PAC discuss “brackets built better”

by Breaking NewsFirefighting Equipment

PAC’s Vice-President of Sales & Customer Relations Tom Trzepacz outlines the company’s focus on secure tool storage, firefighter safety and operational efficiency 

Firefighters depend on their tools to be ready, secure and accessible at every moment.

Yet with apparatus carrying increasingly complex loads and departments under pressure to do more with less, keeping equipment organised and safe has become a growing challenge.

Poor storage can damage expensive gear, slow down response, or even injure crew members if items shift in transit.

The stakes are high and departments are looking for solutions that combine reliability with ease of use. 

Performance Advantage Company (PAC) has specialised in addressing these problems for more than 30 years, producing brackets and mounting systems that keep tools in place while supporting efficient operations.

The company’s designs are tested against real-world conditions and built to last the life of an apparatus, ensuring confidence in demanding environments.

PAC’s customers range from large departments managing entire fleets to smaller services adapting to shrinking space and shifting equipment needs. 

At the centre of this approach is a commitment to simplicity, durability and responsiveness to evolving customer requirements.

By combining consistent design with ongoing innovation, PAC has positioned itself as a partner for those balancing tradition with the demands of modern response. 

IFSJ Editor Iain Hoey sat down with Tom Trzepacz, Vice-President of Sales & Customer Relations at PAC, to discuss how secure tool mounting supports firefighter safety and effectiveness. 

What role does reliable equipment storage play in supporting both firefighter safety and operational efficiency? 

Our mounts are simple and quick to use. With our brackets, putting tools away is a fast, clean action. It is easy to see whether a bracket has a tool in it. If it is empty after a scene, you know something is missing. 

Efficiency is the key. Firefighters need to grab a tool, get off the apparatus and put it to work. That is why brackets inside the cab are so important.

Tom Trzepacz

They must be mounted safe and secure to protect firefighters on the way to a call. If there is an accident, tools need to stay in their brackets so no one gets hurt. 

Have you seen changes in customer requests or expectations compared to a few years ago? 

The biggest change is the move to battery equipment. Rescue tools have shifted away from truck hydraulics to battery-powered models, with brands like Hurst, Holmatro, TNT and Amkus being our most common requests.

The same applies across categories – fans, drills, impacts, leaf blowers, saws. Departments want brackets that secure batteries with the tools and keep them ready to go. 

We see fewer requests for gas and oil cans or large equipment. At the same time, apparatus are getting smaller or combining two vehicle roles into one.

Tom Trzepacz

Departments are trying to fit two trucks’ worth of gear on one rig, so organization matters. Our brackets give them a way to secure everything in place. 

Apparatus are also taking on more defined roles. Some departments replace heavy rescues with smaller rescue-pump combinations but still want to carry the same tools.

Without effective mounting, that is difficult. We also hear from departments that go from six pieces of apparatus to four or five but want to maintain the same load.

Their requests are often about organising setups and using our systems to make it possible. 

When customers need custom solutions, how do you work with them to ensure the right outcome? 

We often have departments call looking for guidance on how to mount tools.

We tell them – whether it is the mechanic, chief or truck committee – they need to decide where everything goes, because they are the ones operating the truck.

We can guide on how to mount items, what fits where and what aligns with NFPA guidelines, but the end user has to lay out their compartments. 

Tom Trzepacz

The biggest thing we do is take their tool list and match it to our brackets. If we do not have a solution, we say so rather than forcing a poor fit.

We would rather point them in another direction than steer them wrong. Usually, though, we have an answer. 

We also work with them on layouts using our aluminium extrusion and tool boards. A lot of questions we get are about swing out tool boards, which are one of the bigger projects we do.

For example, over the wheel well of a truck you can sometimes put two swing outs, giving five mounting surfaces in one compartment – the back wall, plus both sides of two swing outs.

If you’re mounting large, deep tools you may only manage one swing out with the back wall, but if it’s mostly flat hand tools, you can take advantage of all five surfaces.

That really expands what people can fit. 

Once customers start using our systems, especially the aluminium tool boards that let them move things around without drilling, they usually realise they have more room on the apparatus than they thought. 

How do PAC’s systems help improve the day-to-day effectiveness and safety of fire crews and professionals? 

We play a role from the planning of an apparatus through to how it is used on the fire ground. Every piece of equipment should be mounted and we want to be the partner that provides that solution. 

We put effort into engineering, design and development to come up with answers that work every day. Many of us are firefighters ourselves.

Tom Trzepacz

We bring an apparatus in and actually test our brackets with fire gloves on to make sure they work in real scenarios and help crews do the job quicker, because seconds and minutes matter in firefighting and EMS. 

This is why we like to be involved from the ground up when an apparatus is being built and integrated with the manufacturer, so the customer gets a truck set for life.

We have also helped when someone buys a 10- or 20-year-old apparatus that never had tool mounting or needs it redone and we have seen everything in between.

We always encourage effective tool mounting systems – whether that is our brackets on their own or paired with our tool boards – because that keeps equipment where it belongs and ready to go. 

What current PAC projects or product initiatives are you most excited about and why? 

We have a couple things in the works. The biggest is a new Ironslok coming at the start of 2026. We have been working on it for about a year. Right now we offer two versions, the original and the HD. 

