Built on Values. Grown Through Opportunity. Powered by People.

This year marks a major milestone for Century Fire Protection — 25 years of growth, impact, and people-first service. But for those who know the story behind the success, it’s never just been about fire systems. It’s about opportunity, relationships, and the values that have shaped every step of the journey.

Founded by Scott Tutterow in 2000, Century Fire began with a single truck, no company name, and a lot of grit — along with a strong belief in doing what’s right and building relationships that last. Today, it’s one of the Southeast’s leading full-service fire protection contractors, with 40 offices across 13 states and over 2,000 employees offering sprinkler, alarm, extinguisher, and special hazard solutions.

So what’s driven the success? Ask anyone inside the company, and they’ll point to one thing: Century’s core values — and the people who live them every day.

A Legacy of Opportunity

Scott’s own story reflects the path Century Fire has worked to create for others. He started in the field as a pipefitter at age 18 without a college degree, armed with a strong work ethic and determination. The skilled trade he embraced not only sustained him during economic downturns but allowed him to build a thriving business — one built on trust, respect, and relationships.

“This industry offers a unique path,” Scott reflects. “The increasing regulations in fire protection create ongoing opportunities, and the skills we develop are invaluable. Century’s position as a full-service provider across multiple markets enhances these opportunities for every employee.”

That mindset has shaped a workplace where people are empowered, trained, and supported. Whether it’s answering a late-night call, training a new tech, or making things right for a client, Century’s people embrace a people-to-people approach that prioritizes relationships, taking ownership, and doing the right thing — always.

Values That Built the Business

From day one, Century Fire has been grounded in seven core values:

• Take Ownership
• Be Responsive
• Do the Right Thing
• Value Relationships, Not Transactions
• Be Safe
• Never Settle
• Grow and Learn

These aren’t just words on paper. They’re reflected in how Century Fire employees lead, serve, train, and show up for one another — and in how the company builds long-term relationships with clients, partners, and team members alike.

This year, Century was also officially recognized as a Great Place to Work®, a certification based on direct employee feedback. The recognition reinforces what so many at Century Fire already know: the company’s values aren’t just stated — they’re lived, every day.
Century has also grown by welcoming like-minded companies into its family. Through strategic acquisitions, Century has expanded its reach — offering support and resources while honoring each partner’s identity and strengths.

A Year of Celebration and Purpose

To celebrate the 25th anniversary, Century Fire is marking the year with a series of special events and initiatives:

• A Braves Game Takeover: More than 350 salespeople, managers, superintendents, and leaders gathered in Atlanta for a night of fun and recognition during this year’s Annual Sales & Management Meeting.
• Local Celebrations Across All Offices, recognizing the teams who’ve made Century Fire what it is.
• 25 Acts of Kindness, a company-wide Social Purpose campaign encouraging offices to give back to their communities in meaningful ways.

And behind it all is a spirit of generosity that traces back to Scott’s mission trip to orphanages — a trip that inspired the launch of Century Fire’s Annual Charity Clay Shoot, which has raised over $1.2 million to support orphans and foster children.

Looking Ahead

At this year’s Sales & Management Meeting, company leaders were asked to share one word to describe the future of Century Fire. The word repeated most?

Opportunity.

The road ahead is full of it — for employees to grow their careers, for teams to expand their impact, and for the company to keep raising the bar across the fire protection industry. With a strong foundation, trusted relationships, and a clear mission, Century Fire Protection is ready for what’s next.

Special thanks to Century Fire Marketing Manager Kati Bucciero for submitting this article to us.