A Legacy of Vision and Growth
Founded in 2001 by Pierre Istead after a 20-year career in the field, Mécanique PCI began with a clear and determined purpose: to successfully complete construction or renovation projects in the field of building mechanics while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
The foundation of that success lies in strategic growth, major project experience, and the strength of the team. “Our commitment to accountability and quality earned us a solid reputation,” says Istead. In its early years, Mécanique PCI was largely focused on public sector work, but things shifted over time. “Around year 15, we transitioned more into the private sector, particularly the high-rise sector, which significantly contributed to our growth and expansion.”
The younger Istead’s entry into the company brought a new level of entrepreneurial drive. “A significant turning point was the arrival of Pier-Luc Istead, who brought an entrepreneurial spirit and a vision to scale the company,” he says. “Over the last five years, we’ve built a strong team by adding many high-performance individuals, ensuring we’re well-prepared for future challenges and opportunities.”
The company’s values have been critical to shaping that growth. “We believe in staying grounded, learning from others, and always striving to improve,” Istead says. “We don’t settle for the status quo; we are always looking for new ways to improve and grow.” He points to five core values that guide Mécanique PCI: humility, accountability, integrity and transparency, a quest for self-improvement, and employee well-being.
Powering National-Scale Projects
These qualities have been essential on large-scale, technically demanding projects. One recent example is Mécanique PCI’s role in the modernization of the Gatineau Energy Centre, part of the Government of Canada’s Energy Services Acquisition Program (ESAP). “It was truly an honor for Mécanique PCI to be part of such a significant national initiative,” notes Istead. “Our role was to execute Black & McDonald’s vision for the project, ensuring that all aspects of the mechanical work were carried out with precision and expertise.”
The scope of work was extensive. “We had more than 35 of our team members on site, each contributing to the installation, maintenance, and optimization of various energy systems,” he says. “Our team was fully committed to meeting the demanding timelines while ensuring the highest standards of quality.” The project was an opportunity to demonstrate what the company could do on a national level. “Being part of ESAP allowed us to showcase our capabilities in executing complex projects and solidified our position as leaders in building mechanics.”
Pushing Technical Boundaries
Complexity and innovation have defined many of PCI’s projects, including a 2016 contract for the HEXO marijuana production facility. “At the time, this was one of the most technically complex mechanical system executions we had undertaken,” Istead says. “The dual challenge of design and execution under tight deadlines added considerable pressure.” Mécanique PCI handled plumbing, heating, irrigation, and contributed to design. “Despite this, our team successfully delivered a complete, efficient, and regulation-compliant system on time.”
A Key Shift into Mid-Rise Projects
In 2019, the company expanded into mid-rise developments with the Agora project. “It marked our first venture into mid-rise type of projects,” Istead explains. “Despite being a challenging project, it was a crucial learning experience.” The commercial-residential project included 80 units and extensive fit-ups. “We faced our share of difficulties and made some early mistakes, but these were essential in helping us grow as a team.”
Handling Complex Modernizations
Another milestone came in 2021 with the Terrasses de la Chaudière Modernization, under PCL Construction. “It involved the comprehensive modernization of a significant federal office tower complex in Gatineau,” notes Istead. The project spanned multiple phases and required high-level coordination. “This project lasted three years and was our first project valued at over $20 million.” As prime mechanical contractor, PCI managed numerous sub-trades. “It reinforced our ability to handle large-scale, complex projects and solidified our reputation for delivering high-quality results, even when faced with significant logistical challenges.”
Expanding into Ontario
The company’s first major Ontario project came in 2022 with Soho Champagne 2, a 22-storey residential tower in Ottawa. “This was the first time we had to work under the new Ontario plumbing code and legislation,” says Istead. “Navigating these new requirements was challenging, but it proved to be a valuable experience.” The team adapted and delivered. “Successfully completing this project… gave us the confidence to pursue similar projects in the region moving forward.”
Mécanique PCI’s approach to client and partner relationships is equally deliberate. “We understand that trust is foundational in our industry, and our approach is centered on being honest, reliable, and consistent in all our dealings,” Istead explains. “By always being transparent about project timelines, budgets, and challenges, we ensure open communication, addressing issues before they become problems.”
Innovation and People
Adaptation has been key to PCI’s long-term success. “Many of our team members are tech-savvy and eager to learn new tools and techniques that allow us to stay ahead of industry trends,” Istead says. “This drive to challenge what we already know and continuously seek improvement enables us to innovate and deliver better solutions, faster.”
Training and knowledge-sharing are embedded in company culture. “We actively attend industry conventions and events to learn about new technologies, techniques, and trends,” adds Istead. “We make it a priority to share any new trends, insights, or best practices with the entire team.”
Company culture, he adds, plays a critical role in performance. “The performance and commitment of our employees are the foundation upon which our organization thrives,” says Istead. “When a business attracts and retains quality people, it creates a snowball effect—motivating even more talented individuals to want to join and contribute.”
Sustainable Expansion
Looking ahead, the company is focused on scaling sustainably. “One of our main focuses moving forward is bringing the business to maturity when it comes to our high-level procedures and workflows,” says Istead. The company is targeting the delivery of 1,500 residential units over the next three years in the Gatineau and Ottawa regions. “These projects will push us to enhance our capacity and refine our operations further.”
At the same time, PCI is preparing to expand its internal capabilities. “We plan to expand our facilities to dive deeper into the prefabrication of mechanical systems,” he adds. “To support this growth, we are aiming to solidify our labor force at around 150 employees.”
With a strong foundation and clear direction, Mécanique PCI is ready for its next phase. “We’re also excited about taking on special projects, similar to the ESAP project, outside of our city,” says Istead. “We’ve developed the expertise in managing niche projects and believe these opportunities will allow us to expand our portfolio.”
For more information, please visit www.mecaniquepci.com/en/
