Robert "Zeke" Ziel Honored for 2019 LBE Award for Initiative and Innovation

Robert "Zeke" Ziel

State Fire Management Officer

BLM - State of Nevada
Honored for Initiative and Innovation

Zeke Ziel has been selected as one of the recipients for the 2019 Paul Gleason Lead by Example award. Three individuals from across the wildland fire service have been chosen to receive this national award.


The award was created by the NWCG Leadership Committee to remember Paul Gleason’s contributions to the wildland fire service. During a career spanning five decades, Paul was a dedicated student of fire, a teacher of fire, and a leader of firefighters. The intent of this award is to recognize individuals or groups who exhibit this same spirit and who exemplify the wildland fire leadership values and principles. Zeke's work in support of the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program has been a demonstration of initiative and innovation.

Zeke is being recognized for his efforts to advance the interagency effort to develop better fire behavior modeling, analysis, and decision support. As a mentor, educator, and leader, Zeke has enabled practitioners from various backgrounds within the wildland fire community to more fully understand and successfully bridge the gaps between American and Canadian fire danger rating systems. His dedicated efforts have resulted in a wide array of innovative tools for making more informed decisions.

 Additionally, Zeke was recognized for curating a collaborative leadership environment between science and practice. His passion for building the team by bringing people together who may not otherwise interact is commendable. 

Congratulations, Zeke, on a job well done!