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MAX FIRE
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When you think of Max Fire Training, what comes to mind? Is it the mustache? The Max Fire Box? Or perhaps you're just discovering who we are and what we stand for. Either way, we’d like to introduce you to the incredible team that makes up the Max Fire Training family.
At Max Fire Training, we take immense pride in our instructors—dedicated professionals who travel far and wide to learn, teach, and elevate the fire service. Their mission is to ensure that every firefighter who attends a Max Fire Training session walks away with the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills to be safer and more effective on the fireground. Because at the end of the day, our ultimate goal is simple: Everyone goes home safely.
Our instructors hail from diverse backgrounds, bringing unique specialties and perspectives to the table. What unites them is their shared passion for the fire service and their unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their training goals. They are not just teachers—they are active, knowledgeable firefighters who believe in a hands-on approach to learning.
When you train with Max Fire, you can be confident that our instructors will not only explain the "why" behind every concept but also show you the "how." It’s this practical, real-world focus that sets us apart. Their energy, expertise, and passion will inspire you to become the kind of firefighter who gets things done.
We’re proud of our team and what they bring to every Max Fire Training session. Together, we are here to help you grow, improve, and make the fire service a better, safer place.
At Max Fire Training, we take immense pride in our instructors—dedicated professionals who travel far and wide to learn, teach, and elevate the fire service. Their mission is to ensure that every firefighter who attends a Max Fire Training session walks away with the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills to be safer and more effective on the fireground. Because at the end of the day, our ultimate goal is simple: Everyone goes home safely.
Our instructors hail from diverse backgrounds, bringing unique specialties and perspectives to the table. What unites them is their shared passion for the fire service and their unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their training goals. They are not just teachers—they are active, knowledgeable firefighters who believe in a hands-on approach to learning.
When you train with Max Fire, you can be confident that our instructors will not only explain the "why" behind every concept but also show you the "how." It’s this practical, real-world focus that sets us apart. Their energy, expertise, and passion will inspire you to become the kind of firefighter who gets things done.
We’re proud of our team and what they bring to every Max Fire Training session. Together, we are here to help you grow, improve, and make the fire service a better, safer place.
Shawn Bloemker
Shawn Bloemker is the driving force behind Max Fire Training, Inc., bringing decades of fire service experience and an unwavering passion for firefighter education. Inspired by a childhood encounter with his local fire department, Shawn's journey into the fire service began in 1995, fueled by determination and a commitment to helping others.
Throughout his career, Shawn has traveled extensively across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, training firefighters in fire behavior, thermal imaging, and fire attack techniques. His innovative approach, captured in the creation of the Max Fire Box, has revolutionized how firefighters learn, emphasizing practical, hands-on training that translates directly to the fireground.
Shawn's philosophy, embodied in the tagline "Burn & Learn" and the mantra "Don’t tell me, show me," drives every Max Fire Training session. He believes that firefighters learn best by doing, not just listening. This commitment to immersive, real-world training has made him a respected leader in the fire service.
Captain Jacob L. Ringering: A Legacy of Leadership and Service The passion Shawn has for firefighter training is deeply personal. On March 5, 2019, tragedy struck when Captain Jacob Ringering, a beloved member of the Godfrey Fire Protection District and Max Fire Training, lost his life in the line of duty while performing exterior fire suppression activities at a working residential structure fire. A partial structural collapse claimed his life, but his impact on the fire service and his community remains immeasurable.
Jake was more than a colleague; he was a trusted friend, mentor, and educator who embodied the spirit of the fire service. He joined the Max Fire Training family as a lead instructor, where his dedication to hands-on training and his passion for teaching left a lasting impression on firefighters across the region.
