
About Rockford Combustion
Founded in 2019 as part of Rockford Systems LLC, Rockford Combustion specializes in fuel-train management and combustion safety for organizations using fuel-fired equipment in thermal processes. We design and manufacture turnkey combustion systems for clean-heat applications, offering consultative inspections, engineering services, safety training, and high-quality components. Our comprehensive solutions NFPA compliance, worker safety, efficiency, and air quality while minimizing fire and explosion risks.
Combustion Safety Experts
Rockford Combustion has the application expertise to solve any organization’s most complex combustion challenges. Our expert team brings knowledge, experience, and strategic relationships with key customers and suppliers throughout the United States.
Integrated Safety
Our end-to-end approach integrates every aspect of combustion safety—from consultative assessments and compliance inspections to turnkey valve train systems, onsite installation, and training. We align with NFPA standards and best practices to help customers reduce risks, protect workers, and ensure long-term operational safety.
Deep Expertise
With roots in the combustion industry, our engineering team brings unmatched expertise in combustion system design and fuel-train management. We locally manufacture both standard and engineered-to-order components tailored for clean-heat applications, from straightforward setups to highly specialized systems.
Customer-Centric Solutions
We prioritize responsive service, rapid delivery, and reliable support. Whether you need technical training, combustion audits, or custom-built equipment, Rockford Combustion delivers practical, cost-effective solutions designed around your specific safety, compliance, and performance goals.
About Rockford Combustion Our Team
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Joe Nitiss
Chief Executive Officer
Joe Nitiss is the Chief Executive Officer of Rockford Systems. He has held senior leadership positions at industrial technology companies including Elster, Emerson, and Honeywell, with a focus on operational management and business development. At Rockford Systems, Joe oversees strategic planning and company operations across machine safeguarding, lockout/tagout, and combustion safety business units. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and an MBA in Finance and Marketing from The University of Chicago.
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John Norris
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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Paul Schneider
Vice President & General Manager – Rockford Combustion
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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Bob Sanderson, P.E.
Director of Business Development – Rockford Combustion
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.
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Mark Damberg
National Accounts 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
Account Manager/Trainer/Engineer, 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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Adam Plaetzer
Field Services
Adam attended Northern Illinois University and has over ten years of sales and management experience in building materials, automotive and industrial manufacturing. He joins Rockford Combustion, focusing on NFPA annual audits. Adam’s background brings years of technical and mechanical knowledge. Adam is dedicated to safety, service-orientated, and values customer partnerships.
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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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Kari Larson
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.
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Emily Scheel
Human Resources Manager
Emily Scheel is an experienced and people-focused HR professional with a strong background in employee relations, strategic planning, and full-cycle HR management. As the HR Manager at Rockford Systems, she draws on her knowledge to foster a positive workplace culture, streamline HR processes, and help drive the company’s growth through effective talent management.
Emily began her HR career at Target as an FMLA Specialist, where she supported payroll, onboarding, and best practices. She is passionate about developing processes that make life easier for teams, improve company culture, and attract top talent. A member of SHRM, Emily brings a thoughtful, solutions-driven approach to every challenge and is known for supporting both employees and leadership with empathy, efficiency, and integrity.
Protect Your Facility with Expert Solutions Let us help you enhance safety, efficiency, and compliance.
Contact us today for more information on how Rockford Systems can help your organization reduce risk and improve employee safety.
