Pyroneers Explosives International Limited (PXI) has been making its name as one of the major players in Jamaica’s developing pyrotechnics industry.
Pyrotechnics, colloquially known as “fireworks”, is the process and art of using chemicals to create special effects using light, heat, smoke, and sounds for the primary purpose of entertainment. PXI, founded by Managing Director Rahje Shields, was birthed by Shields’ desire to continue the phenomenal 50-year legacy of his late father, Neville Shields, an explosive expert, known as the face behind Fireworks and Explosives Effects Limited (FEXEL).
PXI provides pyrotechnical display services for a wide range of popular Jamaican events including the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) Fireworks Festival and the ISSA/Grace Kennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Championships (Champs). The company also provides its services to hotelier groups on the island including Round Hill Hotel and Villas, Princess Hotels and Sandals Resorts International, as well as entertainment festivals such as Dream Weekend and Best Weekend Ever.
Rahje Shields has spent close to two decades in the industry. He first apprenticed under his father in his teenage years, before furthering his training in the United States. Shields has twice been selected as the local pyrotechnic expert employed for international feature films filmed locally including the most recent James Bond film, No Time To Die and the Bob Marley biopic, Bob Marley: One Love.
The young master blaster says what sets PXI apart from competition is the strength of its team and the company’s insistence on creating relationships by following its mantra, “We R-QIC”, aiming to embody reliability, quality, integrity, and creativity.
He added that the company also has a public role to help to educate its clients on the often encountered misinformation about the industry. Shields stated, “New customers are often not aware of the safety considerations and considerations when selecting a site for a show.
“Long before the fireworks displays are ready for your enjoyment, there are many tasks ahead that need to be completed in an orderly fashion. First, the launch site needs to be assessed for feasibility and safety reasons. Second, adequate time must be allowed to obtain the relevant permits, to shoot the fireworks. Finally, and most importantly, one must possess a licence to procure and handle pyrotechnic explosives which follows the stringent guidelines under the Gunpowder and Explosives Act and the Town and Community Act,” Shields said.
He clarified, “Within PXI we meticulously certify that every step is taken to ensure the safety of our clients and quality assurance of our products.”
Shields further added that, “Fireworks are explosives and can be dangerous in the wrong hands. It is a privilege to be granted a license to import and possess them and permits to use it for intended purposes. Pyrotechnicians have a responsibility to the public and staff to ensure that every step is taken to ensure maximum safety in use and design.”
With the holiday season upon us, PXI has taken great care and passion in its approach to curating its shows.
“In this business, it’s important to understand that the heart of our service is to help people create and celebrate their memorable moments,” Shields said, adding “Let us celebrate you.”