MCABC Plumbing & Mechanical | SPRING/SUMMER 2019 Vol.9 No.1

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 Vol.9 No.1

PLUMBING & MECHANICAL

PM 40063056

MCABC EVP Dana Taylor retires VGH SIMULATION CENTRE | SAFETY

SPEND MORE TIME RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS Easily order supplies or check prices and availability at your local branch by shopping online 24/7. You can view your statements, check the status of open orders or back orders and manage multiple projects with individual shopping carts at the same time.

barobinson.com

Burnaby | Vancouver | Abbotsford | Surrey | Penticton | Kamloops

Contents

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 Vol. 9 No.1 PUBLISHER Dan Gnocato dang@mediaedge.ca MANAGING EDITOR Cheryl Mah GRAPHIC DESIGN Jody Sparkes B.C./ALBERTA SALES Dan Gnocato 604.549.4521 ext. 223

PUBLISHED BY

PRESIDENT Kevin Brown

Features 06 Cover Story

Dana Taylor is retiring in 2019, leaving a long list of achievements and memories as EVP of MCABC.

09 Project

VANCOUVER OFFICE

2221 Hartley Ave. Coquitlam, BC V3K 6W9 Tel: 604.549.4521 Fax: 604.549.4522

TORONTO OFFICE

1000-5255 Yonge St. Toronto, ON M2N 6P4 Tel: 416.512.8186 Fax: 416.512.8344

Copyright 2019 Canada Post Canadian publications mail sales publication agreement no. 40063056 – ISSN 0834-3357 Return all undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Suite 1000 – 5255 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario, M2N 6P4

PRINTED IN CANADA

MCABC Plumbing & Mechanical Magazine is published twice a year by MediaEDGE Communications Inc. REPRINTS: No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form — print or electronic — without written permission from the publisher. Requests for permission to reprint any portion of this magazine should be sent to the publisher.

For all subscription inquiries or address changes, please contact customerservice@mediaedge.ca or call 416.512.8186 ext. 259.

Black & McDonald tackled the challenging renovation for the VGH Simulation Centre.

11 Safety

Asbestos on Job Sites

Departments 04 Executive Vice President’s Message 05 President’s Message 12 Association Corner 14 Industry News ON THE COVER: VGH Simulation Centre

Dana Taylor EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Kim Barbero CEO Jane Andrew DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT SERVICES AND EVENT PLANNING Vicky Noble COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING COORDINATOR Berry Lam ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Mechanical Contractors Association of BC (MCABC) 223 - 3989 Henning Drive, Burnaby BC V5C 6N5 Ph: 604.205.5058 Fax: 604.205.5075 Email: staff@mcabc.org Visit us Online: www.mcabc.org

Plumbing & Mechanical magazine is the official magazine of the Mechanical Contractors Association of BC published twice a year

by MediaEdge Communications Inc. Opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and not necessarily endorsed by the MCABC or MediaEdge Communications. Editorial inquiries should be sent to the editor at cherylm@mediaedge.ca.

executive vice president's message

Saying Goodbye happened in the past? And that’s perfectly understandable.

For

the

membership,

contractors and staff, where we are going is far more interesting and important than what happened yesterday.

However, I’d like to journey a little down that path. In January 1990 when I joined the MCABC, it was in fact one trade association made up of six other affiliated entities: two labour relations associations — the Mechanical Industrial Relations Association and Island

...the door that is slowly closing behind me has already shown me many open window opportunities for my next chapter.

Mechanical Industrial Relations Association (previously

Victoria

MIRA);

two

union-

management Trust Funds — the Journeyman Training and Industry Training and the Mechanical Trade Promotion Fund (JTIP & MTPF), one wage indemnity fund (PIIF), and one Supervisory Training Fund (SETTF).

I was hired as CEO of MCABC, manager of the

Labour

Relations

organizations,

and

administrator of the trust funds.

My successor at MCABC, Kim Barbero, is the new CEO. She and I will spend much of my last weeks with MCABC in meetings to exchange information, while she and the board of directors create a template for next steps in

A

MCABC’s continuing journey.

For my part, the door that is slowly closing lexander Graham Bell made the famous pronouncement,

behind me has already shown me many open window opportunities for

“When one door closes another opens.” The lengthier quote is

my next chapter. So I don’t plan to linger long looking ‘regretfully upon

actually: “When one door closes another door opens, but we so

the closed door,’ while I take on new challenges that lie ahead.

often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us.”

