Dirk Laibach appointed to the IWMA Board

by People

As of now, Dirk Laibach is a new member of the IWMA board of directors. IWMA general manager Bettina McDowell says: “Mr. Laibach, who will have to be confirmed in office during the IWMA member meeting in October, replaces Peter Clauss, who became a member of the board in April 2020.”

Dirk Laibach boasts over 30 years of varied global experiences in the fire suppression/detection industry, including 23 years related to water mist. He has held positions of ever-increasing responsibility with Siemens, KIDDE, FOGTEC Fire Protection, Marioff and currently is Senior Product Manager for water mist at Johnsons Control.

Through his involvement and membership in a number of trade associations, codes and standards organizations (CEN) and approval authorities (like VdS, FM) in Europe and the USA, he has extensive relationships within the industry and AHJ bodies.

Dirk Laibach holds a degree in electrical engineering (Dipl.-Ing.) from the University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf, Germany, and is a VdS-certified engineer for water mist fire suppression systems.

The IWMA board of directors would like to thank Peter for his contributions and good work.

www.iwma.org/

REV Group announces new Vice President of Sales

by People

REV Group has announced the appointment of George Petropoulos as Vice President, Sales for REV Ambulance Group. Overseeing the sales teams for Horton, American Emergency Vehicles (AEV), Leader, Wheeled Coach, Road Rescue, Frontline and McCoy-Miller, George reports into Anoop Prakash, Ambulance Division President, REV Group.

Prior to joining REV Group, George spent nearly 20 years at Harley-Davidson Motor Company where most recently he was the Manager, Police & Fleet Sales, increasing the company’s municipal market share from 40% to 75% over an 11-year period. George is a retired Major and Transportation / Logistics officer in the U.S. Army and serves as a part-time police officer for the Town of Mukwonago Police Department in Wisconsin.

“We are integrating our sales organisation to optimise our sales process and commercial execution,” said Anoop Prakash, Ambulance Division President, REV Group. “George’s extensive municipal sales experience will allow us to continue to advance our service and support to our dealers, partners and customers across the REV ambulance brands.”

George has received the distinguished service award from the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund and is on the Board of Directors for the USO in Wisconsin.

www.revgroup.com/

Pelican Products names Phil Gyori as Chief Executive Officer

by People

Pelican Products, Inc. announces the appointment of Phil Gyori as the company’s President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Gyori has served as Group President of Pelican since joining in 2016. He succeeds Lyndon Faulkner, who becomes Executive Chairman after serving as Chief Executive Officer since 2006.

Grant G. Behrman, Managing Partner of Behrman Capital, said: “We are delighted that Phil Gyori will serve as the new CEO of Pelican Products. Phil is a distinguished and outstanding executive who has been instrumental to Pelican’s success through his leadership of the company’s multiple divisions worldwide. Promoting Phil is both a well-earned and natural step.”

“It is also fortunate that Lyndon Faulkner will continue with Pelican as Executive Chairman. Pelican’s exceptional performance throughout Lyndon’s tenure as CEO is a testament to the strength of his leadership. The company has realised a 400% sales increase during this period through an aggressive business strategy, including acquisitions and international expansion through which we now operate in 26 countries across the globe. We are grateful for Lyndon’s innumerable contributions and pleased that he will continue to share his wisdom and experience with Pelican.”

Mr. Gyori said, “I am honoured to lead Pelican Products at this very exciting and critical time. Our company is ideally positioned to capitalise on our market leadership in the coming years with an exceptional global team that is dedicated to meeting and exceeding the needs of our customers worldwide. We will build on the incredible foundation established by Lyndon to take Pelican and our operating divisions to new heights.”

Mr. Faulkner added, “I am very proud of what we have accomplished at Pelican over the past several years. Together with Behrman Capital, our very supportive and insightful owners, we have built Pelican into a truly global leader with many exceptional growth opportunities in the coming years. Phil is an outstanding choice to lead Pelican through its next chapter, and I look forward to supporting him in my new role.”

About Phil Gyori

Phil Gyori has over 30 years of executive and management experience and a proven track record of driving rapid business growth. He has a rich background in marketing, business development and brand management, and his expertise also extends to other cross-functional areas including sales, product development, purchasing and overseas sourcing. As Group President of Pelican since 2016, he has had responsibility for all three of the company’s divisions: U.S. Commercial / Government / Consumer, International and Pelican BioThermal.

Prior to Pelican he spent 16 years as an executive at Bushnell, a global leader in Sports Optics & Outdoor Recreation, where he was the general manager for the $400 million North American Division and where he helped grow the overall business from $100 million to $600 million. Before joining Bushnell, he served in leadership roles at Nike, Procter & Gamble, and The Quaker Oats Company.

