Board of Directors

Composition

The Board is comprised of a cross-section of the Mechanical Industry, ensuring the perspective of the entire industry. The Board of Directors has created and adheres to policy which outlines a critical Skills Matrix. The Matrix includes union, non-union, rural, urban, residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, constructor and service contractors, the various mechanical trades, sub-trades as well as key business and governance competencies and values. The Board of Directors analyzes their collective skills to ensure shortfalls are addressed by new Board members.

2023/2024 Executive

Julien Lafleche (ServcoCanada)
President

Julien has been on MCAM Board of Directors since 2014. He serves on the Executive and Education Committees and is the Manitoba representative on the Union Contractors Committee with MCA Canada. Julien is the President and CEO of ServcoCanada Company. Julien specializes in overseeing contracts, estimation, planning, scheduling, procurement, and project management. Julien's passion for the industry and 24 years of experience started early as he spent High School summers working as a civil contractor before transitioning to an apprentice Steamfitter. Julien enjoys spending time away from the office with his wife and two daughters. He enjoys helping his two girls actively achieve their goals. Whether it is coaching them in school, life, hockey or golf, Julien values his family time at the rink, course or relaxing at the lake.

Wayne McKenzie (Randall Plumbing & Heating)
1st Vice President
Membership Committee Chair

Wayne has been on MCAMs Board of Directors since 2014. He is the President of Randall Plumbing where he started over 32 years ago. Wayne graduated from Red River College with Business Administration and is a Journeyman Plumber. Wayne is not the type of person to sit still. He is always doing something. He hopes to raise the bar of Randall's employees with mentorship, education, and training to make them and the company prosper. His favourite MCAM events are the President's Ball & Golf Tournament Wayne says, "If you're going to do something, do it right the first time or don't bother doing it at all!". Wayne is chair of the MCAM Membership Committee. You may see a likeness of Wayne in the "Wise Wayne" caricature featured in the MCAM e-newsletter, The Connector.

James Kopec (Bornhorst Mechanical Inc.)
2nd Vice President
Education Committee Chair

James has been on MCAM Board of Directors since 2009. Today, he is the President at Bornhorst Mechanical Inc. He attained his Red Seal Certification in Plumbing in 1997 and became a Gold Seal Superintendent in 2009. James is the Chair of the Apprenticeship Provincial Trade Advisory Committee for Gas Fitters and involved in estimating, working, and managing various types of projects within Manitoba and outside the province. James' favourite MCAM event is the President's Ball. He enjoys the outdoors, hunting and farming in the Interlake area where he is from. James says. "Measure twice and cut once!". James serves on the MCAM Executive, Education and Government and Industry Relations Committees.

Andy Taylor (Cobbe's Plumbing & Heating)
Treasurer

Andy has been on MCAM Board of Directors since 2012. He is also MCAM's Treasurer and serves on the Government and industry Relations and Education Committees. Andy is the General Manager at Cobbe's Plumbing and Heating in Portage La Prairie MB. He has been working at Cobbe's Plumbing and Heating for over 34 years where he started from high school. Andy also served on the Rural Construction Association Board for 4 years.

Bruce McWhirter (A&B Mechanical)
Director at Large

Bruce has been on MCAM Board of Directors since 2013. Bruce is the President at AB Mechanical. He built AB Mechanical from 1 work van, 30 years ago, to a successful business today. One of his goals is to establish a legacy with his company and have it continue for future generations. His favourite MCAM event is the National Conference. Bruce likes to say, "If it ain't broke phone someone else." Bruce serves on the MCAM Executive and Membership Committees.

Chris Derksen (Derksen Plumbing & Heating)
Director at Large

Chris has been on MCAM Board of Directors since 2014. He graduated from Red River College and became General Manager of Derksen Plumbing and Heating at the age of 30. He Project managed his first mechanical project valued over $7M at age 26. Quirky facts about Chris: He laughs at his own expense, likes the NFL Houston Texans and hopes to retire one day. His favourite MCAM event is The President's Ball Dinner. His favourite quote: "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take."(Wayne Gretzky). Chris serves on the Next Gen Committee and Government and Industry Relations Committee. Chris has a reputation for raising critical industry issues with the Board of Directors.

