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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Joe Nitiss
Rockford Systems
Chief Executive Officer
Joe Nitiss is a proven leader known for driving double-digit growth through strong execution, strategic focus, and operational excellence. As a results-oriented executive, he leads with a mission to reduce risk and workplace injuries by positioning Rockford Systems as a trusted advisor and comprehensive provider of machine safeguarding, training, assessment services, and turnkey engineered solutions.
Joe’s career includes executive leadership roles across global industrial organizations, including serving as General Manager of Elster’s North American business unit, President North America of Emerson’s Chloride Group, and General Manager of Genesis Cable (now Honeywell Cable). Earlier in his career, he held senior marketing leadership positions as Vice President of Marketing & Business Development at Honeywell International and Vice President of Marketing at Emerson. Joe holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and an MBA in Finance and Marketing from The University of Chicago.
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Matt Brenner, CMSE
Machine Safeguarding
Business Unit President of Machine Safeguarding and Lockout-Tagout
Certified Machinery Safety Expert (TÜV Nord)
As Business Unit President for Machine Safeguarding and Lockout-Tagout at Rockford Systems, Matt Brenner brings more than 20 years of leadership and technical expertise in industrial safety. Throughout his tenure with Rockford Systems, Matt has held multiple leadership roles, guiding initiatives that enhance risk reduction practices and promote workplace safety across a wide range of industries—including some of the largest and most complex manufacturing operations in North America.
An acknowledged expert in industrial safety standards and regulations, Matt is a published author and respected speaker on the proper application of safety equipment. He also serves as an Alternate on the ANSI B11 Series Standards Development Committee, contributing to the advancement of industry best practices. Matt holds a bachelor’s degree in Applied Sciences from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
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Paul Schneider
Combustion
Vice President & General Manager – Rockford Combustion
Paul began his career performing design work in the automation and packaging industry. He has spent the past 22+ years accomplishing roles with increasing responsibility in companies specializing in Thermal Processing and Combustion. Paul’s work experiences include vacuum furnace design, combustion system design, burner design, combustion industry educational workshop instructor, leadership, and mentoring experience.
As a working manager, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge to his team, as he is well-versed in Design and Drafting, CAD, CFD, FEA, Basic Engineering Principles, and Custom Engineering of Electrical Control Systems, Combustion Control Systems, Ovens, Furnaces, Burners, and Burner-related equipment. As Rockford Combustions’ VP & GM, Paul has been instrumental in assembling a team of experts with many years of combined experience in the Thermal Processing and Combustion industries.
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Scott Stone
LOTO
General Manager – Lockout/Tagout
Scott Stone brings more than 25 years of experience in the safety industry, where he has developed and managed comprehensive safety management systems that drive meaningful cultural change within organizations.
Throughout his career, he has served as a safety manager for outsourced facilities and production maintenance operations, developed and successfully launched lockout/tagout services in the safety services sector, and contributed to advancements in the safety management software industry.
As a Six Sigma Black Belt, Scott has applied advanced statistical and problem-solving methodologies to improve processes and enhance operational efficiency. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors boating, fishing, snowmobiling, and four-wheeling with family and friends.
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Kari Larson
Rockford Systems
Director of Marketing
Kari Larson is the Director of Marketing, responsible for Market Insights, Inbound Marketing, Data Analytics, Project, Product, and Brand Management, as well as Strategic Planning. She began her career in market research within the media and communications industry and has spent more than 20 years advancing through roles of increasing responsibility across manufacturing sectors, including hardware, packaging, bearings, paint and craft, adhesives, capital equipment, solenoid valves, heat treat, and chemical manufacturing.
Throughout her career, Kari has developed extensive expertise in product lifecycle and project management, process improvement, brand development, public relations, trade show and channel management, competitive market intelligence, marketing automation, and content strategy. She is also a certified LEAN Leadership professional and Partners in Leadership trainer, with a strong record of driving growth for product lines ranging from $5 million to $500 million in annual revenue.
Kari holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Bradley University and an MBA, combining a foundation in data-driven decision-making with strategic vision and hands-on leadership in complex, cross-functional business to business environments.
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Emily Scheel
Rockford Systems
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.
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)
As Business Unit President for Machine Safeguarding and Lockout-Tagout at Rockford Systems, Matt Brenner brings more than 20 years of leadership and technical expertise in industrial safety. Throughout his tenure with Rockford Systems, Matt has held multiple leadership roles, guiding initiatives that enhance risk reduction practices and promote workplace safety across a wide range of industries—including some of the largest and most complex manufacturing operations in North America.
An acknowledged expert in industrial safety standards and regulations, Matt is a published author and respected speaker on the proper application of safety equipment. He also serves as an Alternate on the ANSI B11 Series Standards Development Committee, contributing to the advancement of industry best practices. Matt holds a bachelor’s degree in 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
Midwest Regional Sales Manager
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.
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)
As Business Unit President for Machine Safeguarding and Lockout-Tagout at Rockford Systems, Matt Brenner brings more than 20 years of leadership and technical expertise in industrial safety. Throughout his tenure with Rockford Systems, Matt has held multiple leadership roles, guiding initiatives that enhance risk reduction practices and promote workplace safety across a wide range of industries—including some of the largest and most complex manufacturing operations in North America.
An acknowledged expert in industrial safety standards and regulations, Matt is a published author and respected speaker on the proper application of safety equipment. He also serves as an Alternate on the ANSI B11 Series Standards Development Committee, contributing to the advancement of industry best practices. Matt holds a bachelor’s degree in Applied Sciences from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
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Scott Stone
General Manager – Lockout/Tagout
Scott Stone brings more than 25 years of experience in the safety industry, where he has developed and managed comprehensive safety management systems that drive meaningful cultural change within organizations.
Throughout his career, he has served as a safety manager for outsourced facilities and production maintenance operations, developed and successfully launched lockout/tagout services in the safety services sector, and contributed to advancements in the safety management software industry.
As a Six Sigma Black Belt, Scott has applied advanced statistical and problem-solving methodologies to improve processes and enhance operational efficiency. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors boating, fishing, snowmobiling, and four-wheeling with family and friends.
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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
Midwest Regional Sales Manager
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.
The experts behind your safety Combustion Team
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Paul Schneider
Vice President & General Manager – Rockford Combustion
Paul began his career performing design work in the automation and packaging industry. He has spent the past 22+ years accomplishing roles with increasing responsibility in companies specializing in Thermal Processing and Combustion. Paul’s work experiences include vacuum furnace design, combustion system design, burner design, combustion industry educational workshop instructor, leadership, and mentoring experience.
As a working manager, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge to his team, as he is well-versed in Design and Drafting, CAD, CFD, FEA, Basic Engineering Principles, and Custom Engineering of Electrical Control Systems, Combustion Control Systems, Ovens, Furnaces, Burners, and Burner-related equipment. As Rockford Combustions’ VP & GM, Paul has been instrumental in assembling a team of experts with many years of combined experience in the Thermal Processing and Combustion industries.
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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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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.
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.
