Sprinkler Age A Publication of the American Fire Sprinkler Association
INDUSTRY VETERAN FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE THROUGH TRAINING AND THE NEXT GENERATION
From his humble beginnings on the family farm in Paxton, Neb., Joseph A. (Joe) Heinrich rose to the top of his profession, dedicating himself to the betterment of the sprinkler industry. He gave his time, talents, and expertise to mentor the next generation of fire protection professionals and believed in their power and value. His forward-thinking mindset and focus on the future helped grow the industry and develop a path to continued success. For his passion for and commitment to the industry, the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) is honored to recognize Heinrich, past president of Bamford Fire Sprinkler Company, Salina, Kan., and past AFSA Chair of the Board, with its 2024 Henry S. Parmelee Award.
DEDICATED TO THE INDUSTRY
Heinrich’s initiation into the sprinkler business was as a fitter with Bamford, Inc., Kearney, Neb., shortly after graduating from college in 1972. Throughout the years, he advanced through design, estimating, sales, and administration. When he and his wife, Kathy, relocated to Salina, Kan., in 1976, they started Bamford Fire Sprinkler Company out of their home, eventually expanding to a second location in Shawnee Mission, Kan.
In many of his “Chairman’s Message” columns in Sprinkler Age, Heinrich touted training and education to his industry peers. “WE EDUCATE! This association [AFSA] is built upon such a strong foundation we simply need to continue to expand upon what we have put in place, update training programs as times and codes dictate, and further develop the training tools and mechanisms our membership needs,” he wrote in November 2013.
Heinrich was actively involved in updating AFSA’s apprentice training modules, benefiting apprentices nationwide. He also served as a judge for the National Apprentice Competition and worked on updates to the Day One Safe One employee orientation program. Heinrich was a longtime member of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) and served a term as president of its Kansas Sunflower Chapter.
AFSA’s ITM Inspector Development program, the first of its kind, was launched while Heinrich was Chair, and he touted its “tremendous value.” “This is a very aggressive undertaking, yet one we believe will pay great membership dividends,” he wrote. How right he was! Since the program’s inception, 91 percent of students pass their Level I exam, and 92 percent pass the Level II Inspection & Testing exams, all on their first attempts. All told, AFSA averages a 92 percent pass rate for Level I and Level II exams versus the national average 60 percent rate.
Heinrich also promoted the importance of networking and participation in the industry at chapter, local, and national levels as a “vital component of any association.” He said, “Be proactive in advocating fire sprinklers.”
One of Heinrich’s many contributions to the industry was the vision and inception of AFSA’s NextGen Initiative. While serving on the Board, Heinrich realized the industry’s icons and leaders would start departing and the “next generation” of leadership was needed. He realized it was becoming an urgent need to discover and develop future association and industry leaders.
As he wrote in his May 2014 column, “We are certainly to the point we need the 30-somethings and 40-somethings to increase their involvement and bring fresh ideas to the table. We need you to step to the plate and be proactive in the business that supports you and your family—probably in a pretty comfortable lifestyle. And I’m not promoting involvement simply at the national level, but, more importantly, at the local and chapter level where the important legislative, licensing, and code issues arise.”
Heinrich asked Meaghen Wills, Anchor Fire Protection Co., Perkiomenvile, Pa., to consider leading a NextGen initiative and was pleased when she agreed to serve as its first chair. He continued promoting NextGen and encouraged his peers to get their younger workforce involved. “If you are an owner or senior executive, guide your ‘rising stars’ toward this initiative. Our industry needs fresh participation,” he wrote in May 2015.
Heinrich was “amazed at what evolved” from his initial discussion with Wills and the accomplishments of the NextGen Initiative, including sponsoring webinars and convention seminars targeted to young industry professionals.
Wills fondly remembers the Heinrich’s mentorship and has proudly watched as NextGen has grown beyond its initial expectations. “I am so moved by Joe receiving this award posthumously. His dedication to the industry and the next generation of fire protection professionals is unmatched at AFSA,” comments Wills. “His vision is why this initiative exists, and honoring them and his other industry achievements now will solidify his legacy in the industry.”