Jake’s fire service journey began in 2001 as a paid-on-call firefighter, driven by the same passion that ignited Shawn’s career. Rising through the ranks, he became a lieutenant, captain, and a respected leader in the Godfrey Fire Protection District. His contributions included certifications in 17 fire service areas, leadership roles in technical rescue and respiratory protection, and serving as a fire science instructor at Lewis & Clark College.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jake was a humble man of faith, a devoted husband to Allison, and a loving father to their three children: Nora, Elaina, and Logan. His legacy of selflessness, mentorship, and dedication continues to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Honoring the Legacy Shawn carries Jake’s memory and lessons forward in every training session, ensuring that the knowledge and passion Jake brought to the fire service are never forgotten. For Shawn, the most rewarding moments come when firefighters recall using knowledge gained from Max Fire Training to save lives and stay safe on the fireground.
Captain Jacob Ringering’s legacy lives on through the firefighters he inspired and the lives he touched. At Max Fire Training, we honor his memory by striving to make the fire service a safer, stronger, and more prepared profession—just as Jake would have wanted.
Shawn Bloemker is the driving force behind Max Fire Training, Inc., bringing decades of fire service experience and an unwavering passion for firefighter education. Inspired by a childhood encounter with his local fire department, Shawn's journey into the fire service began in 1995, fueled by determination and a commitment to helping others.
Throughout his career, Shawn has traveled extensively across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, training firefighters in fire behavior, thermal imaging, and fire attack techniques. His innovative approach, captured in the creation of the Max Fire Box, has revolutionized how firefighters learn, emphasizing practical, hands-on training that translates directly to the fireground.
Shawn's philosophy, embodied in the tagline "Burn & Learn" and the mantra "Don’t tell me, show me," drives every Max Fire Training session. He believes that firefighters learn best by doing, not just listening. This commitment to immersive, real-world training has made him a respected leader in the fire service.
Captain Jacob L. Ringering: A Legacy of Leadership and Service The passion Shawn has for firefighter training is deeply personal. On March 5, 2019, tragedy struck when Captain Jacob Ringering, a beloved member of the Godfrey Fire Protection District and Max Fire Training, lost his life in the line of duty while performing exterior fire suppression activities at a working residential structure fire. A partial structural collapse claimed his life, but his impact on the fire service and his community remains immeasurable.
Jake was more than a colleague; he was a trusted friend, mentor, and educator who embodied the spirit of the fire service. He joined the Max Fire Training family as a lead instructor, where his dedication to hands-on training and his passion for teaching left a lasting impression on firefighters across the region.
Jake’s fire service journey began in 2001 as a paid-on-call firefighter, driven by the same passion that ignited Shawn’s career. Rising through the ranks, he became a lieutenant, captain, and a respected leader in the Godfrey Fire Protection District. His contributions included certifications in 17 fire service areas, leadership roles in technical rescue and respiratory protection, and serving as a fire science instructor at Lewis & Clark College.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jake was a humble man of faith, a devoted husband to Allison, and a loving father to their three children: Nora, Elaina, and Logan. His legacy of selflessness, mentorship, and dedication continues to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Honoring the Legacy Shawn carries Jake’s memory and lessons forward in every training session, ensuring that the knowledge and passion Jake brought to the fire service are never forgotten. For Shawn, the most rewarding moments come when firefighters recall using knowledge gained from Max Fire Training to save lives and stay safe on the fireground.
Captain Jacob Ringering’s legacy lives on through the firefighters he inspired and the lives he touched. At Max Fire Training, we honor his memory by striving to make the fire service a safer, stronger, and more prepared profession—just as Jake would have wanted.
Mark Cannon
Mark Cannon regarded as a firefighter who embodies the core values of the profession: service, integrity, mentorship, and community commitment. His long career spanning military service and major metropolitan firefighting reflects a lifelong dedication to protecting others and strengthening the fire service for future generations. Mark works to provide exceptional training and customer service to our training partners.