In early 2026 there will be one Ironslok serving the needs of both versions and a little better than either. We are excited to launch it while keeping the simplicity. 

It will also make ordering simpler. Right now some users are unsure which one to pick. This will streamline it and do the same job.

Tom Trzepacz

It will be NFPA compliant, mountable inside the truck and provide safety and security while being quick to deploy. 

What are PAC’s main areas of focus for the future and how are you preparing for 2026? 

For 2026 we are lining up the trade show calendar. FDIC will be a big one and we have a full slate because we want to grow our presence in a few other sectors while staying strong in the fire industry. 

On the product side, much like the Ironslok project, we are looking at our most common and well-known brackets and asking how to make them better.

We always have new bracket ideas in development, but we also want to improve the products people already rely on. 

We listen closely to feedback from customers at shows and on the phone, good and bad and feed that into engineering.

Tom Trzepacz

That helps us spot where a bracket might be missing something or where a small change could make it more useful. 

For 2026 we will review core brackets to see what we can upgrade and we will also introduce new designs where we see gaps in the line. 

This was originally published in the October 2025 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Richard ‘Dick’ Young, Performance Advantage Companyfounder and fire industry leader, dies at 94

by Breaking NewsPeople

Fire industry leader Richard ‘Dick’ Young passes away

Richard “Dick” Young, founder of Performance Advantage Company (PAC) and former president of Young Fire Equipment Corporation, passed away peacefully on 17 March 2025.

Young was a second-generation firetruck builder, following in the footsteps of his father, Lester Young, who founded Young Fire Equipment Corporation in 1944. He began working at the company before serving in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. Upon his return, he rejoined the family business, eventually becoming its president.

During his time at Young Fire Equipment, Young introduced several apparatus design innovations, many of which are still industry standards. After the company closed in 1991, he founded Performance Advantage Company in 1992, focusing on tool mounting brackets for emergency services and other industries.

Contributions to the fire industry

Young served as president of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA), continuing his contributions to the fire service beyond his work at Young Fire Equipment.

Through PAC, Young expanded his impact, growing the company into an international business supplying products in over 38 countries. His experience in fire apparatus manufacturing informed PAC’s development of equipment mounting solutions used across multiple industries.

Legacy in the firefighting community

Young was actively involved in preserving fire service history and supporting his local community. He donated land for the Greater Lancaster Museum of Fire Fighting and contributed items from his personal collection.

In addition to his industry contributions, Young was a lifelong honorary member of several fire departments in western New York and served on the Lancaster Village Board. He was also a published author and musician.

Memorial services and tributes

Young’s funeral services will be held on 23 March 2025 at Wendel & Loecher Inc. Funeral Home in Lancaster, New York, from 12:00 to 16:00. A celebration of life will follow at Ripa’s Restaurant from 18:00 to 21:00.

The family has requested donations in his memory to the Dick Young Heritage House, a non-profit supporting Lancaster volunteers, in lieu of flowers.

Statement from IFSJ/FSJA

International Fire and Safety Journal (IFSJ) and Fire & Safety Journal Americas (FSJA) acknowledge the passing of industry innovator Richard “Dick” Young, whose contributions to fire apparatus manufacturing and tool mounting solutions have had a lasting impact on the fire service.

Performance Advantage Company (PAC), founded by Young, has grown into a globally recognized provider of equipment solutions for emergency services. His legacy will continue through the innovations and industry advancements he helped shape.

Every tool in its place: The key to faster, safer fireground operations with PAC

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentSafetyVehicles

Mike McGuire, Sales & Technical Support at Performance Advantage Company (PAC), discusses how tool mounting impacts efficiency, safety and organisation for fire departments

What’s the most common mistake fire departments make when selecting a tool mounting system?

The most common mistake is an unrealistic expectation of what they should or could be doing in relation to the community they serve and their operational abilities – types of trucks, size of trucks and the tools they need to carry.

Overpacking the truck affects operational capabilities or splits tools among multiple vehicles.

They sometimes don’t prioritise what’s most logical to keep, resulting in items left on the truck for decades.

Sometimes departments place items in multiple vehicles, which reduces continuity and creates confusion.

An example is a project we did years ago with one of our local departments.

They did an excellent job prepping for their new truck: they laid out their tools, had a thorough tool list and identified the new location for everything.

However, they also wanted to include three old car jacks simply because they’d always been on the truck.

When I asked why one member said, “They’ve been on the truck as long as I’ve been here.” It’s also important to remember that older tools might no longer be practical, yet remain out of habit.

So one of the mistakes is not looking forward or having a good consensus in the committee or department about what’s realistic for them and what’s required, then finding that merge.

You can get caught up carrying items you may never use.

Being deliberate about what you carry helps maintain efficiency and ensures the tools actually support your operations.

Delays and safety issues it happen if you need a particular tool but haven’t stored it in an accessible location, or it’s shared between trucks or moved.

When you don’t prioritise which tool you need first or keep it in a logical spot, it causes delays and potential safety issues.

Sometimes that leads to confusion if it’s not where everyone expects it and it can slow down response times.

Departments might waste precious minutes searching for a tool that’s been misplaced or is on another vehicle.

