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]]>Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada Celebrates World Plumbing Day
Canada’s largest trade contractor association encourages all Canadians to recognize the essential role of plumbing in the day-to-day lives of Canadians
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OTTAWA, ON (March 11, 2026) — The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC), together with industry partners and stakeholders, is encouraging all Canadians to celebrate World Plumbing Day on March 11 and to reflect on the important role that plumbing plays in the Canadian economy and the daily lives of Canadians.
“Plumbing is the backbone of our modern lives,” said Tania Johnston, MCAC Chief Executive Officer. “Our members deliver safe drinking water, effective sanitation, and reliable building systems across Canada. It protects public health, supports safe and efficient buildings, and helps to power Canada’s economy every single day. Today is a reminder to give thanks to our plumbing industry, and to continue our investment in the workforce and infrastructure that Canadians rely on.”
World Plumbing Day is an annual event, observed on March 11, and celebrated in more than 70 countries around the world. In Canada, modern plumbing safeguards families and communities by enabling clean water delivery, wastewater removal, and hygienic indoor environments in homes, schools, long-term care facilities, restaurants, and public buildings.
Plumbing is also a powerful economic engine. Canada’s plumbing and mechanical contracting sector supports jobs and apprenticeships in every region, supports domestic supply chains, and enables the critical infrastructure the Canadian economy depends on, whether in housing, healthcare, manufacturing, energy, or the public sector.
“Simply put, supporting the plumbing industry, our skilled tradespeople, and the high-quality plumbing systems that Canadians rely on is an investment in our long-term productivity,” added Johnston.
The Association encourages Canadians to take a moment today to learn more about World Plumbing Day, recognize the value of skilled trades, and to reflect on how important the plumbing industry is to all aspects of daily life.
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About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, established in 1895, is the unified voice of the mechanical and building systems contracting industry. Through a federated structure, MCAC represents more contracting firms engaged in mechanical and building systems construction, service/repair and maintenance, primarily within the industrial, commercial and institutional sectors.
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]]>The post Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada Welcomes Workforce Alliance for Housing and Construction appeared first on Mechanical Contractors Association- Canada.
]]>Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada Welcomes Workforce Alliance for Housing and Construction
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa, ON – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) is welcoming the creation of a Housing and Construction Workforce Alliance and stressed the importance of engaging with the mechanical and building systems contracting sector to build a stronger, resilient, and productive workforce for the Canadian economy.
“This announcement comes at a critical juncture for Canada’s construction sector,” said Tania Johnston, MCAC Chief Executive Officer. “Existing challenges are being felt more acutely as demand for construction continues to grow, while labour shortages and trade pressures persist. MCAC stands ready to help the government deliver on its homebuilding and infrastructure agenda, but this will only be possible through a proactive, all-hands-on-deck approach that aligns workforce planning, procurement policy, and regulatory frameworks with on-the-ground realities.”
MCAC has long called for a collaborative, pan-Canadian approach to Build Canada Strong that reflects the scale and complexity of the mechanical and building systems workforce and the businesses that design, install, and maintain critical infrastructure.
“Mechanical and building systems contractors account for approximately 40 per cent of construction activity in Canada, and these systems further represent roughly 50 per cent of a building’s long-term maintenance and lifecycle costs,” added Johnston. “Put simply, if we hope to reach the targets set out through initiatives such as the Major Projects Office and Build Canada Homes, it is critical that the mechanical and building systems sector is at the table.”
MCAC is eager to engage with the Housing and Construction Workforce Alliance and bring forward member perspectives on items including procurement reform, interprovincial regulatory harmonization, labour and contractor mobility, training capacity, and productivity.
“With the right coordination and commitment, we can strengthen Canada’s skilled trades workforce and ensure our housing and infrastructure ambitions are achievable,” added Johnston. “We welcome further details on the Alliance and opportunities for participation in the weeks ahead.”
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The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada is Canada’s largest trade contractor association, representing more than 900 contractor firms and their more than 50,000 employees working in the mechanical and building systems construction sector.
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]]>The post <strong>MCAC Announces Registration Now Open for 2026 Emerging Leaders Conference</strong> appeared first on Mechanical Contractors Association- Canada.