I am both grateful for and proud of the nearly 30 years of service I have given to this organization. I believe that I have openly served

Not to be outdone, the Chinese version goes: ‘When a door closes,

the association and its affiliates in each capacity with dedication

nine windows open.” I asked my wife who happens to be Chinese, “Why

and integrity to the best of my ability and shown commitment to the

nine?” And the explanation came back, “Because nine is the maximum.”

objectives of the mechanical contracting industry as it was known in

Of what? Who knows.

my time.

The point of all this is not how many versions of this expression there are but the essentials of its meaning.

MCABC is neither a religion, nor is it a political party. Rather, as a trade association, it is more like a family with all the dynamics that the

For Alexander Bell, it meant trials and tribulation, trial and error,

diverse members of that family bring to the table. While it falls to others

all representing opportunity. For another, it may have a spiritual

to lead this family forward, I can rightly claim family membership

connotation. I think most people might simply accept that it could

through my relationship to all of you who have supported my tenure

represent life’s journey: it’s about change.

here. While I will miss many of you, I also look to what is next for me

MCABC is in near full-throttle change and my departure (retirement

and in parting, I wish MCABC well.

as of June 30th) is a notable milestone in that change. I’ve been asked

4

many times about what the organization might look like going forward,

Dana Taylor

but few have expressed much interest in what got us here — what

Executive Vice President, MCABC

PLUMBING & MECHANICAL | SPRING/SUMMER 2019

president's message

Setting Goals drive; and rebranding MCABC. The first two items have been completed and the last two are in the works.

Regarding

MCABC’s

membership

drive, members of the board have kicked this off by agreeing to personally contact mechanical contractors who are not currently MCABC members. Many of these were once members but have fallen off the roster and may just need a personal invitation to return. Others are completely new to MCABC. But really, why wouldn’t you want to be part of the one trade association in B.C. that is dedicated exclusively to your industry?

The

newly

elected

MCABC

executive and board members who joined us about this time last year have

contributed

greatly

to

the

association. We appreciate the ideas and energy they have brought with them. They have been instrumental in the above-mentioned membership drive and will, no doubt, be key in our

I

rebranding efforts. I look forward to further progress. t’s been a busy year so far at MCABC with

Another

group

within

MCABC

that

is

a leadership change in the works. Dana

bringing fresh legs is the Next Gen group.

Taylor is retiring at the end of June after

Perhaps you attended one of their events last

29 years of service to the association (read his

year such as the hike around Buntzen Lake in

story inside this issue). Dana was MCABC’s

the summer or bowling night in November? The

longest-serving leader ever — which is really

great news is these fun events are back in 2019,

saying something as the organization formed

with additional events such as a breakfast panel

its roots in 1905!

featuring three distinguished panelists — Paul Meyers, Kyle Wisniewski and (‘ahem’) myself

...why wouldn’t you want to be part of the one trade association in B.C. that is dedicated exclusively to your industry?

— planned for June 5. While the events are

Kim Barbero is MCABC’s new CEO. While Kim

more than offset, by increases in the ICI sectors

brings to the role diverse leadership experience

as projects such as hospital expansions get

in both corporate and association management,

underway. Business remains brisk.

planned by these younger MCABC members, the events are open to everyone.

Looking

at

construction,

the the

industry

current

outlook

housing

for

market

correction is affecting the volume of work and price within the residential sector. However, these reductions will likely be offset, perhaps

she is new to the world of construction so it will

Our provincial outlook will certainly be

take her a little time to get up to speed. However,

discussed at the upcoming Western Regional

the board of directors was very impressed with

MCA Conference May 30 to June 2 (it will be

Kim’s credentials during the hiring process and

over by the time of this publication’s printing).

has high hopes for her.

What a great opportunity we have in Banff to

It’s now been a year since the board and staff

see our colleagues from Alberta, Saskatchewan

held a strategic planning session to brainstorm

and Manitoba! I for one am excited about it and

on the future of MCABC. The four main action

hope to see you there!

