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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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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The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada is ready to work closely with the newly appointed cabinet to ‘Build Canada Now’
OTTAWA, May 13, 2025 – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) congratulated Prime Minister Mark Carney and newly appointed cabinet ministers today, as the association pledged to work closely with ministers and senior officials to “Build Canada Now.”
“When Prime Minister Carney closed his initial press conference, his final statement was ‘Build big, build bold, and build now.’ We are ready to work with this new cabinet to see that come to fruition,” said Tania Johnston, MCAC Chief Executive Officer. “Our association and our industry stands at the ready to solve the challenges our economy faces in the years ahead, and to help build a bigger, stronger, and more resilient economy for all Canadians.”
During the election campaign, MCAC called on all candidates to consider policies and platforms that would support the Canadian mechanical contracting industry. The association outlined several policy areas, including targeted support for the mechanical contracting sector workforce and its “Growth Critical Trades,” and a more hospitable business environment to attract new investment in the Canadian economy.
“The federal government has an important choice to make in how it supports essential industries such as the mechanical contracting sector,” Johnston continued. “Canadians need mechanical contractors to build the systems we rely on each day, and our sector needs a government that is prepared to ‘Build Canada Now.’ We look forward to working with this new cabinet to realize that goal.”
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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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OTTAWA, April 29, 2025 – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) is extending congratulations to Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberal Party of Canada on their election victory, as the association looks forward to working with all elected Members of Parliament to build a stronger and more resilient Canadian economy.
“First and foremost, Canada’s mechanical contracting industry would like to congratulate all elected MPs on their election last night,” said Tania Johnston, MCAC’s Chief Executive Officer. “Last night’s election and Parliamentary makeup demonstrates just how important it will be to work together with all stakeholders across the country to address the needs of the Canadian economy. Canada’s mechanical contractors are ready to be essential partners in this endeavour.”
In the lead-up to the federal election, MCAC launched the ‘Build Canada Now’ campaign, calling for targeted support for the mechanical contracting sector and its workforce. This included support for “Growth-Critical Trades” employed by mechanical contractors, and improving the business environment for trade contractors who are actively engaged in building the critical infrastructure and housing necessary for economic growth.
“There are two choices for this next government,” Johnston continued. “They can choose to support our essential industry, which is critical to the Canadian economy, or they can choose to allow conditions to worsen through inaction. Canada needs mechanical contractors to build a stronger and more resilient economy, and our sector needs a federal government who is prepared to ‘Build Canada Now.’”
The mechanical contracting sector in Canada is vital to the performance of the Canadian construction industry, employing more than 227,000 on- and off-site jobs across the country. In addition, the sector alone contributes more than $30 billion to the Canadian economy.
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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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April 5, 2025—OTTAWA – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCA Canada) is issuing the following statement following party commitments to grow the skilled trades:
“Mechanical contractors across Canada are glad to see all federal parties stepping up to show their support for workers in the skilled trades. Funding to train apprentices will help grow the workforce we need to keep Canada’s economy moving forward. New investments in capital for college and industry training facilities will alleviate bottlenecks in the talent pipeline. Ensuring labour mobility will help our workforce respond to economic needs throughout Canada. Investments to support businesses hiring and training apprentices on-the-job will be a boon to employers who will be hit hard by rising costs of supplies and equipment over the years ahead. These commitments are all positive, and we need our leaders to follow through, when elected.
At the same time, MCA Canada calls on all parties to commit to working with associations in the construction sector to ensure investments are going to the trades that are most in-demand in Canada’s labour force, including the ‘growth-critical’ trades employed by MCA Canada members. Building a new Canadian economy will require strategic investments in the ten Red Seal trades employed by our sector, as well as capacity-building for those sectors that are critical to our country’s economic growth and productivity.”
Tania Johnston, CEO
Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada
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Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada recommends policies so mechanical contractors can build a stronger Canada
OTTAWA, March 31, 2025 – In the lead-up to the Canadian federal election on April 28, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) is calling on federal political parties to “Build Canada Now,” and to implement policies that will help the mechanical contracting sector build a stronger Canada.
“Our industry is a significant contributor to the Canadian economy and to the livelihoods of Canadians,” said Tania Johnston, MCAC Chief Executive Officer. “If we are going to build the strong Canada for the next generations, it is critical that political parties implement policies to support the mechanical contracting sector and ultimately remove impediments for our industry.”
