Kamloops Fire Rescue is proud to recognize the outstanding dedication, professionalism, and commitment of its members through its peer-nominated awards program. Developed last year, the program honours individuals who exemplify the organization’s core values of safety, service, public trust, and teamwork while also demonstrating initiative and going above and beyond the call of duty.
The 2025 awards program saw an impressive group of nominees across four categories:
- Fire Officer of the Year: Mike Silva, Dean Austinson, Will Harlock, and Chris Pretula
- Firefighter of the Year: Travis Wilkie, John MacIver, Mark Schroeder, and Jesse Keylock.
- Non-Suppression Member of the Year: Heather Newport, Jenna Stouse, Josh Cowen, Corey Butler, and Lee Johnston
- Outstanding Kamloops Fire Rescue Member: Corey Butler, Mike Silva, and Marilynn St. Jean.
“We want to congratulate all members who were nominated,” said Ken Uzeloc, Fire Chief. “You should be very proud of your work. Your efforts have been recognized by your peers and the Command Team, and we thank you for your dedication and commitment to Kamloops Fire Rescue and the citizens of Kamloops.”
Following the nomination process, the 2025 award recipients were announced as:
- Fire Officer of the Year: Captain Will Harlock
- Firefighter of the Year: Firefighter Mark Schroeder
- Non-Suppression Member of the Year: Lead Mechanic Lee Johnston
- Outstanding Kamloops Fire Rescue Member of the Year: Training Officer Corey Butler
A presentation ceremony was held to honour the recipients. Each award winner received a keepsake, and their names were engraved on a plaque for their respective award category, permanently displayed at the Kamloops Fire Rescue Training Centre.
Kamloops Fire Rescue extends its sincere appreciation to all nominees, the award recipients, and everyone who took the time to nominate their peers. The program continues to highlight the exceptional people who make Kamloops Fire Rescue a trusted and valued service within the community.
