June 11-13 | Nanaimo, BC
This year’s theme is Mechanical Contractors Speak Up: Keeping It On Point. This is your conference, led by the Mechanical Contracting community! Our industry’s top experts will lead the way, hosting engaging and dynamic panels that explore best practices and insights to help you maintain your competitive advantage as a Mechanical Contractor.
This is more than just a conference — it’s a gathering of industry experts and business thought leaders. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in engaging discussions, exclusive educational sessions, and networking opportunities with BC’s mechanical contracting industry.
What can you expect? Case studies and actionable takeaways that will enhance your skills and elevate your expertise as business owners, managers, and mechanical contractors.
MCABC is excited to open Day 3 with Mandy Gill, a highly sought-after speaker helping leaders thrive in the face of uncertainty by equipping them with strategies to navigate those inevitable challenges and detours that can often feel like failure.
In her keynote, Mandy will share how she’s built one of the world’s most effective behaviour changing apps, Hooked on Healthy Habits, focused on goal setting, resilience and maximizing positive results. Mandy’s newest book, “Reset with Resilience: A Guide to Greatness When Your Goals Go Sideways“, was released in January 2025.
After building and scaling one of the world’s most effective behavior change apps, Hooked on Healthy Habits, Mandy Gill has one of the world’s largest datasets focused on goal-setting, resilience, and maximizing positive results. As a highly sought-after keynote speaker, and published author, she helps leaders, and their teams thrive in the face of uncertainty by equipping them with strategies to navigate those inevitable challenges and detours that can often feel like failure.
Mandy has shared conversations with Lady Gaga and Rihanna while her career took shape in the broadcast world first, before branching off as a resiliency and workplace wellness expert.
When coaching clients, she draws on professional and personal experiences, which include running 10,000 km and climbing nearly one million feet of elevation over the past three years. Her clients to date include: the US Navy, adidas, docusign, TD Bank and Manulife.
In addition to being a highly successful female entrepreneur and CEO, Mandy is a Harvard Leadership Program graduate, and an author, who is passionate about leveling the playing field and opening doors for women across the globe, which has twice earned her Women of Distinction Awards. Mandy’s newest book, Reset with Resilience: A Guide to Greatness When Your Goals Go Sideways, is out now.
You can see Mandy in action on and connect with her via MandyGill.com.
MCABC will sit down with Keith Baldrey to discuss the ever-changing political landscape in BC, Canada and the US. Let’s dig into the newly elected NDP mandate and develop a better understanding of how the trades will be impacted by the current political climate.
Keith Baldrey is Global BC’s Legislature Bureau Chief and one of B.C.’s best-known political commentators.
The recipient of the 2021 Broadcast Performer of the Year by the B.C. Association of Broadcasters for his ongoing coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic, prior to joining Global BC in 1995, he worked at the Vancouver Sun’s legislature bureau and has covered 11 premiers, 10 provincial elections, numerous federal elections, as well as many party leadership races.
Keith also writes a weekly syndicated column on B.C. politics for a variety of B.C. newspapers and websites, including the North Shore News and the Burnaby Now, and is a daily commentator on 980 CKNW Radio.
June 12
The Urgency for BIM
Have you got it all figured out when it comes to integrating BIM into project planning and field execution? Are you outsourcing your modelling because your company structure can’t accommodate new (or more) technology? Is the idea of BIM daunting and not an investment that seems necessary in your business? Yes? No? It doesn’t matter – these sessions are for you!
To properly explore the “why me” of BIM, we have to start at the beginning. From the design stage to the tendering process to the final install or retrofit, whether strengthening your existing BIM competencies or adopting and applying the new technologies into your organizational processes, BIM is the enabler of your company’s competitiveness, growth and profitability.
It’s time to sound the alarms! If the urgency for BIM is not coming from within the mechanical contracting industry it should be because it’s certainly important to our project partners. Join a panel of external industry stakeholders who will lead us in an important discussion that will help the mechanical contracting industry in BC plan for the future.
Moderated by Keith Pearce, President & General Manager of Kal-West Mechanical Systems, attendees can expect the following learning outcomes:
- Why BIM is not a choice but a necessity to be competitive;
- Understanding BIM as part of the tendering process;
- How BIM is used by Mechanical Engineers;
- Why BIM is important to GC’s;
- How BIM applies to both new construction and retrofit projects.
Panel participants TBC.
Regulatory Confusion – Making sense of permits in different municipalities
Have you run into some snags assuming that the permit process is the same in every municipality? The work of mechanical contractors adheres to provincial building codes, so, how do we explain municipal differences? Permit processes can vary between BC municipalities because local governments have the authority to set specific regulations based on their unique needs. Not being clear on the areas where local governments have the authority to designate different applications can impact project deadlines and increase costs BIG TIME.
This session will explore permit processes and highlight key inconsistencies in BC Building Code interpretations, application procedures and design standards across different municipalities.
