Peter Clauss returns to IWMA Board

by People

Following the retirement of Christensen of Novenco earlier this year, one seat on the board of directors of the International Water Mist Association (IWMA) had become vacant. This seat is now again occupied. During this year’s member meeting of the IWMA, which took place on 26th October, Peter Clauss (sales director for CWS Fire Safety GmbH) was elected to again become a member of the board. Peter Clauss has over 30 years of experience in the fire suppression industry.  

He has worked for Kidde Deutschland, Marioff, the Wagner Group, Stöbich Brandschutz, Protection One and Johnson Controls International. He is involved and member of various trade associations, codes and standards organisations and approval authorities in Europe, the United States and Russia. Peter Clauss was a member of the board between February and August 2020 but left due to a change of employer.  

During the same meeting IWMA president Are Wendelborg Brandt (RISE), IWMA vice-president Dirk K. Sprakel (Fogtec), Alex Palle (VID Fire-Kill) and Henrik Bygbjerg (Danfoss Fire Safety) were confirmed in office. So was the chairman of the IWMA scientific council Hong-Zeng (Bert) Yu. 

BK Technologies appoints Sean Conroy as Director of Supply Chain

by People

BK Technologies Corporation HAVE announced the appointment of Sean Conroy as Director of Supply Chain.

Conroy has nearly 20 years of experience in supply chain management, operations, and LEAN manufacturing. He most recently served as Materials Manager for Camaco Lorain Manufacturing, the largest independent provider of engineered seating solutions for the global automotive industry. Prior to that, Conroy held numerous supply chain management and senior operations roles including Materials Manager at Wellington Stamping, a $65 million stamping facility and division of Shiloh Industries, Vice President of Global Operations at ZOOK and Senior Vice President of Operational Success and Global Supply Chain at VEXOS.

John Suzuki, CEO of BK Technologies, commented, “We are pleased to bring on someone of Sean’s professional caliber as Director of Supply Chain. As we continue to scale our business, proactively managing our supply chain has become increasingly important and we believe his proven operational skills and expertise will be a valuable addition to our organization. We are seeing strong demand for our products, and it is our top priority that our customers, who have come to depend on our mission critical technology, receive their orders in a timely fashion. As such, we are adding staff and working with vendors and logistics providers to minimize short term supply chain disruptions while maximizing the long term efficiency.”

Chris Higgins appointed Vice President, Customer Service of Telgian

by People

Telgian Fire Safety have announced the addition of Chris Higgins as Vice President, Customer Service. Higgins will be responsible for the management of all aspects of the company’s customer support department, as well as for developing new strategies and initiatives to maintain the highest levels of customer satisfaction possible.

“Chris is an outstanding addition to the Telgian Fire Safety team,” says company President Larry Lacefield. “His ability to identify short- and long-term goals, combined with his strategic, results oriented approach to improving customer relationships, satisfaction and response time, make him an incredible asset to our rapidly growing company.”  

With more than 29 years of experience, Higgins specialises in team building and leadership development, maximising the use of employee engagement strategies. These initiatives result in high performance teams, a strong organisational culture and exceptional customer service, driving both employee and customer satisfaction to new levels.

Previously, Higgins has worked with multiple global customer care and technology companies, providing tech-enabled and human assisted digital solutions. Higgins was directly responsible for daily oversight of 300+ employee teams and achieving targeted client deliverables.

A US Navy veteran, he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with Navy accredited courses from Texas Tech University.   And, in addition to his position at Telgian Fire Safety, Higgins is also lifetime member of AMVETS Post IL 14. 

NVFC announces appointment of new CEO at annual fall board meeting

by People

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) held its annual fall board meeting in Jackson, WY, on October 13-15, with a total of 67 directors representing 43 states met at the event, most in person while others opted to attend remotely through live streaming technology. Also in attendance were 22 additional fire service representatives and NVFC partners.

“After a difficult year and a half of strictly virtual meetings, the NVFC was happy to once again have the opportunity to meet in person to reconnect and further the business of the Council,” said NVFC chair Steve Hirsch. “We had a successful three days of committee meetings, educational presentations, and general sessions while also celebrating the organisation’s 45th anniversary and honoring our 2021 award winners.”

The NVFC board is comprised of up to two representatives from 47 state fire associations who meet twice a year to conduct Council business, discuss and vote on issues of importance to the volunteer fire service, and guide the direction of the organisation. This year marks the 45th anniversary of the NVFC, which was celebrated in a special reception organised by meeting host Wyoming State Firemen’s Association.