Mr. Gyori holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Stanford University and an MBA from The Wharton School of Business.

www.pelican.com/

Patol announces Iain Cumner as new Sales Director

by People

The next stage in the development of Patol as the leading specialist in industrial fire safety equipment and systems has been announced with the appointment of Iain Cumner as Sales Director.

52-year-old Iain joins the business with extensive experience in security, fire and BMS (building management systems). Starting out his career with an apprenticeship in electronics with Marconi, Iain moved into integrated security systems in 1989 with Card Key Systems, one of the first large scale manufacturers of access control systems in the UK. Since then he has worked for companies ranging from Caradon Trend and Control Systems International (CSI) to G4 Technology and Frontline Security.

In his roles he has been involved in sales, both end user and through the supply chain, with notable contracts which included blue chip projects for companies such as Coca-Cola, Lloyds of London, Amazon Web Services, DPD and Motorola. For Motorola, Iain was responsible for a project which saw an integrated solution rolled out through the company’s whole portfolio across18 countries.

Iain joins Patol from Johnson Controls (JCI) where he most recently worked in developing framework agreements with Tier 1 construction companies for specification of fire, security and building management systems. The focus was on integrated system solutions, with a particular emphasis on data centres and tall buildings.

The timing of the appointment is part of Patol’s commitment to succession planning, with current Sales Director Kelvin Miller retiring from the business later in the year.

Commenting on his appointment, Iain said – “I am delighted to be taking on the position at an exciting time for the company. While the Patol name is well established worldwide, with its linear heat detection cable providing reliable fire detection in many diverse applications, developments in other areas are also raising the profile of the Patol brand. I see particular growth potential in the thermal imaging technology offering from the company. Throughout my career I have seen the focus on integration increase, with intelligent solutions now developing exponentially through the opportunities afforded by the IoT (Internet of Things) to deliver significant benefits in terms of AI and analytics.”

Kelvin Miller comments – ‘We are delighted to be bringing Iain on board. I will be working closely with him over the coming months to ensure he has a good understanding of the nuts and bolts of the business to enable him to take Patol forward. Given the worldwide nature of our markets, it was important that Iain had experience of both UK and overseas projects. In addition to prestigious contracts here, he has also worked extensively in Europe and the Middle East. He will be able to build on the momentum we have gained as a business and also identify new opportunities through his particular experience with system integrators.”

www.patol.co.uk/

Melinda Williams promoted to new role at Telgian

by Americas - Featured NewsPeople

Telgian Engineering & Consulting (TEC) recently announced the promotion of Melinda Williams to Director of Government and Business Affairs. In this role, she will be responsible for business development and sales, with a focus on fire, life safety and security technology and requirement trends within federal, state and local government entities.

“Melinda is an invaluable member of the TEC team,” says Telgian Engineering & Consulting President Leonard Ramo. “As TEC continues its rapid growth providing service to the government sector, her innovation and vision, as well as the depth and breadth of her experience in the fire, life safety and security industry will prove essential for our government clients.”

In addition to a diverse background, which includes work as a policy advisor and educator, Williams brings over 14 years of fire, life safety and security experience to the new position. She will partner with executives and officials, providing innovative solutions to the specific challenges faced by government entities. “Melinda’s proven ability to communicate a clear understanding of the various challenges in the industry is one of her greatest strengths,” continues Ramo.

Melinda Williams holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Brown University and completed post-graduate studies at National University.

www.telgian.com/

UL Fire Council appoints Telgian’s Leonard Ramo

by Americas - Featured NewsPeople

Telgian Engineering & Consulting President and fire protection expert Leonard Ramo was recently invited to join the Fire Council of UL for a three-year term. The Fire Council is one of nine councils whose esteemed members provide support to UL by sharing practical experience on a wide range of engineering and safety topics.

The Fire Council selects members based on their fire protection industry expertise, integrity and a proven commitment to furthering public safety. Council members include academic experts, building officials, federal government agencies, fire service members, independent fire safety experts and representatives from the insurance industry, all of whom share a collective goal to identify safety challenges arising from new products and innovative technology.

For over 100 years, the Fire Council has provided vital insight and advice on building designs and materials, as well as safety performance requirements for fire suppression, passive fire test methods, and alarm and detection equipment.  As a member, Ramo will be instrumental in the development of effective programs, which address fire safety needs throughout the US and abroad.

In addition, Fire Council members work towards the establishment of requirements regarding the installation of products and materials, components and systems, interpretation and development of standards, and suitability of test methods, as well as regulatory needs and acceptance. Members also provide insight to UL on safety requirements and research related to fire resistant building designs, the flame and smoke characteristics of building materials and a variety of fire suppression equipment and fire safety products.

