Share this edition of the Informer with your peers and subscribe!

February 5, 2024

Please note, we apologize for the publishing delay of this edition of the Informer due to a technical issue, we're back! 

Hello, 

January has officially wrapped up, and we're looking forward to February and exciting networking events such as our Kickoff in Kelowna on February 7th. This week is your last chance to register for this fun filled mixer, learn about the energy landscape, network with peers, and enjoy activities. Also, for MCABC members only, there's an opportunity to take a tour of the Lulu Island Wastewater Treatment Plant that transforms waste into sustainable energy. And, just a friendly reminder, if you haven’t already renewed your MCABC membership, please do so right away, there is limited time before the February 15th deadline.  

Thanks for reading! 

- Your MCABC team

More than 400 students attend the Trades Showcase!

On Tuesday, January 30th, MCABC was thrilled to attend the Trades Showcase hosted by School District 42 at Thomas Haney Secondary School. The Trades Showcase was a fantastic opportunity to connect with students, trades professionals, instructors, and employment services. Also, there was a Women In Trades session to encourage women to join the trades and a panel discussion featuring an MCABC member, Jay Manulak. We are committed to engaging with students to promote careers in the mechanical contracting industry.

Thank you to our members Brittany Manulak, Jay Manulak, and Derek Ponsford for joining us! 

Limited spots for tour of Lulu Island Wastewater Treatment Plant 

MCABC Members – Please join us for an exclusive members only tour of the Lulu Island Wastewater Treatment Plant. The treatment plant converts sewage into useable, renewable natural gas for Fortis BC. The Lulu Island Wastewater Treatment Plant will ensure Fortis BC reaches its climate goals related to renewable energy. The tour is a very unique opportunity to view the facility and connect with the FortisBC team. The tour takes place in the afternoon of Feb 29th, the agenda is as follows: 

• 1:00pm: Presentation from Lulu Island about the wastewater treatment process at Lulu Island WWTP
• 1:15pm: Presentation from FortisBC about our diversified pathway forward, and how RNG plays a key role in reducing emissions
• 1:30pm to 2:30pm: Plant Tour

For further information and to register, contact MCABC Office Administrator and Executive Assistant to CEO, Sahar Mirali at smirali@mcabc.org.

City of Vancouver Implements the Sprinkler Permit Fast Track Program

On January 29th, the City of Vancouver implemented the Sprinkler Permit Fast Track Program and is working to improve the customer experience for sprinkler permits. The permit program will allow applicants to receive Sprinkler Permits within 24 hours for buildings, underground parking, backflow preventers, tenant improvements and construction standpipes. The City of Vancouver has made progress in some key areas like website updates, refined checklists, training, and additional resources on the sprinkler permitting team. If you have any questions or require further information on the Sprinkler Permit Fast Track Program, you can reach out to the new customer email: sprinklerpermits@vancouver.ca.

Only seven days until our Kickoff!

Join us at BNA Brewing Co. & Eatery for a fun-filled mixer. Our Kickoff In Kelowna is a chance be a part of a growing movement and meet with mechanical contractors in the Interior. The mixer includes a presentation on the energy landscape, a chance to network with industry leaders, delicious food, games, and activities.

Presenting Sponsor:

Our sponsor, FortisBC, will deliver a presentation focused on the Kelowna energy landscape, info related to the energy transition, renewable natural gas, rebates and incentives programs. 

Get these special hotel rates from Feb 6-8th at the Delta Grand Okanagan!

• 10% discount off nightly rate - $299 (Feb 6th)  
• 10% discount off nightly rate - $349 (Feb 7th)

Please email cbasco@mcabc.org for more information.

Date: Wednesday, February 7th, 2024

Time: 5:30-8:30 PM

Location: BNA Brewing Co. & Eatery, 1250 Ellis St, Kelowna, BC V1Y 1Z4

Explore Sustainable Energy Solutions in our February #coffeetalk

Join FortisBC to learn about low-carbon and energy efficient solutions available for affordable housing providers, non-profits, and Indigenous Communities.

This #coffeetalk is sponsored by FortisBC

Enhancing Mechanical Contractors’ Impact in Building Commissioning and Re-Commissioning

MCABC is pleased to present a workshop focused on empowering Mechanical Contractors in Building Commissioning and Re-Commissioning.

Supported by BC Hydro

Mechanical Contracting Project Management Program

This Gold Seal Accredited 10-day program is designed to give you the tools to master project management. Upon completion, you can earn 70 Professional Development Units (PMP Certification) & 15 Gold Seal Credits.

$7.3M in funding secured for training underrepresented groups in the Red Seal trades

Record growth reported for industrial construction in Canada

WorkSafeBC: Updated Planned Inspectional Initiatives to reflect the areas of focus and prevention activities for 2024

Reminder for Business Owners: Top changes this year that will affect business taxes in 2024

Record number of rental homes registered in B.C. in 2023