Chris Landano is a patented inventor, entrepreneur, retired FDNY firefighter, and advocate for independent inventors. Born and raised in Queens, New York, his career has spanned public safety, forensic photography, product development, and inventor education, with each chapter building upon the skills and experiences gained throughout a lifetime of service.

Early Life

Born and raised in Queens, New York, Chris Landano developed an interest in community involvement at an early age. Beginning at age 12, he volunteered at a local senior citizen center and later at the YMCA, where he gained valuable experience working with people from diverse backgrounds. His first job at the Catalpa YMCA introduced him to leadership responsibilities and reinforced his interest in serving the community.

Those early experiences laid the foundation for a career that would eventually span emergency medical services, law enforcement support, firefighting, forensic photography, and entrepreneurship.

Entering Public Service

In the late 1990s, Chris joined the New York City Police Department as an Auxiliary Police Officer, volunteering alongside regular officers to support public safety initiatives throughout the city.

Shortly afterward, he pursued Emergency Medical Services training and became an EMT, responding to emergency calls across New York City. The experience provided a firsthand look at the challenges and responsibilities of emergency response while strengthening his commitment to public service.

In 2000, Chris joined the New York City Fire Department as an EMT and forensic photographer. Over the course of his career, he was promoted to firefighter and went on to serve the city for more than two decades, including during the events of September 11, 2001.

Combining Emergency Response and Photography

Alongside his emergency service work, Chris developed a strong interest in photography and studied the craft at Queensborough Community College. His technical knowledge and field experience led to a specialized role as a forensic photographer for the FDNY.

In this position, he documented fire scenes, rescue operations, and investigative evidence, bringing together his training as both a first responder and photographer. The role often placed him in complex and hazardous environments where attention to detail and adaptability were critical.

The Inspiration Behind TrakBelt360™

The idea for TrakBelt360™ was born during a rescue operation that Chris would never forget.

While working as a photographer for the FDNY's Forensics Unit, Chris responded to a building collapse with reports of people trapped inside. Drawing on his experience as both a first responder and photographer, he was able to enter the collapse zone and document firefighters conducting search and rescue operations in the unstable structure.

After capturing the necessary photographs, Chris decided to begin exiting the area, recognizing that the collapse zone remained an active and dangerous environment.

As he attempted to squeeze through a narrow opening, his photography belt became caught on debris. Suddenly unable to move freely, he found himself trapped inside the hazardous area. Realizing the urgency of the situation, Chris quickly released his belt to free himself and escape.

Although the decision allowed him to get out safely, it came at a cost. His photography belt was dragged through dirt and debris, contaminating his equipment and damaging the gear stored in his tool pouches.

The experience revealed a problem that many photographers and field professionals face: carrying essential equipment in a way that provides quick access while remaining secure, organized, and safe in demanding environments.

It was in that moment—trapped inside a collapsed building with his equipment snagged on debris—that the idea for TrakBelt360™ was born. What began as a near-disaster became the inspiration for a patented solution designed to help professionals work more efficiently while reducing the risks associated with carrying critical gear in the field.