Scott Golly
P.E.
Jensen Hughes
Vice President - FBS Service Line Leader Special Hazards
Scott Golly is a Vice President and Service Line Leader in Special Hazards for Jensen Hughes and works as a subject matter expert, mentor, instructor, project manager, and industry advocate. Mr. Golly has experience in designing fire alarm and emergency communication systems, water-based fire suppression, gaseous suppression systems, conducting performance-based assessments, and preparing code and life safety evaluations for new and existing buildings. He oversees fire protection system installations, system failure investigations, and is serving as a technical expert for legal cases. Scott is a registered fire protection engineer. He has manufacturer-specific fire alarm system training and knowledge for numerous brands of fire alarm systems. Mr. Golly has been, and continues to be, an active volunteer fire fighter for over 33 years with experience in Baltimore and Harford counties in Maryland.
Fire Protection Challenges for Li-Ion Batteries
P.E.
Jensen Hughes
Vice President - FBS Service Line Leader Special Hazards
Scott Golly is a Vice President and Service Line Leader in Special Hazards for Jensen Hughes and works as a subject matter expert, mentor, instructor, project manager, and industry advocate. Mr. Golly has experience in designing fire alarm and emergency communication systems, water-based fire suppression, gaseous suppression systems, conducting performance-based assessments, and preparing code and life safety evaluations for new and existing buildings. He oversees fire protection system installations, system failure investigations, and is serving as a technical expert for legal cases. Scott is a registered fire protection engineer. He has manufacturer-specific fire alarm system training and knowledge for numerous brands of fire alarm systems. Mr. Golly has been, and continues to be, an active volunteer fire fighter for over 33 years with experience in Baltimore and Harford counties in Maryland.
Fire Protection Challenges for Li-Ion Batteries
Louis Guerrazzi
PMSFPE
Victaulic
Application Engineer
Louis Guerrazzi, PMSFPE, is a seasoned fire protection professional with over a decade of industry experience spanning engineering, product standards, professional development, and business strategy. He currently serves as an Application Engineer at Victaulic, where he supports clients and partners with expert guidance on fire suppression systems and mechanical piping solutions. Beyond his professional roles, Louis is an active contributor to standards development and education through numerous volunteer leadership positions. He has served for nearly a decade as a Technical Committee member on several standards including NFPA 13R, 14, 15, 20, 420, and 461. He also chaired the American Water Works Association’s Fire Protection Committee and held committee roles with ISO TC21/SC5 on fixed firefighting systems. Louis has also supported the broader engineering profession through service with ABET as a Board Delegate and served as Secretary/Treasurer for the SFPE New York Metro Chapter. His multi-faceted experience—from field application and business development to technical standards and professional education—makes him a compelling speaker with a unique, well-rounded perspective on the challenges and future of fire protection.
NFPA 420 Updates
The Cut and Dry of Dry Sprinklers
Ask the Experts, Part 1
Ask the Experts, Part 2
PMSFPE
Victaulic
Application Engineer
Louis Guerrazzi, PMSFPE, is a seasoned fire protection professional with over a decade of industry experience spanning engineering, product standards, professional development, and business strategy. He currently serves as an Application Engineer at Victaulic, where he supports clients and partners with expert guidance on fire suppression systems and mechanical piping solutions. Beyond his professional roles, Louis is an active contributor to standards development and education through numerous volunteer leadership positions. He has served for nearly a decade as a Technical Committee member on several standards including NFPA 13R, 14, 15, 20, 420, and 461. He also chaired the American Water Works Association’s Fire Protection Committee and held committee roles with ISO TC21/SC5 on fixed firefighting systems. Louis has also supported the broader engineering profession through service with ABET as a Board Delegate and served as Secretary/Treasurer for the SFPE New York Metro Chapter. His multi-faceted experience—from field application and business development to technical standards and professional education—makes him a compelling speaker with a unique, well-rounded perspective on the challenges and future of fire protection.
NFPA 420 Updates
The Cut and Dry of Dry Sprinklers
Ask the Experts, Part 1
Ask the Experts, Part 2
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 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 1 Fire Code, NFPA 13/13R/13D Installation of Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 14 Installation of Standpipe 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 earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering degrees from the University of Maryland College Park in fire protection engineering. 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) where he serves as an At-Large Board Member and Chair of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee for the Chesapeake Chapter. 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.
AFSA & NFPA Advancing the Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem
Proposed Updates to NFPA 13, 2028 Ed.
