reflected not just what was discussed on stage, but what’s required to turn ideas into action and Build for What’s Next.

The conversations, connections, and momentum are already carrying forward. If this year’s debut in Vancouver is any indication, the MCABC Leadership Conference will only continue to grow in impact, energy, and influence.

We’ll see you in 2027… back in Vancouver!

Full Photo Gallery

Thank You to Our Sponsors

The 2026 MCABC Leadership Conference was made possible through the support of our sponsors. Thank you for your continued investment in our industry and for helping bring this event to life.

Presenting Sponsor

Brought to you by:

Keynote Sponsors

Speaker Sponsor

Media Sponsor

Breakfast Sponsor

Lunch Sponsor

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Coffee Break Sponsors

Interview Suite Sponsor

Lanyard Sponsor

Hot Desk Lounge Sponsor

Gifting Sponsors

 

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About MCABC

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. manufacturers.

Media Contact

Conor Brendan Dunne
Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement

cdunne@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058

May 14
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MCABC to Co-Host German Delegation of Innovative Manufacturers

By Education, Events, Latest, News Releases

Vancouver, B.C. — MCABC is excited to partner with the Canadian German Chamber of Industry and Commerce to host a high‑profile German delegation of innovative building‑technology manufacturers for a business and networking event at SFU’s Vancouver Campus on June 3.

Following early support from MCABC, including a letter of support provided last year, the MCABC Board of Directors is pleased to see this international collaboration come to life.

“Innovation is one of MCABC’s six pillars,” says Kim Barbero, CEO. “We are honoured to partner with the international chamber network to share technological advancements with our industry.”

The event brings a global perspective on energy efficiency directly to B.C.’s construction and mechanical contracting industries and reflects MCABC’s commitment to ensuring members have access to leading‑edge ideas, technologies, and solutions for delivering high-performance buildings.

Funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, it offers a unique opportunity for six German companies to connect directly with mechanical contractors and building‑industry stakeholders.

The event will kick off with a networking meeting and product presentations, followed by lunch and one-on-one B2B meetings to explore specific opportunities for collaboration.*

The schedule is as follows:

  • 9:00 am-11:45 am: Company Presentations + Moderated Q&A
  • 11:45 am-12:45 pm: Networking Lunch
  • 1:00 pm-5:00 pm: One-on-One B2B Meetings with Delegates

Four of the six visiting manufacturers are primarily focused on solutions for HVAC contractors, including de‑centralized heating and ventilation systems, installation technologies, and services:

Attendance is free, but registration is required.

👉 Register here: https://bit.ly/42GIIhn

MCABC encourages contractors and building stakeholders to take advantage of this rare opportunity to engage directly with international innovators, explore new technologies, and build relationships that can support future projects and partnerships.

We look forward to welcoming you as we connect B.C.’s mechanical contracting sector with global leaders in energy efficiency.

❓ To learn more about the visiting delegates and view the detailed agenda, click here.

*Those interested in scheduling a one-on-one meeting are asked to contact Marvin Kalla (marvin.kalla@germanchamber.ca) without delay, as there are limited spots available.

 

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About MCABC

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

May 07
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Recap: NextGen Stepping Up

By Education, Events, Latest

Port Moody, B.C. — MCABC’s NextGen returned to Port Moody on April 30 for another lively education and networking pub night – bringing together emerging and established industry leaders for a mix of insight, reflection, and connection.

The evening kicked off with the 2026 NextGen AGM, where seven nominees were elected to the NextGen Board of Directors:

  • Mic Cagnoni, Phase Mechanical Systems
  • Tayler Hinger, Victaulic
  • Pierre Huneault, ProWest Sales
  • Scott Kenward (Past Chair), Trotter & Morton
  • Will Schwarz, UA Piping Industry College of BC
  • Shelby Sullivan, Sullivan Mechanical
  • Eddie Vaughan, Vaughan Ventures

Congratulations to our newly elected NextGen Board Directors!

In his report to members, Chair Scott Kenward reflected on his two years at the helm and recognized the important role NextGen plays in building leadership capacity across the industry. He also took the opportunity to publicly announce the NextGen Softball Social slated for August 15, 2026.

With the AGM wrapped up, attention turned to the evening’s featured education, Stepping Up: Skills, Strategies, & Relationships You Need to Lead. Certified high-performance coach Graham Snowfield took to the stage and delivered a thought-provoking session on stepping into leadership with intention.

