Ignition Point Podcast

Join us as we dive into the upcoming PGI Convention 2026, sharing essential tips for attendees, registration details, and exciting activities planned for the week. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned attendees alike, this episode is your ultimate guide to making the most of the event.

key topics

• Registration deadlines and tips
• Camping and transportation advice
• Public nights and ticket info
• Classes and workshops offered
• Social events and networking opportunities
• Volunteer opportunities and site info
• New app and schedule details
• Special challenges and contests at PGI 2026

Join us as Rick Olivieri, a seasoned PGI member with 26 years of experience, shares insights into the world of fireworks safety, the upcoming PGI convention in Wisconsin, and how the organization promotes safe, artful fireworks displays. Discover the behind-the-scenes of public fireworks shows, exclusive event details, and opportunities for sponsorship and community engagement. The 2026 Wisconsin Fireworks Festival, presented by the Pyrotechnics Guild International (PGI), is a three-night spectacular event at Wisconsin International Raceway in Kaukauna, WI, from August 8th through 14th, 2026. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to PGI and Rick Olivieri
02:07 Understanding PGI's Mission and Structure
04:02 Exploring the Public Events of PGI
08:00 Venue Insights and Accessibility
12:53 Overview of Show Nights and Their Unique Features
16:30 Diving Deeper into the Opening Night
19:55 Wednesday Night: Behind the Scenes and Competitions
22:39 Friday Night: The Grand Finale and Special Features
27:31 Ticketing and Discounts for Events
29:41 Merchandise and Commemorative Items
31:41 Sponsorship Opportunities and Marketing Strategies
38:04 Weather Contingencies and Show Postponements
42:51 Advertising Strategies and Community Engagement
48:58 Exclusive Discounts for Podcast Listeners
50:25 Warning & Notices for Attendees

Resources

PGI Official Website - https://pgi.org/
PGI Tickets and Event Info - https://pgi.org/tickets
PGI on Facebook - https://facebook.com/PGIfireworks
PGI on Twitter - https://twitter.com/PGIfireworks

Use Code IPOINT for 20% off opening night tickets, August 8th, and for VIP boxes.

In this episode, guest Aaron Enzer joins hosts Skylar, Peaches (Lisa), Joel, and Adam to share insights into PGI's new competition, Battle in the Sky, including how it works, the rules, and opportunities for pyrotechnic artists to showcase their skills without extensive resources. 

Learn more about the competition at BattleInTheSky.org

00:00
Introduction to Aaron Enzer and His Journey

02:37
Aaron's Experience in Pyrotechnics and PGI Involvement

04:57
The New Competition: Battle in the Sky

07:42
Competition Structure and Logistics

10:20
Entry Process and Fees

12:49
Opportunities for New Pyrotechnic Artists

15:33
Judging Criteria and Show Design

18:21
Final Thoughts and Future Prospects

23:51
Building a Successful Team for Fireworks Shows

25:07
Understanding Budget Constraints in Fireworks Design

26:52
Creative Freedom in Fireworks Design

28:53
Judging Criteria for Fireworks Competitions

32:17
The Importance of Cleanup in Fireworks Shows

33:42
Looking Forward to the Competition

35:25
Final Thoughts and Future of the Competition 

Resources

• PGI Official Website
• Official Competition Website
• Finale 3D Software
• AcePyro Fireworks Supplies

In this episode, Dan Muzzey shares his extensive journey with the Pyrotechnics Guild International (PGI), detailing his first convention experience, his evolution from attendee to seminar chair, and his current role as Vice President of Communications. He discusses the importance of community involvement, the challenges of organizing events, and the future of PGI, including the integration of drone shows and improved communication strategies. Dan emphasizes the need for more volunteers to ensure the success of future conventions and the positive impact of member engagement on the organization.

00:00
First Impressions of PGI Conventions

03:04
Family Involvement in Pyrotechnics

05:51
Discovering PGI and Early Experiences

08:22
Transitioning from Attendee to Seminar Chair

10:59
The Role of a Seminar Chair

13:46
Blind Pyro and Family Dynamics

21:47
The Joy of Campfire Conversations

22:29
The Role of Seminar Chair

23:27
The Evolution of PGI Conventions

25:34
Volunteer Opportunities and Community Engagement

27:15
The Importance of Volunteering

28:07
VP of Communications: Responsibilities and Challenges

31:25
Improving Communication and Member Engagement

35:39
Future of Fireworks and Drones

39:17
Looking Ahead to the Next Convention 

 In this episode of the Ignition Point podcast, hosts Joel Robinson, Adam Keeley, and Skylar Marshall welcome Craig Hetherington, the new president of PGI. They discuss Craig's journey in pyrotechnics, the logistics of planning conventions, and the importance of community and collaboration within the industry. Craig shares insights on the challenges of his new role, the significance of engaging with other organizations, and the ongoing efforts to build membership and involvement in PGI. The conversation also touches on memorable stories from past conventions, the planning process for future events, and the importance of permits and regulations in the pyrotechnics field.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Craig Hetherington
02:09 Craig's Journey in Pyrotechnics
05:00 The Role of PGI President
08:14 Volunteer Appreciation and Team Dynamics
09:57 Building Relationships with Other Organizations
12:41 Engagement at Industry Events
15:42 The Origin of the Nickname 'Tippy'
19:49 Reflections on Past Conventions
22:56 Planning for Future Conventions
25:10 Logistical Challenges and Solutions
30:05 Evaluating New Sites for PGI
31:34 Vendor Coordination and Display Planning
35:41 Public Engagement and Competition Planning
38:28 Getting Involved with PGI