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 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 1 Fire Code, NFPA 13/13R/13D Installation of Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 14 Installation of Standpipe 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 earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering degrees from the University of Maryland College Park in fire protection engineering. 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) where he serves as an At-Large Board Member and Chair of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee for the Chesapeake Chapter. 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.
AFSA & NFPA Advancing the Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem
Proposed Updates to NFPA 13, 2028 Ed.
Kevin Hall
P.E., ET, CWBSP, FSFPE
AFSA
Director of Engineering
Kevin Hall, M.Eng., P.E., ET, CWBSP, PMSFPE, is the director of engineering 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 1 Fire Code, NFPA 13/13R/13D Installation of Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 14 Installation of Standpipe 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 earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering degrees from the University of Maryland College Park in fire protection engineering. 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) where he serves as an At-Large Board Member and Chair of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee for the Chesapeake Chapter. 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
Electrical Requirements for Fire Pumps
Proposed Updates to NFPA 14 and NFPA 20
P.E., ET, CWBSP, FSFPE
AFSA
Director of Engineering
Kevin Hall, M.Eng., P.E., ET, CWBSP, PMSFPE, is the director of engineering 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 1 Fire Code, NFPA 13/13R/13D Installation of Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 14 Installation of Standpipe 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 earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering degrees from the University of Maryland College Park in fire protection engineering. 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) where he serves as an At-Large Board Member and Chair of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee for the Chesapeake Chapter. 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
Electrical Requirements for Fire Pumps
Proposed Updates to NFPA 14 and NFPA 20
Samuel Harbert
Driven Fire Consultants
Design Manager
I joined the Driven Fire Consultants team in 2022 as an experienced designer with 12 years in the fire protection industry, including serving as the Fire & Emergency Services Manager for the Department of the Military in South Dakota as well as the Engineering and Fabrication manager for a fire protection contracting company for 5 years. I am currently an integral part of the training and sales sectors at Driven Fire Consultants. I am currently on the AFSA Designer Training Committee serving in a role to help improve the future of our industry.
Introduction to BIM
Good Listing Processes and Jobsite Organization
Driven Fire Consultants
Design Manager
I joined the Driven Fire Consultants team in 2022 as an experienced designer with 12 years in the fire protection industry, including serving as the Fire & Emergency Services Manager for the Department of the Military in South Dakota as well as the Engineering and Fabrication manager for a fire protection contracting company for 5 years. I am currently an integral part of the training and sales sectors at Driven Fire Consultants. I am currently on the AFSA Designer Training Committee serving in a role to help improve the future of our industry.
Introduction to BIM
Good Listing Processes and Jobsite Organization
Justin Hassell
Ferguson Fire & Fabrication
Business Development Manager
Justin is the Business Development Manager at Ferguson Fire & Fabrication, where he leads initiatives to introduce and expand innovative fire protection technologies and solutions. With a strong focus on integrating emerging strategies, Justin has been instrumental in launching Ferguson’s own brand of product solutions along with advanced systems like the UL-listed Automist water mist technology. In addition to his role at Ferguson, Justin is the host of the Fire Protection Insights: The Fire Safety Podcast. This platform brings together industry experts to discuss the latest advancements in fire protection technology, fabrication techniques, and sustainable solutions. He is NICET certified in Water-Based Systems Layout and has spent several years as a contractor designing all types of fire suppression systems.Justin's commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration within the fire protection industry underscores his dedication to enhancing safety standards and operational efficiency.
Emerging Technologies for the Fire Sprinkler Industry
Ferguson Fire & Fabrication
Business Development Manager
Justin is the Business Development Manager at Ferguson Fire & Fabrication, where he leads initiatives to introduce and expand innovative fire protection technologies and solutions. With a strong focus on integrating emerging strategies, Justin has been instrumental in launching Ferguson’s own brand of product solutions along with advanced systems like the UL-listed Automist water mist technology. In addition to his role at Ferguson, Justin is the host of the Fire Protection Insights: The Fire Safety Podcast. This platform brings together industry experts to discuss the latest advancements in fire protection technology, fabrication techniques, and sustainable solutions. He is NICET certified in Water-Based Systems Layout and has spent several years as a contractor designing all types of fire suppression systems.Justin's commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration within the fire protection industry underscores his dedication to enhancing safety standards and operational efficiency.
Emerging Technologies for the Fire Sprinkler Industry
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.
Antifreeze in Fire Sprinkler Systems
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.
Antifreeze in Fire Sprinkler Systems
Keith Heckler
MEng, PE
U.S. Fire Administration
Training Specialist
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.
