Monroe Extinguisher System Technician Bios
Our fire suppression systems division is staffed by individuals who not only bring deep technical know-how in fire suppression and life-safety systems but also share a genuine commitment to their communities. As you read through their stories, you’ll see that they’re more than technicians—they’re neighbors, longtime hunters and anglers, parents, and fans of the Sabres and Bills. Get to know the people who ensure your fire suppression systems run safely, reliably, and with pride.
Rob Panada
Rob is a 37-year veteran of the Monroe Extinguisher Systems Department. Rob grew up in Olean, NY where he graduated from Olean Senior High School in 1985. He attended Alfred State College where he earned an associate’s degree in construction/maintenance of electricity. Rob lives in Clarkson NY on 23 acres of prime hunting land with his fiancé, Maureen, a Monroe Salesperson. Together they have 3 grown children and 4 wonderful grandchildren. Rob is an avid hunter and fisherman in both New York and Pennsylvania. He most enjoys spring turkey and fall Archery seasons. He also enjoys 4 wheeling and snowmobiling with his friends of 45+ years in the majestic Allegheny Mountains, Pennsylvania , West Virginia and the Tug Hill Plateau.
Erik Vanaman
Erik has worked in the systems division of Monroe Extinguisher Company since 2021. He is very mechanically inclined; Erik was an appliance repair technician for almost 19 years before coming to Monroe. Erik currently lives in Greece, NY and is a big fan of the 2025 Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles.
Eric Walzer
Eric has worked at Monroe since 2015; he started in the shop and has since moved into the systems division. Eric is a lover of Frisbee golf, he has been a member of the Greater Rochester Disc Golf since 2016. He currently lives in Hamlin, NY and is a huge fan of the Buffalo Bills.
Aaron Coleman
Aaron has been an employee of Monroe Extinguisher Company’s systems division since 2023. Aaron attended East High School in Rochester and currently lives in North Chili. Aaron enjoys fishing, golfing and mini-golf.
Jody London
Jody is the newest member of the systems division of Monroe Extinguisher Company; he started in 2024. Jody is a married father who currently lives in Charlotte, but grew up in Greece, NY and attended a high school in Greece, NY. Jody is an avid fan of the Rochester Americans and Buffalo Sabres and all levels of car racing. He has worked for the NASCAR Xfinity Series as a spotter and was involved in the Dave London Memorial XVII Super Stock Race at Oswego Speedway.
Gene Hartman
Gene is one of our longest tenured employees, he has worked in the systems division of Monroe Extinguisher Company since 1999. Gene is a married father who currently lives in Greece, NY and enjoys hunting and fishing,
Steve Hawley
Steve has been an employee in the systems division of Monroe Extinguisher Company since 2022. Steve is a married father who attended Byron Bergen High School and currently lives in Churchville, NY. Steve enjoys playing basketball, playing the bass guitar, and is a fan of the Buffalo Bills.