Kevin Hall
M.Eng., P.E., ET, CWBSP, PMSFPE
AFSA
Director of Engineering
Kevin Hall, M.Eng., P.E., ET, CWBSP, PMSFPE, is the director of engineering and technical services for the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA). He is a member of several National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) technical committees responsible for developing the model codes and standards, including, NFPA 13/13R/13D Installation of Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 14 Installation of Standpipes and Hose Systems, NFPA 20 Installation of Stationary Fire Pumps for Fire Protection, NFPA 25 Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, and NFPA 200 Hanging, Bracing, and Anchorage of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems. He also represents AFSA on numerous UL technical committees responsible for revising and maintaining the product standards used in the sprinkler industry. He is a registered professional engineer in Delaware and Maryland, NICET III certified in water-based system layout, a certified water-based system professional through NFPA, and a professional member of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE). He earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering degrees from the University of Maryland College Park in fire protection engineering. In 2021, he was recognized as one of SFPE’s “5 Under 35” award recipients. Prior to his association and committee work, he worked for Reliance Fire Protection in Baltimore, Maryland as a project manager overseeing projects of various sizes and complexity.
Updates to NFPA 13: Installation
Updates to NFPA 13: Discharge
Updates to NFPA 14
M.Eng., P.E., ET, CWBSP, PMSFPE
AFSA
Director of Engineering
Kevin Hall, M.Eng., P.E., ET, CWBSP, PMSFPE, is the director of engineering and technical services for the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA). He is a member of several National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) technical committees responsible for developing the model codes and standards, including, NFPA 13/13R/13D Installation of Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 14 Installation of Standpipes and Hose Systems, NFPA 20 Installation of Stationary Fire Pumps for Fire Protection, NFPA 25 Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, and NFPA 200 Hanging, Bracing, and Anchorage of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems. He also represents AFSA on numerous UL technical committees responsible for revising and maintaining the product standards used in the sprinkler industry. He is a registered professional engineer in Delaware and Maryland, NICET III certified in water-based system layout, a certified water-based system professional through NFPA, and a professional member of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE). He earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering degrees from the University of Maryland College Park in fire protection engineering. In 2021, he was recognized as one of SFPE’s “5 Under 35” award recipients. Prior to his association and committee work, he worked for Reliance Fire Protection in Baltimore, Maryland as a project manager overseeing projects of various sizes and complexity.
Updates to NFPA 13: Installation
Updates to NFPA 13: Discharge
Updates to NFPA 14
Jeff Hebenstreit
UL Solutions
Principal Engineer
Jeff Hebenstreit is a Principal Engineer and a Distinguished Member of Technical Staff at UL Solutions specializing in water-based fire suppression products. During his 23-year career at UL, he has been involved with several of UL’s testing and certification activities. He is a member of several NFPA Technical Committees including Sprinkler System Installation Criteria, Hanging and Bracing of Water Based Fire Protection Systems, Private Water Supply Piping Systems, and Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems. Jeff obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Ask the Experts
UL Solutions
Principal Engineer
Jeff Hebenstreit is a Principal Engineer and a Distinguished Member of Technical Staff at UL Solutions specializing in water-based fire suppression products. During his 23-year career at UL, he has been involved with several of UL’s testing and certification activities. He is a member of several NFPA Technical Committees including Sprinkler System Installation Criteria, Hanging and Bracing of Water Based Fire Protection Systems, Private Water Supply Piping Systems, and Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems. Jeff obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Ask the Experts
Keith Heckler
MEng, PE
National Fire Academy
Keith is a retired Authority Having Jurisdiction and currently serves as the Fire Prevention: Technical curriculum director at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Md. Keith has Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland. He also has a professional engineering license.
Coordination in the Field (Panel)
Installation Practices – Enforcement vs. Application
MEng, PE
National Fire Academy
Keith is a retired Authority Having Jurisdiction and currently serves as the Fire Prevention: Technical curriculum director at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Md. Keith has Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland. He also has a professional engineering license.
Coordination in the Field (Panel)
Installation Practices – Enforcement vs. Application
Don Hopkins
P.E.