Noting that a quarter of the industry’s workforce is set to retire within the next decade, Graham emphasized the opportunities on the horizon for young industry professionals. He then shared a practical roadmap rooted in three core ideas:

  • Identify where you are, where you need to be, and a plan for bridging the gap
  • Start treating relationships as critical career infrastructure, including mentorships
  • Invest in professional development early, because the returns compound exponentially

These themes carried into a lively Q&A, where the group drilled down into how to foster leadership across teams, how to stay motivated and motivate others, how to quantify the impact of relationships, and other challenges.

From there, the evening shifted into casual networking, with attendees putting Graham’s insights into action – reconnecting with peers, meeting new faces, and sharing laughs over a beer and a burger.

Events like Stepping Up highlight NextGen’s role as a catalyst for connection and professional growth. By creating opportunities for emerging leaders to build skills, strengthen relationships, and find their voice, the NextGen Board is helping shape the future of B.C.’s mechanical contracting industry.

Thank you to Train Wreck Brewing and Truckin’ BBQ for keeping our guests well looked after, and a huge shoutout to our event sponsors, Vaughan Ventures and Davidson Bros. Mechanical, for supporting the next generation of industry leaders.

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Want to relive a piece of the action? Check out our full event photo gallery.

 

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Save the Date for the NextGen Softball Social

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About MCABC

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. manufacturers.

Media Contact

Conor Brendan Dunne
Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement

cdunne@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058

Apr 20
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Recap: Skills Canada BC 2026

By Education, Latest, Skilled Trades

Abbotsford, B.C. – This past Wednesday, MCABC was at the Skills Canada BC Provincial Competition at the Abbotsford Trade and Exhibition Centre, joining students, parents, educators, and industry partners for a full day of skilled trades and technology competitions spanning everything from plumbing and refrigeration to robotics, welding, and more.

As part of  NextGen Month — an initiative focused on spotlighting emerging leaders and connecting youth to careers in mechanical contracting — MCABC staff and NextGen Board Directors were on-site engaging directly with students, sharing insight, and helping bring visibility to the opportunities within our industry.

Check out our recap video below for a closer look at the day.

Supporting the Next Generation on the Competition Floor

MCABC was proud to participate as a Competition Area Sponsor, supporting the competitions as students worked through high-pressure, real-world scenarios.

Across the floor, competitors demonstrated an impressive level of precision, technical ability, and problem-solving—often completing complex builds within just a few hours.

Congratulations to all competitors and winners. The talent and focus on display across competitions—including Plumbing, Welding, Sheet Metal, Sprinkler Fitting, and Steamfitter/Pipefitting—was a strong reflection of the future of the skilled trades in B.C.

Industry Conversations and Hands-On Learning

At the MCABC booth, students were invited to get hands-on with a ProPEX expansion tool demo led by MCABC NextGen Board Chair Scott Kenward, Senior Project Manager at Trotter & Morton Building Technologies Inc., and Vice Chair Eddie Vaughan, Head of Operations at Vaughan Ventures Ltd.

Using plastic piping, T-joints, and a ProPEX expansion tool, students assembled simple systems while learning how modern plumbing connections are made. The booth saw strong engagement throughout the day, with students asking thoughtful questions about how to get started, what different career paths can look like, and where the trades can take them.

Student curiosity was evident throughout the day. Many left with a stronger understanding of the range and variety of opportunities within mechanical contracting, and the scale of work across commercial and industrial projects.

Investing in our Industry’s Future

MCABC extends its thanks to Skills Canada BC, event organizers, volunteers, and competitors for making the day possible. On the competition floor, students demonstrated focus, skill, and pride in their craft while working under pressure, offering a powerful reminder of the talent entering the trades. Connecting with schools and institutions from across the province, and hearing directly from students as they explore their futures, reinforced the importance of continued industry engagement.

We’re proud to support initiatives like this—and look forward to being back next year.

 

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

Apr 17
Love0

MCABC Launches Proprietary, Member-Exclusive BIM Training Series

By Education, Latest

“Any company looking to start implementing BIM will benefit from this course.”

On Wednesday we piloted the first course from our new proprietary BIM training series to a group of MCABC members.

The group featured a mix of experience levels, with some participants rating themselves as beginners to BIM and 3D modeling, while others were more experienced project leaders.

Regardless of their experience level, all participants had one thing in common: they belong to MCABC member companies who see tremendous value in BIM and its potential to improve efficiency, drive productivity, and reduce waste.

