2025 Election
The Industrial Fire & Safety Section election will open on May 15 and close on June 10. The election will be completed via electronic ballots sent automatically to all eligible section members via email. For general election questions, email elections@iafc.org or phone 703-273-0911.
For board member duties and qualifications, please review the IFSS Bylaws. There are four candidates in this year's election.
Candidates
Craig King
Company Name and Position: Indorama Ventures / Emergency Response Coordinator
I have been in the Industrial Fire Service since 1999. I have served for several organizations throughout my career, each move an opportunity that helped me to gain more knowledge of the service. I have used every opportunity to pass what I have learned to the individuals working beside me. I take every opportunity I can to learn and network with industrial professionals from all over. I am currently the Emergency Response Coordinator for Indorama Ventures, Port Neches Operations. In my role, I have a team of 120 emergency response personnel. I challenge them to learn something new about the service every day. I strive to lead from the front and challenge myself to never stop learning and sharing knowledge. I am wanting to be a member of the Industrial Section so that I can learn to make a difference in our forever changing industry.
Thom Jones
Company Name and Position: Hayden and Company / Territory Manager
43 years in the Fire Service. I have worked in Mining, Oil and Gas Chemical as a Fire Protection Specialist. Also, I worked in Fire equipment manufacturing and sales. Industrial emergency response. Fire service training on Local, State, Federal levels.
Josh Culp
Company Name and Position: Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Emergency Response Program Manager
With over 20 years of experience as a municipal volunteer firefighter, including 16 years reaching the rank of captain at a staffed department in Northern Virginia, and currently serving as a lieutenant in a rural volunteer department for 4 years, I bring a wealth of practical knowledge and leadership skills. Additionally, my 20 years at Micron in various roles within the Emergency Preparedness & Response discipline have equipped me with a unique perspective and expertise. As a current board member with SESHA, I see this role as a partnership into a growing industry, allowing me to leverage my extensive background to contribute effectively and ensure the safety and preparedness of our community. I am passionate about continuing to serve on the board and supporting the industry's growth and development.
Eddie Avila
Company Name and Position: Shell Chemicals / Fire Chief
I have been on the International Association of Fire Chiefs, Industrial Division Board of Directors since 2010. I believe that I have been able to bring my 35+ years of industrial fire experience as well as outside municipal experience to the Board. I have been able to step up on the Board and currently am a member of the IAFC TED Committee (Training, Education, Development). I have an excellent relationship with the current Board of Directors, I work with many other Fire Chiefs in and around the Gulf Coast area and I know that I can continue to contribute to this Division. I would like to continue to serve on this Board for another term and I am asking for your vote.
Alex Zielinski - Eli Lilly and Company
Company Name and Position: Eli Lilly and Company / Deputy Fire Chief
As the Deputy Chief/Division Chief of Training at Eli Lilly and Company, I bring over 18 years of extensive experience in fire, public and private safety, and emergency management. I have worked to strengthen the understanding and relationship with industrial responders and municipal departments.
My role has involved developing and delivering high-quality training programs ensuring personnel are well-prepared. I hold an MBA from Western Governors University and will begin a PhD in Emergency and Protective Services in the fall of 2025, demonstrating my commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
My passion for sharing knowledge is evident through my past presentations at the Indiana Emergency Response Conference and my former membership in the NFPA Correlating Committee on Professional Qualifications. With my extensive background and dedication to professional growth, I am well-equipped to contribute to the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ Industrial Fire and Life Safety Section.