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March 19, 2025

Hello,

If you're looking to build a strong foundation in your career in the mechanical contracting industry, whether you're moving from journeyperson to foreperson or project admin to project manager, understanding blueprints is essential. MCABC's NextGen Board is pleased to bring you Blueprint Reading. Register for our Blueprint Reading course in Surrey or Kelowna today.

Lastly, at our upcoming MCABC Leadership Conference this June 11-13, 2025, we've arranged exclusive tee times for conference attendees! This is the perfect opportunity to network, unwind and have some fun. Tee times are limited — Reserve today.

Thanks for reading!

- Your MCABC team

MCABC Launches Buy Books for Kids Challenge

On March 17, MCABC launched the Buy Books for Kids Challenge that brings an MCAC and WiMC initiative, Susie’s Shed, into classrooms, organizations and communities across British Columbia. Susie’s Shed was written to engage with younger generations and help debunk the myth that girls don’t build.

We're challenging MCABC members to sponsor a book package of Susie’s Shed for MCABC to distribute across the province. MCABC will distribute the books on your behalf and, in collaboration with interested schools and community groups, will organize readings.

By sponsoring, you’ll help introduce young minds to the world of mechanical contracting and the skilled trades – inspiring the next generation of trades professionals.

MCABC 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 – Watch the reading recap here.

Make a difference — join the challenge today:

Procore

Procore is a construction management software for the trades. Procore services all trade types, including software for mechanical contractors, electrical contractors, concrete contractors, plumbing, structural, site preparation, and interior and exterior finishes.

BDC

The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) supports small and medium-sized businesses in all industries and at every stage of growth with money and advice.

Mastering Blueprint Reading for Project Success

If you're looking to build a strong foundation in your career in the mechanical contracting industry, whether you're moving from journeyperson to foreperson or project admin to project manager, understanding blueprints is essential. Even experienced professionals can benefit from a refresher!

Blueprint reading is critical for overseeing projects with precision, managing teams, working with subcontractors, drafting contracts and RFIs, reviewing scope letters, pricing, negotiating change orders, estimating costs, and mitigating risks.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your blueprint essentials:

Tee Off at the 2025 Leadership Conference ⛳

MCABC is thrilled to offer our Conference Delegates golf activities! Book an exciting golfing experience in June and choose from three exceptional golf courses. Enjoy a round of golf, while connecting with industry peers and leaders. Tee times are limited — Don't miss this opportunity to reserve:

Lock down your pass to MCABC's biggest educational event of the year

Haven't grabbed your pass yet? Don't miss this chance to join BC's mechanical contracting industry for an event packed with actional insights, exclusive educational sessions, and high-value networking opportunities designed to enhance your expertise as a contractor, manager, or business owner.

We look forward to seeing you in Nanaimo!

BC Construction Month Highlights Important Role of Industry

MCABC is excited to be a sponsor and support BC Construction Month, a month to recognize and honor the vital role BC's construction industry plays in shaping our province every day. Stay tuned for more content throughout the month of April!

VRCA Awards of Excellence — Nominations now Open!

The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) is hosting the 36th Annual Awards of Excellence on September 19, 2025 and project nominations are now open! In the Mechanical Contractor category, up to three Gold winners will be selected.

Projects for consideration include plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, sprinkler systems, fire protection, control systems, refrigeration, insulation, specialized process systems, medical gases, hydronics, site services and welding.

Submit your project nomination by March 31, 2025 before 12pm.

We're counting down to NextGen Month!

MCABC is excited to introduce NextGen Month, brought to you by MCABC's NextGen Board.

Our NextGen Board is dedicated to helping young professionals in the mechanical contracting industry grow their network, advance their careers, and develop leadership skills.

Throughout April, the NextGen Board will host a series of events, educational sessions, exclusive content, and more, all aimed at spotlighting and bringing together emerging leaders shaping the future of mechanical contracting.

Take a sneak peak at what's happening in April:

MCABC at Skills Canada BC Provincials Trades & Technology Competition

#coffeetalk: A Conversation About Contracts

Shaping the Future: Spotlighting the Next Generation of Mechanical Contractors

Each week throughout the month of April, hear from four dynamic mechanical contracting professionals as they share their unique stories, experiences, and insights about their careers in the industry.

Premier’s statement on carbon tax increase

BC Government News

New tools allow B.C. to rapidly respond to U.S. tariffs

Building permits, January 2025

New direction ensures affordable, stable electricity rates