Feedback from the pilot was overwhelmingly positive, with participants praising the course as a “great starting point” for any company interested in integrating BIM into their operations and overall business strategy.

This foundational in-person session will be the first in ‘The BIM Roadmap’ series, a four-part program designed specifically for mechanical contractors and available exclusively to MCABC members.

 

REGISTER NOW

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

Apr 01
Love0

Dive into MCABC’s NextGen Month this April

By Education, Latest

MCABC’s NextGen Month kicks off April 1, bringing a full line-up of events, activities, initiatives, and opportunities to connect with the next generation of leaders in B.C.’s mechanical contracting industry.

From professional development and networking, to member stories and industry outreach, to a top-secret special surprise, here’s what to expect this April.

1. What is the NextGen Board of Directors?

The NextGen Board represents the next generation of leaders in B.C.’s mechanical contracting industry. It supports the MCABC Board by making recommendations, advancing professional development, and raising the industry’s profile.

Interested in expanding your network, developing your leadership skills, and taking your career to the next level? Join the NextGen Board!

 

2. Stepping Up: Unlock the 6-Year Career Plan Nobody Gave You

Following on from the wildly popular AI & Ales, the NextGen Board is back with another flagship education and networking event. This time, certified high-performance leadership coach Graham Snowfield will be breaking down how emerging leaders can build the skills, strategies, and relationships to take control of their career trajectory.

 

*** REGISTER NOW ***

*** SPONSOR ***

3. NextGen Board AGM

The NextGen Board AGM will take place immediately before the Stepping Up event, at 5:00 pm at Trainwreck Brewing. All welcome.

Interested in joining the NextGen Board? Contact Conor at cdunne@mcabc.org.

 

4. NextGen in Focus

For the month of April, we’ll be featuring stories from some of our members’ rising stars, celebrating the young leaders who are shaping our industry’s future. Look out for our NextGen in Focus profiles in the Informer over the coming weeks.

Want to be featured? It’s your last chance to submit your story! Submit Now.

 

5. Skills Canada BC

As part of its mandate to promote industry careers to the youth, the NextGen Board is powering MCABC’s participation in this year’s provincial Skills Canada competition. If you’re attending, come say hello! MCABC’s booth will be located right next to the piping trades competition area.

*** LEARN MORE ***

 

6. Top Secret Special Surprise… 

The NextGen Board has been quietly building something new — an industry-wide gathering that promises a day filled with family-friendly, community-oriented competition and good times.

Want to be the first to know? We’ll be announcing publicly very, very soon and sharing all the details at our Stepping Up event on April 30.

*** REGISTER NOW ***

 

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 06
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AI Keynote by Fintech Trailblazer, Top Political Commentator Announced for Leadership Conference

By Education, Events, Latest, News Releases

Vancouver, B.C. – It seems all roads lead to Vancouver this June.

That’s certainly the case for B.C.’s mechanical contracting industry, with the Mechanical Contractors Association of British Columbia (MCABC) hosting its annual Leadership Conference June 10-11 at the Westin Bayshore in downtown Vancouver.

Guided by the theme Build for What’s Next: Technology, Talent, & Leadership in a Changing Industry, this year’s Conference will focus on three pivotal forces shaping the future of the mechanical contracting sector:

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • The Shifting Political and Economic Landscape
  • The Future of Skilled Trades and People-First Leadership

“We know our industry needs to keep growing, evolving, and innovating to meet our province’s future infrastructure demands,” says Kim Barbero, MCABC CEO.

“Build for What’s Next is about equipping attendees with the knowledge, skills, and confidence, not just to adapt to a changing industry, but to lead the way – and our Leadership Conference is where these conversations are taking place.”

Today, MCABC is pleased to announce two of the expert speakers who will be setting the tone on June 10-11, beginning with the opening keynote:

Learn more about Anna’s bio and keynote here.

 

As the driving force behind a global fintech unicorn, Vancouver’s own Anna Sainsbury will be the first to say: this isn’t a conversation about the future – it’s a conversation about now. Whether attendees are already using AI to sharpen tenders and drive profitability, eager to dive in but not sure where to start, or skeptical as to whether AI can truly impact their bottom line, being in the room for this one won’t be optional – it will be a business imperative.

Following her keynote, Anna will moderate an industry panel that will drill down into real-world use cases, wins, and hesitations around AI. Attendees will have the chance to learn directly from these early adopters and innovators and discover how they turned uncertainty into the Power Move.

