MCAC NEWS

FROM DREW’S DESK…

If you’re unable to attend either event, come join us and SMART Local 296 for our first annual Regina LobsterFEST event on September 17, 2026, at the Canadian Brewhouse.

UPCOMING EVENTS

MEMBERSHIP APPRECIATION BBQ – REGINA

MEMBERSHIP APPRECIATION BBQ – SASKATOON

LOBSTERFEST – REGINA

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS

MCAS is pleased to offer a $1000 scholarship annually at the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Apprenticeship Awards based on the highest mark in either the Plumbing, Sheet Metal, Refrigeration, or Pipefitting trades.

Recipients are selected based on the criteria established by the association for outstanding achievement in training and certification.

Only apprentices who are employed by an MCAS member are eligible. Applications are being accepted until August 31, 2026. Click this link to apply: 2026 Scholarship Employer Letter and Application Form

Applications are now open for the Richard McKeagan Scholarship Series!

At the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC), we’re proud to support the next generation of leaders in the mechanical contracting industry. The Richard McKeagan Scholarship Series provides financial support to eligible post-secondary students and apprentices pursuing careers connected to our industry, helping invest in the future of skilled trades and mechanical contracting. If you or someone you know may be eligible, we encourage you to apply and take advantage of this incredible opportunity.

Click here to apply

FEATURE SPOTLIGHT

Changes to Residential and Commercial Equipment Eligibility, Rebates, and Program Structure

SaskEnergy is updating its rebate programs to reflect evolving efficiency standards, align with programs across Canada, and to provide a simpler, more streamlined experience for customers and contractors. These changes will impact the Residential Equipment Replacement Rebate, Commercial Space and Water Heating Rebate, and the Commercial Boiler Rebate programs.

The following changes will be effective as of August 17, 2026. 

Residential Equipment Replacement Rebate (RERR)

•    Furnaces in the 96.0% to 96.9% AFUE category will no longer be eligible for rebates.

•    Qualifying furnaces with an efficiency rating of 97.0% AFUE or higher will be eligible for a $325 rebate.

•    Boiler incentives will be updated to a rebate of $750 for boiler plants up to 300 MBH.

Commercial Space and Water Heating Rebate (CSWHR):

•    Furnaces in the 96.0% to 96.9% AFUE category will no longer be eligible for rebates.

•    Qualifying replacement furnaces with an efficiency rating of 97.0% AFUE or higher will be eligible for a $325 rebate.

•    Boiler incentives will be updated to provide a base rebate of $750 for boiler plants up to 300 MBH, with an additional $3 per MBH for capacity exceeding 300 MBH.

•    The required minimum thermal efficiency for replacement boilers will increase to 95% (currently 90%). The existing standard for new construction will remain at 95%.

The Commercial Boiler Rebate (CBR) will be merged into the CSWHR program:

•    The Commercial Boiler Rebate program will stop accepting new applications. Rebate applications for qualifying commercial boilers and boiler plant installations will be available through the CSWHR online applications form, creating a single application process for all qualifying commercial boiler projects.

•    To support larger projects, an optional pre-approval application will be available for projects with an estimated rebate of $7,500 or more.

•    Pre-approval will not be required but strongly encouraged. Once a pre-approval application has been reviewed and approved, the project’s rebate eligibility and rebate amount will be secured based on the program requirements in effect at the time of approval.

•    Large commercial boiler rebates will be available to all SaskEnergy commercial customers.

•    Any pre-approved applications confirmed prior to August 17, 2026, will remain eligible and be processed in accordance with program requirements in effect at the time of pre-approval.

* To qualify for current rebate amounts, equipment must be purchased, installed, and the rebate application submitted on or before August 16, 2026. Applications submitted on or after August 17, 2026, will be assessed based on the updated rebate amounts and equipment eligibility requirements, regardless of the equipment installation date.

Information on program updates and eligible equipment are outlined in each program’s Terms and Conditions on the SaskEnergy website.

EDUCATION NEWS

APPRENTICESHIP TUTORING

With a strong background in plumbing and related technical fields, Will has established himself as a skilled journeyman plumber. He has worked in the industry providing reliable residential and service plumbing solutions, earning praise for his responsiveness, reasonable rates, and high-quality workmanship.

In addition to his fieldwork, Will serves as an instructor at multiple colleges in British Columbia, Canada, teaching courses in plumbing, gas fitting, sprinkler fitting and other levels in the apprenticeship pathway. His role involves training the next generation of tradespeople with a focus on safety, proper tool use, practical techniques, and real-world application.

At SPG Tutor, Will leverages his industry experience to deliver tutoring and instruction that bridges theoretical knowledge with practical skills. He is known for his clear communication, patient approach, and commitment to helping students build confidence and competence in technical subjects.

Will’s career exemplifies a well-rounded path in the trades: combining on-the-job expertise, formal instruction, and a genuine interest in student success. Whether supporting apprentices, career changers, or students exploring technical fields through SPG Tutoring, he emphasizes real-world problem-solving and long-term professional growth.

Please contact the MCAS office (306-664-2154) for more information.

Registration open for Project Management Course November/December 2026

This 10-day course for the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada is provided in association with the University of Waterloo. There are separate sessions on project estimating, communications, scheduling, claims, and more. Nine instructors, with related experience in the construction industry lead the participants through discussions, workshops, case studies, and simulations.

Note: This course takes place over two separate weeks, first from November 19-23, and secondly from December 10-14.

ENERCARE – FINANCING FOR MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS

SPOTLIGHT ON BENEFITS

Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAP) can be crucial in giving us tools to help deal with this newfound buildup of anxiety. It affects everyone differently and there is absolutely no shame in reaching out and getting some help.  If you don’t have an EFAP, psychologists and registered counsellors are included on the MCAS plan through Saskatchewan Blue Cross!

The MCAS benefits plan also includes coverage for massage therapy.  You do not need a doctor’s referral, and this is a great way to unwind and take some stress off.

Wellness Spending Accounts are great tools for de-stressing. I personally use my wellness account predominately for golf green fees. Lots of people use it for sports fees, or even a new pair of running shoes.

Whether you talk to a counsellor, hit the links, get a massage, or just go for a walk, make sure to get out and enjoy the beautiful summer! And remember to leave your cell phone behind.

Any questions, please give us a call.

Michael Carss, B. Comm.

Director, Innovation & Growth, Wiegers Financial and Insurance Planning Services Ltd.

Wiegers Financial & Benefits

306-244-0949

michael.carss@wiegers.ca

Matthew Hill

Benefits Associate, Wiegers Financial and Insurance Planning Services Ltd.

Wiegers Financial & Benefits

306-244-0949

matthew.hill@wiegers.ca

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT