Sprinkler Age A Publication of the American Fire Sprinkler Association
Sacramento Valley Chapter Hosts 13th Annual Trade Show
On Thursday, March 6, 2025, the Sacramento Valley Chapter of the American Fire Sprinkler Association (SVC AFSA) hosted its 13th Annual Training & Trade Show at The Venue at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, Calif. AFSA’s Vice President of Engineering & Technical Services, John Denhardt, P.E., FSFPE presented three courses: “Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems,” “Water Supplies for Water-Based Fire Protection Systems,” and “Fire Pump Suction and Discharge Piping.” Sacramento Valley AFSA is proud to bring nationally recognized and CAL-FIRE-accredited training to industry professionals and looks forward to bringing more sessions to the region.
The energy was electric as industry professionals gathered for one of the year’s most anticipated events on the West Coast. In what Dennis Serkermestrovich of DES Associates has called “The BEST annual fire sprinkler trade show in California!”—the dynamic and high-energy event drew over 600 attendees across the fire sprinkler industry. The event brought together contractors, designers, fitters, apprentices, office personnel, inspectors, manufacturers, suppliers, and industry leaders for an evening of connection, innovation, and shared purpose. AFSA Chair of the Board and Region 5 Director Linda Biernacki, president of Fire Tech Systems, Inc., Shreveport, La., and other members from AFSA attended this year as well.
With 50 exhibitors on the show floor, attendees experienced a vibrant mix of hands-on demonstrations, new technologies, and meaningful discussions. The buzz was constant, the aisles full, and the enthusiasm contagious. Cole Rigney, U.S. national sales manager at Tornatech, Inc., noted, “It was a great show, as usual. It’s always a good opportunity to connect in person with other professionals in the industry, and the Sac Valley Chapter of AFSA does a fantastic job organizing the event.”
For many vendors, the engagement exceeded expectations. “The booth stayed busy with a mix of new contacts and familiar contacts,” shared Will Fassler, technical services representative at Spears® Manufacturing Company. Steve Brown, senior account manager at Engineered Corrosion Solutions, summed it up. “It was a great interaction with the members. We walked away with some good opportunities!”
The event continues to impress. “We love the Sac Valley AFSA Trade Show! Paulene and the team put on an amazing event! Every year, we love to see the growth of the industry—from the contractors to the vendors and even the products themselves. It’s an honor to be a part of this show.” That sentiment was echoed by Patrick Spillane, CFPS, global portfolio leader at Hose Monster, who shared, “We always look forward to the Sac Valley AFSA Trade Show. The chance to demonstrate our innovative products, new fire pump and hydrant testing software, and to discuss real-world applications with the inspectors is invaluable. Thank you for another successful event.”
The positive feedback wasn’t limited to returning exhibitors. Kim Previti, Northeast sales manager at Steven Brown & Associates, Inc., noted, “As a first-time vendor participant, it is by far the best show to date in attendance, participation, and organization—thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth.”
Rounding out the excitement, Erik Nielsen from Repcor summed it up perfectly: “I do a ton of shows, and this year’s event was extremely impactful! The engagement from the huge crowds was impressive. We were able to show off [our new product] to the exact target audience we were looking for! I, for one, can’t wait for next year. Thanks for all of your efforts in making this an amazing event!”
Behind the scenes, the seamless execution and welcoming atmosphere were no accident. A heartfelt thank you goes to Paulene Norwood, chapter executive director, whose leadership, organization, and tireless commitment to excellence made this event not only possible but truly unforgettable. The success of this event is a testament to the passion and dedication of everyone involved in its planning and execution.
The Sacramento Valley AFSA Trade Show is not just an event—it is a celebration of the fire sprinkler industry’s dedication, resilience, and ongoing innovation. As the industry continues to grow, this gathering remains a vital cornerstone for building relationships, showcasing progress, and inspiring the next generation of fire sprinkler professionals.
The Sacramento Valley Chapter of AFSA hopes you’ll consider joining the fun in 2026! For more information on the 2026 trade show and other chapter events, visit the SAC AFSA website at sacvalleyafsa.org or email Paulene Norwood, chapter executive director, at paulenesacvalleyafsa@gmail.com.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Morgan Barlow is an AFSA Sacramento Valley Chapter board member. She is the HR/benefit coordinator for Marquee Fire Protection in Rocklin, Calif.