Beyond safety, how does well-designed tool mounting contribute to operational efficiency on the fireground?

Continuity.

This allows crews to move fluidly from step to step and know exactly which tool is first, second and so on.

Properly mounted tools in a consistent location mean that even if I’m new on a shift, I can find a tool in the dark because everything is laid out the same way.

Continuity means that if I’ve worked off a rescue truck before and it’s outfitted the same, I know exactly where each tool is.

This eliminates guesswork and speeds up response times.

Another benefit is safety: when tools are properly secured each time, they won’t fall out of a bracket or onto someone.

It also ensures no one is wrestling with tools in cramped compartments, which can cause injuries.

Overall, continuity in tool mounting boosts efficiency and keeps firefighters safer.

How do PAC’s mounting solutions support quick and instinctive access?

Order is key to quick, instinctive access.

If each tool has a designated place established by the department rather than random choices you won’t have to dig through multiple tools to find the one you need.

You can send someone back to the truck for an item and they’ll know exactly where it is.

That consistency and pattern mean tools won’t be buried or moved around, so firefighters can grab what they need immediately.

If people placed tools at random, they’d have to move items to reach what they want, causing delays.

Organised mounting ensures everything is returned to the same spot, which eliminates confusion and speeds up operations.

Over time, personnel instinctively remember each tool’s location without searching.

How does tool mounting impact vehicle organisation?

Knowing things are in their place is critical.

In a high-stress environment or in the dark, it enables people to grab the right tool quickly.

It also protects the tool and the firefighter and it makes accountability easier.

If a bracket is empty, you know something’s missing before leaving the scene.

This is especially helpful in volunteer departments with multiple agencies responding.

A tool can get picked up by another department and you might not discover it’s gone until much later, unless you see that empty bracket.

Good mounting also helps with maintenance.

When you put a tool away carefully, you might notice a crack or other damage.

If it’s just tossed in the truck, you might not see that until the next call.

What feedback do you hear most often from fire departments?

Departments like how easy the brackets are to use and how organised their trucks become.

At trade shows, if someone’s unsure, we suggest they try it with one tool or one compartment, especially if they’ve just bought a new tool.

When they see that tool stays secure, they usually expand to the entire truck.

They realise the system provides order, consistency and pride—people like having a clean, organised truck with no question about where each tool is.

What advice would you give to fire departments looking to upgrade their tool mounting systems?

Start small: maybe mount one tool or set up one compartment.

You’ve already invested in the truck and the tools, so you want to protect them and keep them ready.

Proper mounting extends tool life and makes it clear where each item belongs.

Overall, good organisation leads to higher performance, efficiency and safety.

That’s what departments are after: a safe, efficient operation where tools are secure and easy to access.

This article was originally published in the March 2025 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal – to read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Securing safety: How PAC’s tool mounting solutions protect firefighters and equipment

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentVehicles

Proper tool storage prevents injuries, improves response times, and ensures accountability; Tom Trzepacz of Performance Advantage Company (PAC) explains how their locking brackets make a critical difference

Performance Advantage Company (PAC) has built a reputation for engineering high-performance tool mounting solutions that improve safety, efficiency and reliability in fire and rescue operations.

In this interview with Tom Trzepacz – Vice President Sales & Customer Relations, we explore the company’s leadership in tool mounting technology, the evolution of its positive locking brackets, and the continued innovation behind products like the Handlelok.

What are the most overlooked risks when tools are not properly secured in emergency vehicles and how do PAC’s positive locking brackets address these?

One major concern is the possibility of items shifting around in compartments.

When a vehicle takes a sharp turn or hits an uneven stretch of road, loose tools can launch forward and strike anyone opening a compartment door.

This alone can delay a response because someone has to retrieve the scattered items or attend to an injury.

Accountability is another common issue.

If gear is simply piled in a compartment, there’s little clarity over which items may be missing.

Crews might finish a call and not realise something is gone until much later, leading to costly replacements and gaps in readiness.

A designated bracket system helps prevent these surprises by drawing attention to any open mount.

PAC’s positive locking brackets tackle both problems by giving each item a specific place.

When a bracket is open, it’s obvious that something needs to be found or replaced.

Tools remain secure and neatly arranged, which protects personnel from unexpected hazards and supports a quick, organised departure to the next call.

What lessons has PAC learned over the years that have shaped the design of its tool mounting solutions today?

Over time, we saw that firefighting tools come in many forms and they change when manufacturers release new designs.

A bracket built for one piece of gear can be left behind as soon as a tool’s shape or dimensions are updated.

After noticing that pattern, we decided to create mounts that can handle a range of sizes rather than just one model.

In the early days, we had some brackets tailored to very specific items.

They worked well while those tools stayed on the market, though once the tools were discontinued or altered, the brackets became less useful.

Meanwhile, our products themselves last for many years, so making them suitable for multiple styles of gear seemed like a better approach in the long run.

We’ve since honed our focus on versatility and adjustability.

Some mounts can hold anything from a slender handle to something far bigger.

Departments don’t need to switch brackets each time they add new equipment, which keeps the process easier and more economical over the bracket’s lifespan.

The Handlelok has been around for a long time—what is it about this product that continues to make it relevant across so many applications?

