PGI Display Operator Course

Hosted by Daniel Suttkus , john phillips

NOTE: This session takes place on Wednesday, April 9th.

Embark on a journey to professionalism in firework display operations with the PGI (Pyrotechnics Guild International) Display Operator Course. This comprehensive training program is designed for those aspiring to become certified in conducting professional firework displays, covering all essential aspects from safety to hands-on firing system training.

Topics Covered:

• Industry Standards and Safety: In-depth coverage of safety protocols and industry standards for firework displays.
• Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Understanding the legalities and regulations involved in professional firework operations.
• Firing Systems and Techniques: Hands-on training in using various firing systems and techniques for executing a flawless show.
• Show Design and Execution: Insights into designing and executing captivating firework displays.
• PGI Certification: Information on obtaining PGI certification upon successful completion of the course.
• Interactive Learning Experience: Engaging sessions with experienced instructors for a comprehensive learning experience.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with other professionals and expand your industry network.

Boot Camp 1

Hosted by Tyler Wheat, Elvira Delgado, Drew Espenshade, Daniel Suttkus , john phillips

This session happens on Friday, April 11th.

Pyromusical Boot Camp is a dynamic learning experience for aspiring and skilled pyrotechnic enthusiasts. It covers the essentials of creating fireworks shows synchronized with music. Participants receive hands-on training in safety, design, and execution, alongside workshops from industry experts. This program is perfect for those eager to delve into the art and technology of pyromusical displays.

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Boot Camp 2

Hosted by Tyler Wheat, Elvira Delgado, Drew Espenshade, Daniel Suttkus , john phillips

This session is the same as Boot Camp 1 but takes place on Saturday, April 12th.

Pyromusical Boot Camp is a dynamic learning experience for aspiring and skilled pyrotechnic enthusiasts. It covers the essentials of creating fireworks shows synchronized with music. Participants receive hands-on training in safety, design, and execution, alongside workshops from industry experts. This program is perfect for those eager to delve into the art and technology of pyromusical displays.

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Adapting to the Unexpected: Mastering On-Site Challenges in Pyrotechnic Shows

Hosted by Brian Teeling

Have you ever arrived at a shoot site only to find it completely different from what you were promised? Or maybe you've had to contend with unpredictable weather conditions, or a sponsor who introduces last-minute changes to the program? In the world of pyrotechnics, ideal conditions are often the exception rather than the rule.

Join us for this interactive and essential class, where we’ll dive into practical strategies for adapting to unexpected challenges on-site. Whether it’s shifting weather, logistical surprises, or sudden changes to the show plan, this session will provide you with the skills and knowledge to adjust safely and efficiently. You’ll also learn best practices to ensure you’re prepared before you even arrive at the shoot site, minimizing stress and maximizing your chances for success.

What You'll Learn:

• Site Assessment: Quickly evaluate and adapt to unexpected site conditions.
• Weather Management: Understand how to safely modify your setup and show in the face of changing weather conditions.
• Handling Last-Minute Changes: Learn how to manage sponsor requests and program adjustments with minimal disruption to your workflow.
• Safety Protocols: Ensure that safety remains your top priority, even when circumstances change.
• Pre-Show Preparation: Best practices for preparing in advance to handle unforeseen challenges with confidence.
• Real-World Scenarios: Review case studies of pyrotechnicians who successfully navigated on-site surprises and learn from their experiences.

This class is designed to help you stay calm, prepared, and adaptable, skills every pyrotechnician needs when faced with the unexpected. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned professional, you'll walk away with actionable insights and techniques to ensure your show goes off without a hitch, no matter what obstacles arise.

Adding DMX to your Fireworks Show with Finale 3D

Hosted by Will Harvey

Ready to take your shows to the next level? Join Will Harvey from Finale Fireworks and venture into the world of DMX special effects. New to DMX? No problem! This session will guide you through the steps of seamlessly combining fireworks with effects including, flames, sparks, lights and more using the interactive scripting tools in Finale 3D.

