NFSA to Award Golden Sprinkler

To Richard T. Groos

Thursday, August 3, 2000, Patterson, New York – In each of the past 13 years, the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) has recognized outstanding contributions by an individual to the fire sprinkler industry with the presentation of the Golden Sprinkler Award. This year will not be an exception.

The NFSA awards committee recently announced they have chosen Richard T. Groos as this year’s recipient of the highly coveted Golden Sprinkler. The presentation will take place during the opening ceremony at the upcoming NFSA Annual Seminar in Aruba where Richard will be surrounded by friends, family and colleagues.

Following earning a Masters Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University, Richard started his career in the fire sprinkler industry at The Viking Corporation and Tyden Seal Company in 1955. He served in a number of positions including Director of Engineering, Plant Manager and informally as Director of Product Development before such a position officially existed.

In 1961, he became President and served until 1990 when he became CEO of Viking’s parent company, Tyden Group. During his tenure as President, he personally wrote many of the technical data pages of the company and started the industry’s first fire sprinkler training seminar, perceiving a great need for training among the independent fire sprinkler contractors. Richard registered two patents in the fire sprinkler industry and played an integral role in developing many of the products and concepts responsible for the company’s success.

The Viking Corporation has been a NFSA member since the late 1920’s. Richard continued this support, serving on the Board of Directors of the Association from 1971 until 1982. He also served as the first Chairman of the newly formed Manufacturers Council from 1974 to 1976.

Now retired from “active duty” in the fire sprinkler business, Richard still serves as Chairman of Tyden Group. He stays active in his retirement through his involvement in the National Fire Protection Association Research Foundation, and has been heavily involved in promoting the growth of smaller community charitable foundations throughout Michigan. In addition, he continues to work on community causes in the Hastings area as he has over the years. Unassuming and low key, Richard has contributed to the fire sprinkler industry and his hometown for almost 50 years.