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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 and support throughout Latin America — and what it means to bring AFSA’s mission to a global audience.

Quick, candid, and packed with convention-floor energy, this episode captures the heart of AFSA44 one conversation at a time and brings it to your speakers. 

This episode is brought to you by ServiceTrade - the software platform built specifically for commercial service contractors in fire protection, HVAC, and mechanical industries.

ServiceTrade helps streamline your entire operation, from scheduling and dispatching to inspections, reporting, and invoicing — all in one place. With real-time communication between the office and the field, your team can work smarter, close jobs faster, and deliver a better customer experience. 

Trus

Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at [email protected].

For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org

TikTok: @firesprinkler.org

LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association

Facebook: firesprinkler.org

Instagram: @firesprinklerorg

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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 sprinkler industry.

👉 If you want to stay ahead of NFPA standards and understand how these updates affect your work, this episode is a must-listen.

This episode is brought to you by ServiceTrade - the software platform built specifically for commercial service contractors in fire protection, HVAC, and mechanical industries.

ServiceTrade helps streamline your entire operation, from scheduling and dispatching to inspections, reporting, and invoicing — all in one place. With real-time communication between the office and the field, your team can work smarter, close jobs faster, and deliver a better customer experience. 

Trus

Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at [email protected].

For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org

TikTok: @firesprinkler.org

LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association

Facebook: firesprinkler.org

Instagram: @firesprinklerorg

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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, and bright future ahead for the fire sprinkler industry — and how the next generation is already getting involved.

This episode is brought to you by ServiceTrade - the software platform built specifically for commercial service contractors in fire protection, HVAC, and mechanical industries.

ServiceTrade helps streamline your entire operation, from scheduling and dispatching to inspections, reporting, and invoicing — all in one place. With real-time communication between the office and the field, your team can work smarter, close jobs faster, and deliver a better customer experience. 

Trus

Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at [email protected].

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, subscribe, & review!

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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.

This episode is brought to you by ServiceTrade - the software platform built specifically for commercial service contractors in fire protection, HVAC, and mechanical industries.

ServiceTrade helps streamline your entire operation, from scheduling and dispatching to inspections, reporting, and invoicing — all in one place. With real-time communication between the office and the field, your team can work smarter, close jobs faster, and deliver a better customer experience. 

Trus

Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at [email protected].

For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org

TikTok: @firesprinkler.org

LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association

Facebook: firesprinkler.org

Instagram: @firesprinklerorg

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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.

This episode is brought to you by ServiceTrade - the software platform built specifically for commercial service contractors in fire protection, HVAC, and mechanical industries.

ServiceTrade helps streamline your entire operation, from scheduling and dispatching to inspections, reporting, and invoicing — all in one place. With real-time communication between the office and the field, your team can work smarter, close jobs faster, and deliver a better customer experience. 

Trus

Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at [email protected].

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, subscribe, & review!

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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 your future or help your team grow.

👉 If you’re aiming for foremanship, this episode is your guide to the skills that truly matter.

This episode is brought to you by ServiceTrade - the software platform built specifically for commercial service contractors in fire protection, HVAC, and mechanical industries.

ServiceTrade helps streamline your entire operation, from scheduling and dispatching to inspections, reporting, and invoicing — all in one place. With real-time communication between the office and the field, your team can work smarter, close jobs faster, and deliver a better customer experience. 

Trus

Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at [email protected].

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, subscribe, & review!

Send us Fan Mail

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 the future!

This episode is brought to you by ServiceTrade - the software platform built specifically for commercial service contractors in fire protection, HVAC, and mechanical industries.

ServiceTrade helps streamline your entire operation, from scheduling and dispatching to inspections, reporting, and invoicing — all in one place. With real-time communication between the office and the field, your team can work smarter, close jobs faster, and deliver a better customer experience. 

Trus

Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at [email protected].

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, subscribe, & review!

Send us Fan Mail

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.

This episode is brought to you by ServiceTrade - the software platform built specifically for commercial service contractors in fire protection, HVAC, and mechanical industries.

ServiceTrade helps streamline your entire operation, from scheduling and dispatching to inspections, reporting, and invoicing — all in one place. With real-time communication between the office and the field, your team can work smarter, close jobs faster, and deliver a better customer experience. 

Trus

Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at [email protected].

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, subscribe, & review!

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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

This episode is brought to you by ServiceTrade - the software platform built specifically for commercial service contractors in fire protection, HVAC, and mechanical industries.

ServiceTrade helps streamline your entire operation, from scheduling and dispatching to inspections, reporting, and invoicing — all in one place. With real-time communication between the office and the field, your team can work smarter, close jobs faster, and deliver a better customer experience. 

Trus

Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at [email protected].

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, subscribe, & review!

Send us Fan Mail

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

This episode is brought to you by ServiceTrade - the software platform built specifically for commercial service contractors in fire protection, HVAC, and mechanical industries.

ServiceTrade helps streamline your entire operation, from scheduling and dispatching to inspections, reporting, and invoicing — all in one place. With real-time communication between the office and the field, your team can work smarter, close jobs faster, and deliver a better customer experience. 

Trus

Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at [email protected].

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, subscribe, & review!