John Zalepka
Director of Training & Industry Engagements
Specified Technologies Inc.
John Zalepka is the Director of Training & Industry Engagements at Specified Technologies Inc. (STI), where he helps architects navigate the complexities of fire-resistive design and specification. With over 15 years of experience in firestopping and passive fire protection, John works closely with design professionals to integrate code-compliant firestop solutions that support life safety goals while reducing liability and risk in the built environment.
At STI, John leads the development and delivery of accredited training programs that reach over 20,000 professionals annually. His educational initiatives, including the Firestop Instructional Training (FIT) platform, are widely recognized for their focus on constructability, compliance, and field-proven strategies. He partners with firms of all sizes to help design teams understand UL system selection, application details, and the importance of proper submittals — all key components to ensuring that fire-rated assemblies perform as intended.
As a speaker and educator, John is known for making technical content approachable and actionable. His sessions equip architects with the knowledge they need to write clearer specifications, coordinate better with consultants and contractors, and meet IBC requirements without overdesigning or under-protecting the project.
John also serves as the Communications Chair for the International Firestop Council (IFC), where he leads efforts to develop resources for code officials, specifiers, and third-party inspectors. He has presented at national conferences and contributes to industry-wide education campaigns focused on improving passive fire protection across all occupancy types.
With a background in both sales and technical training, John brings a unique perspective that bridges the gap between product knowledge, code understanding, and real-world design execution — helping architects protect people, property, and their professional reputation.
At STI, John leads the development and delivery of accredited training programs that reach over 20,000 professionals annually. His educational initiatives, including the Firestop Instructional Training (FIT) platform, are widely recognized for their focus on constructability, compliance, and field-proven strategies. He partners with firms of all sizes to help design teams understand UL system selection, application details, and the importance of proper submittals — all key components to ensuring that fire-rated assemblies perform as intended.
As a speaker and educator, John is known for making technical content approachable and actionable. His sessions equip architects with the knowledge they need to write clearer specifications, coordinate better with consultants and contractors, and meet IBC requirements without overdesigning or under-protecting the project.
John also serves as the Communications Chair for the International Firestop Council (IFC), where he leads efforts to develop resources for code officials, specifiers, and third-party inspectors. He has presented at national conferences and contributes to industry-wide education campaigns focused on improving passive fire protection across all occupancy types.
With a background in both sales and technical training, John brings a unique perspective that bridges the gap between product knowledge, code understanding, and real-world design execution — helping architects protect people, property, and their professional reputation.