Appointment of CEO

The general session kicked off with a tribute to the NVFC’s longtime CEO, Heather Schafer, who passed away in March after 27 years with the Council. Sarah Lee, who had served as deputy CEO for 15 years, took on the role of interim CEO in May. The board voted during the fall meeting to officially make Lee the CEO of the NVFC.

The next NVFC board meeting will take place in Arlington, VA, on April 7-9, 2022.

Telgian announces appointment of Keith Butler as Regional Practice Leader

by People

Telgian Engineering & Consulting, LLC (TEC) has confirmed the addition of Keith Butler as Regional Practice Leader, Fire Protection Engineering for the Southeast region. In this position, Butler will be responsible for the implementation of innovative fire protection solutions and strategies serving TEC clients.

“Keith has a proven track record as an exceptional and respected leader,” says TEC President Leonard Ramo. “His success in creating client focused solutions, as well as leading and growing a diverse team, are essential as he will oversee our rapidly growing fire protection engineering practice in the Southeast (US).”

With more than 13 years of experience, Butler specialises in fire protection engineering for the oil and gas sectors. In addition, he has led large projects for heavy industrial clients focusing on fire and life safety system analysis, design development, construction management and commissioning, as well as hazardous materials review and analysis. His experience also includes project management for high hazard industrial occupancies including refineries, bulk plants, tank farms, power plants, aircraft hangars, storage facilities, warehousing and transportation facilities.

Previously, Butler was with the engineering firm Jensen Hughes, holding positions of increasing responsibility from Vice President, Practice Leader – Industrial and Forensics, to most recently, Vice President, South Region. There he was responsible for delivering organic growth, overall strategy and business development for a team of 300+ engineers and consultants.

Butler earned a Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection and Safety Technology from Oklahoma State University and is a member of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and US Green Building Council (USGBC). A LEED® Accredited Professional since 2008, he is also a recipient of the Consulting Specifying Engineer magazine – 40 under 40 Award.

New Senior Vice President appointed by REV Group

by People

REV Group, Inc. has confirmed the appointment of Eric Sandstrom as Senior Vice President, Engineering & Technology, a newly-created executive leadership position. The new role will play a critical part in evolving the product portfolio, optimizing engineering excellence, and leading product and powertrain design, innovation, and technological advancements.

Prior to joining REV Group, Sandstrom was Global Chief Engineer – Electric Propulsion Systems at General Motors and led the team responsible for developing the propulsion system for the all-electric Hummer SUT and SUV, among others. Sandstrom began his career with BorgWarner and held progressive leadership roles over a 20-year period with a focus in global product strategy, engineering, and program management.

“REV Group is focused on leading innovation within the specialty vehicle industry and creating a more sustainable future by putting alternative fuel solutions at our core,” said Rod Rushing, Chief Executive Officer, REV Group. “Eric is an ideal addition to the team with his impressive and extensive experience in the automotive industry and Electric Vehicle (EV) systems and alternative fuel technologies. His innovative mindset aligns with our company vision and strategy.”

Sandstrom holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University along with several professional certifications, patents, and technology awards.  

New exhibition head appointed by Intersec to lead event program

by People

Intersec has strengthened its leadership team by appointing expert industry veteran Alex Nicholl as Intersec Exhibition Head.

The senior hire is further demonstration of Intersec’s investment in the significant growth of the flagship event that will mark its return in January 2022 by uniting global leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities within the industry at the highly anticipated event.

Nicholl ­– who has 20 years of experience in the events industry spanning India, the UAE and UK ­– brings deep expertise to Intersec, having held leading roles at major homeland security, aerospace and defence exhibitions, combined with almost two decades of service as a senior officer with the British Army.

Christine Davidson, Group Exhibition Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “We are delighted to welcome Alex Nicholl to the Intersec team. With the immense focus on the industry in the last 18 months, Messe Frankfurt recognises that Intersec’s importance to the safety and security industry has never been greater, we are bringing the best in the industry onboard to develop the most relevant and comprehensive event for the industry.

“Alex’s sector experience is second to none, with two decades of defence and security events industry experience and 18 years as a Senior Officer in the British Military, his vast network of relationships across government and business entities will be invaluable. His appointment is testament to our commitment to deliver a world-class event that brings strategic value to the industry and meets the needs of every stakeholder, from government entities to sponsors, exhibitors and attendees.” 

Alex Nicholl, Intersec Exhibition Head, said: “I am excited to be joining the most significant event in our industry. The exhibition brings the entire emergency services, security and safety ecosystem together at one time and, after limited opportunity to meet in recent times, Intersec’s 23rd edition is set to be the best yet – we have listened to what our stakeholders need and have a ground-breaking event in development that will inspire discussion, collaboration, connections and business that will support them in building a safer and more secure world.”