“Every day I see the gap widening behind those who are adapting and leading the way in a changing environment and those who are getting left behind,” says Kyle Wisniewski, B.C. General Manager at Black & McDonald and MCABC Board Chair.

“By bringing industry together and facilitating access to the latest ideas, practices, tools, solutions, and world-class speakers like Anna, we’re ensuring the entire industry moves forward as one.”

Later the same day, the Leadership Conference will welcome a true titan of B.C. politics to the stage:

Learn more about Keith’s bio and address here.

 

Last year saw political, economic, and trade uncertainty – both at home and abroad. With this uncertainty set to continue into the foreseeable future, many businesses have more questions than answers:

  • What does the current and forecasted climate mean for business owners and leaders in B.C.’s mechanical contracting industry?
  • Where is the provincial government likely to focus their attention next?
  • What developments should companies be planning for?

As the Chief Political Correspondent and Legislative Bureau Chief at Global BC, Keith has his finger on the pulse and is best placed to prepare attendees for the sentiment in Victoria. After addressing these and other questions in his speech, Keith will sit down with MCABC CEO, Kim Barbero, to continue the conversation on the hot-button issues facing the sector.

“Our industry is at an inflection point,” says Barbero.

“The decisions we make now – around emerging technologies, political and economic conditions, and workforce development – will determine our industry’s future. This year’s Conference is designed to bring leaders together to confront these realities head-on and build a practical, informed path forward.”

Early-bird rates for Leadership Conference end February 28, 2026.

Sponsor and exhibitor opportunities are selling fast – secure your spot now to avoid disappointment.

 

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

Jan 30
Love0

Recap: SD42 Skilled Trades Showcase

By Education, Latest, Skilled Trades

Maple Ridge, B.C. –  Last Thursday, MCABC participated in the SD42 Skilled Trades Showcase at Thomas Haney Secondary School. We joined students, parents, educators, and industry partners for an evening focused on career exploration and real-world insight into the skilled trades.

Hosted by Maple Ridge–Pitt Meadows School District (SD42), the annual showcase is designed to give students and families direct access to industry voices and hands-on experiences. With interactive displays, breakout conversations, and opportunities to ask practical questions, the event helps demystify the trades and highlight the range of pathways available after graduation.

This year’s event saw record participation with an estimated 900 attendees. According to event organizer Brad Dingler, Coordinator of District Partnerships, feedback from students and parents reflected a consistent theme: they had not realized how many doors a career in the trades could open and valued the opportunity to speak directly with industry representatives.

This feedback speaks directly to MCABC’s Skilled Trades pillar, which in part focuses on promoting the mechanical trades as exciting, fulfilling, and financially rewarding career paths. By increasing awareness of the diverse and evolving roles within the mechanical industry — across the industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential sectors — MCABC aims to ensure today’s students can see themselves in the workforce that will deliver B.C.’s future infrastructure.

Check out our videos recapping the event and highlighting the trades we represent below:

Modern Mechanical Construction

At the MCABC booth, students were introduced to virtual design and prefabrication by MCABC and NextGen Board member Le Hien Huynh of Division 15 Mechanical.

Using real project examples, Le Hien showed how Building Information Modelling, or BIM, is used to design and test mechanical systems before construction begins – helping teams spot and resolve problems before they arise on site. The demonstration gave students and parents a clear look at how modern mechanical work goes far beyond a plunger and a wrench.

 

Industry Conversations and Hands-On Learning

MCABC member Adam Portman, a Red Seal plumber and site superintendent with Davidson Bros., participated in a breakout session with students and parents interested in plumbing and pipefitting. Adam shared insights into getting started in the trade, what the day-to-day looks like, and his own experience progressing into a site superintendent role.

Back at the MCABC booth, Adam led a hands-on demonstration of a ProPEX expansion tool, kindly provided by MCABC member Vaughan Ventures. Students were tasked with creating a mini-system using tubing, tees, and plugs, giving them a practical sense of how modern plumbing systems are assembled and how secure connections are achieved.

 

Investing in our Industry’s Future

By supporting events like this one, MCABC aims to encourage greater awareness and interest in the mechanical trades, and help more young people see these careers as exciting, rewarding, and essential to British Columbia’s future.

This work is part of our ongoing mission to develop a diverse, skilled, and innovative mechanical contracting industry – one that can continue to drive B.C.’s economy and respond to its growing infrastructure demand.