The mechanical contracting sector in Canada is a workhorse for the Canadian economy. From the clean water and sanitation Canadians rely on each day, the essential systems that control indoor living environments, or the industrial facilities that ensure critical resources can make it to market, mechanical contractors and their employees are fundamental to Canadians’ wellbeing and way of life.
In addition to the critical work done by mechanical contractors across Canada, the sector is also a sizeable employer and overall contributor to Canada’s gross domestic product. The sector employs more than 227,000 Canadians, contributes more than $30 billion to the Canadian economy, and accounts for $18 billion in wages paid to hard-working Canadians.
“For our members across the country, this federal election is building a stronger Canada, no matter who is elected on April 28,” Johnston continued. “Our industry is ready to ‘Build Canada Now,’ and to work with the federal government to ensure we are building a stronger Canada for decades to come.”
For more information about the recommendations posed by the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, visit www.buildcanadanow.com.
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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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OTTAWA, March 14, 2025 – The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) shared its congratulations with Prime Minister Mark Carney on his swearing-in as the 24th Prime Minister of Canada, noting that increased dialogue with industries will remain as important as ever as the country grapples with ongoing economic uncertainty.
“On behalf of MCAC, we would like to extend congratulations to Prime Minister Carney,” said Tania Johnston, MCAC Chief Executive Officer. “As we all know, this is a tumultuous time for our country, and we would encourage he and his government to engage actively with the industries that form the backbone of our economy. Collaboration and strategic partnerships will be critical as we address the challenges the country is facing in the years ahead.”
The mechanical contracting sector in Canada plays an essential role in the Canadian economy and the day-to-day lives of Canadians. As the country seeks to build more housing, enhance trade-enabling infrastructure, build more industrial capacity to broaden trading partnerships, or build the critical infrastructure necessary for a growing population, the mechanical contracting sector will have an important role to play.
“Our industry is integral to the development and maintenance of essential infrastructure, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, and fire protection systems,” Johnston added. “These services are vital for the safety, health, and well-being of Canadians and for the efficient operation of businesses across the country. MCAC stands ready to work with Prime Minister Carney and his government to drive economic progress and enhance the wellbeing of Canadians.”
About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada – www.mcac.ca
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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Jim Reiter – World Plumbing Day Proclamation
Premier Eby – World Plumbing Day 2025
Premier Houston – Proclamation – World Plumbing Day – March 11 2025
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Every year on March 11, communities around the world recognize World Plumbing Day to celebrate the critical role that plumbing plays in our daily lives. From delivering clean water to protecting public health, plumbing is essential—but it’s so much more.
The theme for 2025, “Plumbing is More,” highlights how plumbing supports economies, improves sustainability, and helps build stronger, healthier communities. While often taken for granted, plumbing is behind many of the conveniences and protections people rely on every day.
This year, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) and the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH) have brought Canada’s plumbing supply chain together – contractors, manufactures, wholesalers, and manufacturers agents – to help Canadians celebrate #PlumbingIsMore on #WorldPlumbingDay:
More Than a Job — The plumbing industry plays a direct role in addressing water quality and conservation, improving lives, and preventing diseases. This is why plumbing is such a compelling career choice, because of the opportunities to make a lasting impact.
More Than Pipes and Fixtures — A well-functioning plumbing system also supports families. Every dollar invested in water and sanitation also returns more in economic benefits. Skilled trades and plumbing engineers are problem-solvers, ensuring that water systems meet the needs of Canadians.
More Than Conservation — Plumbing professionals are working hard to advance sustainability through new technologies and smarter water management that not only conserve natural resources but also ensure safe water access for future generations.
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“Canada’s plumbing professionals are at the forefront of advancing water conservation, energy efficiency, and modernized infrastructure”, said Tania Johnston, CEO of MCAC. “To those in the plumbing industry who work tirelessly to keep our water systems safe and sustainable – thank you!”
“World Plumbing Day allows us to highlight the incredible work of Canada’s plumbing industry”, said Satinder Chera, CEO of CIPH. “As this year’s theme reminds us, we have so much more to do, both here in Canada, and around the world”.
About the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating – www.ciph.com
Founded in 1933, the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating represents over 250 companies, employing thousands of Canadians to help provide a safe, healthy and sustainable quality of life for our citizens. Our members manufacturer and distribute products and services, nationwide, ensuring access to innovative plumbing and heating solutions.
About the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada – www.mcac.ca
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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