items resulting from that session include hiring

Dana’s

replacement;

restructuring

contractors’ dues; initiating a membership

Dale Miller President, MCABC

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2018-2020 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President Dale Miller Division 15 Mechanical Ltd. Secretary Treasurer/Past President Wayne Davidson Davidson Bros. Mechanical Construction Henry DeJong ESC Automation Inc. Vice President Trevor Hildebrand Phase Mechanical Systems Ltd. Vice President Kyle Wisniewski Black & McDonald Ltd. Vice President Executive Vice President Dana Taylor CEO Kim Barbero DIRECTORS Brian Bradshaw Altac Services Inc. Director Associates Chairman John Fu Noble BC Director Piero Iamartino Fred Welsh Ltd. Director Chad Kinsley R.H Jones and Son Mechanical Director Robert Marchiori Ram Mechanical Director Associates Vice-Chairman Jeff Newmarch Hy-Line Sales Ltd. (2018) Director Mike Vesterback National Hydronics Director (MIRA Representative) John Weisgerber Johnson Controls Ltd. Director

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | PLUMBING & MECHANICAL

5

cover story

CHANGING OF THE GUARD NEW ERA FOR MCABC AS DANA TAYLOR RETIRES

BY CHERYL MAH

Long-time executive vice president Dana Taylor

like to do — so many things pop into my head,”

the transition. “Our hope is between the two

is retiring after 29 years with the Mechanical

says Taylor, who at 68, will officially retire at

of us and by the time I leave, she will be well

Contractors Association of B.C. (MCABC). As the

the end of June.

established with her feet on the ground and

longest serving EVP in MCABC’s history, Taylor

One of his last duties will be working with

a good idea of where she needs to direct her

new CEO Kim Barbero (former executive

attention,” says Taylor, adding that longtime

“Retiring seems like such a foreign concept

director of Boating B.C.), who joined MCABC

staffer Jane Andrew will be a great resource

today. When I think about what else I would

in April, for a two-month period to help with

with the day-to-day knowledge.

says he prefers the term “exiting.”

6

PLUMBING & MECHANICAL | SPRING/SUMMER 2019

cover story

Almost all the major construction associations

a friend. He has dedicated his heart and soul for

generation station in Ontario and the Toronto

in B.C. have undergone leadership transitions

his members in British Columbia for a very long

Eaton Centre development. His father, a civil

in the past two years and Taylor is one of the

time and has professionally represented them

engineer, introduced him to the industry.

last leaders from that era to hang up his hat.

extremely well not only provincially, but nationally

Taylor attended Notre Dame University

and internationally as well. His experience and

in Nelson, B.C. for a couple of years before

knowledge will be sorely missed throughout the

pursuing economics and political science

entire industry but I know that his best — in the

at Simon Fraser University. “Construction

next page of his life — is about to begin.”

always paid the way,” says Taylor, who moved

“Everyone ran for the door all at once,” he says with a laugh.

Asked to reflect on what he will miss most, Taylor is quick to say the interaction with members and the many relationships he has built over the years.

“Construction is really like a big family.

My time at MCABC has allowed me to meet many good people and to develop a number of friendships,” he says.

As a passionate supporter of the trades and especially mechanical contractors, Taylor has

to B.C. in 1974. He worked for a number of

Taylor’s dedication and leadership of the association have not gone unnoticed.

spearheaded or been involved in a number of

general contractors and engineers in different roles from a carpenter’s helper to site surveyor. The Vancouver Shipyards was his first job in Vancouver with Dillingham and Cuyler Contracting.

Moving

into

association

work

was

really about timing and the opportunities presenting themselves along the way. Taylor

important initiatives over the years including

According to Taylor, the timing of his

was approached to join the Amalgamated

trades training incentives, drafting contractor

retirement was precipitated by the desire of

Construction Association (now the Vancouver

licensing legislation, safety and most notably,

unionized contractor affiliate, Island Mechanical

Regional Construction Association) in 1980. By

prompt payment legislation advocacy. In 2006,

Industrial Relations Association (IMIRA) to

this time Taylor was already active on various

he received the Association Cornerstone of

leave MCABC. For decades, IMIRA was a full

voluntary boards as well as in the community so

Excellence Award in Government Affairs from

partner operating under the administrative

joining the association was a good fit.

the B.C. Chapter of the Canadian Society of

umbrella of MCABC and the board’s decision to

“I knew construction — having worked in it

Association Executives.

formally separate will mean a new operational

for so many years — and my volunteer work

model for MCABC.

for non-profits was similar territory so it was

Taylor’s dedication and leadership of the association have not gone unnoticed.

“Knowing that was going to take place

an easy fit,” says Taylor, who also sat on North

“Dana contributed 29 years to this association

by the end of 2019, I thought it was best if

and his achievements will not be forgotten,”

someone else be here for the transition because

He served for six years as ACA vice

says MCABC board president Dale Miller.

whatever emerges is going to be different from

president before joining the New Westminster

“His deep understanding of the issues facing

anything that I managed or ran in my time. The

Economic Development Association. When that

mechanical contractors in this province guided

organization that I joined will be very different

association wound down, his predecessor Vic

the association and made it into what it is today.

going forward,” he says. “Also equally important

Traynor invited him to join MCABC in 1990.