Mark began his career in 1991 in the United States Air Force Fire and Emergency Services Flight where he proudly continues his service with the 138th Fighter Wing in Tulsa Oklahoma. In 1995 he began his civilian career with the Kansas City Missouri Fire Department working in several divisions to include Operations, ARFF, HazMat, and Technical Rescue. He retired in 2015 at the rank of Captain. In 2015 he joined the Joplin Fire Department as their Fire Training Chief and overseeing their Special Operations Division. Mark retired from Joplin in 2025 and joined the team here at Max Fire Training.
At Max Fire Training, Mark assists with the day-to-day operations as well as providing our Max Fire Box in-service and Burn and Learn training sessions. His passion for teaching fire behavior is infectious and brings a great element to our program. He is also well versed in thermal imaging providing exceptional hands-on learning with various models of TIC's.
Mark is a very dedicated member of the Max Fire Training team that will provide enthusiastic and thorough training for your organization.
Mark Cannon regarded as a firefighter who embodies the core values of the profession: service, integrity, mentorship, and community commitment. His long career spanning military service and major metropolitan firefighting reflects a lifelong dedication to protecting others and strengthening the fire service for future generations. Mark works to provide exceptional training and customer service to our training partners.
Mark began his career in 1991 in the United States Air Force Fire and Emergency Services Flight where he proudly continues his service with the 138th Fighter Wing in Tulsa Oklahoma. In 1995 he began his civilian career with the Kansas City Missouri Fire Department working in several divisions to include Operations, ARFF, HazMat, and Technical Rescue. He retired in 2015 at the rank of Captain. In 2015 he joined the Joplin Fire Department as their Fire Training Chief and overseeing their Special Operations Division. Mark retired from Joplin in 2025 and joined the team here at Max Fire Training.
At Max Fire Training, Mark assists with the day-to-day operations as well as providing our Max Fire Box in-service and Burn and Learn training sessions. His passion for teaching fire behavior is infectious and brings a great element to our program. He is also well versed in thermal imaging providing exceptional hands-on learning with various models of TIC's.
Mark is a very dedicated member of the Max Fire Training team that will provide enthusiastic and thorough training for your organization.
Brandon Helm – Lead Instructor & Creator of the Backstep Firemanship Program
Brandon Helm is the rockstar of Max Fire Training, known for his infectious passion for learning and teaching. He is the driving force behind the Backstep Firemanship Program, an intensive course designed to elevate aggressive fire attack and rescue techniques. Brandon’s dedication to the fire service is both inspiring and exciting to be around, making him a standout instructor and mentor.
Brandon credits his father’s 25 years of service as his inspiration to become and excel as a firefighter. He began his career in 2004 as a volunteer firefighter while still in high school and is now proudly serving as a career firefighter for the Champaign Fire Department in Champaign, IL.
Brandon’s expertise is extensive. As a nationally certified paramedic, he holds additional credentials in critical care and flight paramedicine. He is also highly trained in technical rescue, with certifications in rope, confined space, trench, and structural collapse rescue. Despite his diverse skill set, Brandon’s true passion lies in teaching fire behavior and hose handling—covering everything from movement to deployment and loading.
At Max Fire Training, Brandon’s energy and enthusiasm for the fire service shine through in every class he leads. His ability to break down complex concepts and inspire confidence in his students makes him a favorite among those who have had the privilege to train under him.
When you attend a session with Brandon, you’ll experience firsthand the passion and dedication he brings to everything he undertakes. He doesn’t just teach; he empowers firefighters to grow, improve, and succeed. You’re going to love learning from Brandon and witnessing the fire service excellence he embodies.
Brandon Helm is the rockstar of Max Fire Training, known for his infectious passion for learning and teaching. He is the driving force behind the Backstep Firemanship Program, an intensive course designed to elevate aggressive fire attack and rescue techniques. Brandon’s dedication to the fire service is both inspiring and exciting to be around, making him a standout instructor and mentor.
