As President of Hughes Environmental Engineering, a family -owned mechanical contractual company of the fourth generation, which was founded in 1935, based in Mahwah, New Jersey, Brian Hughes Has added a new title to his CV – MCAA President. Hughes worked in numerous leadership roles within the MCAA, including the committees of the exam, budget, education and industry improvement as well as vice president of John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF) Board of Trustees. He is also an active member of the MCA of the New Jersey Board of Director and trustee of the HVACR Education Fund.
Brian's company, Hughes Environmental Engineering, specializes in commercial and industrial people and cooling, including service, maintenance, retrofitting and design building solutions in the Greater New York City region. Outside of work, Brian likes to hike, fish and travel with his wife Stacy and her three sons. He is also President of the Ridgewood (NJ) YMCA.
The contractor recently caught up in Brian to customize his thoughts about MCAA and to get the economy. Here is the exclusive Q&A.
CONTRACTOR: How are you assigned to MCAA and can you describe its meaning for yourself?
Hughes: For the first time I was involved in MSCA and took part in an annual conference at the beginning of my career. This experience opened my eyes for the strength and scope of our industry network. From there I worked in the MSCA training and marketing committees, the board of directors, in the MCAA Board of Directors.
MCAA was an integral part of my professional journey – the instruments, education and relationships that contributed to shaping the direction of our company and my management path. Our company has been a signer for decades, and MCAA's focus on safety, technology, education and work relationships corresponds perfectly to the values with which I grew up. It is a real honor to now conduct an organization that gave me and our industry so much.
CONTRACTOR: There are a lot of “waiting and seeing” how the economy will be released with the new administration. However, can you share thoughts on how new tariffs can help or hinder economic progress? What do you hear from your contractor membership?
Hughes: It is definitely a little caution in the air. Our members observe the tariff policy exactly, especially in terms of material costs and supply chains. However, most are still optimistic and foresight. The mechanical construction industry currently has strong tailwinding infrastructure investments to energy transitions-so that the tariffs can cause short-term disorders of pricing or availability, our members find ways to adapt and remain competitive.
CONTRACTOR: How do you see the short-term economy-like next 1-3 years?
Hughes: Mechanical contractors are in a strong position. The demand for commercial and industrial buildings remains high, especially in data centers, semiconductors, healthcare, organic sciences and energy projects. Loosen the problems of the supply chain, and while inflation continues to be a problem, the contractors are more agile and better prepared than a few years ago. I see constant growth for our sector, especially in areas that are bound with decarbonization, electrification and infrastructure.
CONTRACTOR: What do you hear from your members as some of the most important problems with which contractors are currently confronted? How do you go to you?
Hughes: The development of the workforce is always at the top of the list. We have to put on talents at all levels and keep it – field, office and tour. We also hear a lot about consolidation, with private equity showing an increasing interest in our room. This is a sign of strength, but it comes with its own challenges in maintaining culture and continuity.
MCAA reacts with a more targeted training of education and leadership, increases the reach of younger specialists and doubles working with our Labor partners at United Association to ensure a strong, future-oriented workforce.
CONTRACTOR: The technology is progressing quickly. How do you see that it shapes today's contractor and staff development? What does MCAA do to help the members?
Hughes: The technology revolutionizes how we design, build and serve systems. From 3D modeling and prefabrication to AI-controlled maintenance tools, contractors who deal for technology will find new efficiency and value for their customers.
At MCAA we invest very much in tech-forward training. We carry out a newly designed, accessible website and expand our educational content – from online courses such as Foundations of Field Leadership to events such as MCAA Converge and the Field Leaders Conference. We facilitate our members to integrate technology into their company and the development of the next generation of digitally flowing managers.
CONTRACTOR: Phvac & Mechanical Industries are still customer -oriented, served. Why is the human connection still important at AI?
Hughes: Even if the AI becomes more common, our industry remains a popular business. You can automate systems, but not trust. Regardless of whether it is a technician who goes to a facility or a project manager works with an owner, this personal connection builds up long -term relationships. In essence, our work is about solving problems for people. AI can help, but it cannot replace the value of experience, intuition and communication that our experts bring to the job every day.
CONTRACTOR: What are some business philosophies and initiatives that you bring as MCAA president during your tenure?
Hughes: A philosophy that I live comes from my father: “Everyone has more time or more money – what they have, they give that.” I try to give my time to people and causes, including this association.
My focus is on commitment and awareness. MCAA is an incredible resource, but we have to better help all of our members to recognize the value and get involved. I am also obliged to implement our new strategy plan, which emphasizes cooperation in the shops, strengthens local associations and makes our tools more accessible, especially for the increasing generation of managers.
CONTRACTOR: After all, there were many excellent managers who came before them. What does it mean for you to enter this role?
Hughes: It is incredibly humble. I step into the footsteps of some really remarkable leaders who helped MCAA to what it is today. This is a association conducted by members, and I take responsibility to represent and serve our contractors, suppliers and partners.
Is entrusted with this role is both a privilege and a challenge. I plan to do everything to ensure that our members see, hear and support – and to ensure that our industry will continue to be stronger for the next generation.