Had it not been for Dana’s leadership, MCABC

is that it’s time for me to do other things.”

Taylor took over the reins when Traynor retired.

would not be the respected organization it is.”

Vancouver’s city council.

Construction, in some shape or form, has been

“And as they say, the rest is history,” says

Richard McKeagan, retired president and

a part of Taylor’s life for more than 40 years.

Taylor. “My role here has really been about

CEO of the Mechanical Contractors Association

Throughout his post-secondary schooling, the

advancing the objectives of the organization and

of Canada, shares similar sentiments. “I have

Toronto native worked summers on various

ensuring we are providing value to members

known Dana for over 25 years as a colleague and

projects including the largest coal-fired thermal

and assisting them in their businesses.”

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | PLUMBING & MECHANICAL

7

cover story Founded in 1905, MCABC is B.C.’s largest trade association dedicated to mechanical contracting, with both open shop and unionized members specializing in heating, plumbing, HVAC,

gas

installations,

fire

protection,

controls and industrial mechanical systems.

While many things have changed over the years, the association’s mandate to support its more than 150 members through advocacy, education and networking have not. Taylor has enjoyed providing leadership in all three areas and more, while developing an appreciation for the significant role mechanical trades plays in the construction process.

“The trade itself is so important,” he says.

“Mechanical is on the leading edge of changing technologies. You can’t build a building without mechanical or electrical. Those two trades represent

Dana with his wife Ramona

more than 50 per cent value of a structure.”

Taylor

has

championed

many

issues

during his time but the most important has been prompt payment legislation. Promptpayment legislation (ensuring contractors and subcontractors are paid in a timely manner) was adopted in Ontario in December 2017 and will come into force this October. The federal government announced in the 2019 budget that legislation will be introduced related to public projects.

Delayed

payments

have

long

been

a

systemic issue and Taylor remains hopeful that the inequalities will be corrected with B.C. implementing its own legislation.

“This organization has led the push for

Is your employee benefits plan as flexible as you are?

Ommm... we offer plan flexibility along with great service and experts every step of the way so that you can get on with your business (or your yoga class). Give us a call for a benefits plan that works for you.

Built for the construction industry.

prompt payment across the country. We’ve been active provincially and nationally on this issue for a dozen years,” he says. “MCA has had the guts to stay front and centre about this and I give credit to the successive boards for staying on it and hope they will continue on it.”

In addition to staying plugged in on prompt payment, Taylor is looking forward to the Ecocity World Summit in Vancouver this October. His interest in sustainability and green buildings is an ongoing one, within the mechanical sector and beyond, inspiring initiatives such as the creation of the B.C. Green Chamber of Commerce in 2012 (which has since amalgamated with the Board of Change in 2017) and running as a Green Party candidate in the last provincial election.

His immediate retirement project includes working hard in some capacity to get the Green Party elected in the upcoming federal election.

And his long term and most challenging project?

Saving the planet.

“Major change is necessary and saving the planet seems like a good idea. I truly would like to see change and only can do that by being involved,” he says. “It’s my mission impossible and I’m looking forward to it.” PM

8

PLUMBING & MECHANICAL | SPRING/SUMMER 2019

www.bccabenefits.ca info@bccabenefits.ca

604 683 7353 1 800 665 1077

project

DEMANDING RENOVATION

BY CHERYL MAH

The Vancouver General Hospital Simulation

Renovations are inherently full of challenges,

Centre (VGH SIM) has a brand new space in

which are magnified when working in an

the Blackmore Pavilion. Formerly known as

operating

the Centre of Excellence for Surgical Education

McDonald Limited was up for the challenge

hospital

facility.

But

Black

&

by hand onsite in the mechanical room located on level four.

“We had to demo four existing air handling units and installed four new custom air

and Innovation, VGH SIM is an internationally

The mechanical contractor spent 10 months

handling units,” explains Wisniewski. “These

recognized multi-disciplinary academic centre

on the job, providing a complete mechanical

are full knock-down units that come shipped

and was relocated from its previous space to

installation including HVAC, plumbing, fire

in pallets. We had to build them from scratch

allow for more operating rooms at the hospital.

protection and medical gas. Black & McDonald

on site. There was no way to crane in the new

The brand new state-of-art space supports a

was awarded the $2.5 million contract in

units. I believe these units by ClimateCraft are

wide range of simulation education for healthcare

October 2017 with substantial completion

the first to be installed in the Lower Mainland.”

professionals and staff. Realistic and safe learning

achieved in August 2018.

environments allow them to study, practice and develop skill sets to advance patient care.