“It’s an honour to be selected as a member of the Fire Council,” says Ramo. “Together, the Council will continue to develop crucial safety solutions as new products and technologies emerge and the impact of this work we do will have a positive effect around the globe.”

As a Fire Council member, Ramo brings significant industry experience to the table. His career spans more than twenty five years as a practicing fire protection engineer, consultant, and executive. Currently, Ramo is President of Telgian Engineering & Consulting, a full-service global engineering and risk mitigation consultancy specialising in complex, multi-discipline public and private sector projects.

Professional accreditations include registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in all fifty U.S. States, District of Columbia, and select Territories, as well as a P. Eng. in select Canadian Provinces. In addition, Ramo is a Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) and holds a U.S. Department of Homeland Security CVI certification.

As a globally recognised industry professional, he plays an integral role in international codes and standards development by serving on select National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) committees. He is also a member of Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) and on both the SFPE Standards Making Committee on Performance-Based Fire Safety Design and the SFPE Committee on Outreach and Advocacy (COA). Ramo is the past president of the Central Gulf Coast Chapter of SPFE, as well, and a member of the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME).

www.telgian.com/

Coltraco Ultrasonics promotes Lizi Popham to Head of After-sales

by People

Coltraco Ultrasonics have announced a promotion for one of their valued team members: Mrs Lizi Popham to the role of Head of After-sales.

Since March 2020, the company have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting their team. Coltraco Ultrasonics appreciate the challenges of coronavirus and are working together to ensure they are all reaching for a vision of a profitable, sustainable and happy business.

“I enjoy greatly working with all members of the team,” said Lizi. “Coltraco has an excellent Technical Support system for any customer experiencing any issues and this is something I feel extremely proud of.

“I look forward to the second half of 2020 and am very excited for the future with Coltraco.”

coltraco.com/

Potter appoints new President of Fire & Security Division

by People

Potter, US-based manufacturer of sprinkler monitoring devices, fire alarm systems, and corrosion solution products, has announced the hiring of Jeff Klein to the position of President of Fire & Security. Klein is joining Potter after previously working at Chamberlain Group in Chicago as their Vice President/General Manager of Commercial Business. Klein will be taking over for Dave Kosciuk, who will be moving into the role of Senior Vice President of Business Development before retiring at the end of 2020.

Klein received his BS degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania and his MBA from Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business. Prior to his time at Chamberlain, Klein held multiple roles at Honeywell Security and Fire’s North America division, including Vice President of Marketing and Senior Director of Integration.

Gerry Connolly, Chief Executive Officer at Potter said: “We are grateful for Dave Kosciuk’s 12 years of dedication to Potter. He grew our Fire and Security division exponentially and put us in a great position to continue as a leader in the industry. While we will miss Dave, I am very excited to have Jeff as our next President for our Fire and Security division. His extensive experience in both the fire industry and the commercial building technology sector will be a great asset to Potter as we continue to grow.”

www.pottersignal.com/

Telgian’s Russell Leavitt named NFPA 1st Vice Chair

by Americas - Featured NewsPeople

Russell B. Leavitt, Executive Chairman of Telgian Holdings, Inc. was recently elected 1st Vice Chair by the Board of Directors for the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). NFPA is a global, nonprofit organisation devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards. The organization focuses on fire codes and standards, as well as public education for fire safety, outreach and advocacy, training and essential research.

NFPA Board Members are selected based on fire industry experience, as well as the respect of peers in the safety community, a proven commitment to the association’s goals and an appreciation for the relationship NFPA must maintain with society as its needs evolve.

As NFPA 1st Vice Chair, Leavitt will work with the association as it delivers information, knowledge and training nationwide. In addition to this leadership position within NFPA, Leavitt also serves as chair of the NFPA 13 Sprinkler System Discharge Criteria Technical Committee, on the NFPA 13 Installation Technical Committee, as well as NFPA 3, NFPA 4 and the Cultural Resources (NFPA 909 and 914)  Technical Committees.

With almost four decades of industry experience, Leavitt has long been recognised for his expertise, which he shares as a sought-after speaker and presenter. Leavitt is a senior instructor for AFSA and Fire Smarts and conducts fire and life safety seminars nationally and internationally on a variety of related subjects. Examples include Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office fire sprinkler training events, such Fire Sprinkler Systems – Plan Review and Acceptance Testing for AHJ’s, Marketing for Contractors in Fire Protection for Expo Fire Protection Mexico & International Congress and NFPA 25 Step-by-Step Testing Procedures for FireCon, among others.

During the course of his career, Leavitt has also authored numerous industry training materials and informational articles including “Fire Safety Codes and Standards: What You Need to Know,”  “Understanding Fire Protection Classifications,” “International Fire Sprinkler Opportunity” and AFSA’s ITM Inspector Development Program.