Topics Covered:

• Introduction to hybrid Pyro DMX shows in Finale 3D
• Configuring DMX fixtures (lights, flames, sparks, etc.)
• Overview of DMX universes and channel range assignments
• Basic and advanced DMX scripting techniques
• Creating new DMX fixtures and effects
• Addressing and exporting a DXM script for COBRA
• Printing DMX fixture and show setup reports
• Open Q&A

Will Harvey
Will Harvey is the CEO of Finale Fireworks, which he founded in 2009, and the co-founder and CEO of Finale Inventory. He previously led There.com and IMVU.com and is a pioneer of Lean Startup methodologies, which help startups reduce market risk through early product launches and feedback-driven adjustments. Will earned a PhD in computer science from Stanford, where he invented the AI search algorithm Limited Discrepancy Search. He began his career at 15, developing commercial video games like Music Construction Set, Zany Golf, and The Immortal. Will now focuses on fireworks simulations to satisfy his passion for pyrotechnics.

Altitude: Enhancing Displays with Lifts, Towers, and Platforms

Hosted by Donnie Toms

Have you ever thought about shooting pyro from a raised position? Maybe you saw a fireworks show where someone used a lift for a 360-degree effect and wondered how they did that. If you answered yes, then Altitude is a class for you.

Come join Donnie Toms, SkyWars 2023 Pro-Division Champion as he discusses the use of Lifts, Towers, and Platforms as methods for elevating your next fireworks show. He will share his experience from 2023 when he used 3 lifts with 360-degree racks attached.

In this class you will get information about:

• When to elevate your pyro up in the air.
• Things to consider for spacing and height requirements.
• What effects to use and how to script these effects using Finale3D.
• Addressing and racking your 360-degree pyrollama or other rack types.
• How to build a 360-degree rack and raise it up.

Donnie Toms

Donnie is a long-time backyard pyro! As many pyro’s have, he loved fireworks as a kid growing up in Missouri! As Donnie got older and got adult money, he turned to YouTube for ideas. That’s were his passion for pyro-musicals began. Donnie loves the theatrical side of a good pyro-musical and taking the spectator on a emotional journey throughout his show. Donnie joined KCAP in 2020 and attended his first SkyWars. Over the next 3 years he fine-tuned his scripting and in 2023, with the backing of KCAP, Donnie put up a Taylor Swift themed show at SkyWars and won the pro-division competition. Shortly after, he joined forces with David Anglin, a SkyWars competitor, and started the Pyro Unleashed Podcast as a co-host. Through the podcast, Donnie has had the opportunity to connect with firework industry leaders and other fellow scripters. Donnie has attended the PGI convention multiple times and in 2024 with the support of dominator, scripted and shot the closing night National Anthem. Now, Donnie brings his experiences with scripting towers and 360-degree effects to COBRA-CON 2025.

Angles, Angles, Angles: Crafting Shapes, Letters, and Other Advanced Techniques

Hosted by Jamie Young, alfredo plata, Bo Domescik

Pyromusicals are as much an culmination of technical know-how as they are the reflection of a show designers heart and soul. There’s a skill set that’s ABSOLUTLEY necessary to compose site pictures that live, breathe, and flourish along with your soundtracks. In this class, Bo, AJ, and Jamie will teach you the art of mastering your segments look, feel, and flow through an advanced understanding of your site pictures vertical spectrums, complex angling, shaping's, color harmonization, and precision timing.

Bo “bozie” Domescik

The RHYTHM Pyro Podcast

I’m Bo. An avid COBRA superuser and second-generation pyro, and like loads of pyros before me…I owe my love for all of this to my father. As a kid, I was regularly booted out of the backyard for being 'too young' to play superstar. In 2010, I saw my first pyromusical on YouTube by The Atomic Pyro Monkeys, and from that moment, the rest was an uphill battle 😊.

I got involved with the local OH club scene and licensed in 2014. The Ohio Pyrotechnic Arts Guild deepened my understanding of pyro legalities, regulations, and safety while opening the door to show design opportunities including a competition-winning NFA 1.4 pyromusical in 2015, a return NFA exhibition visit in 2017, and Sky Wars in 2020.