Black & McDonald also installed eight

“We did the full fit out of that space. It’s

Armstrong Design Envelope 4380 Integral

the second largest project we did at VGH but

VFD pumps that serve the AHU cooling and heating coils.

Level two was completely renovated to

it’s definitely the largest renovation we have

accommodate the Simulation Centre along with

done in B.C.,” says Kyle Wisniewski, division

various program offices and resident space. The

manager, construction at Black & McDonald. systems

the medical gas scope was quite large (Class 1

theatre, surgical cadaver lab, computer and skills

including chilled water, domestic hot water,

did the work) and included the S&I of a new

lab, a dedicated high fidelity patient simulator

non-domestic hot water for the air handling

Anaesthetic Gas Scavenging System (AGSS) and

room and eight multipurpose breakout rooms. It

units (AHUs), medical gas, full sanitary and

Lab Compressed Air systems.

also has the capability to use videoconferencing,

venting modifications and steam serving the

The biggest challenge on this project was the

webcasting, and video debriefing to further

air handling units. Due to limited accessibility,

amount of change orders issued right at the

enhance learning and skill development.

the new air handling units had to be assembled

beginning. Demolition revealed that existing

centre consists of 12 rooms which include a lecture

The

project

required

various

“These are installed in the same rooms as the AHUs they serve,” says Wisniewski, adding

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | PLUMBING & MECHANICAL

9

project piping in the space had never been replaced so many of them were leaking and damaged.

“Right off the bat, we had a whole bunch of change orders issued — underneath and above ground change directives,” says Wisniewski.

“We had approximately $275,000 of change orders to fix and repair the existing piping.”

He adds, “All this extra work had to be done in conjunction with all the rough in and renovation in the original contract — within the same schedule.”

Working

in

an

existing

and

operating

hospital facility required full coordination and collaboration with existing user groups, and especially the hospital facilities maintenance and operations (FMO) team.

“Lots of after hour work and all tie-ins to the existing hospital systems were challenging,” says Wisniewski. “We had to work closelywith the hospital FMO team to ensure continuous service.”

Wisniewski credits strong teamwork for the successful completion of the renovation project.

Team

members

include

ESC

Automation,

Viking, Tight 5 Contracting, Northwest Sheet Metal and Rocky Point Engineering. Pax Construction was general contractor and KRA Architecture was responsible for the design.

“I’m proud of the team and especially my guys and our superintendent Ray Greenwood for working through all the issues and keeping things on track,” says Wisniewski, estimating they had a peak crew of up to 10. PM

“Mechanical Insulation and Firestop Specialists” Serving BC since 1995 With our highly trained staff of estimators and technicians we look forward to serving the lower mainland and surrounding areas for all your mechanical insulation and firestop needs.

Tight 5 Contracting Ltd 108 - 4238 Lozells Ave Burnaby, BC V5A 0C4 www.tight5.net rfq@tight5.net — Request for Quotes Ph: 604.874.9615 Fx: 604.874.9611

10

PLUMBING & MECHANICAL | SPRING/SUMMER 2019

safety

Asbestos on Job Sites Know your responsibilities

A

sbestos exposure remains the leading

and safety of workers employed on the project

the whole process, from start to finish, is done

cause of occupational disease in the

site. You must also ensure that you have a

in compliance with the Occupational Health

province. Those with the highest risk

qualified person inspect the site to identify any

and Safety Regulation.

of exposure are maintenance, custodial and

onsite hazards such as lead and asbestos, or

Exposure to asbestos is the number one cause

contract workers hired for repairs or renovations

other hazardous materials that may be present.

of death for workers in the construction industry.

in and around commercial buildings.

Contractors who fail to meet these requirements

It can lead to devastating health complications

Act,

may have their worksites closed or projects

later in life including mesothelioma, asbestosis,

commercial property owners are required to

delayed bringing about compliance with the

lung cancer and more. If you’re an employer,

maintain any land “being used as a workplace in

Occupational Health and Safety Regulation.

you’re responsible for your workers’ health and

Under

the

Workers

Compensation

a manner that ensures the health and safety of persons at or near the workplace.”

