About Performance Based Fire Protection Engineering

David Stacy, the Principal & Founder of Performance Based Fire Protection Engineering, PLLC, is an esteemed professional with extensive experience in the fire protection field. His specialized expertise lies in computational modeling, which serves as the cornerstone of his successful consulting firm.

David's firm is dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions in fire and egress modeling, performance-based designs, Smoke Control Rational Analyses (SCRA), and Alternative Means & Methods (AM&M). His deep understanding of these areas allows him to deliver innovative and customized fire protection strategies to clients.

David’s expertise and contributions extend beyond his consulting firm. He is highly regarded within the fire protection field and has made significant contributions to the advancement of computer fire modeling. His expertise has been showcased through presentations at national conferences organized by the Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). These presentations have focused on the latest developments and advancements in the field, highlighting David's commitment to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies and methodologies. His active involvement in industry conferences underscores his dedication to continuous learning and his desire to drive innovation in fire protection engineering.

David Stacy's extensive experience, niche skill set, and active involvement in professional organizations make him a respected figure in the fire protection industry. Through his leadership and innovative approach, he continues to drive Performance Based Fire Protection Engineering, PLLC towards excellence, ensuring optimal fire protection solutions for their clients.

Aric Aumond is a Fire Protection Engineer with experience in many aspects of fire protection engineering, with an emphasis on code consulting, hazard analysis and fire protection systems design. While attending the University of South Florida (USF) as an undergraduate student in Mechanical Engineering, he worked as a designer producing fire sprinkler and fire alarm shop drawings. Soon after starting, he was recommended a book – The Killer Show. This book accounts first-hand experiences of the events leading up to and during the Rhode Island night club fire of 2003 responsible for the deaths of 100 people and the evolution our current building codes. It was then, knowing he could help to prevent horrific tragedies like this, that his passion for the industry ignited. He continued to advance his knowledge in the field by obtaining his Masters in Fire Protection Engineering from The University of Maryland (UMD).

Through the progression of his career from large architecture and engineering firms to small specialized life-safety consulting firms, he continued gaining valuable organizational insight and engineering experience. Ultimately, his desire to help build and grow a value-centric organization led him to Performance-Based Fire Protection Engineering, PLLC.

Aric also holds a NICET II certification in Water Based Systems Layout, Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS), and shares affiliation with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE).

Austin Grant is a Principal Fire Protection Engineer with multi-state licensure, based out of Louisville, Kentucky.  It took him some time to figure out what he wanted to do as a career path, but after some time as a volunteer firefighter and a few engineering classes, Fire Protection Engineering is where he knew he belonged.

As a graduate from Eastern Kentucky University’s Fire Protection Engineering Technology program, followed by obtaining his B.S. in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park, Austin’s strong technical knowledge base and impact on the fire protection industry has been a great addition to the firm.  Having a solid background in fire protection system design including special hazards, over his professional career he has been involved in projects on military bases around the world, distilleries, breweries, schools, hospitals, hotels, office buildings, and everything in between.

For fun, he enjoys woodworking projects, photography, hiking, traveling, and playing with his dogs (a beagle and a golden retriever).

Haavard has over 14 years of experience with complex performance-based fire protection design, forensic analysis, and fire research. His work focuses on application of computer modeling of fire and pedestrian movement to analyze problems such as smoke extraction, structural fire exposure, evacuation and crowd management, battery gas release, and occupant tenability. He was lead researcher for the 2020 NFPA Research Foundation report on Fire Hazards of Modern Vehicles.

He has presented research at technical conferences for the NFPA, SFPE, AIChE, and been published in peer reviewed journals such as Fire Technology. He is a licensed professional engineer in Maryland.

Like other engineers at PBFPE, Pierce has strong roots in the fire service, following a family history of volunteer firefighters in his Minnesota home town, followed by participating in the live-in student firefighter program at the College Park Volunteer Fire Department while he attended the University of Maryland.

Pierce obtained his B.S. in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland, College park in 2015.  Upon graduation, he began his career as a consultant focusing on code consulting, Statement of Conditions (SOC) and Life Safety surveys, hazardous materials analyses, and system design.  He also quickly fell into a niche of performing performance-based designs and computational fire and egress modeling, hence how his expertise brought him to Performance Based Fire Protection Engineering, PLLC in 2020.

