About

Don joined Southern Fire in 2014 after nearly 30 years in the banking industry. He has a B.S. in Finance and Business Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi. Don oversees financial and office operations, supervises sales and estimating, and supports field activities.

His leadership ensures day-to-day operations run smoothly while guiding long-term growth. Don combines strategic thinking with hands-on management to ensure clients receive consistent, high-quality service. By focusing on efficiency, teamwork, and attention to detail, he helps Southern Fire maintain its reputation as a reliable, trusted partner for fire protection solutions.

Zach joined Southern Fire in 2016 and became a partner alongside Burt and Don in 2018. With more than 30 years of experience in the fire protection industry, he provides strategic leadership and operational oversight critical to the company’s continued growth.

As Vice President, Zach directs the day-to-day operations of the Service and Inspections Departments, ensuring consistent performance, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. His background includes extensive experience in system installation, repair, fire pump services, and inspections. He holds multiple NICET certifications, including Level II in Water-Based Systems Layout, Level III in Inspection and Testing of Water-Based Systems, and Level I in Fire Alarm Systems Inspection. Zach’s leadership emphasizes safety, accountability, and exceptional client service across all operations.

Burt founded Southern Fire in 2004 after starting his career in the fire sprinkler industry in 1993. He founded the company by purchasing key accounts and has grown it to two offices with statewide coverage.

Since 2021, Burt has moved to a part-time advisory role, providing strategic guidance to the team. He leverages decades of experience to ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards. Burt’s practical knowledge and focus on client satisfaction continue to shape Southern Fire’s operations, helping the company maintain its reputation for dependable and trustworthy fire protection solutions across Mississippi.

Brandon joined Southern Fire in 2013, bringing over 20 years of fire protection experience. He manages fire sprinkler repairs, fire pump services, inspections, and ongoing maintenance of fire sprinkler systems.

Brandon holds NICET Level III certification in Inspections and Testing of Water-Based Systems and a state license for backflow preventer testing. He coordinates and estimates repairs to ensure systems remain safe, compliant, and operational. Known for his reliability and expertise, Brandon helps clients maintain peace of mind, knowing their fire protection systems are fully functional and meet all safety and code requirements.

Jeremy joined Southern Fire in 2020 with more than 10 years of experience in fire alarms, clean agent suppression, access control, and security systems. He holds NICET Level III certification in fire alarms, a Class B security license, and certifications in Fire-Lite, Silent Knight, Janus, and Vesda systems.

Jeremy oversees day-to-day operations of the alarm department, managing installation, service, and estimates for fire alarm, clean agent, smoke aspirating, access control, and security systems. His leadership ensures projects are executed efficiently, safely, and with minimal disruption to clients. Jeremy’s focus on professionalism, communication, and reliability provides customers with confidence in the safety of their facilities.

Matt joined Southern Fire in 2019, bringing over 15 years of experience in fire protection and sprinkler systems. He holds NICET Level II certification in Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of water-based systems and holds a state-issued Backflow Tester license.

Based at the Gulf Coast office, Matt manages fire extinguishers and hood suppression systems, overseeing inspections, service, and maintenance. He provides expert guidance to clients, ensuring all fire safety equipment is reliable, compliant, and ready in case of an emergency. Matt’s hands-on approach, knowledge, and focus on clear communication make him a trusted point of contact for Gulf Coast customers seeking high-quality fire protection services.

Scotty joined Southern Fire in 2015 after earning a B.S. in Construction Engineering and Technology from Southern Miss in 2013. He provides operational leadership for the fire sprinkler installation crews, ensuring projects are executed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards. Scotty’s combination of technical expertise and hands-on experience enables him to deliver reliable, code-compliant fire protection solutions that consistently exceed client expectations.

Marcus joined Southern Fire in 2019, bringing extensive expertise in fire extinguishers and kitchen vent hood suppression systems. In his role, he oversees the inspection and service departments, helping clients maintain safe and code-compliant fire protection systems.

Marcus holds certifications with leading manufacturers, including Amerex, Ansul, Pyro-Chem, Buckeye, and Guardian. Known for his knowledge, attention to detail, and commitment to client safety, Marcus ensures systems function reliably while providing proactive guidance and responsive service.

Jason joined Southern Fire in 2023, bringing over 13 years of experience in the fire protection industry. He oversees the company’s annual sprinkler and fire alarm inspection programs ensuring compliance, safety, and operational reliability.

He holds NICET Level I certifications in both Water-Based Systems and Fire Alarm Systems. Jason’s career spans multiple regions and roles, including Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent in Southern California, Division Manager for a residential fire protection department, and Inspector/Plans Examiner with the Kern County Fire Department. His extensive experience in field operations, management, and code compliance ensures that every inspection program is executed with professionalism, accuracy, and a focus on life safety.

Shane joined Southern Fire in 2013 as the lead estimator and now handles design and project management for a variety of projects. He holds NICET Level II certification in design and a B.S. in Construction Engineering Technology from the University of Southern Mississippi.

With extensive experience in estimating, project coordination, and system design, Shane ensures projects are planned efficiently and executed to the highest standards. His combination of technical knowledge and field experience helps clients feel confident that their fire protection systems will be installed safely, reliably, and in compliance with all regulations.

Cory joined Southern Fire in 2020 as a Fire Sprinkler System Designer. He began his career in the field in 2005 before transitioning into system design in 2007. Since then, Cory has designed fire protection systems for a broad range of facilities, including casinos, industrial plants, warehouses, and medical centers, encompassing wet, dry, deluge, and select foam systems.