Jensen Hughes Inc.
Vice President
Don Hopkins is vice president and global fire suppression service line leader for Jensen Hughes. He has B.S. and M.S. degrees in Fire Protection Engineering and is a registered fire protection engineer in multiple states (CA, DC, LA, MA, MD, NJ, NY, and WY). Don has over 29 years of experience in fire protection engineering, is a professional member of SFPE, and currently serves on multiple NFPA technical committees. Don has technical experience in fire protection and fire alarm system design, code consulting, forensic/litigation support, corrosion evaluations, research/fire testing, performance-based design, fire/smoke modeling ,and timed-egress analyses.
Preaction Systems: Where Alarms and Sprinklers Meet
P.E.
Jensen Hughes Inc.
Vice President
Don Hopkins is vice president and global fire suppression service line leader for Jensen Hughes. He has B.S. and M.S. degrees in Fire Protection Engineering and is a registered fire protection engineer in multiple states (CA, DC, LA, MA, MD, NJ, NY, and WY). Don has over 29 years of experience in fire protection engineering, is a professional member of SFPE, and currently serves on multiple NFPA technical committees. Don has technical experience in fire protection and fire alarm system design, code consulting, forensic/litigation support, corrosion evaluations, research/fire testing, performance-based design, fire/smoke modeling ,and timed-egress analyses.
Preaction Systems: Where Alarms and Sprinklers Meet
Mark Hopkins
P.E., FSFPE
Summit Fire National Consulting
Engineering Director
Mark Hopkins, P.E., FSFPE, engineering director and industry liaison with Summit Fire Consulting, is a registered fire protection engineer with over 30 years of experience in the fire protection industry. He has B.S. ('92) and M.S. ('96) degrees from the University of Maryland, College Park, in fire protection engineering. Hopkins has experience as a sprinkler fitter, designer, inspector, contractor, and engineer. He is a member of the SFPE Committee on Public Outreach and Advocacy, Existing Buildings, and Performance-Based Design Standards Development. He has been a member of numerous NFPA technical committees, including, but not limited to, NFPA 13D, 13R, 13 (SSI, AAC, SSI, HBS, and SSD), 25, 30, 72, 101, 101A, 200, 232, 550, 551, 909, 914, and 5000. Hopkins currently serves on the NFPA 13, 72, 200, 909, and 914 technical committees. He has authored many articles and publications and is an SFPE Fellow, president of the SFPE Chesapeake Chapter, and a Maryland State Fire Prevention Commissioner.
Performance of N2 Generators and Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor for Dry Pipe Systems
Water Supply Evaluations
P.E., FSFPE
Summit Fire National Consulting
Engineering Director
Mark Hopkins, P.E., FSFPE, engineering director and industry liaison with Summit Fire Consulting, is a registered fire protection engineer with over 30 years of experience in the fire protection industry. He has B.S. ('92) and M.S. ('96) degrees from the University of Maryland, College Park, in fire protection engineering. Hopkins has experience as a sprinkler fitter, designer, inspector, contractor, and engineer. He is a member of the SFPE Committee on Public Outreach and Advocacy, Existing Buildings, and Performance-Based Design Standards Development. He has been a member of numerous NFPA technical committees, including, but not limited to, NFPA 13D, 13R, 13 (SSI, AAC, SSI, HBS, and SSD), 25, 30, 72, 101, 101A, 200, 232, 550, 551, 909, 914, and 5000. Hopkins currently serves on the NFPA 13, 72, 200, 909, and 914 technical committees. He has authored many articles and publications and is an SFPE Fellow, president of the SFPE Chesapeake Chapter, and a Maryland State Fire Prevention Commissioner.
