Our Story
Why We’re Here
Fresnel Group was founded by Caitlin Brainard and Faustine Sonon — a husband-and-wife team who spent years building operational expertise at organizations like PwC and Chick-fil-A Corporate before deciding to build something of their own.
After years of helping large organizations solve complex operational problems, we wanted to apply that same discipline to a business we could own, operate, and grow ourselves — a business where the work actually matters to the community around us.
We are focused specifically on the fire protection and life safety sector in Northeast Florida. This isn’t a thesis we built around financial returns — it’s a sector we believe in. Essential, recurring, recession-resilient, and deeply rooted in community trust.
We are not a private equity firm. We are not building a roll-up to sell. We intend to own and operate this business indefinitely — investing in the team, the systems, and the people who make it run.
The Name
A Fresnel lens focuses scattered light into a single, powerful beam. We founded Fresnel Group on the principle of clarity through focus — one sector, one geography, one community, done well.
Why Fire & Life Safety
Non-discretionary, code-mandated, recurring-revenue services that protect people. This sector rewards operational excellence and community trust — both of which we’re built to provide.
Why Northeast Florida
One of the fastest-growing metros in the country, with a strong business community and the kind of environment where a family business can put down real roots.
