WEST VALLEY — Kevin Murray, CH2M HILL BWXT West Valley (CHBWV)’s Senior Emergency Management Specialist, was named the EMI SIG Contractor Member of the Year by the Emergency Management Issues Special Interest Group’s (EMI SIG) Steering Committee at its annual conference.

Murray, who works at the West Valley Demonstration Project, received this award for his outstanding service, steadfast dedication and meaningful contributions to emergency management across the Department of Energy complex.

“Your commitment to excellence in a demanding and high-risk environment has not gone unnoticed,” Ivy Oldberging-Hidalgo, EMI SIG Steering Committee Chair, said of Murray. “As a team of one, you have carried the weighty responsibility for emergency preparedness at your site.”

Julie Brown, DOE-WVDP Emergency Management Specialist III, said it was her honor to nominate Murray for this award.

“His dedication and professionalism make him an easy choice,” she said. “He is well deserving and we all at the DOE are so pleased his efforts are being recognized.”

As the senior emergency planning specialist at West Valley, Murray has the responsibility to plan, execute and oversee everything from monthly training drills and emergency relocation exercises to complex annual Integrated Exercises.

Beyond logistics, he also trains the workforce and Emergency Response Organization, coordinates with off-site responders, and ensures that critical procedures are current and effective.

“I am humbled and honored to have received this recognition,” said Murray. “I enjoy what I’m doing, so it never feels like work. I know that what I do matters and will have a positive impact on my coworkers and the community in the future. We can’t predict the future, but we can certainly be well-prepared for whatever comes our way.”

Recently, Murray had a major role in implementing an upgraded handheld radio system at the site as a proactive step in preparing the site for any potential emergency events in the future. He also volunteers with the local ski patrol, rescue teams and the West Valley Volunteer Hose Company.

“This is a proud moment for the CHBWV Team,” said CHBWV President Jason Casper. “I congratulate Kevin on his well-deserved award and recognition from EMI SIG. The site, its workforce, and the community are safer because of Kevin’s work here, and we are all better prepared in the event the day comes an emergency response is needed. For that, we are thankful for Keven’s contributions.”