Performance of N2 Generators and Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor for Dry Pipe Systems
Water Supply Evaluations
Taylor Johnson
Atlanta Winsupply
President
Taylor M. Johnson joined Atlanta Winsupply, a local branch of Winsupply, Inc., specializing in fire protection fabrication and distribution, as a territory sales manager in January 2021 before becoming president and shareholder in February 2023. Johnson's fire protection industry experience spans nearly a decade and includes being director of global marketing for SPP Pumps and SyncroFlo, Inc., and business development manager for Globe Fire Sprinkler Corporation (acquired by Victaulic in 2019). Her education includes a Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in public relations with a minor in music and entertainment as a business, Winsupply’s Management Development Training Program, and the Dale Carnegie Sales Training – Winning with Relationship Selling. Johnson has served as a board member and executive director for the Georgia Fire Sprinkler Association and is a current board member for the Heroes First Foundation while also serving on AFSA’s NextGen Initiative. Born and raised in Covington, Georgia, Johnson currently resides in Atlanta with her partner and their beloved animals. She believes a foundation of trust, integrity, communication, and resilience serve as the fundamentals of success in her personal and professional relationships.
Women in the Industry
Atlanta Winsupply
President
Taylor M. Johnson joined Atlanta Winsupply, a local branch of Winsupply, Inc., specializing in fire protection fabrication and distribution, as a territory sales manager in January 2021 before becoming president and shareholder in February 2023. Johnson's fire protection industry experience spans nearly a decade and includes being director of global marketing for SPP Pumps and SyncroFlo, Inc., and business development manager for Globe Fire Sprinkler Corporation (acquired by Victaulic in 2019). Her education includes a Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in public relations with a minor in music and entertainment as a business, Winsupply’s Management Development Training Program, and the Dale Carnegie Sales Training – Winning with Relationship Selling. Johnson has served as a board member and executive director for the Georgia Fire Sprinkler Association and is a current board member for the Heroes First Foundation while also serving on AFSA’s NextGen Initiative. Born and raised in Covington, Georgia, Johnson currently resides in Atlanta with her partner and their beloved animals. She believes a foundation of trust, integrity, communication, and resilience serve as the fundamentals of success in her personal and professional relationships.
Women in the Industry
Alan Johnston
BSME
Hydratec, Inc.
President
Alan Johnston has been president of Hydratec, Inc., since 1972. Beginning with providing sprinkler system design services, Hydratec went on to develop software for hydraulic analysis, material fabrication, AutoCAD, and Revit-based design of fire protection sprinkler systems. Alan holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and has been involved in design, programming, training and support within Hydratec. Alan is also the holder of several U.S. patents including one to simplify the retrofit of sprinkler systems into single-family homes. Alan has provided advanced training on the latest features of the HydraCAD software to groups of existing users in cities around the United States and Canada, as well as teaching classes on hydraulic calculations. He is also a co-instructor of the AFSA Intermediate Design School. His passionate interest in the use of BIM-related software in the design of fire sprinkler systems has been an important application of his more than 50 years of experience in this industry.
Pipe Size Estimating and Quick Calcs
BSME
Hydratec, Inc.
President
Alan Johnston has been president of Hydratec, Inc., since 1972. Beginning with providing sprinkler system design services, Hydratec went on to develop software for hydraulic analysis, material fabrication, AutoCAD, and Revit-based design of fire protection sprinkler systems. Alan holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and has been involved in design, programming, training and support within Hydratec. Alan is also the holder of several U.S. patents including one to simplify the retrofit of sprinkler systems into single-family homes. Alan has provided advanced training on the latest features of the HydraCAD software to groups of existing users in cities around the United States and Canada, as well as teaching classes on hydraulic calculations. He is also a co-instructor of the AFSA Intermediate Design School. His passionate interest in the use of BIM-related software in the design of fire sprinkler systems has been an important application of his more than 50 years of experience in this industry.
Pipe Size Estimating and Quick Calcs
Matt Klaus
P.E.
NFPA
Director
Matt Klaus is a senior principal fire protection engineer at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), where he is responsible for NFPA documents addressing commissioningintegrated system testing and automatic sprinkler systems. He presently holds a bachelor's degree in civil engineering as well as a master’s degree in fire protection engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Klaus has extensive fire protection engineering consulting experience where he was a project manager for projects in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, the Kingdom of Bahrain, as well as projects across the United States. His experience includes designing and commissioning fire protection systems including smoke control systems, suppression systems and fire alarm systems. His project work includes the use of fire and egress modeling software for engineering analyses of roadway tunnels, rail systems, football stadiums, high-rise buildings, shopping malls, and transportation hubs.
