American Firewear was incorporated in the State of Alabama in July 1990 in the city of Anniston, AL. Company founders chose the name because of its significance: “American” represents the independent spirit of starting a business and pursuing the American Dream. “Firewear” represents a heartfelt commitment to protecting fire fighters and rescue workers, based on founders' personal involvement in the fire service industry: "fire" for the fire market, and "wear" for the protective clothing the company proudly manufactures.

The company started with a handful of employees and a strong determination by the founders. (Learn more about our Key Employees.) Competition was tough, and the economy of the early 1990s was in recession. But with hard work, quality products and loyal distributor relationships, the company flourished. Most of the distributors who started with the company in the early years continue with American Firewear today.

As demand for its quality products increased, additional manufacturing capacity was added at Anniston, including a Product Development office and state-of-the-art CAD equipment. One of the most innovative fire fighter glove designs in the market - the Eclipse™ - was developed there. So unique, a US patent was awarded.

In 2000, corporate offices and manufacturing moved to a large, new facility in Ohatchee, AL .The company earned ISO 9001 certification to improve product quality and customer satisfaction. A major expansion of the facility provided additional capacity to keep our operations efficient, which improved delivery.

On February 2, 2006, American Firewear was acquired by Total Fire Group, a leading developer, manufacturer and distributor of a broad range of head-to-toe protective clothing, equipment, and allied products for first responders in a variety of emergency service fields. (Press Release). The facility was expanded still more to accommodate higher sales and new products. Product innovation continues, with introductions of the Super Glove, the TriForce3D glove, and Battle Dress Uniform and station wear clothing.

Today, a larger and stronger American Firewear holds fast to the determination and commitment of its founders. Quality, Innovation, Value, and Protection are not simply our goals. they are our roadmap into the future.

Bob Morgan - Vice President, Manufacturing
Bob is one of the founders of American Firewear. Bob supervises all aspects of manufacturing. His career in the safety industry began in 1968, and his career has been dedicated to the fire service market since 1988. As volunteer fire fighter, Bob is keenly aware of the needs of our primary customers and field tests all our products.

Don Rothman – Sr Marketing Director
Don began his career in the fire service protective clothing industry in 1990. Don applies his extensive expertise in assisting fire and rescue departments in the selection and procurement of the best products for their needs through our worldwide network of top-rated fire and safety distributors.

Stephanie Pressley - Customer Service
Stephanie coordinates the internal documentation of order processing and helps customers locate distributors near them for ordering American Firewear products. Stephanie’s experience in textile manufacturing industry began in 1987. Her career has focused on the fire service market since 1995.

Scott Rogers - Director, Quality Control, Purchasing & Inventory Control
Scott joined American Firewear in 2007. He has held career positions in Materials Management and Purchasing since 1998.