Nuvision Heroes: Honoring Tim Keating, Huntington Beach Firefighter of the Year

At Nuvision Credit Union, we understand the immense value that first responders bring to our communities. They risk their lives daily to ensure the safety and well-being of others, often without seeking recognition. That’s why it’s so important for us to highlight their work and honor their dedication. This month, as part of our National First Responders Day celebration, we are thrilled to recognize Tim Keating, Fire Captain with the Huntington Beach Fire Department, as Firefighter of the Year.

Tim Keating’s journey into firefighting wasn’t rooted in family tradition or a long-standing dream—it was born from a desire to work outside of the traditional office environment. From his first ride-along with the Anaheim Fire Department, Tim knew that being a firefighter was what he wanted to do. Since joining Huntington Beach Fire Department in 2019, after serving 14 years with the Costa Mesa Fire Department, Tim has proven to be an exceptional leader and mentor within his team.

Being named Firefighter of the Year is an honor for Tim, not just because of the title but because it comes from his peers. “It felt really good because it was voted on by your peers... It’s the purest form of appreciation when your peers vote for you,” Tim shared. His dedication and leadership are evident in everything he does, whether it's in his role as Fire Captain, mentoring younger firefighters, or serving as Vice President of the Huntington Beach Firefighter’s Association.

One of the most notable aspects of Tim’s career is his commitment to mentoring others. For him, it's not about being perfect—it's about helping others learn from his experiences and mistakes. “I tell them, ‘Hey, the mistakes I’ve made, I hope you can learn from them,’” he said, showing his humble approach to leadership. He also stresses the importance of mentorship in such a high-risk job, where a small misstep can have a significant impact on lives.

Tim’s leadership extends beyond his role in the department. As Vice President of the Huntington Beach Firefighter’s Association, he has spent countless hours building relationships with city leaders and advocating for positive changes. His efforts were recently recognized when he became the first firefighter to ever receive the key to the city from the former Mayor of Huntington Beach, a testament to the trust and cooperation he has fostered between the fire department and the city.

Outside of work, Tim is a devoted family man, always prioritizing his wife Ashley and their two children, Ryder and Harper. He understands the balance between the demands of his job and the importance of family, often sharing the advice with younger firefighters to "always put your family first—the job will always be there." In his free time, Tim enjoys attending his children’s sports activities, fishing, and spending time at the beach.

As we take a moment to honor Tim Keating, we are reminded of the courage, leadership, and dedication that first responders like him bring to their roles every day. Their work goes far beyond responding to emergencies—they build relationships, mentor others, and contribute to the communities they serve. We are proud to feature Tim as part of our Nuvision Heroes series and express our gratitude for the positive impact he continues to make.