Ask the Experts
P.E.
NFPA
Director
Matt Klaus is a senior principal fire protection engineer at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), where he is responsible for NFPA documents addressing commissioningintegrated system testing and automatic sprinkler systems. He presently holds a bachelor's degree in civil engineering as well as a master’s degree in fire protection engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Klaus has extensive fire protection engineering consulting experience where he was a project manager for projects in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, the Kingdom of Bahrain, as well as projects across the United States. His experience includes designing and commissioning fire protection systems including smoke control systems, suppression systems and fire alarm systems. His project work includes the use of fire and egress modeling software for engineering analyses of roadway tunnels, rail systems, football stadiums, high-rise buildings, shopping malls, and transportation hubs.
Ask the Experts
Carl Koslowski
P.E.
Ferguson Fire & Fabrication
Guest
Carl Koslowski leads the design managers at Ferguson Fire Design. In his role, he provides technical expertise and support for a staff of 40 designers. Throughout his 35-year career, he has performed both fire protection design and engineering services for a varied client base. Prior to joining Ferguson, he served as president of Rybak Engineering. At Rybak, he provided the northeast region with full shop drawing services including detailed fabrication lists. Under Carl’s leadership, Rybak developed custom electronic stock list files that were integrated directly into the Ferguson environment. Since joining Ferguson in 2022, he has had an opportunity to share, refine, and develop stock listing best practices that have been used by designers across the United States. He is a licensed fire protection engineer in several states and is a NICET IV fire sprinkler designer. In his spare time, Carl enjoys golfing and exploring the waters near Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
Fabrication & Material Listing Best Practices
P.E.
Ferguson Fire & Fabrication
Guest
Carl Koslowski leads the design managers at Ferguson Fire Design. In his role, he provides technical expertise and support for a staff of 40 designers. Throughout his 35-year career, he has performed both fire protection design and engineering services for a varied client base. Prior to joining Ferguson, he served as president of Rybak Engineering. At Rybak, he provided the northeast region with full shop drawing services including detailed fabrication lists. Under Carl’s leadership, Rybak developed custom electronic stock list files that were integrated directly into the Ferguson environment. Since joining Ferguson in 2022, he has had an opportunity to share, refine, and develop stock listing best practices that have been used by designers across the United States. He is a licensed fire protection engineer in several states and is a NICET IV fire sprinkler designer. In his spare time, Carl enjoys golfing and exploring the waters near Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
Fabrication & Material Listing Best Practices
James Lake
Viking Corporation
Vice President
Jim Lake is the vice president of training and education at Viking. Jim's more than 35 years of background in the sprinkler industry is varied and progressively responsible and includes more than 20 years with NFPA. Likewise, Jim has presented at too many conferences to count and has an extensive technical background as well.
Developing Targeted and Effective Training
Viking Corporation
Vice President
Jim Lake is the vice president of training and education at Viking. Jim's more than 35 years of background in the sprinkler industry is varied and progressively responsible and includes more than 20 years with NFPA. Likewise, Jim has presented at too many conferences to count and has an extensive technical background as well.
Developing Targeted and Effective Training
Russell Leavitt
SET
Telgian Corporation
NA
Russ Leavitt is the executive chairman of Telgian Corporation. A graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, he holds a Level IV certification from NICET in Water-Based Systems Layout and is a Certified Fire Protection Specialist. Russ is a licensed contractor with 43 years of experience in the design, installation, and testing of fire protection systems. He is the immediate past chair of the NFPA board of directors, where he has served since 2014. He sits on the NFPA 13 Sprinkler System Discharge Criteria and Installation technical committees and several other technical committees. He also serves on the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Board of Governors. Russ is a long-time senior instructor for AFSA and has authored several articles and training materials, including AFSA’s ITM Inspector Development Program and the online hydraulic calculations series. Russ was the 2013 recipient of AFSA's prestigious Henry S. Parmelee Award.
