FIRE CHIEF magazine is calling for nominations for its annual Fire Chief of the Year Awards. Established in 1996 and sponsored by Pierce Manufacturing Inc., the awards recognize one volunteer fire chief and one career fire chief.

A volunteer fire chief is defined as one who earns his or her principal livelihood by some means other than serving as a fire chief, even if the position of chief carries some compensation. A career fire chief is defined as one who earns his or her principal livelihood as a fire chief. In each category, the status of the fire department as a whole — paid, volunteer or combination — is not considered.

Selection criteria will emphasize leadership, innovation, professional development, integrity, service to the public and contributions to the fire service as a whole.

Nominations may be submitted through eligible organizations. Organizations also are responsible for notifying their candidate and ensuring that he or she is willing to participate in the final selection process.

Nomination packets must include:

1] Official nomination form

2] Cover letter on the organization's letterhead describing in less than 1,500 words the nominee's major accomplishments and why he or she is being nominated.

3] Photo of the nominee.

4] Current résumé or CV detailing the candidate's involvement in the fire service.

5] Maximum three other documents supporting the candidate's nomination, such as award citations, newspaper articles, or letters of recommendation from appropriate elected or appointed officials.

The deadline for nominations is June 10. Finalists will be announced in the August issue and winners will be announced in the October issue.

For complete details, visit the Fire Chief of the Year Awards section.