Past AFSA Chair of the Board Jack Medovich, P.E., Summit Companies, notes Heinrich’s commitment to the industry’s future professionals. “Joe was always in touch with the younger members, making sure they continued to volunteer their time to AFSA to make the association better with their perspective. His development of our NextGen group has continued to grow since its inception.”
“Joe believed in the younger group within our industry. He believed they needed a place to help them in every way,” comments Don Kaufman, past AFSA Chair and current Region 2 Director with Kaufman Fire Protection, Albuquerque, N.M. “His passion for starting the NextGen group within our industry has grown exponentially from local chapters to national committees. This is Joe’s legacy, which he leaves with us.”
DEDICATED TO THE ASSOCIATION
Heinrich became involved in AFSA in 1982, serving on multiple committees, including the Bylaws, Legislative, and Contractors Support & Advisory committees. He was elected to the Board of Directors in 2003 and he served as Chair of the Board 2013-2015. During his tenure, served on many special task force committees, including the development of the Quality Contractor recognition program.
“I remember when Joe came on the Board,” says Kaufman. “His positive attitude and energy for the industry was refreshing. Joe always wanted to make sure that every action from the Board would help every contractor in their business.”
Heinrich’s favorite event of the year was AFSA’s annual convention and exhibition. In Heinrich’s opinion, when his favorite things came together—education, training, and networking—the convention was THE place to be! In his July 2014 column, Heinrich said, “I cannot more emphatically impress upon you what a special event [convention] is. The educational, networking, and social opportunities you have the occasion to experience are unparalleled anywhere in the fire sprinkler industry.”
Heinrich noted that his favorite part of the convention was always the exhibits. “[There’s] so much to see, so much to learn. And being afforded the opportunity to interact directly with the very upper level of manufacturer and supplier representatives is invaluable.”
When concluding his chairmanship, Heinrich stated, “Having been privileged to serve on the Board of Directors has provided rewards beyond measure.” As he noted in his final column, “By far, my greatest satisfaction has come from the appointment of several entirely new members to our committees during my initial year. … I extend my heartfelt thanks … Thanks for the memories!” He retired from the Board in 2017.
Heinrich’s vision to bring new faces and younger professionals into the association has benefited AFSA tenfold and created a lasting legacy as NextGen continues to thrive. Fresh faces have become plentiful on committees and the Board of Directors.
“Joe was a dear friend and a remarkable leader,” comments Past Chair of the Board Jack Viola, P.E. “As AFSA’s Chairman, he appreciated the Board’s feedback, comments, and suggestions. His creation and cultivation of the NextGen continues to support and encourage younger leaders of the fire sprinkler industry.”
DEDICATED TO THE COMMUNITY
Heinrich also found time to serve his community. In 2014, he couldn’t sign his company up “fast enough” to furnish materials and guide the sprinkler installation for a Habitat for Humanity home. He noted he was, “Delighted to provide all design, materials, and manpower to install the system.”
He was a life-long member of the Lutheran Church, beginning at Trinity Lutheran Church in Paxton, where he was baptized, confirmed, and participated in choir. Later, he joined Redeemer Lutheran Church in Salina, where he was involved in various roles, including church council, lector, usher, and altar guild.
Heinrich also had a passion for and involvement in youth activities, particularly baseball, which allowed him to enrich the lives of thousands of youths through team sponsorships, including the framing and construction of batting cages at many local schools and fields. He used his time and talents to support the American Legion, Babe Ruth, and many youth baseball programs. Most notably, he was co-director for the American Legion Grand Slam Tournament for approximately 17 years, beginning in the early 1990s. He and good buddies Kent Lambert and Larry “Doc” St. Clair organized the tournament for many years after their sons finished playing Legion baseball.
DEDICATED TO FAMILY
Heinrich’s parents, Ruby and Benjamin, raised him, his sister Eileen, and his brothers Harvey and Paul in Paxton, where he attended school through his graduation from Paxton High School in 1966, where he and Kathy were high school sweethearts. While at Paxton High, Heinrich participated and lettered in football, basketball, and track for four years. He was student council president, annual staff co-editor, and homecoming king.
