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May 27
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Prompt Payment Discussion Paper Released—Consultation Period Begins

By Advocacy, Latest, News Releases

Vancouver, B.C. — Yesterday afternoon, the Ministry of Infrastructure released the Construction Prompt Payment Act (CPPA) Discussion Paper, along with a formal invitation to consult. This process will inform the development of the regulations. Consultation topics listed in the Discussion Paper include:

  • Application and coming into force
  • When a record is given or issued or a payment is made
  • Calculation of days
  • Interest rates on late payments
  • Adjudicators qualifications and fees
  • Industry readiness and support

At MCABC’s Day on the Leg on April 27, MCABC Board Directors and staff met with the Honourable Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure, and ministry staff to reinforce the importance of prompt payment legislation and of MCABC’s active role in the regulatory process. The collaborative process has since continued and another discussion was held with staff last week.

In the coming days and weeks, as MCABC continues to represent the mechanical contracting industry’s interests, we will be collaborating with ECABC, BCCA, and other construction industry stakeholders to assess the Discussion Paper. We encourage our members’ input as we prepare a coordinated response. Please send all comments to CEO Kim Barbero: kbarbero@mcabc.org.

MCABC looks forward to collaborating with our partners in government and industry to ensure the regulations are practical, enforceable, and best represent our members’ interests.

Resources

  1. BC Government News Release
  2. Full Discussion Paper
  3. BC Government Prompt Payment Webpage

 

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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 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

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 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

Apr 29
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MCAC Congratulates PM Carney and the Liberal Party on Election Victory

By Latest, News Releases

Ottawa, ON – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) is extending congratulations to Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberal Party of Canada on their election victory, as the association looks forward to working with all elected Members of Parliament to build a stronger and more resilient Canadian economy.

“First and foremost, Canada’s mechanical contracting industry would like to congratulate all elected MPs on their election last night,” said Tania Johnston, MCAC’s Chief Executive Officer. “Last night’s election and Parliamentary makeup demonstrates just how important it will be to work together with all stakeholders across the country to address the needs of the Canadian economy. Canada’s mechanical contractors are ready to be essential partners in this endeavour.”

In the lead-up to the federal election, MCAC launched the ‘Build Canada Now’ campaign, calling for targeted support for the mechanical contracting sector and its workforce. This included support for “Growth-Critical Trades” employed by mechanical contractors, and improving the business environment for trade contractors who are actively engaged in building the critical infrastructure and housing necessary for economic growth.

“There are two choices for this next government,” Johnston continued. “They can choose to support our essential industry, which is critical to the Canadian economy, or they can choose to allow conditions to worsen through inaction. Canada needs mechanical contractors to build a stronger and more resilient economy, and our sector needs a federal government who is prepared to ‘Build Canada Now.’”

The mechanical contracting sector in Canada is vital to the performance of the Canadian construction industry, employing more than 227,000 on- and off-site jobs across the country. In addition, the sector alone contributes more than $30 billion to the Canadian economy.

About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada

The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, established in 1895, is the unified voice of the mechanical contracting industry. Our members are contractors of all sizes engaged in such disciplines as plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, controls systems, medical gases, welding, and fire suppression primarily within the industrial, commercial, institutional and service sectors.

Media Contact
Kim Barbero, CEO
604 205 5058
info@mcabc.org

Mar 17
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Susie Makes a Splash – and Builds a Shed – in B.C.

By Latest, News Releases

Vancouver, B.C. – Inspiring everyone to consider careers in the trades, in particular the mechanical contracting trades, the Mechanical Contactors Association of B.C. (MCABC) today announced the official launch of Susie’s Shed in B.C. as part of its BUY BOOKS for KIDS challenge.

Susie’s Shed, a Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) Women in Mechanical Contracting (WiMC) initiative, debunks the myth that girls don’t build, and shows the younger generations that construction is for everyone who enjoys working with their hands.

“Susie’s Shed is a colourful, joyful and inspiring story that overshadows stereotypes and creates excitement about an industry that is often not understood at an early age unless a parent is involved in one of the 10 mechanical trades,” says Kim Barbero, MCABC CEO. “Susie, through her bold, curious confidence, brings to life what is possible for those who work in the trades and the importance of their work in our everyday lives.”

MCABC is challenging Mechanical Contractors in B.C. to promote their trades and the industry by purchasing and sponsoring books for schools and youth organizations throughout B.C. MCABC will distribute the books and, in collaboration with interested schools and community groups, will organize readings.

Board Director and WiMC member, Maddie Davidson, kicked off the challenge by hosting a reading of Susie’s Shed at Davidson Bros. Mechanical in Burnaby.

“The BUY BOOKS for KIDS challenge will put copies of Susie’s Shed into the hands of the younger generations, introducing them to the possibilities within the skilled trades,” says Davidson. “I grew up in the industry so was fortunate to have a head start. Susie provides us an opportunity, together with parents, teachers, counselors and those working in the trades, to inspire the next generation.”

Help inspire the future of BC’s workforce – one book at a time:

About WiMC
MCAC’s Women in Mechanical Contracting is a forum through which women who work in mechanical construction share experiences, seize opportunities and learn skills that will help them advance their careers. It provides networking, education, mentoring and professional-development programs specifically dedicated to helping women in mechanical construction build long and productive careers in the industry.

About MCABC
The Mechanical Contractors Association of BC is the connection to industry excellence, delivering education and professional development programs and services that enable high standards of professional practice and business growth 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. MCABC also represents suppliers and affiliates associated with the mechanical trades and maintains strong alliances with manufacturers to the industry.

Media Contact
Kim Barbero, CEO
604 205 5058
info@mcabc.org

News Release: Susie Makes a Splash – and Builds a Shed – in B.C.