The Handlelok was one of the first brackets developed by our founder, Bob Young, and it continues to be a mainstay in fire apparatus worldwide.

It accommodates common hand tools such as axes, Halligans, rakes and shovels, making it an all-purpose choice for daily use.

Part of its appeal is the combination of adjustability and strength.

Fire departments often work in demanding conditions, so any bracket must keep gear firmly in place.

The Handlelok is made from sturdy materials that hold up well when vehicles take sharp corners or travel over bumpy roads.

Crews count on it to stop items from shifting mid-journey.

Many departments also appreciate how simple it is to install.

The Handlelok works horizontally or vertically, which means it fits compartments of different sizes and layouts.

Whether a firefighter is stowing classic hand tools or newer battery-driven equipment, this bracket’s flexibility covers a broad set of needs.

How does PAC balance durability and adaptability in its product designs while ensuring compatibility with evolving firefighting tools?

We rely on feedback from multiple sources, including trade show conversations, direct customer input and observations from our own engineering group.

This helps us pinpoint any changes needed in existing products and shows where we might create something entirely new.

It’s a continuous process that ensures we stay close to the realities departments face.

Durability is maintained by using materials that stand up to wear and tear.

Fire trucks encounter frequent vibration, sudden stops and constant exposure to the elements.

By choosing tough polymers and metals, we make certain our brackets can manage heavy loads without warping or breaking.

We examine how each design handles repeated stress to confirm it meets the demands of regular service.

Adaptability is just as important.

Firefighting tools come in various shapes, especially as fresh designs appear.

We aim to produce brackets with enough flexibility to hold axes, pry bars, battery-powered tools and more.

If a new tool type becomes widespread, our team looks at modifying an existing bracket or developing a fresh product to handle it.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions fire departments have when it comes to tool mounting and how does PAC help them rethink their approach?

One misconception is that brackets eat up valuable space.

In reality, brackets often give compartments a cleaner layout by ensuring each tool has a known location.

Once gear is tidily arranged, there’s usually more room than if it were stacked randomly and crews can grab items quickly without digging around.

Another myth is that the setup process is complicated.

We encourage departments to plan where tools will go as soon as they settle on a new vehicle design.

That way, the mounting process becomes part of the overall build and is less likely to cause headaches later on.

Straightforward instructions and simple hardware also help make installation go faster.

Finally, some assume they can pile everything in first and worry about brackets later.

This causes chaos if items keep shifting around or end up damaged.

Departments that involve a bracket layout early in the process typically save time and prevent confusion, resulting in a smoother roll-out once the vehicle is in service.

With fire trucks becoming more specialised, how does PAC ensure its solutions remain versatile across different vehicle configurations?

We concentrate on universal designs that handle a broad spectrum of tools, instead of tying a bracket to just one shape or brand.

This approach helps fire departments adapt their storage as equipment changes.

A bracket that works for a large hand tool can often be adjusted to hold something smaller as well, so there’s no need for multiple custom mounts.

Our positive locking mechanism meets the demands of firefighters while also appealing to other sectors, such as law enforcement, towing and military.

They share a need for reliable storage that keeps gear in place no matter the terrain.

Fire services often have the highest safety and testing standards, so once we satisfy those, the solutions carry over well to similar environments.

By offering mounts that range from half-inch handle grips to those securing large hydraulic equipment, we cover a wide variety of compartment layouts.

Departments can reconfigure the same set of brackets in different ways, rather than seeking a new bracket each time they buy updated tools or change vehicle designs.

How do you see tool mounting needs evolving in other industries?

Firefighters often have second careers, such as public works or landscaping, where they see how proper tool storage makes their daily tasks simpler.

We’ve already seen growing interest in our brackets among law enforcement, military units, industrial facilities and even areas like landscaping or marine applications.

Each sector can face the same problem of equipment sliding or rolling around if not properly secured, leading to damage or injuries.

What trends or advancements in tool mounting technology do you see shaping the industry in the next decade?

Firefighters have noticed that rescue tools keep changing form, with fresh designs appearing at shows every year.

Devices that used to be simple cutters or spreaders can now have revised shapes or added functionality, so mounts need to stay compatible with those updates.

We keep a close watch on these developments, ready to adjust our brackets when departments request something more tailored.

Our aim is to make sure brackets last, even as they’re exposed to the elements or heavy vibration.

That means selecting polymers and metals that resist heat, moisture and day-to-day wear.

If we can provide products that crews purchase once and use for many years, that’s a win for both reliability and cost control.

We also pay attention to what firefighters report after using our products in the field.

If something might handle stress better with a different design, we look at modifying it.

We want to supply a solution that keeps pace with the changing needs of the fire service and other sectors, without making departments repeatedly buy new systems.

This article was originally published in the March 2025 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal – to read your FREE digital copy, click here.

How Performance Advantage Company is meeting the needs of modern tools

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentIFSJ ExclusivesVehicles

Greg Young, Senior VP at Performance Advantage Company (PAC), shares insights into challenges in the tool mounting industry and their vision for future growth and innovation

Greg Young is the Senior Vice President at PAC, a US-based manufacturer specialising in innovative tool mounting systems and brackets.

With a legacy rooted in fire truck manufacturing, PAC has grown into an international company, serving sectors such as the fire service, US Navy, and other industries in need of advanced tool organization solutions.

