For mechanical contractors in Ottawa, business has never been better.

The Mechanical Contractors Association of Ottawa (MCA Ottawa) and United Association Local 71 (UA Local 71) recently reported that working hours have jumped by 75 percent in the past decade – from 740,000 hours in 2011 to 1.3 million in 2021.

An influx of new commercial and institutional projects across the capital region has brought increased work for unionized mechanical contractors and job opportunities for steamfitters, plumbers, pipe fitters, pipe welders and apprentices.

Indeed, the city’s construction market is also seeing unprecedented levels of activity. More than 1.2 million square feet of new non-residential public permits were reported in 2020.

“There are more cranes on Ottawa’s skyline than ever before. The construction industry is booming,” says MCA Ottawa President Serge Robert. “We are anticipating this momentum to continue with a variety of projects coming down the pipeline, including the redevelopment of the parliamentary precinct, Ādisōke Central Library, the new Ottawa hospital, and a new arena for the Ottawa Senators.”

Recent negotiations resulted in a 13 percent salary increase for unionized plumbers, pipe fitters, steamfitters, and welders. The agreement lays out the working conditions and rates of pay from now until 2025, with no disruption to achieve the increase. The package includes wages, benefits, pension and access to skills and safety training.

“There is no better time to be a unionized plumber, steamfitter, welder or apprentice in the United Association,” says Angus Maisonneuve, business manager, UA Local 71. “Our members have secured a significant pay increase for at least the next three years and will contribute to a strong pipeline of institutional, commercial, and Industrial projects for the next ten years. With unemployment at records low, and no one left on the sidelines, we are eager to bring on more skilled and talented trade people to help us contribute to the future of Ottawa.”

The steady increase in hours can be attributed to projects across the entire institutional, commercial, and industrial sectors, ranging from seniors’ homes and schools to medical offices and mixed-use projects. Notable projects underway include LRT stations, regional water treatment plants, new schools and parliamentary projects.