Industry News

Washington, D.C. — In a landmark event, the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) along with the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA), the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA), and The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC) officially signed a strategic alliance agreement on July 10, 2024. The importance of all four associations Read more

Washington, D.C. — In a landmark event, the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) along with the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA), the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA), and The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC) officially signed a strategic alliance agreement on July 10, 2024.

The importance of all four associations coming together emphasizes the combined commitment to collaboration and innovation through all facets of the construction and maintenance industry. The agreement solidifies a unified front among these prominent organizations to address industry challenges and leverage collective strengths. It also highlights the value of cohesive efforts in advocating for policies that support the growth and stability of the construction sector at national and regional levels.

By working together NECA, MCAA, SMACNA and TAUC aim to develop and promote best practices, enhance safety standards, and drive technological advancements across their respective sectors.

David Long, CEO of NECA said, “Today’s agreement represents a pivotal moment for our industry. By uniting four leading trade associations, we are reinforcing our dedication to collaboration and innovation across every aspect of the construction and maintenance sector. This enables us to address the complexities of modern construction more effectively and deliver unparalleled value to our members and their clients.”

Timothy J. Brink, CEO of MCAA, echoed this sentiment, stating, “MCAA is thrilled to enter into this Strategic Alliance Agreement with NECA, SMACNA, and TAUC. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in unifying our efforts to address the critical issues impacting the construction and maintenance industry. Together, we will drive innovation, enhance safety, and foster growth for our unionized contractor members, ensuring the continued leadership of America’s construction capabilities on the global stage.”

Aaron Hilger, CEO of SMACNA conveyed, “Trade associations set a high bar for what it means to work together for the benefit of everyone. SMACNA is pleased to formalize ways that we will collaborate with our colleagues to advance practices and procedures that will grow our professions and help the people dedicated to building a better America and world.”

Daniel Hogan, CEO of TAUC, added, “This agreement is a great step forward for the construction and maintenance industry, and formalizes something we have known for a long time – we are at our best when we work together. TAUC is all about collaboration, and bringing all of these associations together will benefit all of us in the industry for years to come”

The strategic alliance is expected to deliver tangible benefits to the members of MCAA, NECA, SMACNA and TAUC by fostering a collaborative environment that encourages the sharing of knowledge and resources. This alliance is poised to set a new standard for industry cooperation and pave the way for future innovations.

Propane Council recognizes Fisher Vineyards with Energy For Everyone Hero Award for its environmental stewardship for six decades and counting The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is proud to present Fisher Vineyards with its prestigious Energy for Everyone Hero Award. Since 1973, Fisher Vineyards has remained steadfast in its mission to produce wines that Read more

Propane Council recognizes Fisher Vineyards with Energy For Everyone Hero Award for its environmental stewardship for six decades and counting

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is proud to present Fisher Vineyards with its prestigious Energy for Everyone Hero Award. Since 1973, Fisher Vineyards has remained steadfast in its mission to produce wines that honor the land they come from, and propane is an important component of this commitment.

PERC’s Energy for Everyone Hero Award recognizes the ways propane is revolutionizing businesses nationwide — contributing to enhanced efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. The award honors outstanding propane users and celebrates the success propane has brought to their operations and communities.

Located in beautiful Napa Valley, California, Fisher Vineyards is a family winery with locations in Calistoga and Sonoma County. Inspired by the passion and founding vision of their parents, three second-generation siblings lead the winery today. In 2018, Fisher was certified Napa Green for meeting the highest sustainability standards in the wine industry.

“For six decades, we have remained steadfast in our mission to produce wines that pay tribute to the land, as well as each member of our winery team, striving for classic balance and style that transcends time,” said Rob Fisher, owner of Fisher Vineyards.

Propane provides reliable, affordable, and efficient energy independent from the electrical grid system, offering protection against power outages. Fisher Vineyards utilizes propane for multiple applications critical to its operation, including:

  • Refrigeration: Maintaining optimal temperatures during the barrel-aging process.
  • Grape Preparation: Powering equipment used in grape processing and fermentation.
  • Power Generation: Offering critical backup power during harvest and during electricity outages.
  • Frost Prevention: Running fans to protect crops during frost events.
  • Water Heating: Using propane boilers for efficient water heating.
  • HVAC Systems: Ensuring consistent climate control across the facility.

“The Fishers excel in providing top-notch customer service while also meeting the highest sustainability standards in the industry,” said Bert Warner, director of commercial business development at PERC. “It’s extremely impressive, and we’re proud to present this award to their team as they continue to utilize propane as part of their ongoing efforts of contributing to a clean energy future.”

To learn more about Fisher Vineyards’ story of resilience, high-quality production, and unwavering focus on environmental stewardship, visit FisherVineyards.com. 

For more information about propane’s role in commercial applications, visit propane.com/commercial.

Contest recognizes outstanding customer service; winner receives $500 gift card! Malco Tools, one of the nation’s leading solution developers and manufacturers of a variety of high-quality tools for the HVAC and building construction trades, today announced that nominations are now open for its second annual Counterperson of the Year Contest. Malco is looking to recognize and celebrate Read more

Contest recognizes outstanding customer service; winner receives $500 gift card!

