Sprinkler Age A Publication of the American Fire Sprinkler Association
In today’s competitive business environment, success in the fire sprinkler industry isn’t just about the projects you complete or the products you provide—it’s also about the relationships you cultivate. Networking has always been a vital part of professional growth, but within the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA), networking takes on a new level of meaning. It becomes more than a handshake; it becomes a pathway to opportunity, knowledge, and long-term industry success.
AFSA isn’t just an association—it’s a community where contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, designers, and apprentices come together to support one another. When members attend AFSA events, engage in chapter meetings, or serve on committees, they’re connecting with others who understand the challenges and opportunities unique to the fire sprinkler industry.
These connections aren’t surface-level. They’re built on a shared mission to strengthen the trade, protect lives and property, and ensure the continued growth of fire protection across the country. That’s why AFSA networking often turns into partnerships that last a lifetime.
Networking within AFSA has proven to be a launchpad for countless opportunities:
• Business Growth: Contractors and suppliers often meet at chapter events, trade shows, or the annual convention and walk away with new clients, vendors, or project partnerships.
• Career Advancement: Apprentices and young professionals who attend AFSA’s competitions or NextGen events gain mentors, industry exposure, and even career-changing introductions.
• Knowledge Sharing: Whether it’s a hallway conversation, a roundtable at a chapter meeting, or a virtual technical call, members exchange best practices and innovative solutions that move the industry forward.
Often, a single conversation at an AFSA event leads to new projects, new friendships, and new ways of approaching industry challenges. One of the best opportunities to put the power of networking into action is the upcoming AFSA44: Convention, Exhibition, and Apprentice Competition in Washington, D.C., October 15-18, 2025.
This four-day event brings together contractors, suppliers, manufacturers, designers, and apprentices from across the country. Beyond the educational seminars and hands-on training sessions, AFSA44 is designed to spark connections. The bustling exhibit hall, networking receptions, and the thrilling National Apprentice Competition provide countless touchpoints for meaningful conversations.
Whether you’re seeking new business partners, exploring innovative products, or simply wanting to exchange ideas with peers who understand your challenges, AFSA44 is where it happens. Many long-term collaborations and friendships in our industry can trace their roots back to a convention introduction or a conversation at a networking event.
Networking doesn’t just benefit the individual—it makes the entire fire sprinkler industry stronger. When manufacturers collaborate with contractors through AFSA committees, product improvements and new training resources emerge. When chapters join forces on a regional summit, members gain access to broader perspectives and stronger advocacy.
These connections create ripple effects: better practices, stronger safety standards, and a more unified voice for fire protection nationwide. AFSA networking ensures that no member has to face industry challenges alone.
While nothing can replace face-to-face interaction, AFSA also embraces digital tools to keep members connected year-round. From the SprinklerForum online community to webinars, members can share ideas and resources no matter where they are. These platforms ensure that networking doesn’t end when an event does—it continues to grow and strengthen daily.
To harness the full power of AFSA’s network, members can:
1. Get Involved Locally: Join your chapter, attend meetings, and volunteer at events.
2. Say Yes to Opportunities: Whether it’s serving on a committee, competing in the apprentice competition, or attending AFSA44, engagement leads to connection.
3. Share Generously: Offer your expertise, connect others, and contribute ideas—networking thrives on collaboration.
4. Follow Up: A quick email or phone call after an event keeps the momentum going and builds stronger relationships.
AFSA believes in the power of people helping people. Through networking, members gain more than contacts—they gain a support system, a resource hub, and a community that is deeply invested in their success.
In the fire sprinkler industry, where protecting lives and property is the ultimate goal, these connections make us stronger, smarter, and more united. With AFSA, networking isn’t just an activity—it’s a foundation for growth and the future of our industry.
And this October, at AFSA44 in Washington, D.C., members will once again have the chance to experience firsthand just how powerful networking can be.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Meda Merritt, CAE, is vice president of membership and chapter development for the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA). In this role, she manages its overall membership recruitment and retention efforts, supports the development and growth of AFSA’s chapters and affiliated state associations, and works to increase the association’s visibility within the industry and to related industries. Merritt obtained her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Tulsa. She is a member of ASAE, and DFWAE, where she serves as chair of its IDEA Committee and a member of its Membership Committee. Merritt earned ASAE’s CAE certification in 2024 and was awarded DFWAE’s Wayne James Award for recruitment.