Who’s behind the tools at HURST Jaws of Life®? It’s those who commit their careers to public safety and service, like Barry Hopper.

Barry started his career as a firefighter for the state of Georgia. During his service, he spent 21 days helping with search and rescue at the Louisiana/Mississippi border in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. He retired as battalion chief after serving the community for more than 20 years.

Barry devoted the next 15 years of his career to education and public safety. He worked for a private training company before joining the Georgia Public Safety Training Center, where he served as an instructor, teaching courses and conducting demonstrations in extrication, technical rescue, management and health and safety.

His experience in public service built a strong foundation for his sales role at HURST Jaws of Life. He joined the team over two years ago to assist dealers with demonstrations, manage technical data and oversee sales for the Southeast region.

“It’s easy to work at HURST because I really believe in this product,” Barry said. “I sell the greatest tool in the world.

When Barry isn’t explaining the capabilities of his favorite tool, the R 430 Ram, or “triple three,” he’s hanging out with his sons; a navy sailor and a high school student. You can also find him fishing, hunting or cheering on the University of Georgia bulldogs.

Join us in thanking Barry for all he’s done to keep his communities safe for so many years, and for joining our team at HURST where our efforts #BehindTheTools play a big part in public safety.