Forward Flow Testing of Backflow Preventers?
MEng, PE
U.S. Fire Administration
Training Specialist
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.
Forward Flow Testing of Backflow Preventers?
Travis Hitzeman
Ferguson Fire & Fabrication
Director - Business Development
Travis Hitzeman is a seasoned sales leader with over 24 years of experience in construction sales, including 18+ years in sales management within the fire protection industry. He has built a reputation for cultivating strong, long-lasting relationships across the sector and for consistently leading high-performing teams that exceed market expectations. Travis has a proven history of driving revenue growth, expanding market share, and aligning strategic goals with business objectives. His success is rooted in his ability to develop and mentor industry-leading sales teams, foster strategic partnerships, and deliver sustained performance in competitive markets. Currently serving as Director of Sales for Ferguson Fire & Fabrication, Travis plays a pivotal role in advancing the company’s national presence. He continues to leverage his deep industry knowledge, leadership acumen, and networking expertise to elevate the Ferguson Fire & Fabrication brand and drive growth across key markets.
Paths to Progress: Powerhouse Sales - Focused Professionals in the Industry
Ferguson Fire & Fabrication
Director - Business Development
Travis Hitzeman is a seasoned sales leader with over 24 years of experience in construction sales, including 18+ years in sales management within the fire protection industry. He has built a reputation for cultivating strong, long-lasting relationships across the sector and for consistently leading high-performing teams that exceed market expectations. Travis has a proven history of driving revenue growth, expanding market share, and aligning strategic goals with business objectives. His success is rooted in his ability to develop and mentor industry-leading sales teams, foster strategic partnerships, and deliver sustained performance in competitive markets. Currently serving as Director of Sales for Ferguson Fire & Fabrication, Travis plays a pivotal role in advancing the company’s national presence. He continues to leverage his deep industry knowledge, leadership acumen, and networking expertise to elevate the Ferguson Fire & Fabrication brand and drive growth across key markets.
Paths to Progress: Powerhouse Sales - Focused Professionals in the Industry
Don Hopkins
P.E.
Hopkins Fire
Vice President
Don Hopkins, Jr., is a professional engineer with more than 30 years’ experience related to the design and installation of fire protection and fire alarm systems. Throughout his career, he has performed numerous fire and loss investigations for cases involving fires, fire protection system inadvertent discharges, fire protection and fire alarm system malfunctions, improper building and fire protection system design, and improper building construction. He has deposition and trial experience and has forensically analyzed a wide range of cases and assisted clients in litigation matters. Don has technical experience with the design of water-based fire suppression, gaseous suppression, fire alarm and emergency communication systems, code-consulting, forensics/litigation support, corrosion evaluations, research/fire testing, fire/smoke modeling and timed-egress analyses. He has experience with the development, installation, instrumentation, completion, and evaluation of small- and large-scale fire tests. He has overseen the installation of many fire protection systems and has investigated numerous system failures including pipe corrosion and sprinkler issues. Don was a long-time member of the NFPA 13 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems Sprinkler System Discharge (SSD) technical committee, the NFPA 25 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems technical committee, the NFPA 909/914 Protection of Cultural Resource Properties and Historic Structures technical committee, and the NFPA 232 Records Storage technical committee. Don is a member of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and a Fellow in the Society of Fire Protection Engineers.
Retrofitting Sprinklers in Historic Properties
P.E.
Hopkins Fire
Vice President
Don Hopkins, Jr., is a professional engineer with more than 30 years’ experience related to the design and installation of fire protection and fire alarm systems. Throughout his career, he has performed numerous fire and loss investigations for cases involving fires, fire protection system inadvertent discharges, fire protection and fire alarm system malfunctions, improper building and fire protection system design, and improper building construction. He has deposition and trial experience and has forensically analyzed a wide range of cases and assisted clients in litigation matters. Don has technical experience with the design of water-based fire suppression, gaseous suppression, fire alarm and emergency communication systems, code-consulting, forensics/litigation support, corrosion evaluations, research/fire testing, fire/smoke modeling and timed-egress analyses. He has experience with the development, installation, instrumentation, completion, and evaluation of small- and large-scale fire tests. He has overseen the installation of many fire protection systems and has investigated numerous system failures including pipe corrosion and sprinkler issues. Don was a long-time member of the NFPA 13 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems Sprinkler System Discharge (SSD) technical committee, the NFPA 25 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems technical committee, the NFPA 909/914 Protection of Cultural Resource Properties and Historic Structures technical committee, and the NFPA 232 Records Storage technical committee. Don is a member of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and a Fellow in the Society of Fire Protection Engineers.