Shawn Henry (Wescan)
Director at Large
Government & Industry Relations Committee Chair

Shawn has been on the Board of Directors since 2014. He is the General Manager at Wescan Electrical Mechanical Services. He obtained his Red Seal Plumbing and B license from Red River College in 2005. Shawn's favourite MCAM event is the Golf Tournament. A quirky fact about Shawn is that he hopes to never retire. He say's the most dangerous quote to ever hear is "It is the way we have always done it!" Shawn serves on the MCAM Government and Industry Relations Committee and is chair of the National Change Order Protocol Committee.

Roger Phaneuf (Wes-Man Mechanical)
Past President

Roger has been on MCAM Board of Directors since 2009 and served as President 2020-2021. He is a Project Manager, Estimator and Partner with Wesman Mechanical. He graduated from Mechanical Technology at Red River College. Roger states that every time a large tender is secured it becomes a professional accomplishment as well as being the MCAM President. Roger collects hockey cards and vinyl records. He would love to operate a garden centre and mow large amounts of lawn one day. Roger's favourite MCAM event is the President's Ball. Roger says, "Sometimes you don't know enough to know you don't know". Roger is active with the MCAM Student Chapter and MCAM Next Gen Committee.

 

Directors at Large

Dan Olson (ABCO Supply and Service)
Director at Large

Dan has been with MCAM Board of Directors since 2009 and served as MCAM President 2018-2020. Dan has been with ABCO Supply & Service Ltd. for 25 years now serving as the Service Division Manager. Dan earned his formal designation with Red River College as a Plumbing/Pipefitter Journeyman in 1989. He has worn many hats in his 37 years in the trades some of which are: Apprentice, Plumber, Pipefitter, Forman, A Gas Fitter, Estimator, Project Manager, Controller, and chief bottle washer. He also has his Plumbing Contractors license, Craning license, and Class 1. Dan's favorite MCAM events are the Golf Tournament and the Presidents Ball. He finds these events together with regular Monthly MCAM meetings, keep all the contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and all associates in close contact, in real time.
Dan says, "Planning IS working, always take the time to plan it out thoroughly, at home or at work, the outcome will prove it!"

Ryan Levesque (East Side Ventilation)
Director at Large

Ryan is the General Manager at East Side Ventilation. He commenced his training and career in the residential sector in 2006. Shortly after enrolling in an apprenticeship program, he transitioned into the commercial aspect of the Sheet Metal Industry. Having earned a Red Seal in Sheet Metal from RRC in 2012, Ryan went on to work as a foreman/site superintendent for five years before assuming the role of Project Manager. His current responsibilities include design builds, estimating, and project management.

Beyond the professional sphere, Ryan can often be found indulging in activities such as golfing, fishing from his boat, or cherishing quality moments with his wife and two children, all in no particular order.

Jeff Jacob (Great West Ventilation)
Director at Large

Jeff has been on the MCAM Board of Directors since 2017. He graduated from the University of Manitoba in 2002, Red River College in 2010 and the University of Winnipeg in 2012. Some of his accomplishments include being a Certified Risk Manager and completion of PMP courses. A fun fact about Jeff is that he has played the guitar since he was 12 years old. One of his goals in life are to "Just keep going". His favourite MCAM event is the Golf Tournament. Jeff serves on the MCAM Membership Committee.

Lenny Lopushniuk (Trotter & Morton)
Director at Large

Lenny Lopushniuk followed in his Grandpa's footsteps and graduated from South Winnipeg Technical College in 1998 as an Industrial Maintenance Technician. He further obtained his Red Seal Industrial Mechanics (Millwright) accreditation and CWB welder certification. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Lenny has held various roles, including onsite execution, estimating, project management, and currently works as the Construction Manager at Trotter and Morton Industrial Contracting. He joined Trotter and Morton in 2015 after successfully estimating and securing the company's inaugural project in Manitoba. Lenny actively contributes to the industry as a member of the interprovincial Millwright red seal examination review committee and takes pleasure in mentoring newcomers to the industry. Lenny believes to be successful you need to "work hard, be transparent and be fair." Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities, playing baseball, curling, and volunteering with his two sons' sports teams.

Robert Thain (Black & McDonald)
Director at Large

Robert Thain is the Projects Division Manager at Black & McDonald Limited. With over 35 years of experience at the company, he has excelled in various roles ranging from service contract sales to energy conservation audits. However, his true passion lies in project management, which he considers the most fulfilling aspect of his career. Robert is a Professional Engineer with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Manitoba. He further advanced his skills with a Certificate in Management and Administration from the Canadian Institute of Management. As a testament to his expertise in project management, Robert is certified as a CCA Gold Seal professional. Robert believes in leading by example, finding joy in work and accomplishments, and helping others succeed. For Robert, the people he works with hold greater importance than the machinery they work on. The individuals Robert has collaborated with to successfully complete projects leave a longer lasting impression than the project itself. He served as the President of MCAM from 2013 to 2015, further showcasing his leadership.