Cory holds NICET Level I, II, and III certifications in Water-Based Systems Layout, with his Level III certification current. His extensive technical expertise and hands-on experience ensure that all designs meet applicable code requirements while delivering reliable, effective fire protection solutions for clients.

Brett joined Southern Fire in June 2024 and specializes in designing wet and dry fire protection systems for the sprinkler department. He began his career in the fire protection industry in 2014 as a helper and transitioned into design roles between 2015 and 2017. From 2018 to 2024, Brett worked in field operations, managing projects he had previously designed, giving him a well-rounded perspective on both design and execution.

Since joining Southern Fire, Brett earned his NICET Level I certification in Water-Based Systems Layouts in 2025 and is actively pursuing Level II. He also holds an Associate’s Degree in Fine Arts in AutoCAD. Brett’s combined field and design experience enables him to develop accurate, code-compliant systems while providing practical insight to clients and supporting smooth project execution.

Peyton joined Southern Fire in 2024 as an estimator and is preparing to transition into a design role. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Prior to joining Southern Fire, Peyton worked as a project engineer and residential designer, gaining hands-on experience in both the technical and creative sides of design. Her background allows her to approach projects with both precision and innovation, delivering fire protection designs that are practical, safe, and tailored to each client’s needs.

Eric joined Southern Fire in 2024, bringing over 20 years of experience in commercial construction. He previously held roles as an estimator, building designer, project manager, and operations manager for a local general contractor.

Eric earned his bachelor’s degree from William Carey University in 2005 and his NICET Level I certification in Water-Based Systems Layout in 2025. At Southern Fire, he manages estimating for the Fire Sprinkler Department. A lifelong resident of the Hattiesburg area, Eric is a proud father of two boys, Asher and Eli. His extensive experience ensures accurate, efficient estimates and reliable project planning for clients.

Trent joined Southern Fire in 2020, bringing 30 years of oil and gas industry experience as an Instrumentation/Compliance Technician. He specialized in installing, testing, and maintaining critical safety and control systems, including fire and gas detection, and is also a state-certified residential and shipboard marine firefighter.

At Southern Fire, Trent serves as a field inspector for sprinkler systems, hood suppression systems, fire extinguishers, and backflow assemblies. He holds certifications in fire extinguisher and hood suppression inspections in both Mississippi and Louisiana and is state-certified to test backflow assemblies. Trent’s expertise ensures that clients’ systems are safe, compliant, and fully operational.

Ian joined Southern Fire in 2023 as an accountant, contributing his expertise in accounting and financial management to support internal operations. He earned his Master of Professional Accountancy and bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Southern Mississippi, where he was heavily involved in campus recruitment and went on to be inducted into the USM Student Hall of Fame. Upon graduation, Ian then went on to obtain his CPA license to become a Certified Public Accountant.

Previously, Ian gained experience in public accounting as an auditor working for KPMG where he focused on financial integrity, reporting accuracy, and internal controls across multiple clients. He assists with accounts payable, reconciliations, payroll, and other accounting processes to ensure smooth day-to-day management. Ian’s focus on accuracy, organization, and reliability helps Southern Fire maintain financial integrity and efficient operations. He works closely with other team members to provide clear, helpful financial support for both staff and clients.

Jake joined Southern Fire in 2024 as an accountant, managing cash reconciliations, tax payments, payroll, and internal administration. He earned his Master of Professional Accountancy and bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Southern Mississippi, where he was a Luckyday Citizenship Scholar, studied abroad in Chengdu, China, and earned Mississippi’s top score for the Microsoft Excel Expert certification.

Previously, Jake gained experience in data analysis at HORNE, audit and tax support at Topp, McWhorter, Harvey, and international community engagement with the International Mission Board in London. He has also supported internal technology and account management to help teams stay organized and efficient. Jake is recognized for his reliability, adaptability, and commitment to providing clear, helpful service.

Donya joined Southern Fire in 2022, helping keep both the team and customers supported through HR and accounts receivable functions. She assists with hiring, onboarding, and day-to-day employee needs, while also managing invoices and keeping customer accounts on track.

Known for her positive attitude, reliability, and genuine care, Donya ensures that both staff and clients receive helpful, friendly support. She takes pride in contributing to a company culture that feels like family while helping the team succeed.

Catherine joined Southern Fire in 2024 with 10 years of banking experience and strong managerial skills. She is a key member of the accounts receivable team, maintaining company licensing requirements and managing collections for the Alarm Monitoring Department.

Her expertise ensures accurate and timely billing, while her attention to detail keeps operations running smoothly. Catherine’s professional approach and clear communication help provide clients with confidence that their accounts are handled efficiently and accurately.

Tricia joined Southern Fire in 2025 with over 10 years of experience in facility safety compliance. She supports technicians in delivering reliable, high-quality service by leveraging her knowledge of fire safety and preventative maintenance.

Tricia’s commitment to safety and community relations strengthens Southern Fire’s connection to customers. She plays a key role in helping clients maintain safe, compliant facilities while fostering positive, professional relationships throughout the Gulf Coast service area.

Kim joined Southern Fire in 2017, bringing more than 14 years of scheduling experience and over a decade of payroll expertise. She oversees payroll operations and manages collections on past-due accounts, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.

Her focus on clear communication, timely processing, and client satisfaction ensures that both staff and customers receive reliable support. Kim’s professionalism and attention to detail help maintain trust and smooth operations across Southern Fire’s financial processes.