Since high school, I've had a passion for writing and producing music. In 2019, I fused that musical passion with a love for hyper quick and precise pyromusicals, combining the songs I wrote with fireworks to create one big original pyromusical experience. Writing songs and bringing my Hypermusical compositions like 'Neon Skies,' 'This Heart of Fire' (Sky Wars), 'Blinding Lights' (cover), 'Power Rangers' (cover), 'Angel Wings,' 'Abracadavre' (cover) (Octoblast), and 'Chasing Ghosts' to life for people to physically see has been an immensely fulfilling, personal journey.

I'm incredibly grateful for the talent to produce and create. I’m thankful for all the supporters, sponsors, and listeners of The RHYTHM Pyro Podcast, and most of all, I’m thankful for my friends (AJ and Jamie) and this incredible community. Until the day I 'peace out,' these friendships and relationships forged in fire are what I'll treasure most.

AJ “Pyro Dad” Plata

The RHYTHM Pyro Podcast

Plumber by Day, Pyrotechnics Enthusiast by Night

AJ Plata has been lighting up the sky since 2012, starting with backyard fireworks shows before stepping into the professional scene in 2019 with RKM Fireworks. A plumber by day, AJ's passion for pyrotechnics and show design comes alive after hours, where he enjoys designing high-intensity, fast-paced displays that capture the energy of the moment.

AJ's journey in pyrotechnics began with the Atalissa Fireworks show, turning what was a family 4th of July get-together show into a full-fledged small-town event, bringing in people from miles around. His dedication has led him to significant achievements, including winning the 2021 Sky Wars 1.4 Pro-AM Championship and competing again in the 2023’s 1.4 Pro-AM Champions on Champions. In 2024, he co-designed the Battling My Demons show for the Pyrotechnics Guild International (PGI).

Along the way, AJ has found two like-minded pyros, Bo Domescik and Jamie Young, who have become great friends and formed a close-knit pyro family. Together, they inspire each other and share their passion for fireworks. Their late-night conversations about fireworks have turned into the Rhythm Pyro Podcast, where they explore all things pyro and continue to fuel each other's creativity.

Using the Cobra Firing System, AJ brings together his love for music and fireworks, creating displays that offer something fresh and exciting to local events. Pyro is not about recognition—it's about having fun and connecting with others who share passion for pyrotechnics. AJ is also grateful for all the people he has had the opportunity to meet and build relationships with along the way.

Jamie “Smalltime” Young

The RHYTHM Pyro Podcast

As an HVAC Sales Project Manager, I navigate the technical side of my career while fueling a lifelong passion for pyrotechnics. My fascination with fireworks ignited in childhood, watching small city shows with my family. This love blossomed further after attending a friend’s Fourth of July party in 2015, which rekindled my enthusiasm for colorful displays.

By 2016, I was actively contributing to fireworks shows, pushing the boundaries each year. In 2018, I began exploring safer lighting methods, leading to a transformative moment in 2019 when I discovered Bozie8823’s inspiring “Neon Skies” video. This revelation sparked a deep dive into choreographing fireworks to music and connecting with a vibrant community of fellow pyrotechnics enthusiasts.

In 2020, I shot my first multi-position pyromusical and joined O.P.A.G., where I had the privilege of learning from Bozie8823 himself. This experience not only shaped my skills but also forged friendships that feel like family, especially with my best friend Bo Domescik, who introduced me to many inspiring and supportive friends.

Beyond pyrotechnics, I enjoy golf, fishing, motorcycles, and the great outdoors. Though I may come off as shy or reserved, I truly appreciate the connections I make within the pyrotechnic community. If I seem quiet, please know it’s just my introverted nature; I’m always excited to connect and share our passion for this incredible art form!

Audio Editing Advanced: Mastering Professional Soundtrack Techniques

Hosted by Bo Domescik

Bo Domescik | Pyro TRAX audio engineer and host & Producer of The RHYTHM Pyro Podcast

Your show soundtrack is the beating heart of your pyromusical. It’s the foundation for the emotional journey that the ENTIRETY of your show is based on. The perfect track edit keeps your audience locked in to every waking moment of your show…because the perfect soundtrack, is the one that never distracts your audience.

