By Haylee Winger
Sturgeon County Fire Chief Chad Moore is being recognized among the country’s fire service
leaders after receiving a national award for his work in the community.
Moore was named the 2026 Career/Composite Fire Chief of the Year by the Canadian
Association of Fire Chiefs and Fire Underwriters Survey.
He is the first Sturgeon County fire chief to receive the national honour.
Moore accepted the award during Fire-Rescue Canada, the annual national fire service
conference held in Vancouver, B.C., from September 20 to 23.
The award recognizes fire chiefs who go beyond the expected responsibilities of their role and
make meaningful contributions to public safety. Nominations are submitted from across Canada
and reviewed by an independent panel of judges.
For Sturgeon County Mayor Alanna Hnatiw, seeing Moore receive the award was a proud
moment for the community.
“This is a tremendous and well-deserved honour for Chief Moore, and a proud moment for our
entire County,” said Hnatiw. “Our fire service is built on a deep commitment to protecting our
residents and supporting one another when it matters most. To see Chief Moore recognized
nationally is a reflection not only of his exceptional leadership, but also of the dedication,
professionalism and care demonstrated every day by our entire fire service.”
Sturgeon County Chief Administrative Officer Travis Peter said Moore has continued to look for
ways to strengthen emergency and protective services while preparing the County for future
challenges.
“Chief Moore is a leader who cares deeply about our community, our partners, and the team he
leads,” said Peter. “He is always looking for ways to strengthen our emergency and protective
services and to prepare us for risks and opportunities into the future. This national recognition
reflects his leadership and the outstanding success it has realized.”
Moore was quick to turn the attention back to the firefighters and staff he works alongside.
“I’m truly honoured to receive this award, but no fire chief earns recognition like this alone,”
said Moore. “I’m proud of what our team has accomplished together and grateful for the support
of Council, administration, and our residents.”
“This recognition belongs to our entire team, and it motivates us to keep learning, growing and
providing the best service we can,” he added.
The Career/Composite Fire Chief of the Year is one of two annual fire chief awards presented by
the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs and Fire Underwriters Survey. The other recognizes a
chief from a volunteer department.
Nominations for the awards come from across the country and are considered by an independent
judging panel.
For Sturgeon County, Moore’s award marks a first for the municipality and puts a national
spotlight on the work being done by its fire service and the people who serve local communities.