Cory Ball (Mikkelsen-Coward & Co)
Director at Large

Cory Ball is a highly experienced professional in building automation, with over 15 years of expertise. He started as an electrical apprentice and obtained his Red Seal Electrical License from Red River College. Currently serving as the Vice President for Manitoba and Saskatchewan at Mikkelsen-Coward, Cory has managed multi-million-dollar projects. His passion for adding value to clients and helping them achieve their energy savings and net zero goals is evident in his work. By implementing innovative solutions and out-of-the-box thinking, Cory ensures that clients receive the best possible service and optimal outcomes. Beyond his project management skills, Cory possesses a keen interest in complex integrated projects and stays at the forefront of new technologies. His commitment to continuous learning enables him to incorporate the latest advancements into his work, providing cutting-edge solutions to clients. Cory is also actively involved in industry associations, having served as the MCAM Next Gen Advisory Council Chair and on the Board of Directors for the Canadian System Integrators Association (CSIA).Associates Advisory Council Chair & G

Scott Hammond (SMS Engineering)
Director at Large
Associates Advisory Council Chair

Striving to not be your typical engineer, Scott focuses his practice on high-performance buildings and finding ways to transform them while remaining cost effective. Originally starting in the industry wearing a contractor's hardhat, he now is experienced in a wide range of multi-disciplinary planning, design and construction projects. As a Partner with SMS Engineering Scott was named to the Consulting-Specifying Magazine's international Top 40 Under 40 list in 2014. Some of his favourite projects include the Winnipeg Air Terminal Building, Canada Life's Winnipeg campus redevelopment, IG Field and now the new Portage District Hospital.

Directors at Large - Term expiring April 2024

Brad Mason (DMS Industrial Constructors)
National Director, WCA Representative
MB Prompt Payment Coalition Representative,
MB Trade Contractors Coalition Representative

Brad has been on MCAM Board of Directors since 2001 and is the Principal/Founding Partner of ServcoCanada. He has over 35 years of supervisory experience in all phases of the industrial construction industry. ​Brad promotes an environment where people are encouraged to use their skills effectively and creatively while at the same time supporting the corporate vision and values. His goal is for employees to be proud to work at DMS. Brad is committed to corporate social responsibility. He understands the importance of building strong communities and supports many worthwhile organizations. In addition, Brad sits on the Board with Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada and is the Chair with the MCA Canadian Education Council.

Ilona Rondeau (EMCO)
Director at Large
Social Committee Chair

Ilona has been on the MCAM's Board of Directors since 2006. Ilona Rondeau has been in the construction industry since High School. She has been an part of Emco Corporation's team since 1988 and has served as the Profit Centre Manager since 2000. As chair of the social committee, Ilona plays an integral role in planning MCAM's signature events such as Annual President's Ball, Golf Tournament and Pioneer Night. Ilona's other Board experiences include Secretary member with the Anola Metis Local and with Ndaawin to work towards building a curriculum around raising awareness with respect to sexual exploitation of inner-city children and youth.

Larry Stefanec (Parson's Plumbing & Heating)
Director at Large
Service Contractors Advisory Council Chair

Larry has been on MCAM Board of Directors since 2017. Larry started into the Mechanical trades in 1992 in BC Canada with Dual Mechanical LTD. He attained Red Seal certification for plumbing and Gas fitters B licence in 1996. He continued in the commercial mechanical field as a Site Supervisor then eventually Project Manager and then company Field Manager. Along the way he managed to complete many management and Accounting courses including Gold Seal certification for Site Supervisor. He started working with a Winnipeg service company in 2003, Parsons Plumbing and Heating ltd. and in 2014 acquired 100% of the business. When not physically at the office Larry likes to adventure race, this involves biking, orienteering, canoeing, and hiking in the wilderness usually as a team over a time period of minimum 6 hours! He trains for these events and includes his entire family. Larry believes it is important to be a part of MCAM so everyone can learn from each and be better prepared to take on future challenges and projects that will keep Manitoba strong and vital in this ever-changing world. Larry is an active member of the MCAM Education Committee.

