award winners
President's Award 2025
Fireman Larry Public Fire Educator of the Year 2025
Fire Inspector of the Year Award 2025
Mike Evans dedicated over 40 years to serving Walled Lake, Novi, and the Brighton Area Fire Authority, driving positive change in operations and culture. As an MFIS leader, he helped realign the Society as a 501(c)(3) and modernize its systems. Known for his mentorship and trademark phrase, “trust but verify,” Mike has left a lasting impact on both the fire service and MFIS.
Fire Inspector of the Year Award 2025
Fireman Larry Public Fire Educator of the Year 2025
Fire Inspector of the Year Award 2025
Tyler Whitehead stepped into a fire inspector role in 2022 that had been vacant for over 20 years, rebuilding Jackson’s prevention program from the ground up. In just one year, he completed more than 300 inspections, launched IROL reporting to drive 75% compliance, and created a fair, efficient plan review system. Known for his energy and
Tyler Whitehead stepped into a fire inspector role in 2022 that had been vacant for over 20 years, rebuilding Jackson’s prevention program from the ground up. In just one year, he completed more than 300 inspections, launched IROL reporting to drive 75% compliance, and created a fair, efficient plan review system. Known for his energy and innovation, Tyler has made a lasting impact on fire safety in his community.
Fireman Larry Public Fire Educator of the Year 2025
Fireman Larry Public Fire Educator of the Year 2025
Fireman Larry Public Fire Educator of the Year 2025
Fire Marshal Kevin DeGroot, known to the community as “Firefighter Kevin,” is celebrated for his passion for education and dedication to fire safety. He created an engaging fire safety curriculum for elementary students, reaching hundreds of children each year through classroom visits and community events. With his approachable style, Kev
Fire Marshal Kevin DeGroot, known to the community as “Firefighter Kevin,” is celebrated for his passion for education and dedication to fire safety. He created an engaging fire safety curriculum for elementary students, reaching hundreds of children each year through classroom visits and community events. With his approachable style, Kevin has earned the trust of parents, teachers, and students alike, making safety both memorable and impactful.