In 1988, Rick left Wormald Fire Systems to co-found Classic Fire Protection Inc. with three industry partners. From its inception, Classic was built on a “one-stop-shop” philosophy, offering sprinkler installations alongside full inspection and service programs. The company quickly attracted some of the GTA’s larger clients including office towers, insurance companies, and automotive manufacturers. A defining element of Classic’s early success was Rick’s focus on developing inspection reports and procedures that exceeded minimum requirements. These systems incorporated NFPA and ULC standards while fully addressing Ontario and National Fire Code requirements. The resulting documentation and methodologies were widely respected by clients, Authorities Having Jurisdiction, and insurance providers, setting a higher benchmark for industry practice. By 1995, Rick had assumed the role of President, and by 2004 he became the sole owner of Classic Fire Protection. Under his leadership, the company grew to more than 75 employees and multiple offices, driven by a strong emphasis on apprenticeship training and the recruitment of experienced fire protection professionals. “We didn’t set out to be big; we set out to be good and to do the job right, every time.” “We didn’t set out to be big; we set out to be good and to do the job right, every time.” Rick’s influence extended well beyond his own organization. Beginning in 1996, he became actively involved with CASA, recognizing the importance of collaboration, advocacy, and consistent standards across the industry. Elected to the CASA Board of Directors in 2002 as the Ontario Representative, Rick went on to serve in numerous leadership roles, including Treasurer, Executive Committee member, and ultimately Chairman of the Board — a position he held from 2010 to 2021. During this period, he represented CASA nationally and internationally, including at the International Fire Sprinkler Association (IFSA) conference in Copenhagen. Rick also contributed extensively to technical and labour initiatives, serving on NFPA 25 technical committees, provincial and national Joint Training Advisory Committees (JTAC), and acting as Ontario’s representative in multiple national collective bargaining agreements for sprinkler fitters, fabrication personnel, and fire alarm technicians. His involvement helped strengthen workforce standards, training consistency, and labour stability across Canada. “You don’t build a stronger industry alone, you build it together, in conversation, with shared goals and shared responsibility.” In 2015, Rick led Classic Fire Protection into strategic acquisitions, expanding its capabilities through the purchase of a full-service fire protection company, a licensed engineering firm, and a fire extinguisher and safety company. These acquisitions strengthened service offerings while preserving long-standing client and employee relationships.In 2020, Rick partnered with McCain Capital Partners, enabling further growth and positioning the company for national expansion. The following year, Classic Fire Protection merged with Forest City Fire Protection and industry partners Apex Fabrication & Supply, Northern Sprinkler Design, and Edge Fire Protection to form Classic Fire + Life Safety Inc. Rick’s leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping the organization’s culture and long-term direction. Today, Classic Fire + Life Safety is recognized as one of Canada’s leading and fastest growing fire protection companies, with operations spanning five provinces and in the United States — a testament to the foundation Rick helped build.