Vancouver, B.C. – Earlier this morning MCABC CEO, Kim Barbero, and MCABC Board Chair, Kyle Wisniewski, had the opportunity to demonstrate for The Honourable David Eby, Premier of British Columbia, how mechanical contractors in B.C. are advancing traditional construction practices.
The Premier was introduced to the concept of Virtual Design Construction (VDC) technology and given an overview of the pre-construction process, including Building Information Modelling (BIM) and off-site Pre-Fabrication. He then toured a state-of-the-art data centre currently under construction in the Spencer Building in downtown Vancouver.
MCABC member, Black & McDonald, is playing a key role in the first phase of this project, which involves the installation of three large chillers and an extensive network of interior piping to support the data centre’s cooling system.
The group first visited the future data centre, where Kyle presented the cutting-edge virtual design tools that were used to model and pre-fabricate the installations. He explained to the Premier how the mechanical trades are leading the change in this space, leveraging new technologies to minimize error, reduce waste, increase safety, and drive efficiency.
As the group moved through the tour, visiting the chillers and other installations, Kyle stressed the need for modernization in trades training and education, to reflect and support the changing industry landscape.
“This project is a prime example of how the mechanical contracting industry is innovating to meet B.C.’s present and future infrastructure needs,” says Kim. “MCABC and its members are at the forefront of this new wave, where tools like BIM are redefining the way traditional trades operate.”
“But,” she cautions, “to keep delivering on these projects, mechanical contractors need access to a workforce that meets the rapidly advancing technological demands of the industry. That’s why the training and education piece is so critical.”
The tour concluded at one of the building’s completed data centres, where the group discussed the future of construction and infrastructure in B.C.
Kyle noted that the days of trades being only about hammers and nails are gone. He added that while the industry is grounded in core practices that are essential, a new era demands advancement – the Spencer Building project being an example of how exciting and stimulating a career in the mechanical trades is today.
As the tour came to a close, Kyle reiterated to Premier Eby the same key asks that Kim brought before the B.C. Standing Committee in June, namely:
- Modernizing trades training in B.C. to align with industry advancements
- Funding programs that introduce and promote the mechanical trades to K-12 students
“As the champion of technological innovation in the mechanical contracting industry in B.C.,” says Kim, “MCABC is committed to working closely with the provincial government to identify and advance these key opportunities.”
“This will ensure our members can keep delivering the modern infrastructure that is crucial for the future health and wellbeing of all British Columbians.”
Thank you, Premier Eby, for your continued interest in the mechanical contracting industry in B.C. We are inspired by today’s conversations and we look forward to continued collaboration.
About MCABC
The Mechanical Contractors Association of BC is the connection to industry excellence. We deliver education and professional development programs and services that enable high standards of professional practice and business success for mechanical contractors and their sub-trades. Through advocacy and strong industry partnerships, MCABC influences policy discussion and development in a sector that comprises the largest percentage of the construction industry’s skilled trades workforce. We also represent suppliers and affiliates associated with the mechanical trades and maintain strong alliances with industry manufacturers.
Media Contact
Conor Brendan Dunne
Manager, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement
cdunne@mcabc.org
(604) 205-5058
