Flamethrower Digital

For decades, The Flamethrower was MCA Detroit’s signature way of keeping members informed—an unapologetically bold publication that delivered updates, insights, and industry news straight from the source. Today, that same spirit lives on in Flamethrower Digital, our modern communication platform built for speed, clarity, and connection. We’ve taken the flame that once burned on paper and ignited it online at MCADetroit.org, creating a dynamic hub where members can access timely information, industry perspectives, and association updates anytime.

It’s the same trusted voice—now with a digital spark that keeps our community fired up and moving forward.

The Quiet Backbone of Our Industry - Volunteerism in Local Associations

Taken from the President's Article, of the MPMCA's 2026 Fall Magazine. I’ve sat on more committees and boards than I can count—some by choice, some because I didn’t step backward fast enough when someone said, "We need volunteers." After a couple decades, I’ve learned something as true as gravity: our industry runs on volunteerism, and we don’t talk about that nearly enough. I’m talking especially about local associations—the ones working close to home, often with a small sta

3 days ago3 min read

MCA Detroit Endorses Jacqui Kelly for Trustee of Oakland Community College

MCA Detroit is proud to endorse Jacqui Kelly for the position of Trustee on the Board of Oakland Community College. Few individuals bring the depth of experience, professionalism, and long-term commitment to public service that Jacqui has demonstrated throughout her career. For more than two decades, our organization has worked closely with Jacqui and her firm. In every interaction, she has shown herself to be exceptionally detail‑oriented, highly professional, and unwavering

Sep 101 min read

MCA Detroit Holds Their 3rd Annual Health & Safety Dinner/Award Meeting

MCA Detroit proudly hosted its 3rd Annual Health & Safety Dinner and Award Meeting, led by Health & Safety Manager Samantha Moler, at Maggiano’s in Troy. This year’s event brought together contractors, industry partners, and safety leaders for an evening of connection, shared learning, and recognition. Guests enjoyed dedicated networking time, a featured presentation titled “Environmental Hazards” delivered by Nicole Adams-Gibson, and the celebration of outstanding safety per

Aug 281 min read

MCA Detroit Subcontracts Benkari Mechanical's Vactor Truck Services

MCA Detroit recently partnered with Benkari Mechanical for Vactor Truck services, and the experience was exceptional from start to finish. Their team delivered fast response times, top‑tier professionalism, and thorough follow‑up that kept the project moving smoothly. As one of the region’s only union Vactor service providers — and a valued MCA Detroit member contractor — Benkari continues to set the standard for reliability and craftsmanship in our industry. We’re proud to s

Aug 281 min read

Website Privacy Warning: Rising CIPA Claims Targeting Contractors

California’s Invasion of Privacy Act (CIPA) has become a growing source of nuisance claims against contractors nationwide, which could carry a $15,000+ bill! This includes recent “Informal Dispute Resolution” demands alleging unlawful use of website tracking tools or “pen registers.” These claims typically argue that cookies or tracking scripts were deployed before a visitor gave consent — a key trigger under CIPA. A recent case within the Western Michigan MCA prompted immedi

Aug 212 min read

MCA Detroit and Pipefitters Local 636 Ratify the 2026 Collective Bargaining Agreement

Thursday, April 30, 2026 MCA Detroit and Pipefitters Local 636 have officially ratified the 2026 Collective Bargaining Agreement, marking a milestone moment for the industry. Both organizations saw historic voter turnout and overwhelmingly positive sentiment, reflecting broad confidence in the agreement and the process that shaped it. This contract is the result of months of thoughtful, disciplined discussion between labor and management. Leadership teams on both sides engage

Apr 301 min read

Mechanical Contractors Association of Detroit Endorses Mike Duggan for Governor

Wednesday, April8, 2026 ( Detroit ) - The Mechanical Contractors Association of Detroit announced today that Mike Duggan is the candidate they’re endorsing for the 2026 governor’s race. MCA Detroit is the leading association representing mechanical and plumbing contractors in Southeast Michigan. They work to uplift the mechanical construction and service industry in the region by developing strong labor relations, educating and recruiting new contractors, ensuring safe work

Apr 92 min read

MCA Detroit Hosts a High‑Impact 2026 Annual Meeting at MotorCity Casino

On March 31, 2026, MCA Detroit welcomed signatory contractors, industry partners, and association leaders to the 2026 Annual Meeting, held at Detroit’s MotorCity Casino. The evening brought together the mechanical and plumbing community for a program centered on transparency, collaboration, and the shared commitment to strengthening the region’s industry. A Clear Vision for the Year Ahead Chris Freeman, CEO of MCA Detroit, opened the program with a comprehensive State of the

Apr 62 min read

Association Headquarters Renovation Update

Work continues to progress steadily on MCA Detroit’s Livonia headquarters renovation, marking an exciting new chapter for the Association and its members. Construction teams remain on schedule, and the project has advanced through several key phases with strong momentum. Based on current projections, substantial completion is anticipated for late Q2 to early Q3 of this year, positioning the Association to transition into the final stages of preparation shortly thereafter. The

Apr 61 min read

MCA Detroit Announces Industry Stewardship Commendation Honoring William James, Sr.

Tuesday, March 31, 2026 MCA Detroit proudly recognized William James, Sr. with the Industry Stewardship Commendation during its annual celebration, honoring a career that has profoundly shaped the region’s mechanical and plumbing industry. As President of the MCA Detroit Board of Directors, Randy Pagel highlighted the significance of the recognition, noting that the award reflects “the very heart of what strengthens our industry.” Reserved for individuals whose careers demo

Apr 62 min read

Must Safety - Drug Test Cost Increase

OFFICIAL NOTICE FROM MUST - 4.2.26: Thank you for your continued support of the MUST Drug & Safety System. For 30+ years, MUST has delivered the industry standard for drug screening and safety awareness training while keeping costs well below the market average. Despite rising operational costs and ongoing investments to maintain and improve the quality of our products/services and the general rise in cost of healthcare services, drug screening through MUST has not increased

Apr 21 min read

Gregory S. Johnson Earns Certified Association Executive (CAE) Credential

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC, February 18, 2026 -- ASAE has announced that Gregory S. Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of The Mechanical Contractors Association of Detroit has recently earned the Certified Association Executive (CAE®) designation. The CAE is the highest professional credential in the association industry. To be designated as a Certified Association Executive, an applicant must have experience with nonprofit organization management, complete a minimu

Mar 81 min read

2026 National Committee Appointments

Great things are happening at MCA Detroit! Every time an MCA Detroit leader is appointed to a national committee, it reinforces what our partners already know: this team shows up with expertise, credibility, and a deep commitment to advancing our industry. These appointments aren’t symbolic—they’re a reflection of the trust placed in our organization and the impact our people make far beyond Southeast Michigan. Each seat at a national table strengthens our voice, elevates our

Mar 81 min read