March 2022

MCABC Members, 

In this issue, we cover our action on PST changes, share the benefits of our new Fortify Wellness plan, announce new educational programming that includes a focus on service, and much more. 

With restrictions updated, I've been fortunate to meet with members and attend industry events like the VRCA Awards of Excellence Gala, BuildEx and the ICBA CEO Breakfast. 

Our team is excited to officially welcome you to mark your calendars for the 2022 Business Conference on May 31st and June 1st at the River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond. 

We hope you can join us on April 28th as we host former NHL goaltender Corey Hirsch for our Fortify Wellness Luncheon. He is a well-known ambassador for mental health awareness, and we are honoured to have him share his incredible story, to further our promotion of wellness in the industry. This is the perfect event for your whole team. We're looking forward to seeing you at our first in-person event since March 2020. 

Construction and Skilled Trades Month is right around the corner. MCABC is a proud sponsor of #ConstructionMonth. It's a time to celebrate all the men and women involved in the industry. 

We are proud to have launched the updated Health & Safety Manual for mechanical contractors in BC. MCABC facilitated development of the new manual through a joint task force that included our members and regional safety advisors at the BC Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA). 

BC's six-year workforce outlook released last week in BuildForce's 'Construction & Maintenance Looking Forward' report is filled with key data, including this point: "The retirement of more than 25,000 workers throughout the forecast period will increase the overall recruitment requirement to 27,630 workers. I encourage you to read the full report. 

With the beginning of Spring and the lightening of restrictions related to the pandemic, comes the opportunity to visit and network. We are regularly adding events and education to the MCABC roster- please visit www.mcabc.org for the most up-to-date information. Fancy a coffee? Give us a call when you're in the neighbourhood. 

Kim Barbero
CEO

Letter to the Honourable Selina Robinson  

MCABC requested the Government of BC defer implementation of changes to the PST on fossil fuel combustion systems until there can be adequate consultation with industry and other key stakeholders. 

MCABC facilitated a discussion with members on the PST changes during the March 24th Coffee Talk session. We are working closely with a tax specialist to deliver the guidance members need during this time of change. A Q&A document will be posted in the Members Hub next week and we will continue to evolve it as the new information is received. Stay tuned! 

BuildForce Canada Released its Five-Year Forecast for the Construction Industry 

We learn short-term demand peaks may lead to shortages of workers in BC, but demand will moderate through 2027. 

13% of the 2021 construction labour force is expected to retire over the next six years.

BC Proposes New Asbestos Abatement Requirements Under Workers Compensation Act

The proposed amendments include the establishment of requirements that asbestos abatement contractors must be licensed to operate in British Columbia, and that workers and employers who perform this work must complete mandatory safety training and certification.

Make the Switch Study: Request for Participants 

The Make the Switch Study is a research initiative to better understand homeowners’ motivations and real-world experiences when switching from natural gas to an electric air source heat pump for their home heating. This includes collecting information on your costs (purchase and operating), reasons for upgrading your system, and your experience heating with a heat pump and more. Participants will be provided with a $100 honorarium for completing the study.

Don’t Miss the Launch of Our New Associate-ED Program on March 31

Learning about asbestos and how to recruit and retain talent are the subjects of MCABC’s first two Associate-ED sessions, where members teach members. Both sessions are virtual, with a quick 20-minute presentation followed by Q&A.

Limited Opportunity to Attend Sessions on Leadership & Customer Service

MCABC is excited to offer two sessions on April 19 with the engaging and acclaimed business coach and strategist, Steve J. Thomas.

The morning session is for owners and leaders of companies, discussing how an organization's corporate culture often dictates its success. Many leaders do not prioritize this crucial business aspect that often has impact on the bottom line.

The afternoon session is open to all staff levels, with a focus on connecting and communicating with clients. Most people are in the business of customer service in one way or another and this session will improve those relationships. It will also help individuals consider themselves as leaders – even when leadership is not a formal part of their role.

What are the Top 5 BIM Trends in 2022? 

There has been a significant rise in the adoption of BIM software in the past decade, with 73% of construction companies reporting that they are aware of BIM and are using it within their companies, which has risen significantly to a mere 11% in 2011.

BIM's Potential Is Boundless But Mind Contract Language, CI Panellists Urge 

Panellists at a recent Ontario conference on construction risks agreed BIM is a transformative tool that can bring seemingly limitless benefits.

New Act Supports Trades Workers, Apprentices

Skilled trades certification will require people to register as an apprentice or be a certified journeyperson to work in one of the 10 initial mechanical, electrical and automotive trades.

Help Review the Draft Red Seal standard for the Plumber Trade

MCA Canada members are invited to participate in a review of the draft of the new Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS) for the Plumber trade for Canada.

MCABC's Employee Benefits Plan Supports Industry Growth

MCABC's Employee Benefits Plan offers members competitive and comprehensive coverage and support for their employees, both on the job site and in the office.

April 28 | Fortify Wellness Luncheon with Corey Hirsch

Corey is a former coach, Olympic Games silver medalist and is currently a commentator for the Vancouver Canucks with SportsNet Radio. Following his professional hockey career and after dealing with his own mental health struggles, he embarked on a mission to open a conversation on mental health. 

Save The Date!

May 19 | Brewery Tour & Social at the Belgard 

Save The Date

May 31st and June 1st | MCABC Business Conference 

Innovative Housing Retrofits will Benefit Residents, Environment

Residents of six buildings will soon benefit from renovations that will make homes safer, more energy-efficient, less polluting and more resilient to extreme weather.

Effective April 8th, the following changes will be made to public health orders: 

• Showing the BC Vaccine Card proof of vaccination to access non-essential events, services and businesses will no longer be required.
  • Individual businesses and organizations can choose to continue to require the BC Vaccine Card proof on their premises.
• The remainder of the Workplace Safety Order will be lifted, which means businesses will transition back to communicable disease plans to reduce risk of all communicable disease.
• The requirement for students residing in residence to be fully vaccinated under the Post-secondary Institution Housing COVID-19 Preventative Measures Order will be repealed.

More Funding Will Improve Ventilation, Upgrade Schools for Students

The Government of B.C. is providing $240.5 million in 2022-23 for school maintenance projects, which includes $48.4 million to upgrade HVAC systems at 90 schools throughout the province. Since the start of the pandemic, the ministry has provided $163.1 million in provincial and federal funding for HVAC upgrades, providing students with healthier places to learn.

Exclusive Member Savings With Perkopolis

Did you know that MCABC Members have access to discounts with hundreds of retailers? Whether you are a Techie, Adventurer, Style Seeker or Foodie - Perkopolis makes it easy to find what you love.

If you're new to Perkopolis, you'll need your Member ID. Email us at info@mcabc.org if you need further assistance locating this number.