Richard Kesler is a research engineer with UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI). His research has focused on biomechanics, health and physical performance, in particular in regard to examining the physiological demands of firefighting activity and the effect of firefighting on firefighters and their equipment. Prior to joining FSRI in 2022, Kesler served as the deputy director of research programs at the Illinois Fire Service Institute. He is a member of the Savoy, IL, Fire Department, where he has served at ranks up to assistant chief. Kesler holds a Ph.D. in kinesiology and Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees in bioengineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.