Sandra Viola and Rob Heckman Receive Fire Department Honors
Recognized As Employee and Firefighter of 2010
On December 11, the Santa Barbara County Fire Department announced Employee of the Year and Firefighter of the Year for 2010. The announcement came at the Fire Department’s Annual Holiday Party, attended by firefighters, family and friends.
Fire Chief Michael W. Dyer announced Sandra Viola as SBC FD Employee of the Year. Sandra has been an employee for the County of Santa Barbara for 21 years, the last 7 with SBC FD. Sandra is assigned to the department’s Training Division. Sandra is responsible for tracking the department’s training records, allocating training and making sure that required training is being accomplished.
Sandra was also recognized for her roles in expanded dispatch, public education, human resources, and various department and public events. Sandra also gives her time to the community by volunteering for her children’s events and fundraising opportunities, and also volunteers at the polls on election night.
Fire Chief Michael W. Dyer announced Captain Rob Heckman as SBC FD Firefighter of the Year. Rob, a 13 year veteran of the department, is a member of the Urban Search and Rescue Team, Water Rescue Team, a Certified Truck Captain, a Certified Paramedic and has served as Union President for the past 6 years. Rob has also worked with the Training Division to help establish a promotional track for members of the department that wish to become leaders of the future.
Rob sacrifices many hours of his time for both firefighters and management in an effort help work more closely together. Rob has organized many community events that consist of BBQ’s, fundraising events for community programs, and meeting with individuals in county government and the community. Rob serves as a liaison between SBC FD management and the firefighters and is a positive and helpful mentor for the department.