KNOW WHAT’S REQUIRED Whether a business is large or small, the law

If your work disturbs asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), you and your workers face a risk of exposure to asbestos. That’s why are

WorkSafeBC’s conducting

prevention

planned

demolition

officers

asbestos exposure.

Follow the protocols to identify asbestos properly and remove it safely and comply

of

with required work procedures. You have a

renovation

responsibility to do your job, do it right and

contractors,

protect everyone from the dangers of asbestos.

inspections

requires that it be a safe and healthy place to

commercial

work. If you are an employer, you must ensure a

worksites

healthy and safe workplace for your employees.

hazardous-materials consultants, abatement

As a contractor, you are responsible for

contractors, and demolition contractors are

The above article has been contributed by

contracting with firms that meet the legislated

properly informed and equipped to safely

WorkSafeBC. WorkSafeBC is available to help.

and legal requirements to protect the health

remove ACMs. The officers are ensuring that

Visit www.worksafebc.com

to

ensure

and

safety, and that includes protecting them from

prime

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | PLUMBING & MECHANICAL

11

association corner

Members Corner MCABC

associate

member

company

B.A.

Engineering

experience in the mechanical industry in project

Robinson has been operating under a number of

spoke

Technology students on March 27 to give them

to

BCIT

Mechanical

management. Ethan Shea has joined the industrial

different banners since its founding in Winnipeg,

some tips on preparing to enter the workforce.

division in the capacity of estimator and project

MB in 1936. The company has decided to develop

Students will be graduating from their program

manager. Ethan brings with him an impressive and

a single focus point through a unified name and

in June.

well-rounded career in the industrial mechanical

brand. The new logo and name — Robinson — is

Alan says he focussed on giving them an

insulation industry.

rolling out this year. The company’s wholesale

overview of the current industry as well as job

locations have been branded Robinson Supply.

search pointers. Alan then gave the students

Hy-Line Sales Ltd. and Con-Cur West

The lighting and bath showrooms have been

an idea of what to expect after securing a new

Marketing have joined forces to become

branded Robinson.

position, and the importance of longevity with

one company. Hy-Line Sales (2018) Ltd., now

a company. “The students asked intelligent

located in the former Con-Cur West location

questions and asked for practical advice,”

in Coquitlam, represents the same combined

he said.

product line-up. “This is an exciting transition for both companies,” state company representatives

2019 marks the 25th anniversary of Ram

said in a merger announcement. “We will

In 2009, Matt Farrell founded Nitro Pipe

Mechanical Ltd. What started as one man’s

continue to offer dedicated service and support to

Freeze from rented space in Yaletown with one

passion for the trades has grown into a viable

the plumbing, heating and mechanical industry in

employee and a mission to create a niche as B.C.’s

business that supports several people and their

British Columbia.”

only dedicated pipe freezing company. Ten years

families. In the early years, many lessons were

later, with a fleet of four trucks and seven staff

learned which eventually led to a successful

Personnel changes at ECCO. Norm Grusnick

members, NPF has frozen pipes all over B.C. and

business model. The people, of course, are the

has retired from ECCO after a 24-year run. Norm

as far afield as Calgary and Los Angeles, USA. As

most important asset in any business and Ram

started his career with ECCO Supply in Burnaby

pioneers in the industry, NPF’s service instigated

Mechanical Ltd. has had some outstanding people

in 1994 as their resident sales engineer. In 2005,

a new guideline at WorkSafe BC (Part 10 De-

that have helped to form what is a solid business.

Norm moved to ECCO’s manufacturing division

energization and Lockout) in recognition of the

See photo pg 19.

where he utilized his engineering qualifications to

safe lockout procedure that they provide.

grow awareness of the company’s products.

Laura

Falcon

has

joined

Aarc-West

In 2013, Norm accepted a management position

Alan George, managing director of MCABC

Mechanical in the capacity of senior project

and was tasked with growing the Burnaby branch’s

associate member A. George Recruitment,

manager. Laura brings with her 10-plus years of

commercial sales department. During that time, Norm was instrumental in transitioning the team of sales and estimators into a commercial Bid & Spec department.

Norm’s successor, Bobby Yu, has benefited by having several years working with Norm.

ECCO Supply announces the appointment of Bill Davis as director of sales branch operations. After a global search, the appointment of Bill Davis to the position of director of ECCO Supply sales branch operations was effective August 13, 2018.

