David Durstine is the vice president of marketing for Akron Brass. In that role, he leads customer service, technical support, product line management as well as advertising and communication. Joining the company in 2001, Durstine previously served as director of municipal sales.

What’s the most significant change you have seen in the equipment area for the emergency services industry?
The acceptance rate of new technology to aid in firefighting has grown over the past three years especially when compared to the previous five to 10 years.

In your area of expertise, what is the top emerging issue that fire chiefs should be aware of?
One of the biggest emerging issues which is actually here more so than emerging is the effects of lightweight building construction and better education and or a means on how to identify that construction before beginning an interior attack. It’s not fun to hear about people carry your products in the front door and end up in the basement having to use it just to save themselves.

What’s the best advice you have ever received?
Just say, “yes, dear” and worry about the costs later!

How do you like to de-stress?
What people are supposed to de-stress? … I enjoy relaxing with my family. Most of the time that involves playing with my boys in their turnout gear with pretend airpaks and hoselines battling some sort of fire in our living room. This is what happens when you and your kids grow up around a firehouse!