About Us

Setting the Standard for Fire Protection Excellence

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Adding Value for Our Clients

However, our company is not content to rest on our laurels. Instead, we continuously innovate, improve, and customize products and services to be of higher value to clients. We continually raise the bar and set the standards for our industry. Over the years, we have designed, installed, and serviced countless projects ranging from small properties to high-rise skyscrapers.


All of us at Central Fire Protection believe in hard work and perseverance. It has proven to be a valuable key to our success. However, our expertise goes beyond designing and installing fire sprinklers; it stretches into working alongside architects and engineers in the early stages of the development process, giving value-added engineering options.

Setting the Standard for Fire Protection Excellence

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Adding Value for Our Clients

At Central Fire Protection, we do not rest on past accomplishments. We are dedicated to continuous innovation, consistently enhancing our processes, and refining our products and services to deliver superior value to our clients. By maintaining this commitment, we strive to elevate industry standards and set a benchmark for excellence. Over the years, we have successfully designed, installed, and serviced a diverse portfolio of projects, ranging from small-scale properties to complex high-rise developments.

Our organization is founded upon principles of diligence and perseverance, which have been integral to our sustained success. Our capabilities extend beyond the design and installation of fire sprinkler systems. We engage collaboratively with architects and engineers during the early stages of project development, offering value-added engineering solutions that contribute to efficient design, optimized performance, and successful project execution.

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This company is licensed and regulated by the

Texas Department of Public Safety Regulatory Services Division

#B31019701

Meet Our Team

Your Fire Protection Team

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Bud Shipman

President

Bud Shipman has served as the CEO of Central Fire Protection since 1982, guiding the company with unwavering commitment to safety, integrity, and excellence. As one of the first professionals in Texas to earn the RME-G license, he helped set the foundation for modern fire protection standards across the state, earning respect as both a pioneer and a steadfast leader in the industry.
A proud father of four—all of whom have built their own careers in the fire protection field—Bud has turned his life’s work into a multigenerational legacy. His leadership has shaped not only a company, but a family deeply rooted in service and craftsmanship.
After more than four decades at the helm, Bud continues to embrace the American dream: building something meaningful, creating opportunity for others, and dedicating his life to protecting the communities he calls home.

Ben Shipman is a third-generation fire protection specialist who has dedicated more than two decades to Central Fire Protection. Beginning his career in 2003, Ben has grown with the company from hands-on field work to his current role as Vice President. Proud to work alongside his father, Bud Shipman, he carries forward a family legacy rooted in safety, service, and community.
Throughout his career, Ben has played a pivotal role in shaping Central Fire Protection’s growth and reputation. His leadership, deep industry knowledge, and unwavering commitment to excellence have helped establish the company as one of the most respected fire protection providers in the industry.
Driven, knowledgeable, and passionate about protecting lives and property, Ben remains dedicated to advancing the standards and values that have defined his family’s work for generations.

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Ben Shipman

Vice President
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Scott Bates

General Manager

Scott Bates has been a dedicated leader at Central Fire Protection since 2004, bringing more than two decades of industry experience to his role. As General Manager, he oversees daily operations, ensuring projects are executed efficiently, safely, and to the highest standards of quality. Known for his strong work ethic and hands-on leadership style, Scott plays a vital role in guiding his team and maintaining the company’s commitment to excellence. His long-standing dedication, operational expertise, and focus on customer satisfaction make him an integral part of Central Fire Protection’s continued success.

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Devin Kelly

Senior Estimator
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Joel Torres

Senior Project Manager
Gilbert Mendez

Gilbert Mendez

Field Superintendent
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Rodrigo Salas

Regional Project Manager
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Steven Dudley

Senior Design Manager
Hugo Alvarado

Hugo Alvarado

Regional Design Manager
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Ruben Taylor

Regional North Texas Service Manager
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Jaymeson Brown

Regional South Texas Service Manager
Austin Tyler

Austin Tyner

Alarm Project Manager
Angie Ortiz

Angie Ortiz

Executive Assistant and Insurance