Intersec, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will be held at the Dubai World Trade Center from 16-18 January 2022 under the theme of ‘Uniting the world’s leading industry specialists for the safety & security of future generations.’ 

Demonstrating Intersec’s strategic importance to the UAE, long-standing Official Supporters include Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Civil Defence, Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) and NAFFCO, while additional government partners for 2022 will be announced shortly.

Seen as a nexus for the industry, Intersec will bring together thousands of its most powerful stakeholders for bilateral government and business discussions on mitigating and addressing vulnerabilities of the future. They will be joined by leading regional and international brands exhibiting the most innovative systems and solutions in a dynamic environment that will enable face-to-face and virtual exchange through interactive roundtables, workshops and ‘closed-door’ confidential conversations.

For more information about Intersec, please visit www.intersec.com.

Preferred candidate for Essex Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive announced

by People

Roger Hirst, the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, has selected Rick Hylton as his preferred candidate to become the next Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive of Essex County Fire and Rescue Service.

Rick is currently the Deputy Chief Fire Officer of the Service and was selected following a rigorous and competitive process. He came out ahead of a strong field of national and international candidates from both fire and rescue services, public and private sector organisations, with the rest of the interview panel unanimously supporting his selection.

Roger will present Rick as his preferred candidate to the Police, Fire and Crime Panel at a statutory confirmation hearing that will take place on October 21st. Roger said: “Rick’s selection is well deserved. He is an out-standing individual who has already contributed so much to both the Service and Greater Essex as co-chair of the Essex Resilience Forum, helping to lead Essex as we worked through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“He is highly respected as Deputy Chief Fire Officer, building trusted relationships within the Service as well as with partners and communities across Essex. He will continue to build on the great work and progress the Service has made and I, along with the rest of the recruitment panel, were impressed with his aspirations to take the Service forwards.”

Rick Hylton said: “I feel truly honoured to have been selected as the preferred candidate in this process for the Chief Fire Officer. I am privileged to be the Deputy Chief Fire Officer here at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, and I welcome the opportunity to have been shortlisted to become CFO for the Service and to continue working with my colleagues.”

MP cuts the ribbon at Kentec Electronics’ factory extension

by PeopleProjects

Local Dartford MP, Gareth Johnson, has officially opened a new extension at Kentec Electronics, the manufacturer of life-critical fire control systems, enabling the firm to expand its manufacturing, dispatch and stores capability by a third.

The extension not only enhances Kentec’s core production capabilities, but also adds further capability to its ‘Specials’ Department for niche and complex projects, such as those delivered to historic buildings or even yachts.

Kevin Swann, the Managing Director of Kentec and Hiroshi Kamei, the Finance Director of Kentec, met with Gareth Johnson to give a tour of the factory and to discuss how the factory extension is helping Kentec business to grow and answer the needs of its customers better. A plaque was put up in the factory to honour the day.

Gareth says he is thrilled to witness Kentec’s achievements: “Kentec has grown considerably over the last thirty-five years to become one of Dartford’s top 10 employers and it was fantastic to see how the new production space is furthering its business goals. Kentec is one of the big success stories of the area.”

Kevin Swann says he was honoured to have had Gareth Johnson officially open the factory: “I was particularly pleased that Gareth took the time to talk to many of our great people on the tour and showed a real interest in their work and lives. We are very proud of our accomplishments and excited to showcase the new factory extension. It was an excellent day that has given the whole team encouragement and confirmation that efforts have been very much worthwhile.”

The official opening followed a virtual launch that took place in July 2020.

Exclusive interview with Jim Everett, President of PAC Tool Mounts

by Americas - Featured NewsPeople

Speaking exclusively with International Fire and Safety Journal, Jim Everett, President of PAC Tool Mounts evaluates the last year for the company 

Q – How has the last year been for PAC Tool Mounts?

I am happy to report that demand for PAC products held strong through 2020 and into the first half of 2021.  We are cautiously optimistic as we move forward through the rest of this year, keeping in mind that some reductions in apparatus sales in late 2020 may have a negative impact going forward.

This may have a delayed effect on purchases from our OEM customers that would not be realized on our end, until the end of 2021 and into the first half of 2022.  In the final analysis, we are very happy with the continued level of support from all our customers who have continued to actively promote the PAC line of products over the last 18 months, and we are very optimistic about what the future holds for PAC’s position in the emergency services industry going forward.

