Connect with us

Technology

From Vision to Industry Disruption: How one entrepreneur built a game-changing fire department solution on the Nextworld platform

Published

on

DENVER, May 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ —

A Vision Sparked by Experience
Nate Gilbert began his career as a CPA, but found himself drawn to the world of software. Along the way, he became convinced of the power and speed of emerging enterprise platforms—especially no-code development technology. Seeing how these tools could be used to build sophisticated, purpose-built solutions faster and more cost-effectively than traditional methods gave him the confidence to co-found his own company: Fireproof Tech.

A legacy of service
Gilbert’s inspiration for Fireproof Tech was deeply personal. His grandfather worked as a firefighter, and Gilbert grew up with a profound respect for the fire service community. Carrying on that legacy, he saw an opportunity to create something that could truly help fire departments fulfill their mission.

“Fire departments exist to protect communities and save lives. Fireproof exists to support them in that mission,” said Gilbert, Co-Founder and CEO of Fireproof Tech.

Identifying a critical market need
Gilbert recognized an urgent gap in the market—fire departments across the country were struggling with outdated, inefficient record-keeping systems. With a major industry shift from the legacy National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) to a new National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) on the horizon, fire departments needed a modern, user-friendly solution to ensure compliance and streamline operations. Seeing an opportunity to apply modern platform technology to solve this challenge, he took the leap and founded Fireproof.

Gilbert chose the Nextworld platform because he’d seen it in action. Other industry-specific software solutions had been successfully built and deployed on the platform, proving its flexibility, scalability, and speed. That track record gave him confidence that Nextworld could support the unique demands of fire departments while allowing his team to move quickly and innovate continuously.

Deploying a purpose-built solution—faster and smarter
Leveraging no-code development tools, Fireproof’s focused team rapidly built a records management solution from the ground up. Instead of spending years developing custom software through traditional coding methods, they built, tested, and launched a minimum viable product in just three months. From there, the team looked to fine-tune features specifically tailored to fire department needs—like intuitive workflows, automated reporting, and seamless data management—all while maintaining enterprise-grade security and scalability.

What began as a solution to help fire departments prepare their incident data to the emerging NERIS framework quickly became Fireproof’s Records Management System (RMS). The AI-powered RMS platform gives fire departments everything they need to step into the future of fire response: customization options, automated data entry, mobility, predictive analytics, and intuitive insights.

“Developing with a modern platform like Nextworld meant we could go from idea to implementation in months instead of years,” Gilbert said. “We didn’t have to worry about outdated code, maintenance, or integrations—we could just focus on building the best possible solution for fire departments.”

Delivering value in record time
With Nextworld, Fireproof Tech was able to:

Build, test, and iterate a fully functional records management solution in months instead of years.Reduce development costs significantly, allowing for competitive pricing.Deploy rapidly to be first to market with a NERIS-certified integration, setting them apart from the competition.Provide an intuitive, purpose-built platform that quickly attracted early adopters and gained traction in the fire safety industry.

Transforming fire department operations
Today, Fireproof is empowering fire departments to take control of their records management with a streamlined, future-ready solution. By proactively addressing the NERIS transition and leveraging the Nextworld platform for continuous innovation, Fireproof is positioned as a trusted partner in the industry.

Gilbert’s journey from CPA to software vendor and industry disruptor is a testament to the power of Nextworld’s enterprise platform and the transformative potential it holds for visionaries looking to solve real-world challenges.

Are you ready to turn your industry insights into a game-changing solution? Learn how Nextworld can help bring your vision to life.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/from-vision-to-industry-disruption-how-one-entrepreneur-built-a-game-changing-fire-department-solution-on-the-nextworld-platform-302450586.html

SOURCE Nextworld

Continue Reading

Technology

Agoda Unveils 2026 Return Visitor Ranking: Tokyo Is Asia’s Most Revisited City

Published

on

By

SINGAPORE, Sept. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled its latest Repeat Visitor Ranking, highlighting the top 10 destinations across Asia that keep travelers coming back for more. Based on bookings made during the first half of the year, Agoda reveals that Tokyo has claimed the top spot for the first time, overtaking Bangkok. Rounding out the top five are Bali—ranking third place for the first time—followed by Seoul and Osaka. Da Nang, Kuala Lumpur, Fukuoka, Taipei, and Johor Bahru complete the top 10 list.

Some destinations have a way of calling travelers back for more. The chance to discover new attractions, revisit fond favorites, or simply enjoy the familiar surroundings keeps travelers booking again and again. Agoda’s data shows that these beloved places often attract repeat visits, with some travelers returning multiple times in just the first half of the year.

Tokyo’s rise to number one reflects its unique ability to offer something new with each visit, from seasonal spectacles like cherry blossoms to hidden neighborhoods and an unmatched culinary scene. Bangkok, ranking second, continues to captivate with its unparalleled wellness experiences, world-class dining, and cultural landmarks. Bali’s climb to third place underscores the island’s magnetic appeal with its irresistible beaches, spiritual retreats, and lush landscapes that enchant travelers time and again.

This year’s ranking also reveals the rising appeal of Japan and Vietnam as increasingly popular places people love to revisit. Beyond Tokyo’s ascent to the top, Fukuoka has entered the top 10 for the first time at number eight, signaling travelers’ desire to explore beyond Japan’s traditional tourist hubs to experience Fukuoka’s renowned ramen culture and laid-back atmosphere. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s Da Nang has climbed two spots to sixth place, with its stunning beaches, proximity to UNESCO sites like Hoi An, and excellent value drawing visitors back repeatedly.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda, shared, “Asia is home to so many destinations that are worth revisiting, and what we’re seeing is that travelers are building relationships with their favorite cities. The shift with Tokyo’s rise to number one and destinations like Fukuoka and Da Nang gaining ground show that travelers are finding new reasons to return, whether it’s seasonal attractions, undiscovered neighborhoods, or simply great food. At Agoda, we’re here to make those return trips easy and rewarding.”

