To: Board of Directors
From: Lewis Broschard, Chief, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District
Report Title: 2024 Firefighter of the Year
☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee
RECOMMENDATIONS:
ADOPT a Resolution recognizing Fire Engineer Theresa Watkins as the 2024 Firefighter of the Year, as recommended by the Fire Chief.
FISCAL IMPACT:
BACKGROUND:
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
The Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County, California
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IN THE MATTER OF In the matter of recognizing Fire Engineer Theresa Watkins as the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District 2024 Firefighter of the Year;
WHEREAS, Fire Engineer Theresa Watkins’ actions, attitudes, and behaviors uphold our core values and demonstrate a high level of commitment to the Fire District, its members, and the communities we serve; and
WHEREAS, Fire Engineer Theresa Watkins has been selected by her peers as the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District 2024 Firefighter of the Year and
WHEREAS, Fire Engineer Theresa Watkins began her fire service career as a Firefighter-EMT with the Rodeo-Hercules Fire District on July 1, 2014, progressing rapidly through the ranks and
WHEREAS, Fire Engineer Theresa Watkins has served with distinction as a Fire Engineer-Paramedic with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District since her hiring on March 28, 2022, and was promoted to Fire Engineer-Paramedic on June 6, 2024; and
WHEREAS, Fire Engineer Theresa Watkins has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication, including her role as a coach for girls' basketball, a firefighting instructor at California State University Maritime Academy, and an active recruiter for women and minorities in the fire service; and
WHEREAS, Fire Engineer Theresa Watkins commitment to mentorship, education, and community involvement reflects her unwavering dedication to the fire service and the development of future firefighters; and
WHEREAS, Fire Engineer Theresa Watkins has a defining moment in her career was her leadership during a critical call, where her quick thinking and medical expertise led to the successful resuscitation of a patient in cardiac arrest, showcasing her exceptional ability to perform under pressure; and
WHEREAS, Fire Engineer Theresa Watkins resilience and determination, especially in overcoming challenges in her youth, serve as an inspiration to her peers and the community; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: that the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Board of Directors recognizes, congratulates, and thanks the 2024 Firefighter of the Year, Theresa Watkins.