Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada and Electrical Contractors Association of Manitoba Sign Strategic MOU

December 6, 2024

At their 81st Annual National Conference, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC), together with representatives from the Electrical Contractors Association of Manitoba (ECAM), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a collaborative framework between both organizations to collaborate on the development of a dual-trade, federated, and integrated national association.

“We are extremely proud to be signing this MOU with our counterparts at the Electrical Contractors Association of Manitoba,” explained Charlie Webb, 2023/2024 President and Chair of MCAC. “The MOU is a reflection of the many shared objectives our associations have, and the recognition that a shared and collaborative approach has the potential to create a stronger national voice for our respective sectors.”

“The Electrical Contractors Association of Manitoba is committed to ensuring our members receive value for association membership,” said Paul Shack, ECAM Vice-President and Partner at Nor-tec Group. “This MOU represents that commitment. Great things are achieved when we collaborate with liked-minded stakeholders. We look forward to exploring options with MCAC in representing the pan-Canadian mechanical and electrical contracting sector.”

As part of the MOU, both parties have agreed to work together to assess the feasibility of an integrated and federated membership structure for both electrical and mechanical contractors. The agreement also extends an invitation for ECAM members to take part in MCAC activities moving forward, including the MCAC Day on the Hill, Emerging Leaders Conference, and MCAC Annual National Conference, among others.

“As the associations representing these sectors in our respective jurisdictions, we share a common belief in advancing the best interests of our members, advocating for and on behalf of our sector, and promoting industry best practices,” explained Brad Mason, incoming MCAC President and Chair. “At MCAC, we recognize the potential this has to create one of the strongest associations in Canada’s construction industry. On job sites across the country our tradespeople are closely aligned; it only makes sense that our associations do the same.”

Among the many benefits outlined, the MOU also identifies several key areas where a dual-trade national association could benefit members across the country. These include enhanced advocacy initiatives, increased member engagement, a stronger voice on industry practice issues, and more support for the growth and development of each sector in Canada’s construction industry.

With the MOU now signed, MCAC and ECAM representatives will begin engaging on a national working group, as well as dialogue with other interested associations looking to also take part in these discussions.

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