JRGF underwrites industry-critical research conducted by leading experts and consultants. This research provides our best chance of addressing our industry’s largest challenges.
Current projects in development are:
Service Contractor Workflow Project
Working with service contractors from around the united state and the MEP Innovation Lab, the JRGF has worked to identify processes and efficiencies for service contractors in the mechanical industry. Digital integration of service software has been a necessity for modern service contractors to perform operations. Many contractors need to utilize purpose-built software for service operations that must be integrated extensively with their construction software, their ERP systems or their accounting systems.
Virginia Tech Helmet Safety Research
Collaborating with The Electri Foundation, TAUC and the American Society of Concrete Contractors, the JRGF is partnering with the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab to research the improved effectiveness of Type-II construction helmets. The lab has already partnered with the NFL and bike manufacturers to test safety, protection and concussion risk. They are conducting research currently with the expectation of the project to be concluded in August of 2025.
VDC Time Study
Collaborating with New Horizons Foundation and the Electri Foundation, the JRGF is engaged in a time study on the tasks associated with Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) in the MEP industry. Partnering with The University of Washington, the study aims to help quantify the amount of time that typically takes place for coordination, drawing, submitting RFI’s and other various tasks associated with VDC. The study will conclude research in 2025 with early findings delivered at the MEP Innovation Conference by lead researcher Carrie Sturts Dossick, Ph.D, P.E, from the University.
Wire Hanger Research
Recently the JRGF produced a white paper based on case study research on the practical application of high-tension wires as hangers for mechanical contractors. Currently, threaded rod is specified and used for most hanger situations in construction, but sheet metal contractors have gained acceptance of high-tension wires for sheet metal for years. Recently, there is some allowance for the wires to be used for certain mechanical systems by mechanical and plumbing contractors.
JRGF has many loyal and generous financial contributors, including the Partnership Enterprise who have given over $100,000 to the Foundation. As major stakeholders, members have an active voice in defining JRGF’s research agenda, bringing forward the industry’s concerns and prioritizing various issues. Other ways to receive funding consideration from JRGF include:
- The Board of Trustees may publish a Request for Proposals (RFP) to an extensive mailing list of academic leaders and industry consultants
- Meetings with other partners, including MCAA’s Manufacturer/Supplier Council, the Mechanical-Electrical Academic Consortium, various legislative or allied associations
- Unsolicited proposals may be sent to the JRGF office
Once a project has been approved by the JRGF Board of Trustees, a volunteer task force of industry experts is assembled to shepherd the project from development through deployment. The task force will:
- Consist of persons who have extensive knowledge and/or enthusiasm for the given research area; these may be contractors, service representatives, manufacturer/suppliers, affiliated association executives or students.
- Serve as a resource for the research principal; providing contacts and information, especially for sourcing focus group members or objective reviewers
- Hold live meetings and conference calls, as needed to keep the project moving forward, hosted by the principal
- Present, or assist in the roll-out presentation of the final product at an MCAA national convention
- Present interim or final findings to the JRGF trustees
- Include one or more JRGF/MCAA national staff members
Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.
PROJECT EXAMPLES
- The United States Department of Defense has created the new Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) standard that will soon be required for corporations and entities that want to bid as a contractor, or act as a subcontractor, for DoD projects. With an increase in ransomware attacks and cyber security breaches, the United States Department of Defense (DoD) is taking steps to make sure construction projects are more secure during their design and construction. >LEARN MORE
