CO Chief Receives Technology Innovation Award

Dec. 20—Platteville Gilcrest Fire Protection District Fire Chief Dan Durkee received a national Government Technology Special District "Technology Innovation Award" for his leadership.

"The Special Districts Awards Program is designed to recognize innovation and leadership within special district agencies across the country," according to a Platteville Gilcrest fire news release.

The leadership award recognizes Durkee's guidance for the fire district, which led to the implementation of numerous efforts that have helped the department grow into a world-class organization.

Durkee's leadership was awarded for the implementation of the following four components, according to the release:

1. "The Creed" — The implementation of a District Membership "Creed" holds employees accountable to 19 personal pledges. The code was developed as a tool for support methods including evaluating employees, career development plans, goal-setting and coaching over chastising strategies.

2. Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus masks — Durkee's decision to purchase the latest Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus masks for his district is another aspect of his recognition. The masks, along with air bottles, have built-in Bluetooth for enhanced communications while firefighters are operating in dangerous conditions. The masks include other beneficial safety and operational components.

3. Vector Solutions training platform — The new training platform called Vector Solutions was deployed by the Training Division of Platteville Gilcrest fire. The platform tracks certifications and training hours for fire and Emergency Medical Services employees. Furthermore, the training accesses a nationwide training video bank, which allows personnel to build and distribute training activities.

4. "Fully Involved at PGFPD" video — The fire district launched a "Fully Involved at PGFPD" video. Due to the pandemic, fire officials have been unable to allow as many visitors in for tours. The video is an opportunity to bring community members inside for a closer look at what the stations include and what staff does.

"We are very honored to have received this prestigious award," Durkee said in the release. "At PGFPD, we strive to provide the best service possible to the residents of the community. I am very proud of our members and their continued effort to find better, more efficient, ways to deliver emergency services. Thank you very much to the committee for this incredible recognition of our efforts."

For more information on the Government Technology Award, go to www.govtech.com.

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