Leavitt will hold the position of NFPA 1st Vice Chair for two calendar years.

www.telgian.com/

Haix Group interviews firefighter Bec Meachin

by People

Firefighter, Bec Meachin is on a mission; to consistently better herself, mentally and physically, and to support those training to be Firefighters in doing the same. Part of HAIX sponsored Team GB in last year’s British Firefighter Challenge, Bec has continued training even during the Covid-19 lockdown in order to keep pushing to be the best. We spoke to her about her approach to training her body and mind for both endurance challenges and the trials of her ‘day job’.

  • Can you tell us a little bit about your background in the Fire service?

I joined Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service in September 2016 as an on-call firefighter. In January 2018 I relocated and joined Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service. During my time at Notts I have helped lead and teach on a Fire and Police Cadets Programme and I am the Women in the Fire Service’s rep, helping to encourage and promote women in the fire service. I’ve managed to secure a new position with Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service as a Wholetime Firefighter Training Instructor, which I start in June, so I’m very excited about that!

  • Which Firefighter endurance events have you competed in in the past, and what was the most recent one?
    In 2019 I did my first Firefighter event, at the Cheshire Firefighter Challenge, the first regional British Firefighter Challenge (BFC). I then went on to do the main BFC in Watford later in the year. This year I competed in a charity stairs run, the Lorus Stairs Run, 20 floors, and was the first female firefighter to complete this since it’s been running.
  • What drives you to compete in such gruelling events?
    As a firefighter, we never know from day to day what we are going to have to deal with. We might be asleep in bed one minute, and fighting a fire the next. I’m only 163cm tall, and weigh 59kg, so have to work on my fitness every single day to be able to achieve the standard the fire service requires to be able to carry out all the activities I need to. The firefighter challenges really help focus my training, and cover all aspects of what we might need to do at a real incident. As a woman, I do find people ask how I would be able to rescue them in a fire, how I’d be able to be strong enough and fit enough to do the work. Well these challenges help prove to both colleagues and the public that I can do this, and I can achieve.
  • Is there a particular event stage (e.g stair run, casualty dummy rescue) that you find the most challenging?
    That dummy drag has to be the most challenging! The dummy in the BFC weighs 11kg more than me, and with a BA set on your back and all your kit, it’s very difficult to pick up, let alone drag it 50m! The challenges always put the dummy drag at the end of the event, so you are already exhausted from the rest of it! I practice a lot of deadlifts and squats to try and improve this area!
  • What do you think the benefits of Fire endurance events are, both for the competitors and the wider firefighting community?

Everyone who competes in these events are the fittest people I know. They push themselves every day to be better. The camaraderie is amazing, and you are encouraged so much to compete and achieve. It doesn’t matter where you come on the leader board, the fact that you have stepped up to the challenge earns you a lot of respect. The more firefighters who do the challenge, the more others are encouraged to do it. Places go extremely quickly for the challenges, and there are a lot more women competing too, which is great to see. In the end we are doing a job that requires us to be very fit, so practicing for competitions is always going to help with that.

  • Can you tell us a little bit about what sort of training you undertake for each event?

I am always training, no matter when the next event is, trying to get stronger and fitter! I have my own gym in my back garden, and I’m in it most days! I am lucky enough to have a great coach, who sets me workouts to do. They are a mixture of strength training (I love a good deadlift!), endurance workouts and cardio workouts. A little look at my diary this week, and I have a tyre workout, legs session, deadlifting session, chest and arms session and finish the week off with some more legs! I have a stair master in my gym, so I regularly do some interval training on that, mixing it up with gym kit, fire kit and weight vests. When it gets closer to an event, the best way to practice is to get the actual equipment out and practice the elements of the circuit. Adding just fire kit makes a big difference, so it’s important to practice with the gear.

  • Has the ongoing lockdown situation affected your training regime? Are you still training while at home?

I am so happy I invested in my own gym! I’ve got everything I need to keep training, and pushing myself. I have also been training at the fire station with the actual kit. The thing I have missed is having the one to one sessions with my coach, or just having someone to spot you so you push yourself a bit further. But I don’t think it has stopped me working hard and pushing myself every day. We can always do bodyweight work, so there’s no excuse really to keep fitness up!

  • Is there anything else you would like to tell us about you, your training or your job as a firefighter?

When I first started in the fire service, I only weighed 52kg, and really struggled with the fitness tests, especially the strength side. I struggled to deadlift my own bodyweight. But I’ve worked hard every single day on my fitness, and never stopped. I’ve got fitter, and so much stronger (I can almost deadlift double my weight now, and I weigh a lot more!) I think the competitions have really pushed me to keep working hard at my training so I can be the best I can possibly be. I am a big believer that if you have the perseverance to work as hard as you can at something you want, then you can achieve it. I encourage all men and women to push themselves every day to be better.