WAVE Announces New CEO Chris Barton

I am honored to introduce myself as the new Chief Executive Officer of WAVE Drowning Detection Systems. My name is Chris Barton, and while my professional background is rooted in technology, telecommunications, and real-time service delivery, my journey to this position is deeply personal. Twenty years ago, I lost my young daughter to drowning—a tragedy that forever shaped my life and my mission. Since then, I have been driven by one unwavering goal: to end preventable drowning for families everywhere.

When I first met Mark Caron, a WAVE cofounder, in 2022, I was struck by the extraordinary potential of WAVE’s digital safety solutions. WAVE’s products are the only widely deployed, commercially proven digital anti-drowning systems in the United States. From the outset, I recognized the profound impact these technologies could have in saving lives and supporting aquatic safety professionals. After initially joining as an investor and Board member, I accepted the role of President & COO, leading daily operations and working closely with our team to advance our vision. The dedication I witnessed only deepened my commitment. I am now humbled to accept the position of CEO, following a unanimous Board nomination, and I approach this responsibility with a true sense of purpose.

My entrepreneurial experience in building high-availability, mission-critical technology services for business clients aligns perfectly with WAVE’s values of quality, reliability, and innovation. As CEO, I am committed to the following priorities:

• Manufacturing the highest-quality safety solutions—products you can trust with lives.
• Expanding our distribution, both domestically and internationally, through strong partnerships.

• Scaling the WAVE GUARDian platform into a comprehensive, real-time incident alert and management system for aquatic environments.

We will continue to listen to you—our partners and customers—so that WAVE’s solutions remain not only technologically advanced, but practical, effective, and trusted in real-world settings. I will be reaching out to each of you to discuss how we can make the WAVE experience better for you, your guards, and swimmers.

Thank you for your partnership, for your own commitment to water safety, and for placing your trust in WAVE. I welcome the opportunity to work closely with you all, and together, move toward a future where every drowning is preventable.

With respect and determination,

Chris Barton

Chief Executive Officer

WAVE Drowning Detection Systems