Latest in Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems (ASRS)
Ask the Experts
SET
Telgian Corporation
NA
Russ Leavitt is the executive chairman of Telgian Corporation. A graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, he holds a Level IV certification from NICET in Water-Based Systems Layout and is a Certified Fire Protection Specialist. Russ is a licensed contractor with 43 years of experience in the design, installation, and testing of fire protection systems. He is the immediate past chair of the NFPA board of directors, where he has served since 2014. He sits on the NFPA 13 Sprinkler System Discharge Criteria and Installation technical committees and several other technical committees. He also serves on the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Board of Governors. Russ is a long-time senior instructor for AFSA and has authored several articles and training materials, including AFSA’s ITM Inspector Development Program and the online hydraulic calculations series. Russ was the 2013 recipient of AFSA's prestigious Henry S. Parmelee Award.
Latest in Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems (ASRS)
Ask the Experts
Jeff Lewis
CET, CFPS
VSC Fire & Security, Inc.
Vice president of inspections
Jeff Lewis is vice president of Inspections for VSC Fire & Security, Inc. He holds an A.A.S. degree in Fire Protection Technology from Guilford Technical Community College and a B.S. Degree in Occupational Safety and Health with a concentration in Fire Science from Columbia Southern University. His NICET certifications include Level III in the Inspection and Testing of Water-Based Systems, Level III in Special Hazards Suppression Systems, Level II in Fire Alarm Systems, and Level II in the Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems. He is also an NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist. Lewis served as a member of the review committee for the AFSA ITM Inspector Development Program and is currently serving on the Board of Directors for the Virginia Chapter of the AFSA.
ITM: What Can We Do to Improve Reliability?
NFPA 25 and the Service Technician
CET, CFPS
VSC Fire & Security, Inc.
Vice president of inspections
Jeff Lewis is vice president of Inspections for VSC Fire & Security, Inc. He holds an A.A.S. degree in Fire Protection Technology from Guilford Technical Community College and a B.S. Degree in Occupational Safety and Health with a concentration in Fire Science from Columbia Southern University. His NICET certifications include Level III in the Inspection and Testing of Water-Based Systems, Level III in Special Hazards Suppression Systems, Level II in Fire Alarm Systems, and Level II in the Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems. He is also an NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist. Lewis served as a member of the review committee for the AFSA ITM Inspector Development Program and is currently serving on the Board of Directors for the Virginia Chapter of the AFSA.
ITM: What Can We Do to Improve Reliability?
NFPA 25 and the Service Technician
Steve Leyton
Protection Design and Consulting
President
Steve Leyton is President of Protection Design and Consulting in San Diego, California. He began his career in 1981 on the design/build side of the fire sprinkler industry and founded Protection Design in 1995 to focus on architectural and developer clients, in addition to working with the contractor community. His professional affiliations include membership in NFPA, International Code Council (ICC), AFSA, California Fire Prevention Officers Northern and Southern Sections, and the San Diego Fire Protection Association. Steve has represented AFSA as a principal member of the NFPA 13 Technical Committee for Residential Sprinklers and is chair of the NFPA 14 Technical Committee on Standpipes. He has served on several current and past advisory groups for the California State Fire Marshal’s office, including chair of the installation committee for the 2009 Residential Sprinkler Code Adoption Task Group and was co-chair of the ICC Ad-Hoc Committee on Residential Fire Sprinklers in 2005. Leyton has worked on a wide range of residential, commercial/industrial, institutional, and high-rise projects in the USA, Mexico, and Asia.
Working Successfully With Independent Designers
Updates to NFPA 14
Coordination in the Field (Panel)
Protection Design and Consulting
President
Steve Leyton is President of Protection Design and Consulting in San Diego, California. He began his career in 1981 on the design/build side of the fire sprinkler industry and founded Protection Design in 1995 to focus on architectural and developer clients, in addition to working with the contractor community. His professional affiliations include membership in NFPA, International Code Council (ICC), AFSA, California Fire Prevention Officers Northern and Southern Sections, and the San Diego Fire Protection Association. Steve has represented AFSA as a principal member of the NFPA 13 Technical Committee for Residential Sprinklers and is chair of the NFPA 14 Technical Committee on Standpipes. He has served on several current and past advisory groups for the California State Fire Marshal’s office, including chair of the installation committee for the 2009 Residential Sprinkler Code Adoption Task Group and was co-chair of the ICC Ad-Hoc Committee on Residential Fire Sprinklers in 2005. Leyton has worked on a wide range of residential, commercial/industrial, institutional, and high-rise projects in the USA, Mexico, and Asia.