Brandon credits his father’s 25 years of service as his inspiration to become and excel as a firefighter. He began his career in 2004 as a volunteer firefighter while still in high school and is now proudly serving as a career firefighter for the Champaign Fire Department in Champaign, IL.
Brandon’s expertise is extensive. As a nationally certified paramedic, he holds additional credentials in critical care and flight paramedicine. He is also highly trained in technical rescue, with certifications in rope, confined space, trench, and structural collapse rescue. Despite his diverse skill set, Brandon’s true passion lies in teaching fire behavior and hose handling—covering everything from movement to deployment and loading.
At Max Fire Training, Brandon’s energy and enthusiasm for the fire service shine through in every class he leads. His ability to break down complex concepts and inspire confidence in his students makes him a favorite among those who have had the privilege to train under him.
When you attend a session with Brandon, you’ll experience firsthand the passion and dedication he brings to everything he undertakes. He doesn’t just teach; he empowers firefighters to grow, improve, and succeed. You’re going to love learning from Brandon and witnessing the fire service excellence he embodies.
Cory Ellis – Instructor
Cory Ellis’s passion for firefighting runs deep in his family. Inspired by his father, a volunteer firefighter, Cory began his journey at the age of 14 as an Explorer with the French Village Fire Department alongside his brother.
Now with 30 years of experience as both a volunteer and career firefighter, Cory has become a respected leader and educator in the fire service. Cory currently serves as a career firefighter with the Village of Sauget Fire Department and as a volunteer firefighter in Smithton, IL. He is also the Chief of St. Clair Special Emergency Services, a regional HazMat and Technical Rescue team, where he and his wife proudly volunteer together.
A technical rescue expert with extensive training in rope, confined space, trench, and structural collapse rescue, Cory’s knowledge extends far beyond his specialty. Don’t let his technical rescue background fool you—Cory has a wealth of experience across all aspects of firefighting.
Cory’s hands-on teaching style is what truly sets him apart. His ability to break down complex skills into practical, easy-to-understand lessons makes learning not only effective but also enjoyable. Whether it’s fire behavior, rescue techniques, or HazMat operations, Cory’s engaging approach ensures firefighters leave his sessions with new skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of their craft.
With his years of experience, infectious enthusiasm, and dedication to the fire service, Cory Ellis is an invaluable part of the Max Fire Training team. You’ll love learning from him and benefiting from the passion he brings to every class.
Cory Ellis’s passion for firefighting runs deep in his family. Inspired by his father, a volunteer firefighter, Cory began his journey at the age of 14 as an Explorer with the French Village Fire Department alongside his brother.
Now with 30 years of experience as both a volunteer and career firefighter, Cory has become a respected leader and educator in the fire service. Cory currently serves as a career firefighter with the Village of Sauget Fire Department and as a volunteer firefighter in Smithton, IL. He is also the Chief of St. Clair Special Emergency Services, a regional HazMat and Technical Rescue team, where he and his wife proudly volunteer together.
A technical rescue expert with extensive training in rope, confined space, trench, and structural collapse rescue, Cory’s knowledge extends far beyond his specialty. Don’t let his technical rescue background fool you—Cory has a wealth of experience across all aspects of firefighting.
Cory’s hands-on teaching style is what truly sets him apart. His ability to break down complex skills into practical, easy-to-understand lessons makes learning not only effective but also enjoyable. Whether it’s fire behavior, rescue techniques, or HazMat operations, Cory’s engaging approach ensures firefighters leave his sessions with new skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of their craft.
With his years of experience, infectious enthusiasm, and dedication to the fire service, Cory Ellis is an invaluable part of the Max Fire Training team. You’ll love learning from him and benefiting from the passion he brings to every class.
Kevin Schott – Instructor
Kevin Schott brings 37 years of full-time fire service experience to Max Fire Training, along with a lifetime commitment to improving the fire service and helping others. His journey began in 1982 as a volunteer firefighter in Carlinville, IL, and expanded over decades of dedicated service in various roles.
