Event Calendar

Start Date: 1/15/2026 8:30 AM CST
End Date: 1/15/2026 3:00 PM CST

Venue Name: MCAKC Knowledge Center

Location:

Organization Name: MCAKC

Contact:

Plan Reading for Mechanical and Plumbing/Piping 

This seminar is now full. Click the registration link to join the waitlist.

Thursday, January 15, 2026
8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
 
Breakfast & Lunch will be served.

Designed for project engineers, project managers, coordinators, and administrative professionals in the mechanical contracting industry, this six-hour seminar provides a practical, structured introduction to interpreting construction plans and documents. Taught by Brad Perkins of Iowa State University, the course builds foundational skills to navigate mechanical and plumbing/piping drawings used throughout design, estimating, coordination, and project execution.

Participants will learn to recognize and interpret typical HVAC symbols and notes, read ductwork floor plans, and understand mechanical equipment schedules including air handlers, VAV boxes, make-up air units, and fans. The seminar also covers mechanical details essential for installation and coordination.

On the plumbing side, attendees will review below-grade DWV drawings, plumbing and piping floor plans, plumbing material lists, and piping equipment schedules such as boilers, chillers, and pumps. The course also introduces chilled and heating water flow diagrams, helping participants follow system flow and intent.

Because mechanical systems interface with electrical infrastructure, the seminar concludes with guidance on reading electrical power plans related to mechanical equipment connections.

By the end of the session, participants will have a clearer understanding of how to read, interpret, and navigate mechanical and plumbing/piping plan sets—strengthening their ability to support project delivery from preconstruction through closeout.

CEUs: 0.4

Target Audience: Project engineers, project managers, coordinators, and administrative professionals in the mechanical contracting industry
 
Cost
There is no charge for employees of MCAKC Member Contractors Signatory to Local 8 & 533.

$100 for Non-Members Signatory to Local 8 & 533.

Instructor

Brad Perkins, a professional engineer and senior lecturer at Iowa State University's Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering (ISU CCEE), brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his role as an educator. A graduate of ISU's construction engineering program, Brad transitioned seamlessly from his position as a design engineer to join the faculty in 2005. His passion for guiding students towards success in the engineering field is evident in his commitment to mentoring and advising.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Brad serves as the faculty advisor for ISU's Mechanical Contractors Association (ISU MCA) student chapter, fostering connections between students and industry professionals. He plays a pivotal role in providing stability and support for the organization, ensuring compliance with policies while facilitating networking opportunities and industry partnerships. Brad's efforts have been recognized with accolades such as the Outstanding Achievement in Advising Award from ISU's College of Engineering and the MCAA's Educator of the Year award in 2018. Through his tireless dedication, Brad continues to shape the future of the construction industry by empowering students to pursue rewarding careers.

Cancellation Policy
Cancellations for this MCAKC event must be received at least 2 Business Days prior to the event by email to learn@mcakc.org or by phone at 913-948-9200. Cancellations received after this time will be assessed a cancellation fee.

“No Shows”, except for emergencies, will be assessed a fee and invoiced $100 for this half day seminar.