Navigating BC’s Ever-Evolving Energy Landscape
Are you ready to conquer today’s energy landscape while seizing new opportunities for growth and innovation? Do you find it challenging to navigate BC’s ever evolving energy landscape?
In this session you will gain first-hand knowledge from mechanical contractors and industry stakeholders who have navigated the various energy shifts. This discussion will be moderated by MCABC CEO Kim Barbero.
June 13
Where Are We on the BIM Journey?
Have you got it all figured out when it comes to integrating BIM into project planning and field execution? Are you outsourcing your modelling because your company structure can’t accommodate new (or more) technology? Is the idea of BIM daunting and not an investment that seems necessary in your business? Yes? No? It doesn’t matter – these sessions are for you!
To properly explore the “why me” of BIM, we have to start at the beginning. From the design stage to the tendering process to the final install or retrofit, whether strengthening your existing BIM competencies or adopting and applying the new technologies into your organizational processes, BIM is the enabler of your company’s competitiveness, growth and profitability.
It’s time to turn inward! We heard why BIM is important to our industry stakeholders on Day 1. Now it’s our turn. Where are we on the BIM journey? What are the barriers? From the vision to the structure, the modelling to the prefab and site execution, MCABC owners and leaders will share their successes and lessons learned.
Moderated by Scott Kenward, Senior Project Manager, Trotter & Morton, attendees can expect the following learning outcomes:
- BIMs importance to their company’s continued success;
- How to implement BIM;
- How BIM shows up in the planning and in the field;
- The barriers to BIM success.
When it comes to project modelling, there’s always that one person who has their finger on the pulse at every stage. In his role as Project Manager at Modern Niagara, James Taylor will share how his role is a constant touchpoint when it comes to BIM – from collaborating with Consulting Engineers and ensuring contract requirements are translated to the model, to facilitating design collaboration with Architects and Owners and between the field and the model, to leveraging the model to manage a project’s budget.
About James:
A Mechanical Engineering graduate, James has worked in the mechanical contracting industry for 10 years as a Project Manager. His project experience ranges from small scale to larger, complex ones, including his current role on the New St. Paul’s Hospital build where BIM is the platform that enables collaboration and efficient decision making. James, a member of MCABC’s Next Gen Board of Directors, values opportunities to help inform industry to how BIM can optimize work processes in the mechanical contracting industry.
The successful adoption and evolution of BIM in your company is dependent on a clear vision, a well-developed plan that measures incremental change, saying “yes” to jobs that lend themselves to BIM and a solid structure. Kyle Wisniewski, General Manager, Black & McDonald, and BIM champion, will share the company’s approach to project modelling – from when it was first introduced with the purchase of a 3D scanner for $75K (which collected dust for 95 per cent of the year) to its integration throughout Black & McDonald’s project processes today.
About Kyle:
An advocate for leveraging technology to spur industry advancement and innovation, Kyle brings more than 18 years of experience in the mechanical contracting industry. During his time at Black & McDonald, Kyle has been involved in projects that have provided opportunities to use BIM to troubleshoot issues, innovate solutions and create efficiencies. The current Chair of the MCABC, Kyle is an advocate for bringing industry together to share and strengthen competencies.
A big fan of project modelling, Erik Sundstrom, Site Supervisor at Trotter & Morton, espouses the benefits of best practice modelling; he’s also seen it take a turn in the wrong direction! Accountable for actioning the model in the field, Erik will share his first-hand experiences – from all contractors and subs subscribing to an extensive project model to the more common hybrid approach, and how each impacts the project.
About Erik:
With a background in mechanical systems and project supervision, Erik brings 25 years’ experience in residential, commercial and institutional construction, nine of which include actioning BIM in the field. As part of the project handover to the field, Erik is responsible for reviewing and confirming the model on site before the direction to start construction is issued; he also holds weekly clash detection meetings with project designers and other site supervisors. Currently, Erik oversees mechanical operations for the VGH Operating Room Upgrade project.
Le Hien, a Mechanical Engineering graduate (B.Eng) and Engineer in Training (EIT) who holds a CanBIM certification (CanBIM CP), brings to her role mathematical and analytical expertise, problem-solving skills, drafting experience and an eye for design. She is an advocate for increased collaboration within the mechanical contracting industry, noting that it is key to driving technological advancements. Le Hien’s goals include raising awareness amongst youth and women of the various opportunities available in the mechanical trades. Le Hien is a member of MCABC’s Next Gen Board.
Can AI Supercharge Your Business?
What the F* is AI?!** You’ve heard the buzz, but what does artificial intelligence actually mean for mechanical contractors? Is it a passing trend, or is it about to change the way we do business forever?
This industry-led panel featuring mechanical contractors, suppliers, and an industry analytics company, moderated by Maddie Davidson, Service Manager at Davidson Bros. Mechanical, will feature real-world insights from mechanical professionals and suppliers who are already seeing AI’s impact firsthand. No sales pitches. No fluff. Just honest talk about how AI can help (or hurt) your business and what you need to know to stay ahead of the curve.
