FIRE CHIEF has opened nominations for the In Service Online 2011 Emergency Vehicle Technician of the Year award. The award recognized one EVT for his or her outstanding efforts to promote a high standard of excellence in quality and safety in emergency vehicles.

An emergency vehicle technician is defined as a trained and certified professional who has responsibility for specification, maintenance and/or safety of emergency response vehicles and equipment.

Selection criteria will emphasize leadership, professional development, integrity, and a commitment to the safe operation of emergency vehicles for the responders and the community. Criteria will include a nominee’s implementation of safe procedures, advanced education in the field and service above and beyond will be considered.

The 2011 Emergency Vehicle Technician of the Year award will place special emphasis on the period from mid-2006 through 2010. A nominee’s role at a major emergency incident, while relevant, will not solely be enough to place that individual into contention for the award.

Nominations for the 2011 Emergency Vehicle Technician of the Year Award are open until June 23. The award will be presented during the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ Emergency Vehicle Management Section annual workshop to be held in Atlanta, Aug. 24-25, 2011.