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!
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
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