Rosalie Hrybyk is a licensed Fire Protection Engineer, based out of Baltimore, Maryland. Rosalie obtained her M.S. and B.S. in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2013 and 2015. Upon graduation, she began her career as a consultant focusing on code consulting, plan review, system design, Statement of Conditions (SOC) Life Safety surveys, and performance-based designs with computational fire and egress modeling.

Rachel Kirk is a highly experienced Fire Protection Associate based in northern New Jersey. With over 6 years of dedicated work in fire protection engineering consulting, Rachel's expertise is backed by a strong educational foundation. She holds a B.S. in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland, complemented by a graduate certificate from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in Fire Protection Engineering.

Throughout her career, Rachel has focused on providing comprehensive code consulting services for a diverse range of building types, including health care facilities, higher education institutions, office buildings, assembly spaces, and residential structures. Her expertise encompasses various aspects of code compliance, such as plan reviews, system designs, third-party reviews, life safety assessments, and fire and egress modeling.

Furthermore, Rachel has fostered collaborative relationships with state authorities, actively engaging in plan reviews and conducting code compliance inspections for buildings in New York State. Her close collaboration with architects, mechanical engineers, and owners has cultivated a well-rounded perspective on projects undertaken at Performance Based Fire Protection Engineering, PLLC.

Rachel's extensive experience working alongside AHJs (Authorities Having Jurisdiction) positions her as a valuable resource for ensuring compliance and regulatory adherence. Her multifaceted skill set and holistic approach contribute to the successful execution of projects, delivering comprehensive fire protection solutions to clients.

With her depth of knowledge, practical expertise, and collaborative mindset, Rachel Kirk consistently demonstrates a high level of professionalism and effectiveness in her role as a Fire Protection Associate.

Klayton Smith is a highly skilled Fire Protection Associate specializing in designing fire protection systems for diverse applications, such as high-rises, hangars, schools, and office buildings. With a strong background in Chemistry, Klayton possesses a unique advantage in fire modeling, leveraging his in-depth understanding of chemical reactions, combustion processes, and thermodynamics. Holding a B.S. degree in Chemistry from the University of South Florida, he has built a solid foundation in the fundamental principles that drive fire behavior.

Klayton has consistently showcased exceptional proficiency in fire sprinkler, fire alarm, and performance-based designs. He has honed his expertise through immersive work at Performance Based Fire Protection Engineering, PLLC. By actively seeking professional growth opportunities, Klayton remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of the industry. His continuous pursuit of knowledge contributes to the advancement of fire protection engineering practices.

Klayton's commitment to excellence makes him an invaluable asset in developing effective fire protection solutions.

Kyle Carpenter is a Fire Protection Associate based in Kure Beach, North Carolina. In addition to his professional role, Kyle actively contributes to his community as a dedicated volunteer firefighter at the local fire department. Furthermore, he serves as the assistant head lifeguard for Kure Beach Ocean Rescue, demonstrating his commitment to public safety.

Kyle holds a B.S. in Fire Protection Engineering Technology, which he earned from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2022. Since joining PBFPE upon graduation, Kyle has swiftly immersed himself in various design projects, showcasing his proficiency and passion for the field. Committed to continuous growth, Kyle maintains a strong desire to expand his knowledge and skill set in performance-based fire protection design.

With his exceptional dedication to both professional and community endeavors, Kyle exemplifies a driven and versatile Fire Protection Associate who consistently strives for excellence in all aspects of his work.

Madeline is a dynamic and results-driven office manager at PBFPE. With a diverse background in business development and marketing across multiple states, she brings valuable expertise to the team. Madeline's primary focus is supporting and assisting her colleagues in any way possible, showcasing her unwavering dedication and passion for teamwork.

In addition to her role at PBFPE, Madeline holds a certification in Medical Coding and Billing, which demonstrates her commitment to professional growth and versatility. Her previous experience managing restaurants has further honed her organizational and leadership skills, making her adept at handling various responsibilities efficiently.

Outside of work, Madeline finds joy in spending quality time with her loving family. She cherishes moments with her husband and children. With a deep passion for fitness and ballet, Madeline actively embraces an active lifestyle. She also finds solace and joy in the company of her cats and puppy, fostering a love for animals. As a resident of St. Petersburg, Florida, Madeline appreciates the beauty of the great outdoors and occasionally seeks thrills on roller coasters, adding excitement to her leisure time.

Madeline's vibrant personality, commitment to her team, and diverse range of interests make her an integral part of the PBFPE office, driving efficiency and fostering a positive work environment.