In this episode, the hosts reflect on their experiences at the recent PGI event, sharing personal stories, highlights from the shows, and the impressive contributions of Peaches. They discuss the importance of public engagement and membership drives, the integration of drone technology with fireworks, and the unique displays that captivated audiences. The conversation also touches on memorable moments, innovations in firework shows, and the significance of community connections within the fireworks industry. In this episode, the hosts reflect on their experiences at the recent convention, sharing humorous anecdotes about a yodeling pickle, highlights from the event, and the camaraderie among attendees. They discuss the site layout, after-hours activities, and a unique event called 'Root Beers and Ears.' The conversation also touches on auction experiences, the hardworking volunteers known as the 'Skittles Crew,' and excitement for the upcoming PGI 2026 event in Wisconsin.

00:00
Post-PGI Reflections

02:43
Drive Home Experiences

05:31
Public Engagement and Membership

08:19
The Drone Show Experience

11:28
Innovations in Fireworks and Drones

14:14
Highlights from the Week

16:59
Competition Insights and Future Prospects

19:43
Impressive Fireworks Shows and Techniques

22:29
Personal Highlights and Emotional Connections

25:22
Fun and Quirky Moments at the Convention

28:23
Reflections on the Convention Venue

31:21
The Thrill of Mass Launches

34:22
New Events and Community Engagement

37:38
Auction Highlights and Experiences

38:57
Art and Creativity in Fireworks

40:10
The Importance of Cleanliness and Volunteer Efforts

42:47
Acknowledging the Hardworking Site Crew

46:04
Looking Ahead to PGI 2026 in Wisconsin

48:03
Fun Food Ideas for Wisconsin

50:03
Wrapping Up and Future Plans

51:37
Introduction and Setting the Scene

54:38
Personal Stories and Emotional Connections

57:41
Reflections on Community and Volunteering 

This episode of the Ignition Point podcast serves as a comprehensive guide to the upcoming PGI 2025 convention, covering essential details such as logistics, exciting events, and opportunities for attendees to engage with the pyrotechnics community. The hosts discuss various highlights, including live podcast sessions, competitions, the cracker burn event, and the importance of volunteering. Listeners are encouraged to participate in seminars, enjoy the camaraderie of camping, and take part in the Junior Pyrotechnic Association's activities. The episode emphasizes the unique experiences and learning opportunities available at PGI 2025, culminating in a reminder to register before the deadline. 

00:00
Introduction to PGI 2025

01:14
Excitement for the Upcoming Convention

04:47
Sunday Night Displays and Drone Shows

08:22
The Cracker Burn Event

11:51
Class C Vending and Fireworks Sales

14:14
The Gerry Gits Challenge and Mascaletta

16:55
Competitions and Learning Opportunities

20:42
Camping and Community at PGI

21:59
Largest Shell at PGI

23:54
Exciting Developments at the New Venue

25:03
Volunteer Opportunities and Community Involvement

29:03
The Thrill of the Rocket Rodeo

30:48
Introducing the Junior Pyrotechnic Association

32:56
Final Thoughts and Closing Details 

35:39 

Bloopers

In the inaugural episode of the Ignition Point podcast, the hosts introduce themselves and share their backgrounds in the pyrotechnics industry. They discuss their experiences at PGI conventions, the community aspect of the event, and the upcoming Fourth of July celebrations. The conversation highlights the importance of networking, volunteering, and the unique experiences that come with being part of the PGI community. The hosts also discuss the details of the upcoming convention in Boone, Iowa, and express their excitement for future episodes. 

00:00
Introduction to the Ignition Point Podcast

01:23
Understanding PGI: The Pyrotechnics Guild International

05:13
Meet the Hosts: Personal Journeys in Pyrotechnics

16:44
The Community and Culture of PGI

22:33
Exploring Boone, Iowa: The Next PGI Convention

23:33
The Unique Layout of PGI Convention

25:06
Diverse Activities and Seminars at PGI

27:01
Hands-On Fireworks Experience

28:15
The Future of PGI and Upcoming Events

28:40
Networking and Community at PGI

33:22
Convention Details and Membership Benefits

36:35
Celebrating the Fourth of July

37:56
Innovative Fireworks Shows and Performances

41:42
International Community at PGI

43:46
Future of PGI and Upcoming Events

47:31
Signing Off with a Spark

47:59
Bloopers and Banter

I Just Died In Your Arms Tonight