Meet the Rockford Systems Team
Founded in 1971 and headquartered in Rockford, Illinois, Rockford Systems, LLC is a trusted leader in industrial safety solutions. Our team of experts specializes in machine safeguarding, lockout/tagout, and combustion safety, helping organizations enhance workplace safety, ensure compliance, and minimize risk. With deep industry knowledge and a commitment to excellence, we provide tailored solutions that protect workers and improve operational efficiency. Get to know the dedicated professionals behind Rockford Systems who are passionate about creating safer, more compliant work environments.
The experts behind your safety Rockford Systems Team
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Sal Contreras
Rockford Systems
Chief Executive Officer
Sal Contreras is the Chief Executive Officer of Rockford Systems. Prior to joining Rockford Systems, he held executive leadership positions within Marmon Holdings, a Berkshire Hathaway company, leading industrial manufacturing businesses across North America with responsibility for operations, commercial strategy, and business performance.
At Rockford Systems, Sal is responsible for the company’s strategic direction and overall operations across machine safeguarding, lockout/tagout, and combustion safety solutions.
Sal earned his MBA from Northern Illinois University.
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John Norris
Rockford Systems
Chief Financial Officer
John joined Rockford Systems in 2023. He is a CPA with 35 years of experience in primarily corporate financial leadership roles serving private equity or publicly held industrial service, manufacturing, distribution and construction entities. Most recently he was CFO of Eastek International, LLC and also held various executive positions with the Westinghouse Electric Co. John has a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and has attended the Advance Strategy Program on Building and Implementing Growth Strategies at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
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Matt Brenner, CMSE
Rockford Systems
Business Unit President of Machine Safeguarding and Lockout/Tagout | Certified Machinery Safety Expert (TÜV Nord)
Matt Brenner serves as Business Unit President for Machine Safeguarding and Lockout/Tagout at Rockford Systems and has been with the company since 2004. He holds a Certified Machinery Safety Expert (CMSE) credential from TÜV Nord and is an active contributor to the ANSI B11 Standards Committee. With deep expertise in industrial safety strategy, assessments, and engineered safeguarding, he is also a published author and speaker in the field. Matt earned a Bachelor of Applied Sciences from the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign.
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Paul Schneider
Rockford Combustion
Vice President & General Manager
Paul Schneider is Vice President and General Manager of Rockford Combustion at Rockford Systems, with more than 25 years of experience in combustion system design and thermal processing engineering. His expertise spans vacuum furnace design, combustion controls, CAD/CFD/FEA engineering, and fuel train development. Paul leads a high-performing team in customized combustion solutions and regularly conducts technical workshops on combustion safety and system design methods. Paul holds an Associate of Science degree in Computer Aided Design and Drafting from ITT Technical Institute, where he graduated with highest honors, and also completed studies in Mechanical Engineering and Pure Mathematics at Wright State University, along with professional development coursework at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
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Scott Stone
Lockout/Tagout
Director of Lockout/Tagout Technology and Solutions
Scott Stone is the Director of Lockout/Tagout Technology and Solutions at Rockford Systems, with over 25 years of experience in occupational safety and energy control programs. His background includes safety consulting, software development, and Six Sigma process improvement. Scott leads the Lockout/Tagout division in developing programs that improve compliance and worker safety across industries. He studied at Illinois State University.
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Kari Larson
Rockford Systems
Director of Marketing
Kari Larson is the Director of Marketing at Rockford Systems, overseeing Market Insights, Inbound Marketing, Data Analytics, Brand and Product Management, and Strategic Planning. With more than 20 years of experience across diverse manufacturing sectors, she has built deep expertise in product lifecycle management, process improvement, brand development, competitive intelligence, public relations, trade shows, and marketing automation.
Kari is a certified LEAN Leadership professional and Partners in Leadership trainer with a proven track record of driving growth for product portfolios ranging from $5 million to $500 million. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Bradley University and an MBA, blending analytical rigor with strategic leadership in complex B2B environments.
