Pyro Spectaculars by Souza: The Commitment to Service Continues

History was made at the recent Winter Conference of the American Pyrotechnic Association held in Las Vegas as another Pyro Spectaculars family member took the helm as President of the organization. The installation of Ian Gilfillan as APA President continued the history of leadership in the fireworks industry and marked a historic first for the California-based company, as Gilfillan is the 3rd Pyro Spectaculars family member to lead the association.

Bob Souza, founding President of Pyro Spectaculars by Souza served two terms as President of the Associaton, as did his son, Jim Souza. Unique among America’s “fireworks families,” the Souzas have each received the coveted Milton Dropo Lifetime Achievement Award.

Bob Souza served as APA President during its 50th year, and Bob’s son-in-law, Ian Gilfillan will preside over this, the 70th Anniversary year, to be celebrated at the 2018 Annual Meeting in Cleveland, Ohio.

Bob Souza, APA President
50th Anniversary

Pyro Spectaculars by Souza has long been a premier champion of promoting safety and service to the pyrotechnic industry, holding scores of positions of responsibility through the years.

In addition to President Gilfillan’s installation, other family members currently serving in leadership roles include Kevin Gilfillan, elected by his peers to serve as President of the American Pyrotechnics Safety & Education Foundation, and three persons holding Chair or Vice-Chair positions in the organization: Gary Brown, Aaron Beargeon, and Jon Berson. At Pyro Spectaculars by Souza, Service, Safety, and Leadership comes naturally!