The Mechanical Contracting Education & Research Foundation (MCERF) has awarded a research grant to The McCarl Group to conduct the first-ever study of the professional education needs and preferences of MCAA and local MCA members. While the study's focus will be on smaller contractors, the resulting data is expected to facilitate program development for industry members of all sizes. To ensure the most representative participation, Association Executives Council members (local association executives) will distribute a 10-minute, 17-question survey to their members. The preferred delivery/return method is e-mail, but paper versions of the survey are also available for those who need or prefer that method. An advisory task force continues to work with Jim McCarl on this study and includes: Andy Kruse (L.J. Kruse Co., Berkeley, CA); Karen Riffice (Soderlund Brothers, Oak Lawn, IL); Mark Rogers (West Chester Mechanical, Chester, PA); Tom Stone (Braconier Plumbing & Heating, Englewood, CO); Paul Berg (Twin Cities Piping Industry Association, St. Paul, MN); Julie Dietrich (MCA of South FL, Ft. Lauderdale, FL); Steve Lakin (MCA of MD, Towson, MD); and Bob Looman (MCA of Greater Kansas City, Kansas City, MO).

For more information about MCERF, contact Dennis Langley at dlangley@mcaa.org.