The experts behind your safety Machine Safeguarding Team
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Matt Brenner, CMSE
Business Unit President of Machine Safeguarding and Lockout/Tagout | Certified Machinery Safety Expert (TÜV Nord)
Matt Brenner serves as Business Unit President for Machine Safeguarding and Lockout/Tagout at Rockford Systems and has been with the company since 2004. He holds a Certified Machinery Safety Expert (CMSE) credential from TÜV Nord and is an active contributor to the ANSI B11 Standards Committee. With deep expertise in industrial safety strategy, assessments, and engineered safeguarding, he is also a published author and speaker in the field. Matt earned a Bachelor of Applied Sciences from the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign.
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Brian Boes, LMSS
Vice President of Application Engineering and Service Department | B11 Licensed Machinery Safety Specialist – Certification #AA311265377
Brian Boes leads the Application Engineering and Service Department at Rockford Systems, bringing over 25 years of expertise in safety integration for controls and machinery. In his role, he develops new products, supports field applications, and drives advancements in industry safety standards. Brian serves as a voting member of the ANSI B11 Standards Development Committee and contributes as a delegate to the B11.1 and B11.2 subcommittees, which focus on mechanical and hydraulic punch press standards.
He holds an Associate in Applied Science degree in Electronics Engineering Technology from Rock Valley College and is a B11 Licensed Machinery Safety Specialist (LMSS), demonstrating his expertise in risk assessment, functional safety, and hazardous energy control. Through his leadership and innovation, Brian continues to strengthen Rockford Systems’ commitment to industrial safety excellence.
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Matthew Clutter
Director of Educational Services and Customer Fulfillment
As Director of Educational Services and Customer Fulfillment at Rockford Systems, Matthew Clutter brings more than 33 years of experience in the safety and security fields, including over two decades of dedicated service with the company. Throughout his tenure, he has advanced through a series of leadership roles, contributing significantly to Rockford Systems’ mission of advancing workplace safety and operational excellence.
Matthew’s expertise spans hazard reduction, machine safeguarding, asset protection, loss prevention and control, bulk hazardous chemical process safety, and safety training. His disciplined and comprehensive approach is rooted in his background as a United States Marine, where he led clearance-required national security operations across Naval and Marine Corps installations, including guard and reaction force supervision and training.
A member of the American Society of Safety Professionals and an alternate on the ANSI B11 Series Standards Development Committee, Matthew continues to shape industry best practices. He has completed multiple United States Marine Corps leadership programs, TRSA/UTSA Production Management Institute coursework, and pursued studies at both Rock Valley College and Western Illinois University.
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Phillip Reuter, LMSS
Director of Machine Safeguarding Services | LMSS ANSI B11 Series Licenses Machine Safety Specialist.
Phil Reuter brings more than 15 years of combined experience with Rockford Systems, where he currently leads the company’s Installation and Account Management departments. He began his career as a Machine Safeguarding Installation Lead Technician and advanced to Regional Sales Manager and Machine Safeguarding Specialist before assuming his current leadership role.
Prior to joining Rockford Systems, Phil gained valuable experience in aviation and industrial maintenance roles, building a strong technical foundation that supports his expertise in machinery safety. He holds an Associate’s Degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology from Southwestern Illinois College and is an ANSI B11 Licensed Machinery Safety Specialist (LMSS), certified by B11 Standards, Inc.—the ANSI-accredited Standards Developing Organization. His certification reflects his deep knowledge of U.S. machinery safety standards, risk assessment processes, and the application of effective risk reduction and safety function design.
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Jason McMeen
Director of Business Development for Machine Safeguarding and LOTO
Jason brings a wealth of over 20 years’ experience in Safety Consulting, Machine Safeguarding, and LOTO, making him a great addition to our team. With a strong background in driving sales growth and developing safety solutions for customers across North America, his role focuses on expanding our Machine Safeguarding and LOTO business, working with key accounts, and ensuring continued success.
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Calvin Cox
Business Development – Sales
Calvin Cox is a safety professional with hands-on experience supporting OSHA-compliant Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and electrical safety programs for industrial facilities nationwide. His background includes developing written LOTO procedures, conducting audits and verifications, delivering Authorized vs. Affected training, and supporting arc flash studies and infrared inspections.