Retrofitting Sprinklers in Historic Properties
Mark Hopkins
P.E., FSFPE
Summit Fire 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.
Automated Storage Warehouse Protection
Retrofitting Sprinklers in Historic Properties
P.E., FSFPE
Summit Fire 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.
Automated Storage Warehouse Protection
Retrofitting Sprinklers in Historic Properties
Brandon Ingram
P.E.
Summit Fire & Security, LLC
Fire Protection Consultant
Brandon Ingram, P.E., has over 12 years' experience in fire protection engineering and thermodynamics. His areas of expertise is smoke control systems, fire modeling, and code consulting. He currently works at Summit Fire Consulting as a fire protection engineer.
Automated Storage Warehouse Protection
P.E.
Summit Fire & Security, LLC
Fire Protection Consultant
Brandon Ingram, P.E., has over 12 years' experience in fire protection engineering and thermodynamics. His areas of expertise is smoke control systems, fire modeling, and code consulting. He currently works at Summit Fire Consulting as a fire protection engineer.
Automated Storage Warehouse Protection
Duane Johnson
P.E., SET
Diamondback Fire Protection, LLC
President
Duane is the founder of Diamondback Fire Protection with over 30 years of experience in the fire protection industry. He is a licensed Fire Protection Engineer and has NICET certifications in WBSL and ITM. He has worked for installing contractors, as a consulting engineer, fire marshal, and lecturer which gives him a well-rounded perspective of the fire protection industry.
Increasing Profits Through Better Design
Partnering with a Fire Protection Engineer
Ask the Experts, Part 1
Ask the Experts, Part 2
P.E., SET
Diamondback Fire Protection, LLC
President
Duane is the founder of Diamondback Fire Protection with over 30 years of experience in the fire protection industry. He is a licensed Fire Protection Engineer and has NICET certifications in WBSL and ITM. He has worked for installing contractors, as a consulting engineer, fire marshal, and lecturer which gives him a well-rounded perspective of the fire protection industry.
Increasing Profits Through Better Design
Partnering with a Fire Protection Engineer
Ask the Experts, Part 1
Ask the Experts, Part 2
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.
Cost Benefits of Nitrogen Filled Dry Systems
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.
Cost Benefits of Nitrogen Filled Dry Systems
Amanda Kimball
Fire Protection Research Foundation
Executive Director
Amanda Kimball, P.E., FSFPE, is the Executive Director of the Fire Protection Research Foundation, the research affiliate of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In her role as executive director, Amanda provides leadership on research initiatives that pertain to fire protection, emergency response, and virtually everything that challenges safety in the built environment. Amanda currently serves as the President of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers. She is also a registered professional fire protection engineer in the state of Massachusetts. Prior to her arrival at the Research Foundation in 2011, she worked for seven years in a consultant capacity for Arup providing insights on fire protection engineering, building code life safety, the design of fire protection systems, and the egress modeling of buildings and subway stations. Amanda has her BS in Civil Engineering and MS in Fire Protection Engineering from WPI.
Automated Storage Warehouse Protection
Suppression Research from FPRF
Ask the Experts, Part 1
Ask the Experts, Part 2
Fire Protection Research Foundation
Executive Director
Amanda Kimball, P.E., FSFPE, is the Executive Director of the Fire Protection Research Foundation, the research affiliate of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In her role as executive director, Amanda provides leadership on research initiatives that pertain to fire protection, emergency response, and virtually everything that challenges safety in the built environment. Amanda currently serves as the President of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers. She is also a registered professional fire protection engineer in the state of Massachusetts. Prior to her arrival at the Research Foundation in 2011, she worked for seven years in a consultant capacity for Arup providing insights on fire protection engineering, building code life safety, the design of fire protection systems, and the egress modeling of buildings and subway stations. Amanda has her BS in Civil Engineering and MS in Fire Protection Engineering from WPI.
Automated Storage Warehouse Protection
Suppression Research from FPRF
Ask the Experts, Part 1
Ask the Experts, Part 2
William Koffel
P.E., FSFPE, SASHE
University of Maryland
Clinical Associate Professor and the Director of the Undergraduate FPE Online Program
William Koffel, P.E., FSFPE, is a Clinical Associate Professor and the Director of the Undergraduate FPE Online Program at the University of Maryland. He continues to provide consulting services as the Sr. Director of Special Projects at Koffel Associates, Inc. Graduating with a B.S. in FPE from the University of Maryland he has over 46 years of experience as a code official, consultant, and design engineer. He has served on over 35 NFPA Technical Committees, is the Past Chair of the TC responsible for NFPA 25 and is currently the Chair of the Correlating Committee on Automatic Sprinkler Systems.