]]>MCAC Announces Registration Now Open for 2026 Emerging Leaders Conference
Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders in Canada’s Major Trade Contracting Sectors
OTTAWA, January 14, 2026 – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC), led by its Future Leaders Advisory Council, is excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 Emerging Leaders Conference, scheduled for March 25–27, 2026, in Toronto, Ontario.
The Emerging Leaders Conference is designed to empower early-career professionals in the major trade contracting sector by offering education, leadership development, and valuable networking opportunities. The dynamic three-day event brings together emerging professionals, industry experts, and thought leaders from across Canada to share insights, explore trends, and build connections that support career growth and sector innovation.
“We’re thrilled to open registration for the 2026 Emerging Leaders Conference,” said Kyle Getty, Chair of the MCAC Future Leaders Advisory Council. “This event reflects MCAC’s long-standing commitment to investing in the next generation of industry leaders. Our program continues to evolve, offering a balance of timely industry topics, practical learning, and opportunities to connect with peers and mentors from across the country.”
The conference program will explore a range of subjects critical to future leaders in the trade contracting sector in Canada. Attendees can look forward to sessions on risk management, emerging technologies, leadership development, industry best practices, workforce trends, and interactive leadership.
In addition to educational sessions and networking opportunities, the event will feature presentations from industry speakers and opportunities to engage with professionals from across Canada and throughout the major trade contracting sector.
More information about the conference, including registration details, speakers, and session topics, is available at: Emerging Leaders 2026 Conference.
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About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, established in 1895, is the unified voice of the mechanical contracting industry. Our members are contractors of all sizes engaged in such disciplines as plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, controls systems, medical gases, welding, and fire suppression primarily within the industrial, commercial, institutional and service sectors.
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]]>The post <strong>Mechanical Contractors Needed to Build Canada Strong</strong> appeared first on Mechanical Contractors Association- Canada.
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OTTAWA, November 4, 2025 – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) and mechanical contracting sector is committed to “Building Canada Strong,” but the association noted that investments highlighted in the 2025 federal budget can only be accomplished through collaboration and policies that support mechanical and major trade contractors across Canada.
“Mechanical contractors across the country are integral to building and maintaining the infrastructure and built environment that is required to ‘Build Canada Strong,’” said Tania Johnston, MCAC Chief Executive Officer. “Our sector contributes more than $30 billion to Canada’s GDP, and employs more than 205,000 workers across the country. We look forward to helping the government to align on policies to directly address workforce development and retention, productivity-improving investments, and the sustainability of mechanical and major trade contractors across the country.”
About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, established in 1895, is the unified voice of the mechanical contracting industry. Our members are contractors of all sizes engaged in such disciplines as plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, controls systems, medical gases, welding, and fire suppression primarily within the industrial, commercial, institutional and service sectors.
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]]>The post <strong>Building Canada Now: New Report Sheds Light on Mechanical Contracting’s Economic Impact</strong> appeared first on Mechanical Contractors Association- Canada.
]]>Building Canada Now: New Report Sheds Light on Mechanical Contracting’s Economic Impact
OTTAWA, September 17, 2025 – Mechanical contractors in Canada directly contribute more than $30 billion to the country’s GDP, while employing more than 205,000 workers across the country, according to a new report from the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC). The report, entitled Build Canada Now: The Economic Impact of Mechanical Contracting in Canada, demonstrates just how important the sector is to building a strong, resilient Canadian economy.
“We have known for some time just how critical the mechanical contracting sector is to the Canadian construction industry, given the significant work involved and capital expense of mechanical systems,” said Tania Johnston, MCAC Chief Executive Officer. “This report puts tangible data to that understanding, while demonstrating the additional indirect impacts of our sector’s work.”
The report, commissioned by MCAC and developed by BuildForce Canada and Prism Economics, highlights several economic indicators, including:
- 205,000 on- and off-site jobs, including an additional 150,000 jobs indirectly
- $33 billion to Canada’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), including an additional $17 billion in indirect impacts
- More than $14 billion in wages paid
- Approximately 20 per cent of Canada’s total construction output is performed by mechanical contractors
“The work of mechanical contractors is integral not only to the delivery of complex construction projects but also to the ongoing operation and sustainability of Canada’s built environment,” the report states. “Their contributions span all major construction subsectors, including new construction and sustaining maintenance activities across engineering construction, non-residential buildings, repair construction, and residential buildings.”