After high school, Heinrich moved to Kearney, Neb., to attend Kearney State College, where he studied business administration. He was actively involved in his fraternity, Sigma Phi Epsilon, and was dedicated to his studies. He also enjoyed competing in bridge tournaments. While in Kearney, he and Kathy married, and they later welcomed two sons, Bryan and Brett. When they relocated to Salina, they welcomed their daughter, Andrea.
Heinrich enjoyed bowling, playing golf, taking his grandchildren to the driving range, and spoiling his family—especially his grandchildren. His favorite pastime was attending his grandchildren’s sports and activities.
When Heinrich passed away peacefully in his home on Nov. 23, 2023, after a private battle with cancer, family, friends, and industry peers felt a tremendous loss.
“My dad knew no strangers and made friends everywhere he went,” comments Brett. “He left a lasting impression on many with his huge heart, authenticity, integrity, and generosity.”
“Joe’s humor made dinners fun, and though he always picked the same beer, it suited every occasion perfectly. He influenced many lives with his loyalty, love, care, entrepreneurial skills, and quiet yet solid leadership. Joe will be remembered and missed for his excellence, integrity, and compassion. He will be especially remembered by the family that he loved and loved talking about,” comments Viola. “The last time I talked to Joe and asked him how he was doing, he answered by saying what he always would say when asked that question, ‘Better than I deserve.’ I only wish Joe were here to receive this prestigious award that truly commemorates his contribution to our industry. Our industry and your friends miss you as you now reside in that heavenly sprinkler community of those who have passed and contributed so much to this industry.”
RECOGNIZING DEDICATION
In 1983, AFSA created its highest honor, the Henry S. Parmelee Award, to recognize an outstanding individual who has dedicated himself or herself to the fire sprinkler industry and the goal of fire safety through automatic sprinklers. AFSA will present this year’s award to Kathy and Brett during AFSA43: Convention, Exhibition, and Apprentice Competition, to be held Sept. 18-21 at the Gaylord Rockies. The presentation will be the highlight of the general session on Friday, Sept. 20.
“Joe Heinrich was a true gentleman whose vision for our industry far surpassed his concerns for himself or his company,” comments AFSA President Bob Caputo, CFPS. “Joe had time and a kind word for everyone. He encouraged people around him and saw the need to focus on the next generation of people coming into this industry. Joe’s voice may be gone, but his memory and his impact on our industry and this association will remain for many years to come.”
“Joe was a very hard-working Board member, but more importantly, he was a gem of a guy!” says Medovich. “He always made time to talk to everybody to make sure they were doing fine and enjoying their time with AFSA. He will be sorely missed and is so deserving of the Parmelee Award this year. AFSA would not be where it is today if it were not for Joe. However, we are all thankful that his legacy within our association will be carried forward through his son, Brett.”
Past AFSA Chair of the Board Dwight Bateman thoroughly enjoyed his time with Joe while serving on the Board together. “Joe had a commanding and distinct voice; you always knew he was there. Leah and I enjoyed many dinners with Kathy and Joe. I am and know that Joe was very proud that our sons Brett and Chip are continuing to serve on AFSA committees. Joe’s establishment of the NextGen was his greatest contribution to AFSA.”
“I have personally lost a very good friend and someone to bounce ideas off of,” Kaufman says. “I will miss you, my friend. Joe, you are always in my prayers.”
“Joe Heinrich is the definition of what a Parmelee recipient encompasses. He was a visionary, who, as Chair, started the NextGen Initiative to inspire the younger generation to move into leadership roles in our industry,” comments AFSA Chair of the Board Linda Biernacki, president of Fire Tech Systems, Inc., Shreveport, La. “Joe was a great friend and mentor to me, and I will never forget the fun times we had around the watering hole. I am honored to posthumously award this to his loving wife, Kathy, sons, Brett and Bryan, and daughter, Andrea, who will carry on his legacy.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: Do you know someone who should be nominated for AFSA’s highest honor, the Henry S. Parmelee Award? AFSA is proud to recognize those individuals who have dedicated themselves to the professional advancement of the fire sprinkler industry and to the goal of fire safety through automatic sprinklers. For a list of past recipients and to nominate someone for this award year-round, visit www.firesprinkler.org/afsa-awards. (Member login required.)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: D’Arcy Montalvo is the public relations manager for AFSA.