For travelers looking to revisit their favorite destinations or discover new ones, Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in a single booking. Visit the website at www.Agoda.com or download the mobile app for the best deals.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/agoda-unveils-2026-return-visitor-ranking-tokyo-is-asias-most-revisited-city-302887498.html

SOURCE Agoda

Continue Reading

Technology

FDIC Appoints Sunwest Bank as Nano Banc’s Acquiring Institution

Published

on

By

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sunwest Bank has acquired Nano Banc of Irvine, California in an FDIC-assisted acquisition. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) accepted receivership of Nano Banc from the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), which closed Nano Banc on Friday, September 25th. The FDIC subsequently entered into an agreement with Sunwest Bank, under which Sunwest agreed to acquire substantially all the deposits and a portion of assets of Nano Banc. The assumed deposits total approximately $605 million and assumed loans total $227 million.

Nano Banc customers will have immediate access to their deposits. Over the weekend, they can access their deposits by writing checks, using ATMs or through their debit cards. Checks drawn on Nano Banc will continue to be processed. All loan customers should continue to make their payments as usual. The former Nano Banc will reopen as Sunwest Bank on Monday, September 28th.

“We are honored to once again to be selected by the FDIC as the acquiring institution of an FDIC-assisted acquisition, marking the sixth time Sunwest Bank has completed such a transaction,” said Carson Lappetito, President and CEO of Sunwest Bank. “This opportunity reflects the financial strength, disciplined management, and stability that have defined Sunwest Bank for more than five decades. We are excited to welcome Nano Banc’s customers to Sunwest and show them the high-touch service, advanced technology and sophistication we offer to our clients.”

Customers with questions should contact the FDIC toll-free at 1-866-314-1744 or visit the FDIC Website at FDIC.GOV. This phone number will be operational this evening until 8:00 p.m., Pacific Time (PT); on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., PT; Sunday from noon to 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., PT; Monday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., PT, and thereafter, weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., PT. 

About Sunwest Bank

Founded in 1969, Sunwest Bank is a privately held commercial bank with over $5.0 billion in assets. With a growing presence throughout the United States, Sunwest is headquartered in Sandy, Utah, with offices across California, Arizona, Idaho, Colorado, Utah, and Florida. The bank partners with businesses,

individuals, and entrepreneurs nationwide to deliver leading banking services including technology forward treasury management, commercial and real estate lending products, and corporate financial solutions.

With a strong capital position and a commitment to innovation, Sunwest Bank continues to challenge traditional banking models through forward-thinking initiatives designed to support its clients’ growth and long-term success. Sunwest Bank operates with a Fortress Balance Sheet, long-term outlook, and has an impeccable track record of supporting their clients through all economic cycles.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fdic-appoints-sunwest-bank-as-nano-bancs-acquiring-institution-302890681.html

SOURCE Sunwest Bank

Continue Reading

Technology

FOTILE Showcases Next-Generation Kitchen Innovations at IDS Vancouver 2026

Published

on

By

FreshBake™ Range and JQG7515 Range Hood highlight FOTILE’s approach to cleaner, smarter and more user-centered cooking

  VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 25, 2026 /CNW/ — FOTILE is showcasing its latest kitchen appliance innovations at IDS Vancouver 2026, highlighting how new technologies can address real challenges in today’s kitchens while creating cleaner, smarter and more intuitive cooking experiences.

Now on display at Booth 906 at the Vancouver Convention Centre West, FOTILE’s IDS showcase is led by two of its latest innovations: the FreshBake™ Electric Range and the JQG7515 next-generation inclined range hood.

The FreshBake™ Range addresses an often-overlooked aspect of everyday cooking: indoor air quality. Cooking can generate smoke, odors, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and fine particulate matter. FOTILE’s FreshBake™ Technology integrates advanced PCF filtration and multi-stage purification into the appliance to help reduce cooking pollutants at the source and minimize lingering odors.

By bringing air purification closer to where cooking pollutants are generated, FreshBake introduces a new perspective on range design — expanding the role of a cooking appliance beyond food preparation to consider the overall kitchen environment and everyday well-being.

Also featured at IDS is the JQG7515, the latest evolution of FOTILE’s signature inclined range hood platform. Combining powerful smoke and grease capture with intelligent controls, the JQG7515 demonstrates how kitchen ventilation is becoming increasingly connected to the broader cooking experience.

Features including gesture control, app connectivity and appliance synchronization allow users to interact with ventilation more naturally, while helping transform the range hood from a standalone appliance into an integrated part of the smart kitchen.

Together, FreshBake and JQG7515 reflect FOTILE’s approach to innovation: identifying practical challenges in everyday cooking and applying engineering, intelligent technology and human-centered design to create meaningful improvements for users.

Throughout IDS Vancouver 2026, attendees can experience FOTILE’s latest innovations through live cooking demonstrations and product displays featuring the FreshBake™ Electric Range, JQG7515 inclined range hood, ChefCubii countertop combi oven and other kitchen solutions. The showcase highlights how FOTILE combines cooking, ventilation and intelligent technology to create a cleaner, smarter and more intuitive kitchen experience.

SOURCE FOTILE APPLIANCES CANADA LTD.

Continue Reading

Trending