In this second installment of The Riser Report, we bring you fresh conversations straight from the AFSA44 convention floor — highlighting the advocates, educators, champions, and rising leaders shaping the future of the fire sprinkler industry. We kick things off with Peg Paul of the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, who shares insight into national residential sprinkler advocacy, education efforts, and the ongoing push to improve home fire safety across North America. Next, we catch up with Dyl...

In the Riser Report convention-series episode, we catch up with two standout voices from the AFSA44 expo. First, we sit down with Martin Workman, Senior Vice President at Viking, to talk about his journey in fire protection, what he’s learned along the way, and how product development continues to evolve within one of the industry’s most innovative companies. Then we connect with Mariana Barrios, General Manager at EnginZone, for a powerful conversation on expanding fire sprinkler training an...

The future of fire protection codes and standards is taking shape — and the time to prepare is now. In this episode of The K-Factor Podcast, Kevin Hall, Director of Engineering & Technical Services at AFSA, joins us to share insights on the upcoming 2028 edition of NFPA 13 and the 2026 edition of NFPA 25. From sprinkler system design updates to inspection, testing, and maintenance requirements, Kevin highlights the key changes that will impact contractors, engineers, and the entire fire...

What does the future of fire protection look like — and how do we inspire the next generation to be part of it? In this episode of The K-Factor Podcast, we sit down with Gene Taylor, VP of Field Operations at Brendle Sprinkler, and Hunter Brendle, President of Brendle Sprinkler Company, Inc., joined by their children, to talk about the fire protection families, mentorship, and industry outreach play in attracting new talent. It’s a candid conversation about the opportunities, challenges, an...

In this episode, we talk with Brayden and Aiden, two aspiring ITM technicians breaking into the fire sprinkler industry. They discuss what drew them to fire protection, how they’re learning the ins and outs of inspections, testing, and maintenance, and the challenges and rewards of starting their careers. Join us for their fresh perspective on the future of ITM and what it takes to make an impact in the field. AFSA’s Hands-On NFPA 25 Workshops take inspection, testing, and maintenance t...

In this episode, we talk with Jennifer Walker, a new fire sprinkler designer at American Fire in California. Jennifer discusses her path into the fire protection industry, challenges that she has had, and her continued learning. She also shares her perspective on her future in the fire sprinkler field and what new designers should know. AFSA’s Hands-On NFPA 25 Workshops take inspection, testing, and maintenance training beyond the classroom—giving fire protection professionals the opportunity...

Becoming a foreman isn’t just about experience—it’s about mastering the skills that make people want to follow your lead. In this episode of The K-Factor Podcast, we sit down with Bob Caputo, president of the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA), to explore the essential abilities every aspiring foreman needs. From motivating crews and managing jobs to solving problems under pressure, Bob shares insights from his experience of leadership that can help you build a strong foundation for...

The 2028 edition of NFPA 13 may still be a few years away, but changes are already taking shape — and it’s time to get prepared. In this episode of The K-Factor Podcast, Kevin Hall joins us to share an insider’s perspective on what’s coming in the next edition of NFPA 13. From technical updates to practical implications in the field, Kevin breaks down the changes that matter most to contractors, engineers, and the entire fire sprinkler community. Look out for a more in-depth dive soon in th...

In this episode, Victoria Valentine from AFSA shares how to talk about your job in fire protection in ways that connect, educate, and inspire. Whether you're on a jobsite or at a family BBQ, learn to turn “what do you do?” into a powerful moment for the industry. Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprinkler.org. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebo...

Meet Raul Bustamante, an aspiring fire sprinkler designer at Metro Fire Protection, as he shares his hands-on experience surveying jobs in the field and how it’s shaping his path to design. His journey offers a unique look into the real-world steps of building a career in fire protection. Metro Fire & Security: www.metrofireandsecurity.com Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprinkler.org. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org ...

Growing a sprinkler division in a company isn’t easy—but it’s full of lessons. Kory Steele (Sprinkler Division Manager) and Chance Hughes (Project Manager) of E-Fire, Inc. share how they navigate challenges, lead their team, and keep growth flowing. Tune in for insights, stories, and advice for anyone building a business segment under pressure or trying to build a team! More information on E-Fire, Inc.: efire.info Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprin...

In this episode, we sit down with Matthew Klaus, AFSA’s new Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer. With years of experience shaping codes, standards, and technical guidance during his time at NFPA, Matt brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role. He shares his journey and the insights he’s gained from years in fire protection. Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprinkler.org. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.or...

In this episode, we dive into the world of water flow testing with Patrick Spillane and Michael Anderson from the Hose Monster Company. They share insights on industry best practices, why accurate testing matters, and how innovation is shaping the future of fire protection systems. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebook: firesprinkler.org Instagram: @firesprinklerorg Don't forget to li...

In this episode, Christian Neal from Summit Fire & Security shares what it’s really like to be a fire sprinkler apprentice. From hands-on learning to career growth, we explore how apprenticeships lay the foundation for success in fire protection. Tune in for real insights and practical advice from the field! For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebook: firesprinkler.org Instagram: @fires...

In this episode, we talk with Jarrel Kadavy, AVP-Risk Engineering Specialist, about the role of fire protection in the commercial property insurance industry. Jarrel shares his perspective on how fire protection systems play into broader risk management and insurance practices. We explore the challenges and considerations in this space and discuss how fire protection and insurance intersect in ways that affect property owners. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on fire protection an...

In this episode, we talk with the Vice President of Membership at AFSA about the importance of getting involved in the fire sprinkler industry. She shares insights on building connections, accessing resources, and how engagement can help grow your career. Tune in to learn how to take your involvement in the industry to the next level! Become a member: https://portal.firesprinkler.org/join/intro.html?action=join For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkl...

Join us in this episode as we chat with Steven Dynan about the power of water mist fire protection systems and how they’re revolutionizing fire safety! 🚿🔥 Tune in to learn how this cutting-edge technology is changing the game in fire suppression! For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebook: firesprinkler.org Instagram: @firesprinklerorg Don't forget to like and subscribe!

In this episode of the K-Factor Podcast, we’re joined by Justine VanNostran, ITM Manager at Colonial Fire Protection Systems, Inc., for a real look into the world of fire protection. We talk ITM management, the evolving role of women in the industry, and how different generations are shaping the future of the field. It’s an honest, insightful, and engaging conversation you won’t want to miss. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: A...

In this episode, we sit down with Dyne Fire Protection Labs’ Joan Leedy, Technical Director, and Grant Lobdell, President, for an in-depth conversation on foam, antifreeze, and fire sprinkler testing. They share their expertise on evolving testing standards, the science behind various fire protection solutions, and how Dyne supports the industry with reliable data and analysis. From the complexities of legacy systems to the importance of precision in testing modern agents, this discussion is ...

In this episode, we talk with Jared Van Gammeren, President of Driven Fire Consultants, about the evolving world of fire sprinkler design and the role of BIM (Building Information Modeling). Jared shares insights into how technology is transforming design processes and improving efficiency in fire protection projects. Tune in to learn how innovative tools like BIM are shaping the future of the industry! For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org ...