Malco Tools, one of the nation’s leading solution developers and manufacturers of a variety of high-quality tools for the HVAC and building construction trades, today announced that nominations are now open for its second annual Counterperson of the Year Contest.

Malco is looking to recognize and celebrate outstanding counter staff at its U.S. wholesale distribution locations who demonstrate the same values that make Malco great: dedication to superior customer service and going above & beyond to ensure contractors have the Malco tools they need to get the job done.
There are great prizes lined up not just for the winner, but for nominators as well:

  • One nationwide winner will receive a $500 gift card.
  • All qualifying nominees will receive a Malco golf shirt, hat and product catalog.
  • All qualifying nominators will be entered into a drawing for a $250 gift card.

It is easy to nominate outstanding counter staff, with 2 options to enter:

All entries must be received by Monday, September 30, and the winner will be announced in November. Please note, this contest is only open to nominees in the United States.For more information about Malco Tools and to enter the contest, visit www.malcotools.com.

Trusted manufacturer enhances commitment to customers with acquisition of leading manufacturer of stainless steel indirect water heating solutions Bradford White Corporation, an industry-leading manufacturer of water heaters, boilers and storage tanks, announced today the acquisition of Heat-flo, a leader in stainless steel indirect water-heating and hydronic storage tanks for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. The acquisition Read more

Trusted manufacturer enhances commitment to customers with acquisition of leading manufacturer of stainless steel indirect water heating solutions

Bradford White Corporation, an industry-leading manufacturer of water heaters, boilers and storage tanks, announced today the acquisition of Heat-flo, a leader in stainless steel indirect water-heating and hydronic storage tanks for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

The acquisition of Heat-flo results in the broadest portfolio of indirect water-heating solutions in the industry and affirms Bradford White’s unwavering commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving needs of its customers.

“Heat-flo is a perfect complement to our existing product portfolio,” said Bruce Carnevale, president and CEO of Bradford White Corporation. “For both companies, our customers live at the center of all we do every day. Together we will continue to deliver upon the shared values of a customer-first approach.”

Bradford White’s subsidiary Laars Heating Systems will be supporting Heat-flo. “We are excited to build on the hard work demonstrated by the entire Heat-flo team,” said Domingo Mohedano, VP and GM, Laars Heating Systems. “Their dedication and reputation for building the highest quality stainless steel water heater products in our industry will allow us to achieve long-lasting success in the market.”

Heat-flo’s expansive heating system solutions and indirect stainless steel product portfolio will allow the company to expand its capabilities to meet the rapidly evolving regulatory environment in the water heater industry.

“I am very excited that Heat-flo will become part of Bradford White Corporation,” said George Celorier, founder of Heat-flo. “I selected Bradford White because of the alignment of our core values, and our unwavering commitment to our customers, employees, professional plumbers and wholesalers.  I am confident that the company we built is in good hands.”

“With this acquisition, we’ll be able to ensure Heat-flo continues to have the resources and support necessary to continue to grow and thrive well into the future,” Carnevale said.

Heat-flo offers a range of solutions, from multi-energy/solar and electric-based water heating systems to hydronic and radiant heating applications. Operations will continue at the Uxbridge, MA factory.

For more information about Bradford White and its trusted water heating, space heating, combination heating and storage products, visit www.bradfordwhitecorporation.

Carrier and Bryant have announced the recipients of the Distributors’ Education Foundation scholarship for the 2024-2025 school year. Carrier and Bryant are part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions. Since its inception in 1981, the Distributors’ Education Foundation, established to honor the late William A. Blees and his many years Read more

Carrier and Bryant have announced the recipients of the Distributors’ Education Foundation scholarship for the 2024-2025 school year. Carrier and Bryant are part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions.

Since its inception in 1981, the Distributors’ Education Foundation, established to honor the late William A. Blees and his many years of service as an advisor to Carrier and Bryant distributors, has provided over $500,000 in assistance to more than 400 students working towards their undergraduate or vocational degrees. The scholarship is awarded to children and grandchildren of Carrier and Bryant contractors who demonstrate academic excellence, community service, and participate in extracurricular activities. This year, scholarships will be going to students in 25 cities from 11 states coast to coast.

“For over 40 years, Carrier and Bryant distributors have significantly contributed to the growth of the HVAC industry by funding the Carrier and Bryant Distributors’ Education Foundation,” said Spencer Atkins, President and Chief Executive Officer, Weathertech Distributing and President, Scholarship Program Board of Directors. “Since inception, the Foundation has provided over $500,000 in scholarships and we plan to continue our support. This scholarship program is a crucial element in developing future leaders for our industry.”

“The Distributors’ Education Foundation scholarship is a unique way for our distributors to give back to their contractors’ families,” said Nick Arch, Vice President and General Manager, Residential HVAC Solutions, Carrier. “We’re honored to support this outstanding initiative and wish all recipients luck in their academic endeavors.”

To learn more about Carrier and Bryant, visit www.carrier.com/residential and  www.bryant.com respectively.