MCA of Chicago

09/23/2026

Women in construction aren’t fine just because they’re “tough enough to be here.”

Women in construction die by su***de at a rate of 10.4 per 100,000 — almost twice the rate for women in the general public (5.9 per 100,000). Women also have higher rates of su***de attempts and self-harm. Those aren’t just numbers. They’re our coworkers, supervisors, estimators, project managers and owners.

Women make up only about 10% of the construction workforce. Being a minority on the jobsite often means more isolation, more pressure to prove yourself and fewer people who understand what that feels like. Add a high-stress culture and the stigma still surrounding asking for help, and too many women carry it alone.

Mental safety belongs next to physical safety. Checking in isn’t weakness. It’s how we keep people here.

If you’re struggling — or you see someone who is — talk to them. Listen. Connect them to help. Call or text 988, the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline, 24/7.

⚙️ MCA of Chicago offers free VitalCog su***de prevention training for member companies: in-office, at the MCA office or on the jobsite. Sessions work for crews, safety meetings, leadership teams and field supervisors. ⚙️

If your company wants a session, reach out to [email protected]. We’ll come to you.

#988

09/17/2026

Mental health support is a safety issue — same as PPE, same as looking out for the person next to you. If you or someone on your crew is struggling, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

If it’s a crisis right now:
- Call or text 988 (988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline). Free, confidential, 24/7.
- Chat: 988lifeline.org
- Text HELLO to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)
- If there is immediate danger, call 911.

At work
- Start with your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) — confidential, usually free for you and household members. HR or your benefits portal has the number.
- Talk to a supervisor, safety lead, or someone you trust. Asking for help is not a weakness; it’s looking out for the team.

Construction-specific
- The Construction Industry Alliance for Su***de Prevention has jobsite tools, toolbox talks and conversation guides: preventconstructionsu***de.com
- You don’t have to wait until it’s an emergency. Checking in, listening without judgment, and pointing someone to 988 or EAP can change the next 24 hours.

If you’re carrying this today: you’re not alone. Make the call.

#988

09/10/2026

If you ask someone if they’re thinking about su***de and they say yes — what do you say next?

Most people freeze. You don’t have to.

1. Start with gratitude.
“Thank you for trusting me.”
“Thank you for having the courage to be honest with me.”
“Thank you for valuing our relationship.”

When someone shares thoughts like this, they often expect judgment, fear, shame or anger. Gratitude does the opposite. It treats them with dignity and respect and takes some pressure off the moment.

2. Reassure them they’re not alone.
“I’m here for you.”
“I’ll stay with you while we figure this out.”
“I’m on your team. You don’t have to do this by yourself.”

That kind of partnership is grounding. It tells them they have an advocate — someone in their corner.

3. Offer hope and a next step.
“I know some resources that can help.”
“Let’s call 988 together.”

Hope is the antidote. Pair it with choice: you’re not taking over — you’re walking with them while they get connected to help.

🚨 If you or someone you work with is struggling, call or text 988.

MCA of Chicago members: VitalCog sessions are available for your teams: office, classroom, or jobsite. Reach out to schedule one. Let's look out for each other.

#988

09/08/2026

The skyline doesn't build itself. Happy Labor Day to our members and the union crews behind every project.

09/03/2026

08/10/2026

The MCA of Chicago team is proud to celebrate this outstanding achievement for our longstanding training partner: two Pipefitters Local 597 apprentices have been named International Champions at the UA International Apprentice Contest! 🏆👏

08/03/2026

Happy Birthday John. Have a great day!

07/04/2026

From the MCA of Chicago family to yours, happy Independence Day! 🇺🇸💥

05/25/2026

While we welcome the long weekend full of fun activities, today is about so much more. It's a day to honor the sacrifice and bravery of the men and women who served our country and never made it home. We are forever grateful. 🇺🇸

05/23/2026

Happy Birthday to Susan Rocque, our favorite Director of Finance, WiMI, and much more!