In this exclusive interview with IFSJ Managing Editor Duncan J. White, Greg discusses the evolving landscape of tool mounting solutions, PAC’s innovative approach to addressing industry challenges, and the company’s expansion into new markets.

For those unfamiliar, can you provide an overview of PAC?

PAC is a manufacturer of specialty products of our own design. Our entire product line encompasses tool mounting solutions.

These are special products to hold and organize tools used in various settings and industries.

Born out of the fire industry, PAC has evolved over 30+ years to design and manufacture products for all industries.

The goal of PAC is to provide robust tool, mounting solutions that exceed the needs our customers regardless of industry.

We believe in our staff which has experience across multiple industries.

When we receive a request for support, PAC always has and always will apply the same philosophy: we always provide the best guidance we can.

We are here to support truck manufacturers, equipment resellers, as well as end users through their challenges around tool mounting.

There is another big thing to mention regarding what the PAC company does to serve all the industries. That is distribution and warehousing.

We go above and beyond, keeping levels of inventory that ensure our customers’ needs are met.

In addition to prompt customer service (with real people answering the phone) we’re widely known in the industry for having both extremely fast shipping and very rarely having back orders.

PAC dealers trust us for prompt drop ship orders directly to their customers.

The tool mounting sector has seen significant changes recently. In your view, what are the main challenges driving these changes?

Without question, we’re seeing the largest number of changes surrounding EV’s as well as the electrification of what were historically, pneumatic and hydraulic powered tools.

The suppression and control of EV and battery fires is still evolving. Those tools in that field are still evolving.

We’re seeing many new products come online to help firefighters extinguish, and control battery fires for example.

We’re still watching the industry evolve, knowing it will get to a place where tools and training provide a safe community.

Because these tools are relatively new in the marketplace and various manufacturers continue to bring new concepts, we haven’t yet defined a solution for some of these new tools.

PAC is known for its innovative approach. Can you share how the company identifies and response to emerging needs in the market?

As we talked about before, we often have a tool mounting kit that will work for a brand-new type of tool that just came on the market.

Our team just doesn’t have the knowledge yet to say this kit will work with this new battery cooling nozzle, for example.

So we’re not afraid to work with manufacturers directly. We’re not afraid to work with equipment dealers.

Often times tool manufacturers and dealers approach us for answers. Many of our staff members are end users in various industries. In that way, the PAC staff is excited to identify and innovate as necessary.

We respond to emerging needs in the market as both partners and participants; making careful decisions that impact the well-being and safety of people around the world as well as our own staff.

Can you tell us about any of PAC’s recent products or innovations and their intended impact on the fire service?

Over the last several years, we’ve been asked to look at fire extinguisher mounts for various reasons.

So, a few years ago we developed two products, a 3 pound and a 5 pound extinguisher holder.

These could be mounted to any vehicle or stationary surface and feature our rugged design with easy to release straps.

Building on that, we found customers asking for larger mount for 10-pound extinguishers.

We noted these requests to look at extinguisher mounts correlate to an increasing presence of smaller attack vehicles, which have nontraditional compartments.

Additionally, to fight fires – regardless of how or where they may erupt – law enforcement, landscaping and garbage trucks are carrying extinguishers.

Our new 10 pound extinguisher mount provides an additional solution for mounting oxygen bottles.

Oxygen storage has been lacking from our product line until now! We’re very excited to support our customers around the world that provide critical life saving measures.

With the complexity of tools and vehicles how does PAC ensure its mounting solutions remain relevant and effective?

We understand our products represent an investment by our customers.

For those who use our products, the feedback we receive is that the customer service, product quality and product versatility surpass other solutions.

Additionally, we stand behind our products with a limited lifetime warranty.

So, we believe PAC will continue to be effective partners of the fire industry by providing the promptest service and incredible value.

Can you share an example when PAC adapted its products based on customer input?

We listen to our customers; whether they come to us directly or we come to them at tradeshows or site visits.

For this reason, several products come to mind.

For example, a military truck manufacturer came to us requesting tool mount brackets moulded in camouflage schemed colours.

Other military customers have approached us for products to meet specific military testing requirements outside of the requirements of the fire industry.

We have created and tested several military products that are used in various scenarios around the world.

As PAC expands into new markets, such as marine and industrial sectors, what specific adaptations or innovations are being introduced to meet the unique demands of these environments?

Earlier I mentioned our new 10-pound extinguisher mount, K5046. The requests for this product came from outside of the traditional fire industry.

The design of it, and the size of it are tailored with different environments in mind.

Storage compartments as well as the access an operator has to the tools are much different between a fire truck and a fireboat, for example.

The mounting surfaces outside a utility truck are much different than what are available on a boat hull, or an agriculture roll bar.

So we’re innovating with this knowledge. Tool mounting is needed across sectors.

We’re investigating what our products need to look like for the widest adaptation across industries.

Looking ahead, what trends or technological advancements do you believe will most influence the future of tooling solutions?

We will certainly continue to look at the diversity of our products. Meaning we develop products for from the standpoint of its usefulness across industries.

An example of this is a recently modified kit K5030, Universal Saw Kit. This was originally a kit that we developed for the fire industry that has seen an introduction of electric chainsaws from all types of manufacturers.