In this class, RHYTHM Pyro Podcast host, music producer, Show designer, and resident contract pyro audio engineer (with hundreds of pyro soundtracks under his belt); Bo Domescik teaches you advanced technical, creative, and pyromusically relevant audio track composition and editing techniques like:

• Editing for time
• Seamless cutting & comping (“the RIGHT way”…for lengthening or shortening of tracks that isn’t abrupt)
• Effective and creative transitions
• Production techniques for spicing up tracks
• Volume leveling and loudness mastering
• File organization

COBRA 2025 Keynote

Hosted by Scott Smith

Scott Smith, the CEO of COBRA Firing Systems will share updates to the direction of COBRA including a demonstration of the 18R3 and the unveiling of some new products and features focused on the professional side of the market. This is a must attend session if you're curious to see the future of COBRA over the coming years.

COBRA Mesh: Understanding Its Importance and Functionality

Hosted by Scott Smith

The COBRA network is a next generation 2.4 GHz internationally compliant design. A step above traditional direct line of sight hub and spoke systems, every module acts as a controller by repeating signal into every nook and cranny. Perfect for complex sites and non-line of sight situations, while maintaining precision accuracy.

Topics covered:

• Traditional hub and spoke systems
• Intro to a MESH system
• MESH resilience, reliability, and extended coverage
• MESH technology including our 3-layer technology
• MESH best practices
• MESH Q&A

COBRA Show Creator: Designing and Executing Your Show

Hosted by Jonathan McCormick

Whether you're new to designing automated shows or looking to create shows perfectly synced to music, this introductory class is designed for you. Ideal for both hobbyists and professionals, this course provides a solid foundation in automated show creation using COBRA Show Creator.

Topics Covered:

• Starting a New Show: Learn how to initiate a new project from scratch.
• Managing Fireworks and Inventory: Keep track of your pyrotechnic elements and inventory with ease.
• Incorporating Events: Seamlessly add and organize events in your show timeline.
• Customizing Show Layout: Tailor columns and configure settings for your specific needs.
• Syncing to Music: Explore how to add and synchronize music for a dynamic show experience.
• Labeling and Reporting: Effectively label fireworks and generate comprehensive reports.
• Exporting to COBRA Systems: Export your show to the 18R2 and send audio files to the Audio Box.
• Show Execution: Get hands-on with executing your finalized show.
• Open Q&A Session: Bring your questions and receive expert guidance.

COBRA Troubleshooting: Overcoming Common Issues

Hosted by Zachary Gilbert

In this session, you’ll learn how to spot and fix the most common problems that come up when using COBRA gear. We’ll go through real-life examples of troubleshooting, and you’ll even get the chance to practice with live demos. Plus, we’ll share some tips on how to keep your equipment working its best throughout the year.

Topics covered:

• How to change a cue strip
• How to change a module internal antenna
• Common error codes
• Hotwiring a module key switch
• And more…

DMX 101: Entry-Level Techniques to Elevate Your Show

Hosted by Scott Smith

DMX stands for "Digital Multiplex" and was created in the mid-80s as a standard communication protocol for controlling lighting fixtures. Since this time, the DMX protocol is used to control a variety of SPFX (special effects) hardware devices such as lights, flame projectors, cryo jets, fog, spark, bubble machines (yes! even bubble machines), and more... A simple Amazon.com search for "DMX lights" shows the variety of devices available for this protocol.

In short, DMX is a way to control hardware devices that do cool and fun things. And, you can do all of this with COBRA together with pyrotechnics! In short, any device that supports a DMX input can integrate with COBRA.

Topics covered:

• What is DMX?
• DMX SPFX options available (smoke, cryo, flame, light, etc...)
• How does COBRA generate DMX with the 18R2 and 36M/72M
• Fundamentals of DMX (universe, channel, value and pulse time)
• DMX script format and data
• DMX device documentation
• DMX demonstration with COBRA Show Creator and a PAR RGB light
• DMX Q&A

Enhancing Your Equipment with COBRA Control Panel

Hosted by Zachary Gilbert

This session will show you how to use Control Panel for your COBRA system and take advantage of its key features. We'll cover how to control your show, use manual fire, and use Disable groups for added security. You’ll also learn how to use Quickfire, a must have for Football and Soccer season.

