Meet our Members: Spencer Kovats
This week on "Meet our Members", we interview Firefighter Spencer Kovats.
Was there a specific event or reason for you to be interested in becoming a firefighter?
One of my first jobs out of high school was as a lifeguard and swim instructor. After completing first aid training I seemed to find myself driving by many different incidents and happened to be the first person to call 911. I enjoyed helping people when they needed it and was always amazed when the first responders showed up to the scene and took over. It inspired me to pursue a career in firefighting. After volunteering for a short time on Salt Spring Island, I decided to go to firefighting school in Alberta. Unfortunately, I never accomplished my dream of becoming a full time firefighter. Instead, I followed my other dream of becoming a photographer, which lead me into my career in the film industry in the camera department.
Tell us a bit about your family
My wife Allison and I have been together for almost 20 years. We are extremely fortunate to have 2 healthy and happy children (4 and 2 years old). We recently decided to take a leap of faith and move to Vancouver Island from the lower mainland to raise our kids here and eventually retire one day. We also have a 6 year old Chocolate lab named Scout. We chose Comox to call home and can’t wait to be involved in the community. We are excited to explore the area and find out why everyone loves it here so much!
What is your regular “Day Job?
I work as a remote head technician on feature films, television shows and commercials. My job is to stabilize the camera using a remote head and rig it to various platforms including cranes, cars, boats, a camera dolly, or anything that moves.
Tell us about your passion in life.
I love photography. I’ve always been passionate about creating images. I went to school for photography and had a brief career. I managed to accomplish a few goals including winning some photography awards and even getting one of my photos turned into a Canada Post commemorative stamp.
Tell us about the most amazing thing you have experienced so far in life.
I’ve been very lucky to experience many different incredible things in my life. What tops the list is holding both of my children after they were born. They are two years apart and are true miracles. Becoming a father was a very special moment for me.
Do you have any fire service goals?
I would like to pursue my dream and become a full time firefighter. It would be amazing to complete this goal that I set so many years ago! I could also see myself being an instructor because I really enjoy training people. Another goal I strive to take on is competing in the firefighter combat challenge.
“Welcome to our team Spencer and to Comox.” says Comox Fire Rescue Chief, Gord Schreiner. “We look forward to working and training with you as you continue your fire service career.”