So our kit needed to be redeveloped to accommodate all the different chainsaw platforms.

We’ve always look to develop products that have a grip range that accommodates a variety of tools, not so much a line to line fit.

There are dozens of axe manufactures, for example, and they each have different dimensions for the handle and the head, respectively.

It would be easy to design a mount for one brand and one size, but this wouldn’t build customer’s satisfaction.

The right thing to do is build for the long-haul; build for the bigger picture. That’s what we do with all of our products.

But I think the clearest trend ahead of us is the electrification of tools as well as vehicles.

The types of tools carried on a fire truck is certainly undergoing changes and that trend will likely continue for decades.

PAC has a strong presence internationally – are there any plans for further global expansion?

We’re looking for the right partners who can help us bring our high-quality tool mounting solutions to markets outside of North and South America.

This is an exciting opportunity for PAC as we continue to grow globally, ensuring that more first responders worldwide have access to the best equipment to keep their communities safe.

By building strong distributor relationships, we can maintain our commitment to fast delivery, excellent customer service, and support on a much larger scale.

Finally what are PAC’s strategic goals for the coming years, and how do you plan to continue leading in the tool mounting industry?

Well, you know that I don’t like giving away any secrets, but what I can tell you are three things.

Even as we continue to grow, we MUST do what our customers need most:  When you call PAC for service or help, you always get a real person.

As challenging as the labour market is right now, or continuing to promote from within to ensure our customer service needs are met with knowledgeable and prompt service.

When a new fire truck is nearing completion at the factory; it’s time to install tool mounts into the fresh, open compartments.

PAC customers rely on our stock levels and fast shipping to moves that truck from production into service quickly.

So we continue to serve our customers with our on-site warehouse and top notch inventory control.

Finally, we will continue to share knowledge with our customers. We will continue to do in person trade shows and on site customer visits.

We will continue to expand our reach with new technologies, such as our website and email marketing.

Above all else, our mission will remain to do our part, keeping the communities around the world protected.

We’re going to do this by provide our customers the help they need when they need it most.

This article was originally published in the September 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Equipped for everything with Performance Advantage Company

by Breaking NewsFirefighting Equipment

Tom Trzepacz, Vice President of Sales and Customer Relations at Performance Advantage Company talks trends and unique tool mounting challenges

Can you introduce yourself and your role at Performance Advantage Company?

I am Tom Trzepacz, the Vice President of Sales and Customer Relations at Performance Advantage Company (PAC).

My role involves engaging with our end-users, OEMs, and dealers to enhance our relationships.

I also focus on training and educating them about our products and processes.

Additionally, I play a significant role in managing our trade show appearances and our activities at these events.

In your opinion, what are the biggest trends or changes currently shaping the tool mounting industry?

A significant trend we’ve observed is the rapid advancement in technology, along with the evolution of tools and equipment.

For many years, equipment like rescue tools remained relatively unchanged, with only minor modifications.

However, it now appears that almost every year brings changes and improvements, introducing a competitive atmosphere in many sectors.

This evolution makes it challenging for us to maintain the specificity of our brackets as we have in the past, so we’ve adopted a more generic approach, designing our brackets with universal applications to accommodate the fast pace of change in tools and equipment.

We invest heavily in our design process, and it’s challenging when these designs become obsolete within a year or two due to changes in the tools and equipment we aim to support.

Therefore, we maintain a generic and universal approach to our product design to ensure we can adapt to whatever the future holds.

As the industry, particularly in firefighting, undergoes significant changes, we are committed to adapting and evolving to meet these challenges.

How is PAC innovating to meet the evolving needs of its customers?

At PAC, now in our 30th year, we continuously evaluate our existing product range.

We revisit our original product lines to identify opportunities for enhancement or improvement, ensuring they meet the current demands of the fire industry.

In addition to refining our existing products, we are dedicated to developing new and improved bracket systems.

This process is driven by feedback from our customers and dealers, who highlight the necessity for mounting tools and equipment safely and securely.

Our focus is on designing and developing brackets that can accommodate these tools, ensuring they are mounted safely and securely.

While we are committed to improving our current product line, our eyes are always on the future, looking to innovate and develop products that anticipate and meet future needs.

Can you share a recent example of how PAC helped a customer overcome a unique challenge with tool mounting?

We frequently receive inquiries from customers facing challenges with outfitting their new or existing trucks with tool mounting solutions.

Many reach out to us with a basic understanding of our products but are unsure where to begin the process.

Our approach is to collaborate closely with these customers to identify the most suitable solutions for their needs, whether that involves tool boards or other systems.

We guide them through the process, which includes measuring the space, coordinating with our dealers for direct assistance, and, when necessary, working alongside our dealers to layout compartments and provide drawings.

Once we receive a list of the tools and equipment they need to mount, we recommend the appropriate brackets for each item.

Our goal is to support our customers throughout the entire process, whether they are equipping a new truck or retrofitting an older one with our mounting solutions, ensuring a seamless and efficient setup.

What are some of the most common concerns or questions you hear from customers?

A lot of customers ask which brackets are compatible with their tools and systems, given our extensive range of brackets, some of which have overlapping functions.

