Co-Founder, Chair
Dr. Tom McKellips
As the visionary leader and driving force behind Global Rescue Systems, Dr. McKellips is the architect of the organization’s core initiatives, including the revolutionary Rocket Buoy, The Legacy Engine, and the Legacy Engine Manpower Spreadsheet (LEMS).
Dr. McKellips’s comprehensive background provides a unique blend of operational expertise and strategic management, reflected in his diverse degrees spanning Management, Homeland Security, Operations, Business, and Information Technology.
Highlights of Career and Innovation:
- System Development & Consulting: Dr. McKellips founded Computechnology in 1994, an early Internet service provider, and currently serves as a Managing Member of Creating Tomorrow, a risk management and organizational development consulting firm. He also provided engineering support for distance learning initiatives at Missouri State University.
- Emergency Services Leadership: His extensive history in public safety includes tenure with the Springfield Fire Department (MO) and Northwest Cass Fire Protection District. During this time, he developed critical infrastructure, including the department’s first computer information systems team, designed hazardous materials protocols, developed air pack maintenance programs, and fostered team cohesion.
- Safety Program Founding: Early in his career, Dr. McKellips served as a security officer and pioneered the first hazardous materials management and response program for John Knox Village in Lee’s Summit, MO.
Dr. McKellips continues a long history of community engagement and volunteering today, driven by a commitment to developing scalable, life-saving solutions.
Co-Founder, Vice Chair
Matthew Halaschak brings essential expertise in electronics, systems administration, and infrastructure management to the Global Rescue Systems team.
His technical foundation includes an Associate’s Degree in Electronics Engineering and an Associate’s Degree in Network Systems Administration.
Key Contributions & Experience:
- Rocket Buoy Development: Matthew was an integral part of the development team for the Rocket Buoy, contributing critical insights and technical assistance to ensure the reliability of the electronic and systematic components of the final product.
- Infrastructure Management: From 1993 through 2009, he developed extensive hands-on experience in electronics installation and maintenance, serving as a Lead Installer and 12 Volt Technician for Circuit City stores, where he later managed the infrastructure for all Arizona locations.
- Systems Installation: He previously worked as an Installation Technician at Troxell Communications, specializing in the installation of complex audio, video, and camera systems for institutional clients, including schools and correctional facilities.
- Current Role: Matthew currently maintains complex printer systems and infrastructure for Corporate Business Systems at Cox Hospital, demonstrating ongoing proficiency in critical device maintenance.
In his personal time, Matthew also applies his design acumen to the field of electronics for model railroading.
Co-Founder, Vice Chair
Cody McKellips brings a strong foundation in complex systems and technical design to Global Rescue Systems. He holds an associate’s degree in Engineering and has double major in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering.
His contributions have been instrumental in grounding the operational and strategic tools offered by the company, including:
Rocket Buoy Design: Applying his mechanical and aerospace expertise, he aided the design and testing phases for the innovative Rocket Buoy, ensuring the product meets critical performance and safety specifications.
The Legacy Engine and LEMS: Cody was responsible for aiding the rigorous development, mathematical modeling, and validation of the complex systems and analytical metrics used in The Legacy Engine and the Leadership Engine Management System (LEMS).