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Winter 2026 Issue

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New Virginia Tech Study: Type II Helmets Cut Concussion Risk by 34%, Skull Fractures by 65%

A new construction safety study funded by the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) confirms a major performance gap between traditional Type I hard hats and modern Type II helmets. The findings show that Type II helmets reduce concussion risk by an average of 34% and skull fracture risk by 65%—and the top-performing models did even better, cutting skull fracture risk by up to 77%.

Closing the Field-to-Shop Gap with Stratus & Helm Mechanical

Contractors like Helm Mechanical have strengthened digital workflows in the shop—but the field has remained the last analog holdout. Thanks to Field Orderz from Stratus, the hand-drawn sketches, PDF markups, and rushed calls that used to cause delays are no longer a problem for Helm.

Stratus

Supporting the Modern MEP Approach featuring FARO INSIGHT

Current data center development demand is off the charts, and the MEP needs of these projects are equally great. Major players in the contracting industry are betting big on the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI), anticipating that the robust demand for MEP-related installations will continue.

FARO INSIGHT

Automating Fabrication, Increasing Productivity with HGG Group & Bassett Mechanical

As it sought to meet the increasing demand for pipe fabrication and pressure vessels, Bassett Mechanical turned to the HGG Group for advanced cutting technology, improving productivity and efficiency. Kim Bassett, CEO and chairwoman of the board, noted, “The only way to grow is to look for a different way to do things, and equipment such as the HGG machine is a really big part of that journey in helping us achieve operational excellence.”

HGG Profiling Equipment, Inc.

Keeping On Track with Victaulic & Palmer Christiansen Co.

In a building dedicated to advanced medical research, precision is critical, so Palmer Christiansen Co. counted on Victaulic products to meet the demands of a new Utah research facility. Victaulic’s grooved joining system not only ensured a quick, smooth installation but also provided Palmer Christiansen the flexibility to adapt to late design changes, keeping the project on track to meet a tight deadline. Victaulic is a major sponsor of MCAA26.

Victaulic

The Swiss Army Knife Workforce: Increasing Individual Capacity – Tips from Tyfoom

In the mechanical contracting industry, we know that work never slows down just because budgets get tight. Clients still expect projects delivered on schedule. Safety standards don’t loosen. The needs of our skilled labor partners don’t magically shrink. Expectations for performance, quality, and innovation only seem to grow despite economic pressures. So how do contractors stay competitive when the margins get thinner, the workforce gets smaller, and the demands grow larger?

Tyfoom

Three Reasons to Consider a DOAS Solution Presented by Copeland

Mechanical contractors are navigating a new set of expectations for commercial building performance. Topping the list is the need for higher energy efficiency, improved indoor air quality (IAQ) and tighter humidity control. These priorities are bringing renewed attention to dedicated outdoor air systems (DOAS), a targeted solution that is gaining traction.

Copeland

Elevating Operations with MSUITE & Bassett Mechanical

To advance their fabrication processes, Bassett Mechanical adopted MSUITE’s FAB and BIM software, dramatically improving production output. “MSUITE has completely changed the manufacturing game for us,” said Tyler Peterson, vice president of manufacturing at Bassett Mechanical. “By digitizing our workflows and automating key processes, we’ve achieved levels of efficiency and accuracy that were previously unimaginable. It’s a transformative tool that has truly elevated our operations.” MSUITE is part of the DEWALT® Construction Technology suite; DEWALT is a benefactor of MCAA26.

MSUITE

Resolving Hot Water Headaches Featuring Watts Water Technologies

Facing increasing calls from guests about low water pressure and inconsistent temperatures, the luxury Grandover Resort in North Carolina turned to the IntelliStation 2 by POWERS, a Watts brand, for precise temperature control and rapid response, finally resolving the resort’s longstanding issues. Maintenance staff immediately felt the relief of going from a system that needed constant tinkering to one that worked flawlessly. Watts Water Technologies is a benefactor of MCAA26.

Watts Water Technologies

Contractors Play a Critical Role in Data Center Construction Boom

Data centers are driving one of the largest building surges in modern history—and MEP contractors are at the heart of it. According to The New York Times, data centers “the size of theme parks,” are opening around the country, and power companies are aggressively building new generating plants or renovating older ones just to keep pace (“The A.I. Boom Is Driving the Economy. What Happens if It Falters?” November 22, 2025). In just the second quarter alone, the Times reported, U.S. companies spent $10 billion on such construction, up 35 percent from the year before.

Message from Mark Becker, M/SC Chair: Propelling Productivity

Smart Solutions highlights how contractors and manufacturer/suppliers are serving as reliable partners who meet clients’ needs while also making the most of every opportunity to be more productive and efficient. For instance, Victaulic’s grooved joining system not only ensured Palmer Christiansen a quick, smooth installation for a new medical research facility, but also provided them the flexibility to adapt to late design changes. A luxury resort overcame persistent problems with low water pressure and inconsistent temperatures by installing the IntelliStation 2 by POWERS, a Watts Water Technologies brand, for precise temperature control and rapid response, freeing up facility staff for other work.

HVAC Overhaul Saves Labor, Money & Energy featuring SIEMENS

An Illinois school district faced the daunting task of overhauling aging HVAC systems and controls in three high schools built decades apart (from 1929 to 1964) without interrupting the school day or after-school activities. By specifying SIEMENS controllers to automate the HVAC system and pressure independent control valves (PICVs), the school district reduced overall labor costs and increased energy efficiency. SIEMENS is a supporter of MCAA26.

Siemens

Streamlining Restroom Installations Featuring SLOAN

Every hour spent on a complex installation or coordinating separate components is an hour that impacts your bottom line. SLOAN engineered the FLITE-DEC™ Integrated Sink System to enhance efficiency from installation to long-term operation. It combines the faucet, soap dispenser, hand dryer, and basin into a single, cohesive unit. For contractors, this means fewer components to source, manage, and install, reducing job site complexity and accelerating project timelines. SLOAN is a benefactor of MCAA26.

SLOAN

Making the Case for American-Made Steel Featuring Wheatland Tube

Choosing domestic steel is more than a material specification; it is an investment in the future of our nation. The Keep Steel Here initiative underscores a vital principle: American-made steel is fundamental to the strength and resilience of our country. Prioritizing domestic manufacturing bolsters the economy, supports local communities, and fosters a shared sense of purpose and pride.

Wheatland Tube