There is often uncertainty about the appropriate choice, including for our tool boards, so our customers are always looking for guidance on which are suitable for their needs.

Another common question is around which brackets are compliant with NFPA standards, particularly for those intending to mount tools and equipment within the cab of a vehicle.

Addressing this involves understanding the specific applications and environments in which the equipment will be used to recommend the most fitting system and brackets.

Ensuring the safety of firefighters is paramount, so we emphasise the importance of using the appropriate NFPA-compliant brackets for any tools or equipment accompanying crew members in the cab.

Lead time is another significant concern among our customers, especially given the extended lead times prevalent in the fire industry currently.

PAC’s lead times are exceptionally short, typically allowing for dispatch within a week, thanks to our consistent stock availability.

Despite the challenges faced by the industry in recent years, we have managed to avoid shortages, a fact of which we are particularly proud.

How has PAC adapted its customer service approach to address these concerns?

We have made significant improvements to our operational processes by upgrading our inventory and sales management software.

This upgrade has enhanced our ability to accurately track real-time stock levels and the time required for our team to assemble kits and dispatch them.

This system has really improved the efficiency of our customer service team by providing them with precise information, reducing the need for time-consuming inquiries about stock availability and dispatch timelines.

Additionally, we have developed in-house tools, such as tool board calculators and drawing tools, which assist our engineering and product development teams in creating detailed quotes complete with tool board drawings.

These resources allow us to give our customers a clear visualisation of the products they will receive, streamlining the approval process and significantly reducing the likelihood of errors.

These advancements in our customer service approach have been instrumental in addressing customer concerns more effectively and enhancing overall satisfaction.

Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for the future of PAC’s customer relations team?

We’re a small company, but we’re a big company.

We have big ambitions and plan to expand our customer relations team in the near future.

We’ve already begun training several in-house staff members who, aside from their primary roles in our workshop and design and development teams, are also contributing to customer service efforts as we prepare for growth.

We aim to increase our outreach efforts this year, focusing on strengthening our connections with OEMs and dealers.

We want to ensure they know we are here to support them, ready to answer any questions they might have about our applications.

Part of this initiative involves working more closely with these partners, reinforcing our commitment to their success.

We are also dedicated to the continuous training and development of our team, equipping them with the necessary tools and skills to provide exceptional service.

Our goal is to empower our staff to effectively assist our customers, ensuring we maintain and enhance the quality of support we offer as PAC grows.

This article was originally published in the March 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Evolving tools and how to mount them with Performance Advantage Company

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentVehicles

Greg Young, Senior Vice President at Performance Advantage Company (PAC) discusses the evolution of equipment and its implications for tool mounting solutions

Can you start with a short introduction to PAC and your role?

PAC is a US-based product manufacturer with international reach, specialising in our own line of tool mounting systems and brackets.

Coming from a rich family history in fire truck manufacturing, we’ve leveraged strong industry knowledge to serve not only the fire service sector but have expanded beyond, including applications for the US Navy and various industries seeking tool organisation solutions.

Our growth is marked by innovation, adaptability, and the expansion of our product range to meet diverse needs, driven by both heritage and forward-thinking strategies.

As Senior Vice President at PAC, my responsibilities span across various operational and strategic areas.

I oversee the development and implementation of policies and procedures, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of all processes to address issues promptly and facilitate training.

With a background in product design, engineering, and project management, a significant part of my role involves identifying market needs—sometimes even before customers are aware of them—and conceptualising new products.

This involves coordinating with our engineering, marketing, and sales teams to bring these products to market effectively.

Part of my job is to continuously assess our product line for improvements, aiming to enhance versatility without compromising integrity, catering to evolving tools and technologies such as electric and hydraulic cutters.

Additionally, my role extends to acting as an ambassador for PAC, fostering relationships within the industry through associations like Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association (FAMA) and engaging in discussions about emerging needs and trends.

Recognising the changing landscape, especially with the advent of electric vehicles and tools, emphasises the growing importance of efficient tool mounting systems.

My goal is to anticipate and respond to these shifts, ensuring PAC remains at the forefront of innovation and customer support.

Reflecting on the past year, how has the tool mounting sector evolved or changed?

The tool mounting sector has witnessed significant developments, largely influenced by the shift towards electrification.

This trend isn’t limited to electric vehicles but extends to bikes, scooters, buses, and a broad range of tools transitioning from internal combustion to electric.

A key challenge has been the diversity in battery platforms—some manufacturers have moved towards universal battery systems, while others continue developing proprietary ones, leading to issues with battery storage and charger compatibility.

Unlike standard fuel containers, battery and charger do not have standardised sizes, creating difficulties in adapting mounting solutions to these evolving specifications.

The introduction of electric tools and vehicles has caused us to rethink traditional tool mounting strategies, especially as new products like fire suppression blankets for lithium-ion battery fires enter the market.

These innovations raise questions about the size and adaptability of fire suppression tools, considering the varying dimensions of electric vehicles and the unique challenges they present, such as fires in confined spaces.

The sector is likely to see further evolution, driven by the need for rapid and efficient tool access in emergency situations.

The discussions around managing electric vehicle fires, including the requirement for significant water volumes and specialised equipment, highlight the urgency for adaptable and effective tool mounting solutions.

