Coeur d’Alene Fire Battalion Chief Jeff Canfield, a 13-year veteran of the department, has been named 2014 Employee of the Year for the fire department.

Canfield began his career with the city as a firefighter in January 2002. He was promoted to lieutenant (a title that later was amended to captain) in April 2005 and to battalion chief in January 2014.

In his nomination form, Coeur d’Alene Fire Engineer Jeff Fletcher said Canfield exemplifies the qualities of a true leader. “The team always knows that Jeff is there to help us be successful and he gets his reward through the accomplishments of the team,” Fletcher said.

Chief Kenny Gabriel said Canfield has earned great respect from his colleagues. “He’s a true professional who is passionate about his job, leads by example and is a strong advocate for his colleagues,” Chief Gabriel said.

Canfield received the honors during a recent fire department awards ceremony. Other recognition was given to firefighter Josh Hoston, who was named IAFF Local 710 member of the year and firefighters Keith Benz and Josh Sutherland, who received awards of commendation. A special award was given to police department volunteer Bud Arce for all his work for the Kootenai County Fire and Police Foundation.