Topics covered:

• Using Control Panel Gen 2 to get a complete overview of your shoot site
• Changing module voltage mode and firing mode
• Quick Fire Scripts
• Event Disablement
• Manual fire with product descriptions
• And more…

From Backyard to Owning a Display Company

Hosted by Devin Vargas

Starting a firework business can be both exciting and challenging, and this comprehensive session will guide you through the key steps to success. From promoting your business and navigating logistics to compliance and shipping regulations, this course covers all the essentials for budding pyrotechnic entrepreneurs. You’ll also gain insights into finding new shows, building a client base, and overcoming common challenges in the industry. With real-world lessons learned and plenty of time for general questions, this session is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to launch and sustain a successful firework business.

Topics Covered:

• How to Start a Firework Business: The essential steps to launch your business, from permits to planning.
• How to Promote Your Business: Effective marketing strategies to grow your brand and attract clients.
• Logistics: Managing the logistics of equipment, inventory, and event setup.
• Lessons Learned: Real-world insights from experienced professionals on overcoming common challenges.
• Compliance & Shipping Fireworks: Navigating the regulations for handling, shipping, and storing fireworks safely.
• Finding New Shows: Strategies to secure new contracts and expand your business.
• General Q&A: An open forum to ask your pressing questions and get advice from industry experts.

About Devin

Devin Vargas, CEO of Deep South Fireworks is based out of Central Georgia and has been in business since 2020. Started out as doing a few fireworks for a local sports team in Columbus, Georgia has grown to a full-blown display company covering 10 states. Initially Deep South Fireworks started out as a 1.4 display company and has now evolved into a 1.3 and 1.4 display company with the company having a Type 50 ATF License. Devin Vargas spent 11 years in the Army and then became a Firefighter/EMT and is dedicated to safety. He currently resides in Hawkinsville, GA with his 3 dogs.

Gasoline Fireballs & Ghost Mines with Bill Corbett of FIREBALL DUDES

Hosted by Bill Corbett

Do you want to learn how to shoot gasoline fireballs & ghost mines? Do you need to know how to build a steel mortar for shooting fireballs? Do you have questions about black powder & making lift charges? This class will have all of your answers & more! If you are just now starting to shoot fireballs or are a seasoned veteran, there will be information for everyone to learn something.

Topics covered:

• Fireball safety & separation distances from mortars to spectators.
• Black powder amounts for mortar sizes & gallons shot.
• Mortar construction including pipe & base sizes.
• Adding fireworks to fireballs.
• Lift charge construction methods. PET bottles & wrapping charges with electrical tape.
• Ghost mines: creating fireballs with methanol & various chemicals to make fireballs that are different colors.

Additional topics will be covered. All attendees are encouraged to ask questions during the entire seminar.

Bill Corbett of FIREBALL DUDES
Since 2003, Bill Corbett has been shooting fireworks and fireballs, amassing extensive experience in the field. With tens of thousands of gallons of gasoline used and hundreds of mortars built, Bill has honed his craft, shooting fireballs at both large and small firework events and air shows. Over the years, he has learned valuable lessons and developed deep expertise. In this session, he will share as much fireball knowledge and insight as possible, drawing from his years of hands-on experience.

Hazardous Brew: Coffee Creamer Fireballs

Hosted by Jason Rude

Hazardous Brew: Coffee Creamer Fireballs

In this unique class, we'll explore the fascinating chemistry behind using an everyday household item—coffee creamer—as a surprising ingredient to create fireballs. You may not think of it this way, but coffee creamer is highly flammable and, when used safely and correctly, can produce spectacular pyrotechnic effects.

Throughout this session, we'll cover:

• The science of flammable powders and why coffee creamer works
• Essential safety practices and precautions
• Step-by-step demonstrations on creating controlled fireballs
• Material Lists needed for safe execution of this pyro effect
  

By the end, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for this surprising staple of your morning coffee ritual and understand how it can be used safely for dramatic displays. Get ready for a blend of science, safety, and spectacle!

Jason Rude
Jason Rude has been a professional pyrotechnician for 23 years and a lead pyrotechnician for 12 years. In addition to managing a shooting team, he hosts and produces the podcast Pyro Talk which shares accurate and timely information about the world of fireworks and features interviews with some of the top personalities in the industry. Jason has been involved with nearly 200 shows throughout his career in pyrotechnics. He is a member of the Iowa Pyrotechnics Guild, MOPYRO, the WPAG, and Pyrotechnics Guild International.