In addition to a national summary of economic activity, the report breaks down the data for each individual province. The report also highlights the sector’s importance as it relates to apprenticeship development, with mechanical trades playing a significant role in Canada’s apprenticeship system. According to the report, the upward trend of registration within these trades continues to demonstrate the foundational role of mechanical trades in the Canadian construction industry and skilled workforce.
The report was compiled using data available from Statistics Canada. While it provides a comprehensive overview of the sector, there are some limitations acknowledged, particularly as it relates to industrial activity performed by the sector. In maintenance, shutdown, and turnaround industrial activity, mechanical contractors take on a disproportionate amount of work compared to other contractors.
With the report now published, the association is eager to continue discussions with all levels of government on the importance of mechanical contracting to the country’s economic performance.
“Fundamentally, every building, business, institution or industrial facility in Canada requires mechanical systems to operate,” Johnston added. “As the government continues to unveil its ambitious building strategies, it will be as important as ever to support the mechanical contracting sector. MCAC members are critical not only to our livelihoods, but to a robust, healthy, and resilient Canadian economy.”
Check out the report: Build Canada Now: The Economic Impact of Mechanical Contractors in Canada
About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, established in 1895, is the unified voice of the mechanical contracting industry. Our members are contractors of all sizes engaged in such disciplines as plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, controls systems, medical gases, welding, and fire suppression primarily within the industrial, commercial, institutional and service sectors.
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MCAC offers $20,000+ in scholarships to empower students in mechanical contracting and engineering
OTTAWA, September 8, 2025 — The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 Richard McKeagan Scholarship Series. This program will award more than $20,000 to deserving students across Canada who are studying mechanical contracting or mechanical engineering.
In honour of former MCAC CEO Richard McKeagan, this scholarship series is funded through the generous support of MCAC Associate Members and MCA partners nationwide. Since its inception in 2006, the program has granted over $120,000 to post-secondary students, many of whom have gone on to build successful careers within Canada’s mechanical contracting industry.
“Addressing the skilled labor gap in our industry is a challenge we must meet head-on,” said Brad Mason, President and Chair of MCA Canada. “The Richard McKeagan Scholarship Series is a vital investment in the future of mechanical contracting—empowering students with the support they need to build successful careers and strengthen our workforce.”
The Richard McKeagan Scholarship Series remains a cornerstone of MCAC’s commitment to developing the next generation of mechanical industry professionals. With a continued focus on diversity, innovation, and sustainability, the program supports a wide range of students—from apprentices to engineers—who are driving the future of mechanical contracting. By investing in education today, the scholarship helps build a skilled, resilient workforce ready to meet the evolving challenges of Canada’s built environment.
Scholarships are offered through a range of MCAC Associate Members and partners, including Bradford White Canada, Equipco Ltd., Federated Insurance, MCA Hamilton-Niagara, OS&B, Milwaukee Tool, Palser Enterprise, Procore, Reliance Worldwide, Taco Comfort Solutions, Uponor, Watts Water Technologies, thee Dirty Seahorse, the Women in Canadian Trade Contracting* initiative, and others. The broader Associate Membership also sponsors a dedicated MCAC Associate Member Scholarship.
“This scholarship program’s growth each year reflects the dedication of our members and partners to nurturing talent and innovation in the sector,” Mason added. “By investing in education today, we’re ensuring a stronger, more resilient mechanical contracting industry that will continue to shape Canada’s infrastructure and communities for years to come.”
For more information on the Richard McKeagan Scholarship Series and to apply online, visit: MCAC Programs & Scholarships. Applications are due October 15, 2025.
*Previously named the Women in Mechanical Contracting
Program Contact:
Piers Young
Program Coordinator, MCAC
[email protected]
About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, established in 1895, is the unified voice of the mechanical contracting industry. Our members are contractors of all sizes engaged in such disciplines as plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, controls systems, medical gases, welding, and fire suppression primarily within the industrial, commercial, institutional and service sectors.
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]]>The post Milwaukee Tool Becomes Presenting Sponsor of MCAC’s 2025 Annual National Conference appeared first on Mechanical Contractors Association- Canada.
