Member Events

The 2012 MCAWW ‘Mechanical Innovation’ Conference, held last week at the Washington State Convention Center’s Conference Center, inspired, motivated and re-energized the approximately 300 attendees representing the mechanical contracting industry. The morning began with breakfast (sponsored by Magnum Crane) and an engaging keynote delivered by Robert Tucker of The Innovation Resource. Attendees then chose between a leadership session, which consisted of an eye-opening, home-run presentation by Mark Breslin on ‘Embracing Change,’ or a technical session presented by David Burczyk on Trimble technology,

The morning general session on ‘The Worldwide Drive for Net Zero Buildings’ delivered by Bullitt Foundation president Denis Hayes, provided a fascinating look at net zero buildings and systems, with the Bullitt Building as a showcase example.

Afternoon breakout sessions were comprised of a leadership session on ‘Unlocking Your Innovative Smarts’ by Bill Stainton, where attendees learned useful tools and techniques to access their creativity, which in turn can aid in problem-solving, embracing change, and unleashing innovation. The technical session, presented by Norman Strong of the Miller-Hull Partnership, provided an important glimpse into the direction of our industry from the eyes of an architect.

The educational sessions wrapped up with a unique panel session in the form of a David Letterman-style talk show, where moderator Robert Tucker introduced and questioned the five panelists including Yancy Wright (Sellen Construction), Craig Norsen (The Seneca Group), Ted Sturdevant (WA State Director of Ecology), Robert Willis (PSF Mechanical) and Steve Doub (the Miller-Hull Partnership). Attendees learned about sustainable built environments, why and how they can engage in the process, as well as the challenges and benefits of such types of projects.

Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed lunch (sponsored by Veris Industries and Washington Capital Management) and were able to view products and talk to the representatives of the 30 innovative exhibits. Congratulations to Mechanical Sales, who was voted the ‘Most Innovative Exhibit.’

The day ended with a cocktail reception, sponsored by Harrington Industrial Plastics, where attendees enjoyed important networking time.

Here’s what some of the attendees had to say:

“Outstanding presentation, very thought-provoking, relevant and informative.” (on Mark Breslin’s “Embracing Change: Proactive Strategies for Results”)

“Groundbreaking, incredibly interesting, exciting.” (on Denis Hayes’ “The Worldwide Drive for Net Zero Buildings”)

“I really liked the analogy of unlocking what it feels like, then it is easier to utilize creativity on demand.” (on Bill Stainton’s “Unlocking Your Innovative Smarts”)

“Makes you think about the direction of us, our companies and our clients.” (on Norman Strong’s “Industry Transformation… Are You Ready”?)

Comments on the panel session:
“Going forward, I will keep in mind that in order to keep ahead of the curve, I must be forward thinking.”
“I am going to explore some ideas to bring sustainable construction to our company.”
“I can look at problems from a different angle and incorporate new technologies into possible solutions.”

To view photos of this event, click here.