The John R. Gentille Foundation
OUR MISSION: JRGF articulates and funds the mechanical contracting industry’s most critical human resource and research needs by cultivating and supporting activities that allow professionals in the mechanical contracting industry to succeed in their businesses.
The John R. Gentille Foundation was founded in 1989 by members of the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA), led and marshaled by Foster McCarl, Jr., McCarl’s, Inc., Beaver Falls, PA, as the non-profit foundation arm to provide needed education and research programs or products that the association either could not or should not undertake.
These industry pioneers envisioned an organization that would identify and work to solve the issues that confront the organized mechanical construction and service industry, challenges such as future workforce, productivity and technology. They wanted and worked to establish an institution that could lend both professional and neutral insights into these issues; one that could work fluidly across organizational and political boundaries. The Foundation has broad access to the capabilities and resources of MCAA, an internationally-recognized trade association.
The foundation was renamed in March 2020 to the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) to recognize and honor John Gentille, an industry leader and JRGF supporter who has retired as MCAA’s leader and CEO after 24 years of dedication and service. John Gentille has left an indelible mark on the foundation and the entire mechanical industry.
Please consider making a contribution to the John R. Gentille Foundation for a project, initiative or cause. JRGF is designated as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) by the IRS. Your support will be greatly appreciated and will be used to enhance the mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, HVACR service and industrial piping industries.
RESEARCH PROJECTS
JRGF underwrites industry-critical research conducted by leading experts and consultants. This research provides our best chance of addressing our industry’s largest challenges. Current projects in development are listed below.
STUDENT CHAPTER AWARDS & GRANTS
Learn more about JRGF scholarships, grants and awards for student chapters.
EMPLOYER & LOCAL AFFILIATION GRANTS
Grants to employers and affiliated associations provide valuable support. Learn more about our grants.
Through the John R. Gentille Foundation, we invest in research, education, and scholarships that directly support mechanical, plumbing, and service contractors. Our focus is simple: develop practical knowledge, strengthen the workforce, and help contractors build smarter, more competitive businesses
Brian Helm – JRGF, CEO, Helm Group
INITIATIVES
JRGF undertakes initiatives that build strong working relationships with many industry practitioners, academics, manufacturer/supplier representatives, and industry consultants.
Research projects funded by JRGF help provide the valuable education component necessary to solve our industry’s most complex problems.
JRGF underwrites over $110,000 in scholarships annually to 25 students interested in pursuing a career in mechanical contracting.
Grants are offered to student chapters to assist in getting started as a new chapter, to encourage industry participation and to highlight both the Chapter and Educator of the Year.
JRGF provides grants for hands on summer mechanical experience for faculty advisors, as well as funding for peer-to-peer education through the MEAC program.
LATEST JRGF NEWS
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A Redesigned MCAA.org Launches April 7: What Members Need to Know
On April 7, MCAA will launch a redesigned MCAA.org, created to make it easier for members to find information, access resources, and stay connected with the…
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2025-2026 Educator of the Year Winner – Jonathan Bluey
The student chapter members at Virginia Tech proudly nominated Jonathan Bluey for the MCAA 2025-2026 Educator of the Year award based on his mentoring, mechanical industry…
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2025-2026 Student Chapter of the Year Winner – California State University, Chico
California State University, Chico was awarded the 2025-2026 MCAA Student Chapter of the Year award for their continued achievement and overall focus on offering career opportunities…
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Indiana State University Claims Victory for the 25th Anniversary of the MCAA Student Chapter Competition
At the MCAA26 Awards of Excellence Breakfast on March 18th, Indiana State University was awarded the top prize of $10,000, sponsored by DEWALT, and a 1st…
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$110,000 in Scholarships Awarded at MCAA26, Plus Indiana State University Crowned as Champions of the MCAA Student Chapter Competition
Twenty-five students were recognized with JRGF scholarships totaling $110,000 at MCAA26. Indiana State University emerged as the victors for the Student Chapter Competition and returned to…
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JRGF Research Makes the Case for Type II Helmets
New helmet safety research sponsored by the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) and conducted at the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab has produced results that should prompt…
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JRGF Internship Grants Are Due April 1st for Employers and Affiliated Associations
JRGF Internship Grants are available for both Employers and Affiliated Associations for 2026 planned internships (employers) and support programs (associations). Click the corresponding link, fill out the…
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Virginia Tech Testing Shows Type II Helmets Provide Stronger Protection
Why do some helmets reduce the risk of skull fractures by as much as 75 percent? The answer comes down to how they are tested.
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Secure Your Employment Picks at MCAA26!
Nearly 200 students from 33 MCAA student chapters will be attending MCAA26. Those still on the hunt for a summer internship or their first post-graduation full-time position…
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2026 JRGF Student Chapter Internship Grants Awarded to 18 MCAA Student Chapters
2026 JRGF Student Chapter Internship Grants—totaling $69,000—are being awarded to 18 MCAA Student Chapters this spring for their work encouraging students to seek internships and full-time…
JRGF Foundation
Support Us
Please consider making a contribution to the John R. Gentille Foundation for a project, initiative or cause. JRGF is designated as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) by the IRS. Your support will be greatly appreciated and will be used to enhance the mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, HVACR service and industrial piping industries.