MCABC thanks School District 42, event organizer Brad Dingler, participating industry partners, our members who generously offered their time and expertise, and the student volunteers who helped make the event possible. We look forward to continuing to support initiatives that connect students, families, and industry in meaningful ways.

 

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

Jan 28
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MCABC Takes Part in Student Chapter Summit in Ottawa

By Education, Latest

Ottawa, O.N. – MCABC recently participated in the MCAC Student Chapter Summit in Ottawa, where Leesa Butler, our Director of Member Experience, joined students, educators, and industry leaders from across Canada for a weekend focused on collaboration, technical learning, and the evolving role of the mechanical industry in construction.

Hosted by the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, the MCAC Student Chapter Summit brings together post-secondary students involved in local MCA student chapters. These chapters connect engineering students with the mechanical contracting industry through networking, mentorship, site visits, guest lectures, and hands-on learning opportunities. The goal is to introduce students to the wealth of opportunities available in the mechanical industry and help build a skilled, informed, and engaged future workforce.

Modern Mechanical Systems in Complex Public Infrastructure

A highlight of the weekend was a guided tour of Ottawa’s new central library, currently under construction.

The visit offered insight into how modern mechanical systems are being integrated into a complex public facility and the level of coordination required across disciplines to deliver efficient, long-term building performance.

MCABC was pleased to see member Modern Niagara delivering the mechanical scope on the project, alongside PCL, Diamond Schmitt Architects, and KWC Architects — a strong example of early collaboration between engineers, contractors, and designers.

Also part of the Summit was a tour of the ongoing Centre Block project at Parliament Hill, where students were introduced to the engineering challenges involved in upgrading a historic, landmark building for future generations.

The Future of Mechanical Construction

The summit also included a presentation by Kelly Levesque, Vice President of Operations at S&R Mechanical, who spoke about the evolving opportunities for engineers within mechanical contracting. As projects become more complex, this integrated approach supports better building outcomes — including right-sized systems, improved energy performance, greater productivity, and more time- and cost-efficient delivery. For students and early-career engineers, the message was clear: mechanical contracting offers a dynamic, collaborative career path with a direct role in shaping the next generation of high-performing, sustainable buildings.

 

Engineering Mini-Competition

The weekend concluded with an engineering mini-competition. Judged by a panel of industry professionals, the competition required the students to work in teams to develop and present solutions to the engineering challenges highlighted during the Centre Block tour. The exercise emphasized collaboration, clear communication, and the ability to respond effectively to client needs, reflecting the realities of today’s construction environment.

By connecting students with real projects and industry professionals, the summit reinforced the importance of attracting and supporting the next generation of engineers and mechanical industry professionals. MCABC remains committed to initiatives that strengthen these pathways and support the future of mechanical contracting.

 

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 05
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Innovation in Action: MCABC Co-Hosts Heat Pump Demo

By Education, Events, Latest

Burnaby, B.C. — Last week, MCABC, in collaboration with the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and the Zero Emissions Innovation Centre (ZEIC), hosted an interactive training session dedicated to advancing knowledge and collaboration within B.C.’s mechanical industry.

The event brought together mechanical contractors, tradespeople, engineers, suppliers, distributors, and association representatives for an afternoon full of hands-on learning focused on high-efficiency heat pump systems and best practices in design and installation.

The session began with welcome remarks from Alexandre Hebert, Manager of the ZEB Learning Centre at BCIT; Roberto Pecora, Director of Building Decarbonization at ZEIC; and Kim Barbero, CEO of MCABC. In her opening, Kim emphasized the technological advancements taking place across the mechanical industry and underscored the importance of modernized training and collaboration between mechanical contractors and engineers. She also highlighted MCABC’s role in supporting members through education, advocacy, and leadership as the industry evolves.

Attendees then participated in a live demonstration of the Hisense Hi-Comfort system, which showcased features such as advanced heat recovery, high energy efficiency, and strong performance in cold climates. The demonstration was followed by a technical section on installation best practices, covering common challenges and optimization strategies to ensure system reliability and efficiency.

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A with discussions ranging from system integration and retrofitting to performance in different temperature conditions—reflecting a strong interest in continued learning and information sharing across disciplines.

The event underscored how collaboration between industry and education partners is essential to driving innovation, strengthening technical expertise, and supporting the transition to high-efficiency mechanical systems in British Columbia.

About MCABC

The Mechanical Contractors Association of BC (MCABC) 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