The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) is pleased to announce the results of the 2026 Manufacturers/Suppliers (M/S) Council election. Andy L. Kaempfer, Safe Signal, has been elected chair, and Dave English, General Air Products, has been elected vice chair. Other members of the 2025-2026 M/S Council are as follows: Tate Hitzeman, Potter Electric Signal Company; Scott Howser, Victaulic; Jeff Key, Ferguson Fire and Fabrication; Lainey Liotta, Lubrizol Advanced Materials; Jim McHugh, AGF Manufacturing; Terry Pickvet, Winsupply; George Rabideau, Wheatland Tube; Melisa Rodriguez, Johnson Controls; Phil Schechinger, Viking Group; Rex Schwendiman, Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Company; and James Yost, Talco Fire Systems.

“Throughout my career I have worked hard to advance operational excellence, foster sustainable growth, and champion the development of local and global awareness of fire sprinklers and their efficacy at slowing the fire epidemic,” Kaempfer said. “As chair of AFSA’s M/S Council, I will commit to working hard at guiding its members in its mission to support manufacturers and contractors through advocacy, innovation, and partnership ensuring our industry continues to thrive in an evolving global landscape.”

The Council, established in 1983, represents member companies that produce fire sprinkler system components and supply materials and services to the industry. It was created to represent the interests of all Associate members who make and supply products in the industry and assist AFSA’s Board in meeting the goals of the association.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude for being named vice chair for AFSA’s M/S Council,” English said. “I am deeply humbled by the trust and the confidence that the Council members have placed in me. I can’t wait to work on the important work we do for the AFSA and this incredible industry!”