Working Successfully With Independent Designers
Updates to NFPA 14
Coordination in the Field (Panel)
Lainey Liotta
BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems
Global Segment Manager
Lainey Liotta is the senior fire protection market manager for Lubrizol where she is responsible for setting the global business strategy for BlazeMaster Fire Sprinkler Systems and Freezemaster Antifreeze. A Penn State graduate with degrees in Marketing and Spanish, Lainey started her career as an intern at Tyco (now Johnson Controls). Throughout her five years there, she held various product management and commercial roles. Lainey is passionate about advancing the fire sprinkler industry and promoting the wonderful opportunities within it. She never hesitates to roll up her sleeves and get things done, which is demonstrated by her active involvement in AFSA (member of M/S Council and NextGen Committee,) NFSA (vice chair of SAM, chair of FLC, member of QA, ITM, T&E, and Marketing & Outreach Committees,) and IFSA (board member).
Myth Busters: CPVC Fire Sprinkler Systems Edition
Women in the Industry
BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems
Global Segment Manager
Lainey Liotta is the senior fire protection market manager for Lubrizol where she is responsible for setting the global business strategy for BlazeMaster Fire Sprinkler Systems and Freezemaster Antifreeze. A Penn State graduate with degrees in Marketing and Spanish, Lainey started her career as an intern at Tyco (now Johnson Controls). Throughout her five years there, she held various product management and commercial roles. Lainey is passionate about advancing the fire sprinkler industry and promoting the wonderful opportunities within it. She never hesitates to roll up her sleeves and get things done, which is demonstrated by her active involvement in AFSA (member of M/S Council and NextGen Committee,) NFSA (vice chair of SAM, chair of FLC, member of QA, ITM, T&E, and Marketing & Outreach Committees,) and IFSA (board member).
Myth Busters: CPVC Fire Sprinkler Systems Edition
Women in the Industry
David Lowrey
City of Boulder Fire-Rescue
Division Chief/Fire Marshal
David Lowrey serves as chief fire marshal with the City of Boulder Fire-Rescue in Boulder, Colorado. Lowrey has been with Boulder Fire for 28 years. Prior to his appointment to the position of Division of Chief/Fire Marshal, he served eight years as the department's fire protection engineer. Lowrey oversees the Community Risk Reduction Division including code enforcement, building construction, life safety education, and fire investigations. He has extensive experience in plan review and inspecting and acceptance testing of fire protection systems. Lowrey currently serves as a principal member of the NFPA 13 technical committee for Sprinkler Installation and NFPA 13's Correlating Committee. He is the current chair of the NFPA 72 technical committee for Fundamentals of Fire Alarm and Signaling Systems and an alternate on NFPA 3 and 4. Lowrey also serves as the technical chair for NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers. He earned his B.S. in Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology at Oklahoma State University.
Expectations of the AHJ and Contractor
Ask the Experts
City of Boulder Fire-Rescue
Division Chief/Fire Marshal
David Lowrey serves as chief fire marshal with the City of Boulder Fire-Rescue in Boulder, Colorado. Lowrey has been with Boulder Fire for 28 years. Prior to his appointment to the position of Division of Chief/Fire Marshal, he served eight years as the department's fire protection engineer. Lowrey oversees the Community Risk Reduction Division including code enforcement, building construction, life safety education, and fire investigations. He has extensive experience in plan review and inspecting and acceptance testing of fire protection systems. Lowrey currently serves as a principal member of the NFPA 13 technical committee for Sprinkler Installation and NFPA 13's Correlating Committee. He is the current chair of the NFPA 72 technical committee for Fundamentals of Fire Alarm and Signaling Systems and an alternate on NFPA 3 and 4. Lowrey also serves as the technical chair for NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers. He earned his B.S. in Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology at Oklahoma State University.
