With International Inuit Day coming up, Inuit success and achievement is in the air.
At the Rankin Inlet Fire Department (RIFD), Chief Mark Wyatt announced two big promotions that see homegrown firefighters take on larger roles in the community.
Capt. George Aksadjuak moves into the department’s first career deputy fire chief position.
Aksadjuak started with the department in 2009 at age 18. His father, Michael, served with the department for 35 years before retiring in 2017.
“Over the last few years George has played key roles as a fire officer, duty officer, medic and fire instructor, and has excelled on every level,” stated Wyatt in a post acknowledging the promotions.
“His dedication and passion for RIFD is unwavering and very much appreciated.”
Aksadjuak will play key roles in department operations and training.
And with one captain moving up, a new captain emerges.
Lt. Brittany Aggark has been promoted to captain with the department. She began as a volunteer summer student five years ago and has since grown from a nervous recruit to a strong and confident leader.
“She has pushed herself to learn and grow as a firefighter and medic,” stated Wyatt. “She successfully completed firefighter level 1 and 2, excelled in the fire service instructor course, and this spring earned her EMR (emergency medical responder) certification.”
She also has done work in schools and is a full-time bylaw officer.
“I am beyond proud of Brittany’s accomplishments,” stated Wyatt. “She is developing into a confident instructor and a true leader.”