Enhancing Your Workforce with Educational Opportunities at UMD
P.E., FSFPE, SASHE
University of Maryland
Clinical Associate Professor and the Director of the Undergraduate FPE Online Program
William Koffel, P.E., FSFPE, is a Clinical Associate Professor and the Director of the Undergraduate FPE Online Program at the University of Maryland. He continues to provide consulting services as the Sr. Director of Special Projects at Koffel Associates, Inc. Graduating with a B.S. in FPE from the University of Maryland he has over 46 years of experience as a code official, consultant, and design engineer. He has served on over 35 NFPA Technical Committees, is the Past Chair of the TC responsible for NFPA 25 and is currently the Chair of the Correlating Committee on Automatic Sprinkler Systems.
Enhancing Your Workforce with Educational Opportunities at UMD
Shaun Kramer
The Viking Corporation
Senior Director - Technical Services & Training
Shaun Kramer, Viking Corporation, Senior Director of Technical Services and Training, has been with Viking for 19 years. Shaun is NICET Level III certified in both Water-Based Systems Layout and Special Hazards Suppression Systems. Prior to joining Viking, Shaun was an estimator, project manager, and sprinkler system designer for 8 years with two sprinkler contractors. Shaun is a member on the NFPA 13 Technical Committee for Sprinkler Discharge Criteria and the NFSA Engineering & Standards Committee.
Evolution of Data Center Fire Protection
Ask the Experts, Part 1
Ask the Experts, Part 2
The Viking Corporation
Senior Director - Technical Services & Training
Shaun Kramer, Viking Corporation, Senior Director of Technical Services and Training, has been with Viking for 19 years. Shaun is NICET Level III certified in both Water-Based Systems Layout and Special Hazards Suppression Systems. Prior to joining Viking, Shaun was an estimator, project manager, and sprinkler system designer for 8 years with two sprinkler contractors. Shaun is a member on the NFPA 13 Technical Committee for Sprinkler Discharge Criteria and the NFSA Engineering & Standards Committee.
Evolution of Data Center Fire Protection
Ask the Experts, Part 1
Ask the Experts, Part 2
Russell Leavitt, CFPS, SET
CFPS, SET
TELGIAN Corporation
Chairman
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.
Changing How We Classify System Conditions, NFPA 25, 2023 Ed.
Is it Engineering or System Layout?
CFPS, SET
TELGIAN Corporation
Chairman
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.
Changing How We Classify System Conditions, NFPA 25, 2023 Ed.
Is it Engineering or System Layout?
Jeff Lewis
SET
VSC Fire & Security, Inc.
Vice President of Technical Workforce Development
Jeff Lewis is vice president of Technical Workforce Development 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 review committee member and instructor for AFSA's ITM Inspector Development Program and has served on the board of directors for AFSA's Virginia Chapter, the Business Advisory Committee for Henrico County Public Schools CTE, and as an SME on three NICET committees.
Level Up Your Membership: Engage with Your AFSA Chapter
Need Employees: High School CTE is Your Answer!
SET
VSC Fire & Security, Inc.
Vice President of Technical Workforce Development
Jeff Lewis is vice president of Technical Workforce Development 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 review committee member and instructor for AFSA's ITM Inspector Development Program and has served on the board of directors for AFSA's Virginia Chapter, the Business Advisory Committee for Henrico County Public Schools CTE, and as an SME on three NICET committees.
Level Up Your Membership: Engage with Your AFSA Chapter
Need Employees: High School CTE is Your Answer!
Travis Mack
Travis Mack has been in the fire sprinkler industry for 35+ years. He is currently employed with MEPCAD as a Support and Training Specialist, and also serves as Director of Education & Training for the online Fire Sprinkler Academy of Technology. Travis maintains his NICET Level IV certification in Water-Based Systems Layout.
Incorporating Pressure Regulating Devices in Hydraulic Calcs
Travis Mack has been in the fire sprinkler industry for 35+ years. He is currently employed with MEPCAD as a Support and Training Specialist, and also serves as Director of Education & Training for the online Fire Sprinkler Academy of Technology. Travis maintains his NICET Level IV certification in Water-Based Systems Layout.
Incorporating Pressure Regulating Devices in Hydraulic Calcs