Industry Representation
Advocacy is at the core of MCA Alberta’s mandate. We work directly with government, regulators, industry organizations and training bodies to address the issues that affect mechanical contractors — from codes and inspections to payment practices, contracts, workforce development and apprenticeship.
By bringing real contractor experience to the table, MCA Alberta works to solve problems, influence policy and create better conditions for mechanical contractors across the province.
Advocacy That Gets Results
MCA Alberta’s advocacy is focused on practical issues that have a direct impact on members’ businesses. Some files require long-term industry coordination. Others can be resolved through direct intervention with regulators or government. In every case, the goal is the same: make sure mechanical contractors have a strong, informed voice when decisions affecting the industry are made.
Codes, Inspections & Regulation
MCA Alberta works directly with regulators and inspection authorities to make sure codes and their enforcement reflect practical field conditions.
- Helped achieve changes to building code requirements for under-slab insulation on in-floor heating installations.
- Worked with the City of Calgary on plumbing permit requirements for commercial hydronic heating systems.
- Encouraged a City of Calgary variance regarding potable water expansion tanks in residential applications.
- Advocated for a workable rollout of medical gas certification requirements, including delaying implementation to allow industry time to train.
Prompt Payment & Better Contracts
MCA Alberta has been an active voice for fairer payment practices and more balanced construction contracts.
- Advocated for the enactment of prompt payment legislation in Alberta.
- Worked with Service Alberta to limit the scope of a prompt payment exemption granted to Dow Chemical.
- Developed and distributed a Change Order Guide specifically for trade contractors.
- Supported development of a library identifying onerous contract clauses and emerging contractual risks.
- Works with Aon to help members understand and mitigate risks created by onerous clauses and excessive insurance deductibles in prime contracts.
Apprenticeship & Workforce Development
A strong mechanical industry depends on a strong skilled-trades pipeline. MCA Alberta works with government and industry partners on apprenticeship, training, recruitment and workforce policy.
- Encouraged Alberta Industry Training to reinstate period exams for all apprenticeship years following their discontinuation during COVID-19.
- Works with Advanced Education to ensure skilled-trades legislation reflects industry needs.
- Advocates for the reinstatement of federal and provincial apprenticeship training subsidies and apprentice tool tax rebates.
- Works to streamline immigration pathways into apprenticeship training.
- Supports initiatives encouraging more people to choose careers in the mechanical trades.
Business Risk, Safety & Member Costs
MCA Alberta also takes on issues that directly affect the cost and risk of operating a mechanical contracting business.
- Works with WCB to identify opportunities for members to reduce costs and manage claims more effectively.
- Works with Aon on water-damage mitigation strategies aimed at reducing contractor risk and supporting lower insurance premiums.
- Provides members with timely information on employment contract language and employment contract negotiations.
- Worked with Alberta Infrastructure and industry partners to limit the impact of COVID-19 shutdowns and delay claims on contractors.
- Works with MCAC on initiatives including improved access to women-specific PPE.
Issues We’re Working On Now
Industry advocacy never stops. MCA Alberta continues to work with members, regulators, government and industry partners on emerging issues affecting mechanical contractors across Alberta.
Technical & Regulatory Issues
- Seeking resolution for failed ABSA inspections of newly installed boilers and chillers.
- Addressing the availability of high-pressure gas for new multi-residential buildings.
- Continuing to bring contractor experience into discussions around codes, inspections and regulatory requirements.
Building the Future Workforce
- Working to reinstate apprenticeship training subsidies.
- Advocating for the return of apprentice tool tax rebates.
- Working to improve immigration pathways into apprenticeship training.
- Promoting careers in the mechanical trades through a broader multimedia approach.
MCA Member Industry Representatives
Advocacy also happens by having mechanical contractors in the room. MCA Alberta members serve on provincial and national councils, committees, trusts and industry organizations, providing direct industry input on policy, safety, training, benefits, standards and construction practices.
MCAC Canada
Representatives: Mark Schendel, SMC 2.0; Mike Loughlin, Trotter & Morton
MCA Group Trust Employee Benefits
Chairman: Mark Schendel, SMC 2.0
Trustees: Mike Charlton, Goldbar Contractors; Darren Parkinson, Mystique Mechanical; Darren McPherson, Kehoe Equipment; Michele …
Alberta Trade Contractors Council
Vice Chair: Tyler Majcher, Botting & Associates
Alternate: Mark Schendel, SMC 2.0
Alberta Safety Codes Council
- Plumbing sub-council: Kyle Waterhouse, Waterhouse Mechanical
- Gas sub-council: Chris McInroy, Goldbar Contractors
- Building sub-council: Jay Cavanaugh, Cascade Mechanical
Alberta Construction Association
- Contracts committee: Dave Jenecke, Padcar Mechanical
- Government relations: Tyler Majcher, Botting and Associates
- WCB / Safety: Mark Schendel, SMC 2.0
Alberta Construction Safety Association
Representative: Mike Charlton, Goldbar Contractors
Calgary Construction Association
Director: Michael Baytalan, MJS Mechanical
UA 488 Alberta Pipe Trades College Trust
Representatives: Greg Hensch, Arpi’s North; Simone Schendel, SMC 2.0
UA 496 Pipe Industry Training School Trust
Representatives: Brian Scheeler, Arpi’s Industries; Kim Robinson, Blazer’s Ltd. (Chair); Steve Benoit, Madern Niagara
Your Voice Shapes Our Advocacy
The issues MCA Alberta takes forward start with its members. When regulations, contracts, inspections, workforce challenges or industry practices are affecting your business, we want to hear about it. Member input helps MCA identify emerging issues, build industry positions and advocate for practical solutions.