Igniters: Fundamentals and Best Practices

Hosted by Jeff Genzel

A brief history of e-matches, igniters, and firewire, explaining how they
differ, the legalities surrounding their use, available adapters,
installation processes, and how to customize igniters for specific
applications.

Jeff Genzel has been in the pyro industry since 1999, starting his career in
the connecting wire business with Seminole wire and cable. This provided a
natural transition into igniters, where he worked under Phil Martinez and
helped establish MJG Technologies in 2002. In 2009, they relocated the
company to Mexico to improve production efficiency and reduce costs, passing
the savings directly on to the consumer.

Introduction to Audio 101: Basics for Fireworks Shows

Hosted by Miles Kieft

Course Description: Dive into the world of pyromusicals with our comprehensive session, “Audio 101.” This seminar is crafted for complete novices and hobbyists eager to make a mark in the firework industry. Attendees will explore the essentials of music selection, tempo, pacing, and effect placement, all the way through formatting and loading files into Cobra firing Systems' Audio Box for your first ever Pyromusical. No prior knowledge is required, making this an accessible and engaging entry point into the art of syncing sound with spectacular visual displays.

Miles Kieft
Since his entry into the music and entertainment industry in 2002 as a part-time DJ in small Michigan nightclubs, Miles Kieft rapidly expanded his expertise into technical design and support for lighting and sound. In 2010, he was appointed lead technical engineer for one of Michigan's largest mixed-use venues. By 2011, he had also become head of audio for a regional theater while continuing his role as technical engineer.
Combining his childhood passion for pyrotechnics with his extensive technical experience, Miles now owns and operates a pyrotechnic and fireworks display company in Western Michigan. His teams deliver captivating shows at live concert venues and city events throughout the region.

Introduction to Firework Insurance

Hosted by Kristy Wolfe

Introduction to Firework Insurance 
Join us for this essential session designed for professionals in the pyrotechnics industry. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about insuring your firework displays and operations. Learn why insurance is critical to safeguarding your business, employees, and spectators in an industry where managing risk is key.

Topics Covered:

• Understanding Insurance Needs: Explore the essential types of coverage every fireworks business should have.
• Risk Assessment: Learn how to evaluate risks in your displays and operations to secure the right protection.
• Navigating Policies: Get expert insights into selecting and customizing insurance policies that fit your unique needs.
• Legal Compliance: Understand the legal obligations surrounding insurance in the pyrotechnics industry.
• Claims and Liability: Learn how to manage insurance claims and minimize liability in the event of accidents or incidents.
• Case Studies: Analyze real-world scenarios where proper insurance protected firework shows and businesses.
• Q&A with Insurance Experts: Have your questions answered by professionals experienced in insuring the pyrotechnics sector.

Intro to COBRA: Step Up Your Pyro Game

Hosted by Zachary Gilbert

This is a beginner-friendly session that gives an overview of the COBRA system, covering the basics and why it’s trusted by professionals. You’ll learn about the features that make COBRA easy to use yet powerful, helping you put on better shows. Whether you're new to pyrotechnics or switching from another system, we’ll guide you through everything you need to get started and how to make the most of your COBRA setup.

Topics covered:

• The A to the Z of COBRA hardware
• How the COBRA system communicates issues with you via error codes
• COBRA Firing Systems connection agnostic approach
• System startup sequences
• Syncing your COBRA Equipment, checking signal, continuity, and more…

Intro to Finale 3D

Hosted by Drew Espenshade

Interested in designing scripted fireworks shows? This is the session for you. Whether you're an aspiring designer or just looking to brush up on the fundamentals, join this engaging session for a walkthrough of the addictively fun show design process in Finale 3D. See how designing a show and exporting it for your COBRA remote is as easy as Click, Drag, Boom!