With experience across manufacturing and industrial environments, Calvin takes a practical, consultative approach to helping organizations reduce risk, strengthen compliance with OSHA 1910.147 and NFPA 70E, and implement effective, sustainable safety programs. He is OSHA 10- and 30-hour certified and trained in NFPA 70E electrical safety.
The experts behind your safety Lockout/Tagout Team
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Matt Brenner, CMSE
Business Unit President of Machine Safeguarding and Lockout/Tagout | Certified Machinery Safety Expert (TÜV Nord)
Matt Brenner serves as Business Unit President for Machine Safeguarding and Lockout/Tagout at Rockford Systems and has been with the company since 2004. He holds a Certified Machinery Safety Expert (CMSE) credential from TÜV Nord and is an active contributor to the ANSI B11 Standards Committee. With deep expertise in industrial safety strategy, assessments, and engineered safeguarding, he is also a published author and speaker in the field. Matt earned a Bachelor of Applied Sciences from the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign.
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Scott Stone
Director of Lockout/Tagout Technology and Solutions
Scott Stone is the Director of Lockout/Tagout Technology and Solutions at Rockford Systems, with over 25 years of experience in occupational safety and energy control programs. His background includes safety consulting, software development, and Six Sigma process improvement. Scott leads the Lockout/Tagout division in developing programs that improve compliance and worker safety across industries. He studied at Illinois State University.
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Jon Strong
Lockout Tagout Specialist
With over 25 years of experience in industrial safety, Jon Strong brings extensive expertise in safeguarding workplaces across heavy industries. After earning a Master of Science in Safety Management from West Virginia University in 1998, Jon has worked with some of the world’s largest manufacturers, specializing in Steel Manufacturing, Forest and Paper Manufacturing, Glass Manufacturing, and Commercial Printing.
In recent years, Jon has expanded his focus to HAZMAT Emergency Response and Confined Space Rescue, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and protecting workers in high-risk environments. Jon’s hands-on experience and deep industry knowledge make them a valuable resource for workplace safety solutions.
Outside of work, Jon is an avid cyclist who enjoys riding mountain and BMX bikes, often traveling to explore new bike parks and trails.
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Jason McMeen
Director of Business Development for Machine Safeguarding and LOTO
Jason brings a wealth of over 20 years’ experience in Safety Consulting, Machine Safeguarding, and LOTO, making him a great addition to our team. With a strong background in driving sales growth and developing safety solutions for customers across North America, his role focuses on expanding our Machine Safeguarding and LOTO business, working with key accounts, and ensuring continued success.
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Calvin Cox
Business Development – Sales
Calvin Cox is a safety professional with hands-on experience supporting OSHA-compliant Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and electrical safety programs for industrial facilities nationwide. His background includes developing written LOTO procedures, conducting audits and verifications, delivering Authorized vs. Affected training, and supporting arc flash studies and infrared inspections.
With experience across manufacturing and industrial environments, Calvin takes a practical, consultative approach to helping organizations reduce risk, strengthen compliance with OSHA 1910.147 and NFPA 70E, and implement effective, sustainable safety programs. He is OSHA 10- and 30-hour certified and trained in NFPA 70E electrical safety.
The experts behind your safety Combustion Team
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Paul Schneider
Vice President & General Manager
Paul Schneider is Vice President and General Manager of Rockford Combustion at Rockford Systems, with more than 25 years of experience in combustion system design and thermal processing engineering. His expertise spans vacuum furnace design, combustion controls, CAD/CFD/FEA engineering, and fuel train development. Paul leads a high-performing team in customized combustion solutions and regularly conducts technical workshops on combustion safety and system design methods. Paul holds an Associate of Science degree in Computer Aided Design and Drafting from ITT Technical Institute, where he graduated with highest honors, and also completed studies in Mechanical Engineering and Pure Mathematics at Wright State University, along with professional development coursework at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
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Mark Damberg
National Sales Manager
Meet Mark, a HVAC combustion expert with 30+ years of global sales and management experience, proudly holding a degree from the University of Michigan. Mark excels in automotive, steel, paint, and industrial manufacturing sectors. His diverse skill set was showcased at Carrier Corporation, where he managed the Higher Education Market.
