Recognizing outstanding County employees during Kern Goldies Awards

On Friday, March 27, 2026, Kern County celebrated its outstanding employees at the annual Kern Goldies Awards, honoring their dedication and exceptional commitment to public service.

Kern County Human Resources welcomed family, friends, and Kern County departments to the event held in the Board of Supervisors Chambers, celebrating the accomplishments of outstanding members of our workforce who demonstrate exceptional public service aligned with the Kern County Strategic Plan and the values of our organization and community.

The Employee Recognition Awards Program, known as the Kern Goldies, was established in 2008 by the Board of Supervisors and the Civil Service Commission. The purpose is to motivate, recognize, and reward exemplary performance that aligns with Kern County's mission-to exceed the expectations of the communities we serve, among others.

"Each employee recognized today truly embodies the skills and behaviors required to enhance the quality of life for Kern County residents and be a model of excellence in our workforce," said Tracey Eldridge, Chief Human Resources Officer.

Kern Goldies were awarded in five categories to the following employees:

Outstanding Leadership Award

Lieutenant Tanner Miller, Kern County Sheriff's Office

The Outstanding Leadership award goes to an employee who advances department initiatives, models excellent work ethics, promotes clear vision and goals, demonstrates fairness, and inspires others to achieve excellence.

Customer Service Excellence Award

Ludger Quiochoa, Kern Behavioral Health & Recovery Services

The Customer Service Excellence award recognizes an employee who provides quality service, responds promptly to requests, finds innovative solutions, and creates a positive impression through professionalism.

Workforce Excellence Award

Victoria Pritchett, Kern County Fire Department

The Workforce Excellence award honors an employee who boosts workforce quality and productivity, demonstrates initiative and creativity, and pursues high standards in their role.

Sustained Effort Award

Public Works Special Waste Team: Eric Campbell, Joe Delgadillo, Bill Bedard, Regino Sierra, Jasime Cahue, Salvador Castillo, Jose Curiel, Ivan Escabedo, Leo Garcia, Jose Ruiz, Juan Medina-Vargas, Esteban Mendez, Linda Moreno, Daniela Ramirez, Coy Townson, Jose Villatoro, Richard Whipple.

The Sustained Effort award is for individuals or teams who have met previous award criteria for at least five years.

Exceptional Teamwork Award

Kern Behavioral Health & Recovery Services Crisis Walk-In Team

Alan Roney, Ausha Pittman, Amber Kraemer, Robert Perrine, Dominique Campos, Cynthia Salas, Richard Herrera, Chiron Roberston, Francisco Urquiza, Robert Lira, Prabhleen Grewal, Tiffany Andrews, Gary Mills, Lourdes Garcia, Brooke Ruiz, Antonio Montiel, Daisy Mercado.

The Exceptional Teamwork award goes to a team that delivers outstanding service, collaborates effectively, and achieves shared goals through creative problem-solving and strong communication.

The Kern Goldies is led by a Review Committee encompassing five management and five non-management employees randomly selected to review all 59 nominations. Selections were based on how the information forms met the criteria for each award category and the significance of the impact of those nominated.

Congratulations to all the remarkable Kern Goldies awardees-your achievements inspire our entire county. Thank you to every nominee for your commitment and for helping shape a brighter future for Kern County.