Q – What gaps in the market have you seen developing in the past year?

Probably the most notable to date has been the drop in direct sales to fire departments themselves.  Municipalities both large and small throughout the U.S. have reacted quickly to the effects of the Pandemic by tightening the purse strings regarding their capital spending accounts. 

Not knowing how long the Pandemic would have things shut down, along with potential reductions in additional government subsidies going forward, has put many local governments on alert when it comes to their spending process.  We are confident these “gaps” will work themselves out over time, it’s just a question of what that time frame will be.

Q – Have you managed to bring any new products to market?

This is an easy one to answer … YES.  Typically, we look to introduce a couple new products, or create improvements to existing products every year. In evaluating the potential impact Covid-19 may have on demand of PAC products going forward, we made a conscious decision to up our game in coming up with multiple new designs for products that have been on our radar for a while now. One grouping of new products we’re very excited about is our SuperFlex bracket kits. This style of positive locking bracket represents a new direction in design and functionality, and addresses securing items such as extinguishers and oxygen tanks that we really didn’t have an effective option for previously.  

When the economy starts to come back and the fire market buyers get their feet back on solid ground, we are confident that the demand for products, both new and existing, will be stronger than ever.  When that change starts to take hold, PAC will be ready with the answers to our customer needs.

Q – Tell us a bit more about your new SuperFlex Kits

We are extremely excited about the potential for this new product.  The SuperFlex bracket currently is available in two grip range sizes. The SuperFlex3 has a grip range of 2 ½” – 3 ½”, and the SuperFlex4 has a larger range of 3 ½” – 4 ½”.  Primarily sold in pairs to achieve maximum stability for longer cylindrical items, the SuperFlex brackets combine the flexibility and quick release element of a friction style mount with the increased holding power of a positive locking style bracket. 

In addition to the standard pair kits, SuperFlex also comes in a 3lb Extinguisher Mount design to provide a secure mount for 3lb extinguishers up to 3 ½” in diameter, and the Oxygen Bottle / 5lb Extinguisher Mount designed to provide secure mounting for a D style oxygen bottle, 5lb extinguishers, or other cylindrical items up to 4 ½” in diameter.  Each of these kits include a pair of SuperFlex mounts mounted to an anodized aluminum mounting channel and cylinder base rest. T

his complete kit allows for quick and easy installation in the cab or compartment of any emergency vehicle.  As what PAC is known for, the SuperFlex brackets are made from an extremely durable composite material that affords the user years of safe and secure performance, even in the toughest of conditions. Finally, our new style strap is an adjustable lock strap that allows for just the right amount of tension in securing items and has a new larger open-faced locking handle for ease in engaging and disengaging, even when wearing gloves.

Q – What common issues within the fire departments do the kits solve?

First and foremost we feel confident that these brackets, as included in the two cylinder mounting kits, will be a great asset to mounting items such as fire extinguishers and oxygen cylinders in the occupied areas of a vehicle.  Both these bracket kits have been tested and certified to meet and exceed NFPA 1901 impact testing standards, making them the perfect option for mounting these cylindrical items in the cab of a vehicle. 

In addition, The SuperFlex kits offer the user a smaller mounting footprint when looking to secure different types of cylindrical items in a confined or tightly spaced area.  As with all PAC products, the SuperFlex kits come with PAC’s Standard Limited Lifetime Warranty.  Recently unveiled at the FDIC Show in Indianapolis, the SuperFlex Kits received extremely positive reviews by those who visited our display booth. 

Q – What do you believe is the future of tool storage?

We couldn’t be more excited about the future potential when it comes to tool and equipment storage.  Every year more and more tools are introduced into the fire market.  More tools increase the need for better organization and accountability for these expensive pieces of equipment.  Also, the market seems to be gradually moving towards smaller, more maneuverable vehicles. As with the vehicles used in the European market as well as other countries around the world, smaller trucks result in having to really maximize the storage space a vehicle has available. 

This is where PAC’s expertise can be a huge asset to these fire departments and OEM’s.  We are already starting to work with certain truck manufacturing operations in establishing standardized kits of tool mounting boards and brackets for inclusion into the established compartments of those builders’ trucks.  Simply put, more and more tools with less available space, results in a need for better organization of tools and equipment allocated to those vehicles.  PAC and our team of professional support staff are excited at the opportunity the future holds. 

Great products are obviously a key component in PAC’s long-term success in the industry.  Just as important however is our dedication to giving our customers the absolute best in customer service. We embrace the need that our customers rely on our products and service to be the best available in assisting them in their service to their customers and their communities.