Pantex Fire Department rolls out new technician award
Each department at Pantex is connected to every other department in one way or another. Some connections may be more obvious or well-documented, but support for other organizations is a common thread at Pantex.
A case in point is the Pantex Fire Department (PXFD), which depends on the highly skilled mechanics trained and certified to maintain emergency vehicles.
The emergency vehicle technician (EVT) program is vital for PXFD. Fire department apparatuses, the cost of which range from a few hundred thousand to more than $1M, are expected to last 20 years. With their sophisticated components, these vehicles require meticulous maintenance from EVTs to ensure they remain in optimal condition.
“Before [the EVT program’s] implementation, the PXFD faced challenges in maintaining operational apparatuses,” said PXFD Chief Mike Brock. “Since its inception, the EVTs have significantly enhanced the fire department's overall operation and readiness, proving to be invaluable assets.”
The EVTs at Pantex diligently adhere to maintenance schedules and manufacturer specifications to keep these vehicles operational, and they have become an integral part of the department's daily operations. The site’s six EVTs were recently recognized at a special luncheon.
Deputy Plant Manager Kenny Steward spoke at the luncheon and expressed his appreciation for the ongoing contributions of all the EVTs.
During the luncheon, the inaugural EVT of the Year award was given as a recognition of excellent performance. The award was created to honor an exceptional mechanic and department friend, one of the original EVTs, Roy Linton, who passed in 2020.
“Roy was a hard worker, positive, kind and above all else, a man of character. He approached his work with professionalism and took immense pride in ensuring our rigs remained operational, ensuring our firefighters returned home after every response,” said Captain Josh Brown of the Pantex Fire Department. “Roy was the embodiment of reliability and integrity.”
The 2024 EVT of the Year award went to Phil Davis. He was recognized for his unwavering commitment and dedication to excellence, reflecting Roy’s exemplary qualities and the spirit of this honor.