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MCAC and Milwaukee Tool celebrate excellence and the mechanical contracting industry at the 82nd Annual National Conference
OTTAWA, September 3, 2025 – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) announces Milwaukee Tool as the Presenting Sponsor of its 2025 Annual National Conference, running November 26–29, 2025, in Bridgetown, Barbados.
As Presenting Sponsor, Milwaukee Tool will support the conference and cap off the event as the sponsor of the Closing Night Reception and Gala on November 29, celebrating the achievements of attendees and the mechanical contracting industry.
“We are proud to stand with MCAC and Canada’s mechanical contractors, whose skill and dedication drive progress across the country,” said Bryan Dunjko, Group Marketing Manager, Milwaukee Tool. “Just as they continue to shape the future of our industry, Milwaukee Tool remains committed to delivering the innovation, safety, and performance that help them succeed.”
“MCAC and Milwaukee Tool share more than a commitment to advancing the mechanical trades – we share a dedication to fostering innovation, excellence, and a lasting impact on our industry, which we’re thrilled to celebrate as we welcome Milwaukee Tool as the Presenting Sponsor of this year’s Annual National Conference,” said Tania Johnston, CEO of MCAC. “Milwaukee Tool’s support amplifies our ability to showcase cutting-edge solutions, foster connections, and celebrate the skills and achievements of professionals across our industry.”
The 82nd edition of the MCAC Annual National Conference will feature four days of education and networking opportunities with industry representatives from across Canada and the United States. This year’s event includes an opening keynote from Dragon’s Den Dragon Manjit Minhas, fantastic education sessions and panel discussions, industry leadership awards, and unique opportunities to explore and enjoy the beautiful island of Barbados.
For more information or to register, visit 2025 MCAC Annual National Conference website or connect with MCAC Events Manager, Emily Seabrook at [email protected].
About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, established in 1895, is the unified voice of the mechanical contracting industry. Our members are contractors of all sizes engaged in such disciplines as plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, controls systems, medical gases, welding, and fire suppression primarily within the industrial, commercial, institutional and service sectors.
About Milwaukee Tool
Milwaukee Tool, founded in 1924, is a global leader in delivering innovative solutions to the professional construction trades that increase productivity and safety. Milwaukee® is known for their world-leading M12
, M18, and MX FUEL; cordless tool systems, the ground-breaking performance of their cordless innovations, safety solutions, battery-powered outdoor power equipment, jobsite lighting and clean-up, time-saving tool accessories, and innovative hand tool and PACKOUT; Modular Storage products. The company is dedicated to delivering a steady stream of advanced, trade-specific solutions.
Milwaukee Tool is a Brookfield, Wisconsin-based subsidiary of Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. (TTI) (HKEx stock code: 669, ADR symbol: TTNDY). For more information on the full line of Milwaukee® products, please call 1-800-SAWDUST or www.milwaukeetool.ca
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Ottawa, ON — August 29, 2025 — The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) was pleased to see today’s announcement from the Government of Canada on the formation of the new Major Projects Office and looks forward to working with the government to ensure Canada’s “growth-critical” trade contractors are actively engaged in the efficient delivery of infrastructure projects across the country.
“Over the past 5 years, MCAC has stressed the need for a federal construction secretariat to address issues related to construction, including skilled labour, permitting, and project delivery,” said Tania Johnston, Chief Executive Officer of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada. “The establishment of this Major Projects Office signals a commitment to building a more resilient economy through strategic collaboration and coordination.”
As the voice of the mechanical contracting industry across Canada, MCAC has long advocated for a more integrated approach to project planning and execution, and specifically the engagement of major trade contractors through the project delivery lifecycle. The establishment of a Major Projects Office also provides opportunity to execute more innovative practices in project delivery, while setting an example for increased collaboration in construction.
“Canada’s mechanical contractors are ready to work hand-in-hand with the Major Projects Office to ensure that our country’s most ambitious infrastructure goals are met,” added Johnston. “We believe that collaboration between government and industry is the key to unlocking innovation, improving project outcomes, and delivering value to Canadians.”
MCAC has been a vocal proponent of creating a federal construction secretariat to serve as a central hub for coordination, policy development, and stakeholder engagement across the construction sector. Over the past several years, MCAC has engaged with federal officials, industry partners, and trade associations to promote the idea of a unified body for construction in Canada. The formation of the Major Projects Office is a direct reflection of these efforts.