Travis Clarke (BPL Sales)
Director at Large
Golf Committee Chair

Travis has been on MCAM Board of Directors since 2010 and serves as the Chair of the Associate Advisory Council and member of the Government and industry Relations Committee. He is the President of BPL Sales Ltd and President of Dynamic Building Control (2018). He graduated from the University of Manitoba from the faculty of Commerce in 2002. Travis became partner and President of BPL Sales Limited in 2006 at the age of 28. Purchased and became President of Dynamic Building Control in 2018. He completed 2 years of engineering at the University of Manitoba before moving over to the faculty of commerce. He also worked as an apprentice plumber for Parsons Plumbing and Heating before deciding to travel to Australia and Southeast Asia for 10 months. His goal is to operate a successful business well, while maintaining a good work/life balance. Being a father and husband are rewarding and important to him. He wants to do as good a job being a dad, husband, and business operator. His favourite MCAM event is the Golf Tournament. Travis says, "Work smarter, not harder"

Directors at Large - Affiliate Representatives Term expiring April 2023

Sean Baldwin (Industrial Ventilating Contractors Ltd.)
MASMAHC Representative

Sean has been MCAM Board of Directors since 2004. Sean is the President and CEO for Industrial Ventilating Contractors. He is also a leader with The Manitoba Association of Sheet Metal and Air Handling Contractors Inc. (MASMAHC) Sean's favourite MCAM event is the Golf Tournament.

Tony Mohammed (Air Movement)
TAB Representative
Next Gen Representative

Tony has been on the Board of Directors with MCAM since 2015. He graduated from RRC in 1983 and found employment with Air Movement Services the same year. In 1997, he wrote his TBS exam and took over Air Movement as Partner/General Manager. Tony also plays an active on as Board member with MCAM's Next Gen Committee. Tony is a huge foodie!

Nolan Shortridge (Jones Goodridge)
CIPH Representative

Nolan joined MCAM Board of Directors in 2020 and is serving on the Golf Committee. He has been involved with MCAM for over 10 years. He is part Owner and Commercial Manager for Jones Goodridge. Some of his achievements include becoming President of CIPH Manitoba and being a business owner. Fun facts about Nolan are that he has taken an interest in vegetable gardening and is always looking to learn. His favourite MCAM events are the Golf Tournament and President's Ball. Nolan likes to say "Be kind to everyone because you don't know what battles they are fighting"

Robert Gray (Thermo Applicators)
MICA Representative

Robert has been on MCAM Board of Directors since 2007 and has been on the Board of Directors for Manitoba with TIAC (Thermal Insulation Association of Manitoba) since 2005. He is the President Thermo Applicators Inc. and Spray on Systems. He came to Winnipeg in 1977 and obtained his GED at Red River College. Robert was instrumental in setting up the apprenticeship/Red Seal program for Heat and Frost in Manitoba. He was the first Red Seal insulator in Manitoba, and was an instructor at Red River College, teaching the first Level 1 Heat and Frost course. He also organized and incorporated the Manitoba Insulation Contractors Association. Robert's goals are to continuously promote the Heat and Frost insulation industry and to have prompt payment for all trades. His favourite MCAM event is the Golf Tournament. Robert says, "When asked how I am today, my response is always "The best day of my life!" and I do believe that."

Curtis Van Damme (South West Fire)
CASA Representative

Curtis joined MCAMs Board of Directors in 2020. He is a graduate of Red River College. Curtis has been in the Sprinklers Industry for over 22 years. He currently holds the position of President at Southwest Fire Protection Ltd., where he has been for over 7 years. Curtis hopes by joining MCAM he can help facilitate the mechanical trades into a fair position in the market. Curtis serves on the MCAM Education Committee.

Governance

The Board of Directors governs the affairs of the association through oversight, insight and foresight functions. These functions are outlined in the Association By-laws and further developed through Board Policy.

Oversight

To monitor the activities of the association, ensuring they are performed appropriately, creating a foundation for the association. These functions fulfill the Board's fiduciary duty to the membership.

Insight

The ability to see clearly and intuitively into the nature of an issue or subject and provide an opinion based on personal experience and/or the information provided. This fulfills the Boards generative purpose to the membership.

Foresight

To consider future potential issues, obstacles, and goals; and address them by creating a responsive framework. These functions fulfill the Board's strategic duty to the membership.

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