As Global Key Account Manager for Automotive at Eclipse Combustion, Mark oversaw sales and projects for OEMs and end-users, earning a reputation for excellence. Renowned for exceptional customer service, Mark builds enduring relationships with businesses of all sizes. His dedication to innovation and client satisfaction as Rockford Combustions National Account Manager makes him a respected leader in the HVAC combustion industry, driving continuous success for his clients.
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Chris LaFew
Procurement and Inside Sales Manager
As Procurement and Inside Sales Manager at Rockford Combustion, Chris LaFew brings over ten years of industry experience and a proven record of leadership within the combustion field. He began his career at Eclipse Combustion, advancing from the stockroom to Inside Sales through a combination of technical aptitude, initiative, and dedication.
Since joining Rockford Combustion, Chris has taken on a strategic role overseeing procurement operations, strengthening supplier relationships, and managing key accounts—particularly within the asphalt sector. Known for his comprehensive product knowledge and commitment to operational excellence, Chris ensures that Rockford Combustion’s customers receive timely, reliable, and high-quality service across every interaction.
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Lee Gilbert, MSME
Mechanical Engineer / Trainer / Project Manager – MSME
Lee graduated from Rock Valley College and Northern Illinois University. Lee Gilbert is a seasoned Mechanical Engineer with a Master’s degree (MSME) and a distinguished career spanning multiple industry-leading companies. His expertise in combustion systems, engineering innovation, and technical training makes him a trusted authority in the field. Lee began his career at Collins Aerospace, where he contributed to cutting-edge engineering advancements. He later expanded his expertise at Eclipse Combustion, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled and forward-thinking engineer.
Currently serving as an Account Manager/Trainer/Engineer, MSME at Rockford Combustion, Lee plays a pivotal role in conducting in-depth audits, delivering comprehensive training, and providing innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges. With over five years of hands-on experience in combustion systems, his technical proficiency and problem-solving skills have made him a highly respected professional in the industry. Lee’s passion for precision, safety, and education drives his commitment to empowering professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in combustion engineering. His dedication and expertise continue to inspire colleagues and trainees alike.
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Robin Parker
Field Services
Robin has over 40 years of servicing, troubleshooting, wiring, and repairing combustion processes. He earned a Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering Bachelor of Science degree and another in Engineering for the Dept. of Fire Protection Engineering. Robin’s extensive combustion experience with significant automotive, aluminum, steel, and paint manufacturers ensures all company combustion processes meet North America’s TSSA and NFPA 86 standards.Â
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Myles Chaplin
Field Services
Meet Myles, a seasoned professional with a passion for technology and safety. Myles is a proud graduate of DeVry University, where he honed his skills in electronics and controls. With a wealth of experience in mechanical maintenance, he has dedicated over a decade to specializing in machine safety and safeguarding.
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John Breadmore
Field Services
John has 35 years of electrical experience, including 20 years in the combustion industry. He has a Gas Fitter 1 License from British Columbia, New Brunswick, Manitoba, TSSA License 1, 2, and 3, General Motors IMT Certificate, and an ICI Journeyman Electrical License. He joined Rockford Combustion in 2021 as a Sr. Service Specialist. John is an expert in automotive applications and assembly line procedures. He is detail orientated and adaptable in all industrial settings.
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Bob Sanderson, P.E.
Director of Business Development
Bob has extensive knowledge and is experienced in a variety of industries. Throughout Bob’s 32+ years of experience in the combustion field, he has worked in automotive, abatement-oxidation, aerospace, agriculture, food and beverage, HVAC, heat treating, glass, asphalt, pyrolysis, reducing furnaces, dryers, immersion heaters, and power generation.
Bob has been employed by companies such as Eclipse, Honeywell, and Haden Inc. Bob brings systems integration and the application experience of how systems interact in various environments to Rockford Combustion. Bob is a member of the NFPA-86 technical committee.
Join Our Growing Team
Explore our current openings and find the role that fits your skills and passion. Whether you’re an engineer, technician, or safety specialist, there’s a place for you at Rockford Systems.