At the same time, MCAC wants to encourage the Major Projects Office to recognize the importance of early contractor involvement, fair procurement practices, and workforce development. These principles are essential to ensuring that Canada’s infrastructure investments translate into long-term economic growth and community resilience.
About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, established in 1895, is the unified voice of the mechanical contracting industry. Our members are contractors of all sizes engaged in such disciplines as plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, controls systems, medical gases, welding, and fire suppression primarily within the industrial, commercial, institutional and service sectors.
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]]>The post MCAC CEO Tania Johnston Recognized as one of Construction’s Most Influential People appeared first on Mechanical Contractors Association- Canada.
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OTTAWA, July 17, 2025 – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) is proud to share that Chief Executive Officer Tania Johnston has been named one of Construction’s Most Influential People for 2025 by SiteNews.
As the first woman to lead MCAC in its 100+ year history, Johnston has helped grow the association to represent more than 800 firms across the country. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing workforce development, middle management training, and the national student chapter program. A strong advocate for mental health awareness and women in the trades, Johnston has consistently championed initiatives that build a more inclusive and resilient industry.
“Tania’s 25 years of dedication to the mechanical contracting industry have been exemplified by her tireless commitment to supporting members and our sector. Her work has strengthened MCAC’s impact across Canada, and we are proud to see this work being recognized on a national stage.,” said Brad Mason, President and Chair of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada.
Under her leadership, MCA Canada has increased its role in national policy discussions and reinforced its commitment to supporting contractors at all levels.
“The future of construction is evolving, and with it, the responsibility to lead with purpose. I’m honoured by this recognition and committed to ensuring our sector continues to grow with integrity, innovation, and inclusivity at its core,” says Johnston.
The Construction’s Most Influential People list, launched by SiteNews in 2024, highlights individuals from across Canada whose leadership is moving the industry forward, whether through policy, advocacy, innovation, or business leadership.
See the full list of this year’s recipients at readsitenews.com/most-influential-in-construction/2025/.
About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, established in 1895, is the unified voice of the mechanical contracting industry. Our members are contractors of all sizes engaged in such disciplines as plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, controls systems, medical gases, welding, and fire suppression primarily within the industrial, commercial, institutional and service sectors.
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]]>The post Mechanical Contracting Sector Awards Honourable Senator Donald Plett with Life Member Award appeared first on Mechanical Contractors Association- Canada.
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OTTAWA, May 14, 2025 – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) proudly recognized the Honourable Senator Donald Plett with the distinguished MCAC Life Member Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the mechanical contracting industry, his long-standing public service, and his powerful advocacy on behalf of the Canadian trade contracting sector.
“First and foremost, Canada’s mechanical contracting industry would like to congratulate Honourable Senator Donald Plett on his upcoming retirement and acknowledge his outstanding work on behalf of our sector,” said Brad Mason, President and Chair of MCAC. “Senator Plett’s leadership was integral to the introduction of federal prompt payment legislation for the Canadian construction industry. Our industry owes him a tremendous amount of gratitude for his tireless efforts.”
In 2017, Senator Plett sponsored the Canada Prompt Payment Act (Bill S-224, 42-1), a landmark piece of legislation that has since passed into law and ensures contractors working under federal government contracts are paid in a fair and timely manner. The core of the legislation provides critical protection for contractors and workers across the country.
A native of Manitoba and alumnus of Red River College, Senator Plett has built a legacy of leadership rooted in service to both his local community and the nation. From his early days in politics at just 15 years old, to his appointment to the Senate in 2009 by Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Senator Plett has championed causes that matter to contractors, tradespeople, and rural Canadians.
“Senator Plett has always understood the importance of our industry – not just to the economy, but to the communities we build and serve,” said Tania Johnston, Chief Executive Officer of MCAC. “He has been a tireless advocate for the trades, and his leadership has left a significant contribution on our sector and across Canada. We are honoured to recognize him with the MCAC Life Member Award.”
About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, established in 1895, is the unified voice of the mechanical contracting industry. Our members are contractors of all sizes engaged in such disciplines as plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, controls systems, medical gases, welding, and fire suppression primarily within the industrial, commercial, institutional and service sectors.
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