Expectations of the AHJ and Contractor
Ask the Experts
Joshua McDonald
MSET, CFPS, CWBSP, WBITM
AFSA
Manager Engineering & Technical Services
Joshua McDonald, MSET, CFPS, CWBSP, WBITM, is the manager of technical services and engineering for the American Fire Sprinkler Association. He is responsible for developing, updating, and delivering technical content. He has experience in training for fire protection industry professionals, including web-based and hands-on learning. As a manufacturer, McDonald has been involved in the research, development, and technical services of fire protection products and has experience with risk engineering applied to the fire protection analysis and the ITM of fire protection systems. He is a member of several National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) technical committees responsible for developing the model codes and standards. He also represents AFSA on UL standard technical panels, responsible for revising and maintaining the product standards used in the sprinkler industry. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in fire protection and safety engineering technology and a Master of Science degree from Oklahoma State University in fire safety and explosion protection. McDonald is a member of NFPA.
Updates to NFPA 25
Commodity Classification
MSET, CFPS, CWBSP, WBITM
AFSA
Manager Engineering & Technical Services
Joshua McDonald, MSET, CFPS, CWBSP, WBITM, is the manager of technical services and engineering for the American Fire Sprinkler Association. He is responsible for developing, updating, and delivering technical content. He has experience in training for fire protection industry professionals, including web-based and hands-on learning. As a manufacturer, McDonald has been involved in the research, development, and technical services of fire protection products and has experience with risk engineering applied to the fire protection analysis and the ITM of fire protection systems. He is a member of several National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) technical committees responsible for developing the model codes and standards. He also represents AFSA on UL standard technical panels, responsible for revising and maintaining the product standards used in the sprinkler industry. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in fire protection and safety engineering technology and a Master of Science degree from Oklahoma State University in fire safety and explosion protection. McDonald is a member of NFPA.
Updates to NFPA 25
Commodity Classification
Katie Meehan
VSC Fire & Security, Inc.
Marketing Director
Katie Meehan is the Marketing Director for VSC Fire & Security. Born and raised in Virginia, Katie Meehan began pursuing a career in marketing and branding upon graduating from Virginia Tech. With over a decade of experience in brand management and business development, she is passionate about companies finding their voice, telling their story and connecting with people. Prior to joining VSC, she worked in the craft beverage sector with wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries. She is heavily involved in the fire sprinkler industry, and values relationships with employees, vendors, and customers. Meehan serves on several national committees for the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) and is currently the chair of Next Gen Initiative. She is focused on fostering relationships both internally and externally, and always putting people first. When she isn’t in the office, she can usually be found teaching at the yoga studio. Meehan lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her husband, Sires.
Women in the Industry
VSC Fire & Security, Inc.
Marketing Director
Katie Meehan is the Marketing Director for VSC Fire & Security. Born and raised in Virginia, Katie Meehan began pursuing a career in marketing and branding upon graduating from Virginia Tech. With over a decade of experience in brand management and business development, she is passionate about companies finding their voice, telling their story and connecting with people. Prior to joining VSC, she worked in the craft beverage sector with wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries. She is heavily involved in the fire sprinkler industry, and values relationships with employees, vendors, and customers. Meehan serves on several national committees for the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) and is currently the chair of Next Gen Initiative. She is focused on fostering relationships both internally and externally, and always putting people first. When she isn’t in the office, she can usually be found teaching at the yoga studio. Meehan lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her husband, Sires.
Women in the Industry
Michael Meehan
VSC Fire & Security, Inc.
Chairman
A lifelong Virginian, Michael Meehan started his career with VSC as a pipe fitter apprentice while earning a degree in public administration from George Mason University. Immediately upon graduation in 1981, he entered the VSC Springfield, Va., office as a design trainee. Such foundational bedrock created strong technical skills that eventually led to estimating, project management, divisional, corporate, and ownership roles. Having gone from pulling pipe wrenches to C-suite leadership has led to Meehan’s deep understanding of construction, fire protection contracting, and a foundational life perspective on value. Meehan has served on numerous community and fire protection industry boards. His accomplishments include being the past chair of the American Fire Sprinkler Association and a 20-year veteran of the NFPA 13 committee.