This evolution underscores the tool mounting sector’s critical role in ensuring quick, accessible, and suitable responses to new challenges in fire suppression and safety.

Can you tell me about PAC’s new extinguisher mounts?

We are introducing a new line of extinguisher mounts that are tailored to address the unique requirements of industrial environments and compact firefighting vehicles.

These mounts feature an enhanced grip diameter, accommodating up to six inches, making them suitable for the largest fire extinguishers or air bottles.

This expansion addresses a gap in our product range for securely mounting 10-pound extinguishers or water cans, offering a cost-effective solution without resorting to over-engineered alternatives designed for heavier equipment.

Our innovation extends to the Cylinder Mate, a robust storage solution for air bottles, ensuring their security, especially in the event of a vehicle crash.

However, its design, focused on air bottles, does not cater to extinguishers with attached hoses and triggers.

Recognising the diverse needs of industrial settings for various extinguishing agents, we’ve developed mounts that are more versatile and user-friendly compared to traditional steel mounts.

There is an industry trend towards smaller, more agile firefighting vehicles, and so our new mounts are poised to serve both traditional fire trucks and electric fire apparatus alongside light rescue vehicles.

These vehicles are increasingly common in industrial settings where rapid response to fires in hard-to-reach areas is critical.

Our mounts are designed to securely hold larger extinguishers, providing an ergonomic and accessible solution for a range of applications, from factory floors to compact urban vehicles, addressing emerging needs for extinguisher accessibility in various contexts including delivery vehicles carrying battery-powered devices.

Are there any other innovations from PAC you’d like to highlight?

We’ve established a presence in the marine market, supplying fire and rescue boats, and collaborating with EMS and law enforcement for their marine needs.

However, despite our expertise, direct marketing to the marine sector is new territory for us.

But the demand is growing organically, with marine operators already familiar with our products for their fleets.

We’re exploring how to better serve the marine market’s unique requirements, recognising this extends beyond fire service to recreational and commercial transportation.

This includes adapting our products for marine environments, focusing on ergonomics and safety to prevent injuries from sharp edges on ships.

Our goal is to offer a comprehensive marine product line that is both versatile and tailored to this sector’s specific needs.

We’re excited about the possibilities within the marine industry, and while the timeline for unveiling this new range is still uncertain, we’re focused on ensuring our offerings meet the high standards our customers expect from us.

Looking towards the future, what emerging trends or technologies do you believe will significantly influence the design and functionality of tool mounting systems?

Predicting future trends in tool mounting systems is challenging due to the rapid and unpredictable evolution of technology and global events, such as the advent of electric vehicles and the impact of the pandemic.

However, a likely focus for the future involves increased mandates for firefighter health and safety.

The emphasis on safety could lead to universal standards for securing tools and equipment on fire apparatus, addressing hazards from unsecured items during accidents.

The principle of improving response efficiency and safety through organised and secure tool mounting parallels the critical approach to vehicle maintenance, like the importance of tire integrity for road safety.

Just as vehicle inspections mandate certain safety standards, there’s a potential for future regulations to mandate specific tool mounting practices to enhance both firefighter safety and operational efficiency.

This vision aligns with the broader goal of minimising risks associated with firefighting operations, including the drive towards cleaner and safer fire truck cabs to reduce cancer risks and other health hazards.

My hope is for future research and regulations to account for the importance of secure tool mounting as a critical component of fire service safety protocols.

PAC has a strong presence in various sectors outside the traditional fire market.

Are there any markets or applications you are aiming to explore or expand into?

Our aim is to increase its focus on marine and industrial sectors.

Our experience has shown that clients often seek solutions after facing challenges, highlighting the need for better preparedness and organisation.

By positioning ourselves at the forefront, we aim to advise and equip these sectors in advance, ensuring they are ready for any situation.

This proactive approach will help prevent problems and enhances outcomes through readiness and training.

Additionally, we’re seeing growing interest from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) needing custom mounting solutions for their unique products, such as thermal imagers.

This area presents an opportunity for PAC to serve as a vital partner, offering specialised mounts that complement OEM products.

Emphasising flexibility and openness to these collaborations will be key to our strategy, allowing us to support OEM growth and expand our reach beyond traditional markets.

Finally, what are your plans at PAC moving forward?

We are focused on enhancing internal communication and leveraging technology to support our growth.

As we expand, identifying and strengthening areas of improvement is crucial.

In 2022, we initiated a transition to a new ERP system to modernise our operations.

Now the new system us fully operational, enhancing our efficiency in production, shipping, and overall management.

However, the full potential of the system is yet to be realised, with features like email marketing and website integration still to come.

An immediate goal of mine is to fully train our staff on the system’s capabilities, ensuring they can use all its functions effectively.

This includes maintaining our core processes as well as exploring advanced features to improve customer engagement.

By harnessing the ERP system, we aim to provide real-time stock visibility and self-service options for quotes and pricing on our website, elevating our service level.

Another significant aspect of our strategy involves better understanding and connecting with our customer base, identifying specific market segments and dealer affiliations within our clientele.

This approach will allow us to tailor our interactions and support more effectively, strengthening our relationships with customers and enhancing our market presence.

This article was originally published in the March 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.