Topics Covered:

• How to download/install Finale 3D and create an account.
• Outline of the differences between Finale 3D "Lite", "Hobbyist", and "Pro".
• Finale 3D user interface overview (design/simulation window, timeline, effects & script windows)
• Browsing and adding fireworks from industry supplier catalogs
• Creating your own fireworks including single shots, shells, and cakes
• Making a firing position layout
• Adding songs or a music soundtrack
• Inserting fireworks into a show
• Angling effects and creating dynamic sequences
• Assigning COBRA firing system addresses (module and cue numbers)
• Exporting a COBRA script file
• Printing setup reports and labels
• Open Q&A

Drew Espenshade
Drew Espenshade is an engineer and professional fireworks designer with experience in project management, hardware and software product development, fireworks manufacturing, and fireworks display production. As the VP of Sales and Marketing at Finale Fireworks, Drew plays a key role in driving the success of Finale 3D, the company’s flagship software product, helping to advance innovation in the pyrotechnics industry.

Intro to IGNITE: For Consumers and Retailers

Hosted by Scott Smith

IGNITE is an entry-level smartphone-enabled firing system for consumers. If you are brand new to e-firing, this is the system to get your feet wet and to put on some incredible shows including full pyromusicals.

If you are a consumer, prepare to learn about how the system works, how to design shows using our IGNITE Show Designer software, and to perform pyromusicals including integration with Pyrocast to play audio to a sound system or your audience members' phones.

If you are a retailer, we believe that customers who shoot electronically shoot bigger shows and buy more fireworks. By giving your customers the power to shoot multiple positions at the same time and to design shows in advance, it unleashes a new level of creativity and control. Learn how IGNITE can help grow ticket sales by opening up their creative mind to shoot bigger and better shows.

Topics covered:

• How IGNITE works
• i18 and i36 modules
• Free-shoot firing
• Design and automate shows including to music
• Integrated product catalog
• Electronics igniter options
• Selling in your retail stores
• IGNITE Kiosk
• IGNITE Pricing
• IGNITE Demonstration
• Q&A

Intro to Pyrocast: App Based Audio Synchronization and Audience Engagement

Hosted by Scott Smith

PYROCAST is an app that allows your audience to listen to your fireworks show soundtrack in sync with fireworks from any distance. Our technology scales from small to large hundred-thousand-people+ events. Pyrocast has had significant improvements each year including a new update that boasts sub-40ms accuracy to your pyromusicals or drone shows.

Learn about the newly added features in 2024 and 2025 as this platform grows in popularity among the pyro community.

Topics covered:

• What is Pyrocast?
• How does Pyrocast work?
• Firing systems support (COBRA, IGNITE and others...)
• Creating and managing shows
• Branding / skinning your show for marketing
• Show marketing videos
• Show control options
• SMPTE time code options
• Reporting
• Licensing and royalty submissions
• Pyrocast full audience demonstration

Master Single Shots with Finale 3D

Hosted by Drew Espenshade

In this action-packed session, join Drew Espenshade from Finale Finale fireworks for a deep dive on single shots. From design aesthetics, to product considerations, scripting techniques, and rack loading plans — we're going to cram as much into this session as possible to help you level-up your single shot game.

Topics Covered:

• Shoot site and position layout considerations• Product selection considerations• Examination of popular single shot firing patterns
• How to script dynamic single shot patterns with ease• Calculating rack needs (CraigCo, iShot, PyroLamas, etc.)
• Allocating Cobra modules to optimize setup efficiency• Generating setup plans (reports, labels, diagrams, etc.)
• Open Q&A

Navigating the Sky: The Fusion of Drones and Pyrotechnics

Hosted by Robert Cheek

Learn about the next phase of the pioneering partnership between UVify and COBRA Firing Systems, a collaboration that leads the way toward safer, sustainable, and breathtaking entertainment experiences. Explore revolutionary solutions that integrate traditional fireworks with state-of-the-art UVify drones and your COBRA firing system, setting a new standard for inspiring displays and transforming the entertainment industry.

Topics Covered:

• Introduction to using drones, where and how to start
• Learn the latest on FAA regulations
• Discover how UVify and COBRA work together
• Explore the steps to executing a drone pyro show

Pyro Clubs: What They Are and How to Get Involved

Hosted by Travis Kramer

What is a Pyrotechnics Club? Are there different kinds of clubs out there? Does it make sense for me to join one? Travis Kramer of the Kansas City Area Pyrotechnicians will lead a discussion that talks about his personal experience being part of a club and what you might expect if you join a club near you. The session will dive deep into what a club can potentially offer novice and seasoned pyros alike.

