Triton to Triton: Honoring Bravery, Creativity and the Power of Community

“Chris is a true hero,” Carey said. “His contribution to my town and protecting the city is so much bigger than any art piece that could be made to honor him.”

Carey drew inspiration from UC San Diego’s colors and the idea of “rising from the ashes,” creating a dynamic, layered glass design that captures movement, hope and renewal. The project was especially meaningful for Carey, a South Pasadena resident who watched the fires threaten his own neighborhood. So when the UC San Diego team reached out about designing the award for Siok, Carey immediately said yes.

“It was a no brainer for me,” Carey said. “As an alumnus and glass artist, anything I can do to expose more and new people to the beauty of glass art and help out UC San Diego in the process, I am up for it.”

As battalion chief of air operations, Siok leads helicopter coordination efforts that are critical during wildfire response. “Our job is to coordinate aircraft to tactically stop fire progression and to give ground forces intel on the fire’s movement and the communities that may be impacted,” he explained.

Siok credits his time at UC San Diego for helping shape his discipline and mindset. “One of the values that still guides me today that I learned from UC San Diego is a sense of achievement with high standards,” he said.

Balancing academics, athletics and long work hours, Siok explained, helped him build the discipline and focus that continues to guide his leadership today.

“Receiving the Triton Hero Award is humbling, and I’m extremely thankful,” he said. “I’d like to share this award as part of a greater group, whether it’s firefighters, law enforcement, teachers and educators, and the volunteers that help each and every day.”

When reflecting on UC San Diego, Siok shared that the university continues to fill him with pride, especially as he watches the campus broaden its impact nationally and globally. Being part of the alumni community, he added, remains a meaningful connection in his life.

From the front lines of wildfire to the glow of a glass studio, Siok and Carey embody the resilience and imagination that define what it means to be a Triton. Their story serves as a reminder that the UC San Diego spirit endures long after graduation. It remains bold, unbreakable and deeply rooted in community, wherever life takes our alumni.