Paths to Progress: Powerhouse Professionals in the Industry
VSC Fire & Security, Inc.
Chairman
A lifelong Virginian, Michael Meehan started his career with VSC as a pipe fitter apprentice while earning a degree in public administration from George Mason University. Immediately upon graduation in 1981, he entered the VSC Springfield, Va., office as a design trainee. Such foundational bedrock created strong technical skills that eventually led to estimating, project management, divisional, corporate, and ownership roles. Having gone from pulling pipe wrenches to C-suite leadership has led to Meehan’s deep understanding of construction, fire protection contracting, and a foundational life perspective on value. Meehan has served on numerous community and fire protection industry boards. His accomplishments include being the past chair of the American Fire Sprinkler Association and a 20-year veteran of the NFPA 13 committee.
Paths to Progress: Powerhouse Professionals in the Industry
Shawn Mims
ServiceTrade
Vice President, Product Marketing
Shawn Mims is vice president of marketing and one of the founding employees of ServiceTrade, the leader in operating software for commercial contractors. Shawn graduated from North Carolina State University’s Mechanical Engineering program then began his career as a national commercial contractor. Shawn’s engineering background gives him a unique perspective of how technology can solve the complex problems unique to commercial service contractors. He is especially adept in helping contractors use data to guide sound business strategies for efficient operations and scalable growth during a persistent skilled labor shortage. Shawn is co-author of Money for Nothing, and a popular speaker at the Digital Wrap Conference and other industry trade events.
Turn Deficiencies into Dollars
ServiceTrade
Vice President, Product Marketing
Shawn Mims is vice president of marketing and one of the founding employees of ServiceTrade, the leader in operating software for commercial contractors. Shawn graduated from North Carolina State University’s Mechanical Engineering program then began his career as a national commercial contractor. Shawn’s engineering background gives him a unique perspective of how technology can solve the complex problems unique to commercial service contractors. He is especially adept in helping contractors use data to guide sound business strategies for efficient operations and scalable growth during a persistent skilled labor shortage. Shawn is co-author of Money for Nothing, and a popular speaker at the Digital Wrap Conference and other industry trade events.
Turn Deficiencies into Dollars
Parks Moore
Pye-Barker Fire & Safety, LLC
Vice President of Engineering - Sprinkler Division
Parks Moore is the Vice President of Engineering for the Sprinkler Division for Pye-Barker Fire & Safety. He has been active in the fire protection industry for more than 20 years. He is the Chair for the AFSA Technical Advisory Committee and currently serves on the NFPA 13 Technical Committee for Installation and the NFPA 15 Water Spray Fixed Systems Technical Committee. He has previously served on the NFPA 13 Technical Committee for Hanging and Bracing. Moore is also a past board member of the American Fire Sprinkler Association. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Vanderbilt University and a Master’s in Business Administration from Tulane University He is a licensed professional fire protection engineer, a Certified Fire Protection Specialist, and holds a NICET IV certification in Water-Based Systems Layout.
Paths to Progress: Powerhouse Professionals in the Industry
Pye-Barker Fire & Safety, LLC
Vice President of Engineering - Sprinkler Division
Parks Moore is the Vice President of Engineering for the Sprinkler Division for Pye-Barker Fire & Safety. He has been active in the fire protection industry for more than 20 years. He is the Chair for the AFSA Technical Advisory Committee and currently serves on the NFPA 13 Technical Committee for Installation and the NFPA 15 Water Spray Fixed Systems Technical Committee. He has previously served on the NFPA 13 Technical Committee for Hanging and Bracing. Moore is also a past board member of the American Fire Sprinkler Association. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Vanderbilt University and a Master’s in Business Administration from Tulane University He is a licensed professional fire protection engineer, a Certified Fire Protection Specialist, and holds a NICET IV certification in Water-Based Systems Layout.
Paths to Progress: Powerhouse Professionals in the Industry