Topics Covered:

• What is a Pyrotechnics Club?
• Education: Training and skills learned and earned in a club
• Scale: How a club’s scale helps you
• Access: What a club can potentially give you, from group buys to shoot sites
• Giving Opportunities: What can you contribute and how to get the most out of a club experience
• Community: The power of club networking
• Takeaways: A contact list for clubs across the USA that you can contact or join will be provided.

The session will feature 40 minutes of course discussion with 20 minutes of Q&A.

Pyromusical Creation: From Concept to Execution

Hosted by David Anglin

If you want to learn how to take a pyromusical concept and make it a successful reality, now is your chance! From entry level hobbyist to award winning pyromusical designer, we can all learn from each other's design ideas! This class will go over the basic fundamentals such as:

• Conceptualizing a pyromusical
• Music Choice
• Product Selection 
• Product Placement
• Harmonious flow with fireworks, music, and other production accents
• Use of drones in a pyromusical
• Open Q&A

Short Bio:

David started shooting professional handlit shows in 2013 and has since shot over 300 displays, including more than 20 pyromusical displays. He has scripted and shot shows at Cobra-Con, NFA, Sky Wars, PGI and other events including indoor arenas. Davd works full time at RKM Fireworks as an outside sales rep, and co-hosts Pyro Unleashed Podcast with Donnie Toms.

Should I Use Slats? Exploring the Benefits in Wireless Firing Systems

Hosted by Zachary Gilbert

If you're wondering what slats do and whether they’re right for you, this session will give you the basics. We’ll explain how they work with your COBRA modules and talk about the pros and cons of using them in your wireless system. Series vs Parallel? Come to this session to find out!

Topics covered:

• Why using slats may speed up your shoot site setup
• Why series or parallel slats
• Possible complications to using slats in a wireless world
• Best practices to ensuring a successful shoot with slats

Show Psychology: Enhancing Your Display with Colors, Tempo, and Effects

Hosted by Travis Kramer

How do you really move an audience? Get the “ohh’s” and “ahh’s” and maybe even a few tears of joy? Join Travis Kramer as we discuss the power of using show psychology to design and more effectively engage your display audience. Veterans and beginners alike will come away with useful tools and prompts to apply to your next display.

Topics Covered:

• Emotional Tone: Understanding and crafting your overall “Show Mood” from the very beginning
• Color Theory: Learning it and knowing how to use it
• Pyrotechnic Effects: Knowing your product and how it will elevate or detract from your show design
• Tempo: Using it to your advantage to keep your audience invested
• Layering: The power of layered effects
• Site Usage: Using your site to change emotions in your show
• Show Psychology in Action: A walkthrough of brief video examples of principles and theories put into actual practice
• Takeaways: A free full-color physical course handout for you to keep for your personal reference

The session will feature 45 minutes of course discussion with 15 minutes of Q&A.

SMPTE: When and How to Use It for Synchronization

Hosted by Zachary Gilbert

Curious about using SMPTE timecode for your pyrotechnic shows but unsure if it's the right fit? You’re not alone! While SMPTE timecode can bring unmatched precision and synchronization to your displays, it’s not always the perfect solution for every setup. In this session, we’ll dive into when SMPTE makes sense and how to get started. From foundational concepts to expert best practices, we’ll guide you through deciding whether SMPTE timecode is the missing piece in your pyrotechnic toolkit. Plus, we'll go hands-on, showing you how to create a SMPTE audio track using Show Creator and Audacity.

Topics Covered:

• What is SMPTE?: A quick introduction to SMPTE timecode and how it can transform your shows.
• Why Use It?: Discover the advantages—and limitations—of using SMPTE in pyrotechnics.
• Getting Started: A step-by-step guide to integrating SMPTE timecode into your workflow.
• Hands-On Demo: Create your own SMPTE audio track with Show Creator and Audacity.
• Tips and Tricks: Expert advice for maximizing the benefits of SMPTE timecode in your productions.