From Challenges to Solutions - Product Design, Efficiency & Scope Gaps
Join us for an engaging panel discussion that will bring together mechanical contractors, designers, product and service suppliers to discuss practical solutions and strategies to improve design and delivery.
This session will explore equipment codes and changes, how to develop strong collaborative partnerships, understand how effective communications can minimize scope gaps, design efficiency, best practices, and how to implement a roadmap that minimizes common design and construction challenges.
MCABC is excited to offer our conference delegates exclusive discounts and preferred pricing when you book with one of our conference partners!
Upon registration confirmation, you’ll receive an email to access special discounts for travel and accommodations.
Travel
Starting April 1, 2025, MCABC Conference attendees can get 20% off regular fare sailings (offer extends across all fare types and service levels, excluding applicable taxes, mandatory fees, and optional services) when you book for sailings between June 7-16.
MCABC Conference attendees can get up to 10% off select WestJet fares when booking for travel to Nanaimo.
- 5% off Econo and 10% off EconoFlex and Premium fares for travel within Canada.
- 2% off Econo, 5% off EconoFlex, and 10% off Premium fares for trans-border travel.
No discount will apply to Ultra Basic or Business class bookings.
MCABC Conference attendees can get up to 10% off select Air Canada fares when booking for travel to Nanaimo.
- 5% off standard fares, 10% off flex fares & higher for travel within North America.
MCABC Conference attendees can get 20% off ZNA Full fares for flights booked between June 9-16, 2025.
Accommodations
Conference delegates can get a special rate when they book at the Courtyard by Marriot! Just steps away from the Vancouver Island Conference Centre, it’s the best place to stay if you want to be near all the conference activities!
Vancouver Island Conference Centre
It’s the many options from sea to sky that attract visitors to Nanaimo, where pedals push you over trails and the soles of your boots take you down to the base of rainforest waterfalls. And yet all will find the stillness to rejuvenate when kicking back on the beach to watch the ferry dock or enjoying a cold handmade beverage at one of 4 craft breweries.
Just steps away from the scenic Nanaimo Harbour in the heart of a walkable downtown, The Vancouver Island Conference Centre is Vancouver Island’s finest full-service conference centre.
What are the dates of the conference?
The conference dates are Wednesday, June 11 to Friday, June 13, 2025.
Where is the location of the conference?
Vancouver Island Conference Centre
101 Gordon St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5J8
Who can attend the conference?
The conference is open to all professionals, educators, suppliers and government officials working with the mechanical contracting industry. All MCABC members and non-members are welcome.
What is this year’s Conference about?
This year’s theme is Mechanical Contractors Speak Up: Keeping It On Point. This is your conference, led by the Mechanical Contracting community! Our industry’s top experts will lead the way, hosting engaging and dynamic panels that explore best practices and insights to help you maintain your competitive advantage as a Mechanical Contractor.
This is more than just a conference — it’s a gathering of industry experts and business thought leaders. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in engaging discussions, exclusive educational sessions, and networking opportunities with BC’s mechanical contracting industry.
What can you expect? Case studies and actionable takeaways that will enhance your skills and elevate your expertise as business owners, managers, and mechanical contractors.
How do I register and what form of payment is accepted?
Purchase your delegate passes here.
MCABC accepts Visa and Mastercard.
Can my significant other attend the conference?
People who have purchased a full delegate pass have the option to purchase an additional full delegate ticket for their significant other to attend the Welcome Reception and/or the Thursday evening event and/or 1 keynote speaker, and/or both keynote speakers. These tickets can be added at the time the Full Delegate Pass is purchased.
When does the early-bird rate end?
Early-bird rate ends 11:59 PM on Friday, March 7, 2025. Make sure to grab your passes early!
Are Delegate Passes refundable?
While Delegate Passes are non-refundable, they are transferable to someone else at your company.
Can I purchase tickets onsite on the day of the event?
Tickets can only be purchased online and must be purchased in advance.
Where should I stay?
Conference delegates can get a special rate when they book at the Courtyard by Marriot! Just steps away from the Vancouver Island Conference Centre, it’s the best place to stay if you want to be near all the conference activities.
100 Gordon St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5J8
Is there a discount code for hotel and travel?
Upon registration confirmation, you’ll receive an email to access special discounts for travel and accommodations.
Are families welcome?
Yes, there are various options and delegate pass options for your significant other available.
Where can I find information related to the Trade Show?
For all information related to the Trade Show, click here.
Who will help us with the Trade Show logistics?
After securing your exhibitor booth, a member of the MCABC business conference team will be in touch to assist you with the logistics for your exhibitor’s boot
How can I become a Sponsor?
View our sponsorship packages here.
Who will be speaking at the conference?
For more information, see our list of speakers here.
SPONSORED BY:
