In a profession where courage, resilience, and community service are the hallmarks, Engineer Glenn Pavlovsky stands out as a paragon. He has been named Firefighter of the Year for 2023, an honor that shines a spotlight not only on his dedication but also on his love for the community. This prestigious accolade is not just a feather in his cap; it speaks volumes about the kind of firefighter and person he is.

Captain Derek Peters is not the stereotypical lifeguard that you might have seen on TV shows like "Baywatch." Born into an "ocean-centric" family, he developed a passion for the ocean from an early age. He was a competitive surfer throughout high school and continued after graduation. His upbringing instilled in him the values of community, mentorship, and responsibility towards the ocean and its beachgoers.

Katelyn Sanders is an Alaska-based firefighter EMT who embodies the grit, dedication, and altruism that characterize first responders. Having spent only 2 1/2 years in Alaska and in her role as a firefighter, Katelyn brings an eclectic background to her work, including a degree in early childhood education and experience in child and family services.

Originally born in England to an Air Force family, Kristine Whitford moved around a bit before settling in Alaska. Although she briefly lived in California, Alaska became home. Working as a dispatcher for the Anchorage Fire Department for the last ten years, her journey into this career path was a familial affair—encouraged by her sister, who is also a dispatcher. Before joining the fire department, she worked in retail management but was driven by the desire for a more meaningful career that would allow her more time with her daughter.