Kevin also served his country for 24 years as a firefighter with the Illinois Air National Guard, where he honed his skills and leadership abilities. After retiring from the Guard, he continued his career with the Office of the State Fire Marshal, providing expertise in fire code adoption and consulting. Kevin later became the Fire Chief of Litchfield, IL, where he further solidified his reputation as a knowledgeable and forward-thinking leader in the fire service.
Throughout his career, Kevin has gained extensive knowledge in numerous areas, including:
When you train with Kevin, you’re learning from someone who has dedicated his life to the fire service and understands it from every angle. His passion, expertise, and dedication ensure that every session is impactful, informative, and geared toward making firefighters safer and more effective.
Kevin Schott brings 37 years of full-time fire service experience to Max Fire Training, along with a lifetime commitment to improving the fire service and helping others. His journey began in 1982 as a volunteer firefighter in Carlinville, IL, and expanded over decades of dedicated service in various roles.
Kevin also served his country for 24 years as a firefighter with the Illinois Air National Guard, where he honed his skills and leadership abilities. After retiring from the Guard, he continued his career with the Office of the State Fire Marshal, providing expertise in fire code adoption and consulting. Kevin later became the Fire Chief of Litchfield, IL, where he further solidified his reputation as a knowledgeable and forward-thinking leader in the fire service.
Throughout his career, Kevin has gained extensive knowledge in numerous areas, including:
- Hazardous Materials (HazMat)
- Technical Rescue
- Fire Code Adoption
- Consulting and Training
When you train with Kevin, you’re learning from someone who has dedicated his life to the fire service and understands it from every angle. His passion, expertise, and dedication ensure that every session is impactful, informative, and geared toward making firefighters safer and more effective.
Ian Sasek – Instructor
Ian Sasek’s fire service journey began in 2006 as a paid-on-call firefighter in Godfrey, IL, where his enthusiasm for the excitement and adventure of the fire service quickly propelled his career forward. For the past 11 years, Ian has been proudly serving as a career firefighter with the St. Louis City Fire Department, gaining extensive experience in fireground operations and emergency response.
Ian thrives on the challenges and rewards that come with being a firefighter, and his dedication to continuous learning has made him an invaluable asset to Max Fire Training. While he has a particular passion for Swift Water Rescue, his well-rounded expertise in fire emergencies, preparedness, and training ensures he brings value to every session he leads.
Ian’s approachable demeanor and practical teaching style make him an effective instructor, capable of connecting with firefighters at all levels. Whether he’s sharing techniques for rescue operations or providing insights into fire behavior, Ian’s focus is always on preparing firefighters to face real-world scenarios with confidence and skill.
We are proud to have Ian as part of the Max Fire Training team, where his passion, experience, and commitment to excellence inspire those he trains.
Ian Sasek’s fire service journey began in 2006 as a paid-on-call firefighter in Godfrey, IL, where his enthusiasm for the excitement and adventure of the fire service quickly propelled his career forward. For the past 11 years, Ian has been proudly serving as a career firefighter with the St. Louis City Fire Department, gaining extensive experience in fireground operations and emergency response.
Ian thrives on the challenges and rewards that come with being a firefighter, and his dedication to continuous learning has made him an invaluable asset to Max Fire Training. While he has a particular passion for Swift Water Rescue, his well-rounded expertise in fire emergencies, preparedness, and training ensures he brings value to every session he leads.
Ian’s approachable demeanor and practical teaching style make him an effective instructor, capable of connecting with firefighters at all levels. Whether he’s sharing techniques for rescue operations or providing insights into fire behavior, Ian’s focus is always on preparing firefighters to face real-world scenarios with confidence and skill.
We are proud to have Ian as part of the Max Fire Training team, where his passion, experience, and commitment to excellence inspire those he trains.
Jess McKee
John Schott
Monty Hawkins