Bill brings a background as a top-level executive in

Part of the Nitro Pipe Freeze fleet

the HVAC industry with a number of the world’s largest manufacturers. His specific background in residential and commercial equipment is a

Manufacturers Representative for

boon to ECCO as growing market share in these segments is a keen organizational focus.

Kevin Locke has been appointed by the ECCO Group as director of procurement of ECCO

Boilers & Water Heaters Manufactured in Canada, RBI has a full line of condensing and non-condensing boilers ranging from 100 MBH to 10,000 MBH. We provide technical assistance to mechanical contractors and engineers as well as post-sales support with factory trained tech’s for boiler commissioning and locally stocked parts.

www.mesales.ca

12

PLUMBING & MECHANICAL | SPRING/SUMMER 2019

604-788-4024

Heating Products Ltd. Kevin is a senior team leader with more than 15 years of management and corporate experience. He has spent the previous eight years at CHC Helicopter.

Kevin will be working with all corporate buying positions including customs and freight, vendor management, steel purchasing, as well as corporate marketing.

association corner

Ram Mechanical Ltd.

UPCOMING EVENTS JUNE 5 Next Gen Breakfast Panel Event MCABC members will give attendees insights into their career success and answer questions. So far, the panel includes Dale Miller, co-founder of Division 15 Mechanical, Paul Myers, former owner of Keith Plumbing and Heating, and Kyle Wisniewski, Division Manager with Black & McDonald Limited.

t:604.942.0012

JUNE 7 Next Gen Hike & Pub Night Buntzen Lake Trail & St. James Well Pub, Port Moody JUNE 12 MCABC & BCEA 14th Annual Okanagan Golf Tournament Sunset Ranch Golf Club, Kelowna JUNE 14 MCABC’s 69th Annual Vancouver Golf Tournament Northview Golf Club, Surrey JULY 17 Associates Annual Golf Peace Portal Golf Course

www.div15mechanical.com 604-214-8730

Advanced Mechanical Solutions

SPRING/SUMMER 2019 | PLUMBING & MECHANICAL

13

industry news

NEW MCABC CEO NAMED

consulting

After 29 years at the helm of MCABC,

not-for-profit

executive vice president Dana Taylor is

executive

retiring. As of June 30, 2019, Dana will be

BC (formerly BC Marine Trades

turning his attention to his many personal

Association) during a pivotal time

projects and interests. Dana was the longest

in the association’s transformation.

serving EVP in MCABC’s history, as well

For the past 10 years, Kim has

as its affiliated entities. We wish Dana and

led local and global teams and

Ramona well in their new chapter.

facilitated

MCABC announced that its board of directors hired Kim Barbero as its new chief executive officer. Kim commenced her position April 15.

director

of

numerous

Boating

strategic

stakeholder initiatives for corporate and association clients.

“We

are

someone

fortunate

of

Kim’s

to

calibre

have and

“Dana contributed 29 years to this

experience step up to lead our

association and his achievements will not

association,” said Wayne Davidson,

be forgotten,” said MCABC board president

MCABC

Dale Miller. “The board thanks Dana for his

and head of the committee that

loyal service to MCABC which was marked

hired Barbero. “Kim is a strong

by his passion for furthering issues such as

communicator

the fight for prompt payment legislation for

association dynamics. With Kim’s

trade contractors.”

leadership capabilities, MCABC will

Barbero brings a wealth and breadth of leadership experience in the corporate,

MCAC LAUNCHES WIMC PROGRAM

secretary

who

treasurer

understands

flourish into the future. Welcome to the MCABC family, Kim!”

Kim Barbero

achieve, including the development of training

job performance, health, well-being, safety,

Association

and networking opportunities, the sharing of

productivity and the efficiency of workers.

of Canada (MCAC) has launched a new

career advancement opportunities, increasing

The Builders Code will be a valuable

industry program called Women in Mechanical

engagement with women at association events

opportunity and asset for contractors looking

Construction (WiMC). The program will promote

and board meetings, and highlighting the

for competitive ways to attract and retain

inclusiveness in the mechanical contracting

industry as a career of choice for women. More

skilled tradespeople at a time when B.C. faces

industry,

information, visit www.wimc.ca.

a skills shortage of 7,900 workers. Although

The

Mechanical

while

Contractors

inviting

women

to

share

experiences, explore new opportunities, and learn new skills to assist in career advancement.

“Across

Canada,

women

are

providing

women, youth, and other equity-seeking groups

BUILDERS CODE AIMS TO IMPROVE WORKER RETENTION

are entering construction trades at a higher rate than in the past, retention rates remain low.

tremendous contributions to the mechanical

A new initiative called Builders Code aims

First year retention rates for women apprentices

contracting industry and we look forward to

to address B.C.’s skilled labour shortage by

have anecdotally been estimated at less than 50

showcasing that through WiMC,” explained

reducing harassment, bullying and hazing on

per cent. By comparison, first year retention

Julie Zulich, chairperson of the WiMC steering

construction worksites.

rates for men are estimated at 70 per cent.

committee. “We are excited to share those stories

launched on

Reaching the 10 per cent goal will equate to

and encourage more females to consider this field

International Women’s Day by the provincial

adding another 9,500 women into the skilled

as a career. As WiMC continues to grow, we are

government and industry partners including

trades in B.C.’s construction industry. That

hopeful that we can lay the groundwork for even

the BC Construction Association (BCCA),

achievement would be especially significant as

more women to take on roles in our industry.”

Industry Training Authority, WorkSafeBC and

it would effectively erase B.C.’s projected skills

LNG Canada.

gap of 7,900 workers.

The

MCAC

board

of

directors

voted

The

Builders

Code

was

unanimously in favour of establishing the WiMC

A key goal is to have women make up 10 per

The Builders Code pilot will highlight the

in 2018. Since that time, the WiMC initiative

cent of B.C.’s construction trades by 2028, a

business and safety implications of worksite

has established a mission and strategic goals,

standard not yet reached by any province in

behaviour and provide employers with the tools

installed a steering committee, and put plans in

Canada. Currently, women comprise only 4.7

they need to improve retention. Employers can

place to broaden the network of women working

per cent of B.C.’s construction trades.

access no-cost posters and policies, training,

in mechanical construction.

The

Builders

Code,

which

includes

a

and advice from experts with experience in

“This is a very exciting time for women to be

voluntary standard code of conduct for all

human

a part of the mechanical contracting industry,”

workers on construction sites in B.C, expands

mediation and conflict resolution.

added Zulich. “WiMC will help to create a network

the definition of construction safety beyond

Throughout 2019, the Builders Code partners

of successful women in our industry, and bring

physical hazards to include stress or distraction

will continue to make equity and diversity a

an important perspective on how we can create

caused by discrimination, bullying, hazing

corporate leadership priority for construction

an industry that embraces inclusiveness.”

or harassment. A Builders Code worksite will

employers, rolling out expanded resources and

already

seek to be free from behaviour that threatens

services in every region of the province. For

established several goals it would like to

the stability of work conditions including

more information, visit: www.builderscode.ca

The

14

and

sectors, including serving as the

WiMC

committee

has

PLUMBING & MECHANICAL | SPRING/SUMMER 2019

resources

management,

including

2018-2020

MCABC BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Dale Miller Division 15 Mechanical Ltd.

Secretary Treasurer / Past President Wayne Davidson Davidson Bros Mechanical Contractors

Henry DeJong ESC Automation Inc

Vancouver Chapter Chair Trevor Hildebrand Phase Mechanical Systems Ltd.

Kyle Wisniewski Black & Mcdonald Ltd.

MCABC Executive Vice President Dana Taylor

Brian Bradshaw Altac Services Inc.

Associates Chairman John Fu Noble BC

Piero Iamartino Fred Welsh Ltd.

Chad Kinsley R.H. Jones and Son Mechanical

Robert Marchiori Ram Mechanical

Associates Vice-Chairman Jeff Newmarch Hy-Line Sales Ltd. (2018)

MIRA Representative Mike Vesterback National Hydronics

John Weisgerber Johnson Controls Ltd.

From exploring new frontiers to energy efficiency pioneers.

At Mitsubishi Electric, the innovative thinking that we put into manufacturing satellites for space is the same thinking that raises the standard of energy efficiency in our HVAC systems. Because we believe that “amazing” should apply to everything you do.

mitsubishielectric.ca

Experience the amazing efficiency and flexibility of Mitsubishi Electric’s HVAC solutions: • Over 30 years of successful commercial installation • Increase floor space and revenue • Dramatically reduces energy consumption • Strong Canadian customer support team • Quick and seamless commissioning

Learn more at www.mitsubishielectric.ca 120-8061 Lougheed Highway Toll Free: 1-888-415-6487 | Fax: 604-415-6480

Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Multi-Split AC and HP AHRI Standard 1230