Beyond the physical demands common to all firefighters, what specific challenges or opportunities have you encountered as a woman in this profession, and how have you navigated them?
I love exploring the health of women firefighters. As a firefighter, I experienced the intense physical nature of the job and, of course, ill- and awkwardly-fitting PPE. I didn’t realize when I was a firefighter how much of the job impacts your health. As I began to do research, I studied injury rates and physical agility pass rates. But it’s only within the past 5-10 years that we know more about women’s health specifically. Everything from sleep to cardiovascular health to substance use to reproductive health is impacted by the job.
What aspects of being a female firefighter do you believe bring a distinct and valuable perspective to the profession and to the community you serve?
Women often bring a collaborative and holistic problem-solving style, and in high-stress situations that can be a powerful asset. Also, having a diverse department helps communities feel seen and understood – especially when responding to vulnerable populations. Being a woman in the fire service helped me connect with community members in a different, sometimes more approachable, way.
Looking back at your journey into the fire service, what advice would you give young girls or women considering a career in firefighting? What are the key lessons you’ve learned that you wish someone had told you earlier?
Trust your strength. You belong in this space – not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Don’t wait for permission to lead. Find mentors, ask questions, and know that you’ll learn a lot from failure – it’s part of the process. I wish someone had told me earlier that you don’t have to become someone else to succeed in this job. You can be tough and compassionate at the same time.
What advancements or shifts within the fire service – whether in technology, training, or culture – are most beneficial for supporting and empowering women in the field, and what still needs to change?
We’re seeing promising changes – like better-fitting PPE, mental health resources, and leadership training that reflects diverse experiences. But we still need broader cultural change. Normalizing parental leave, challenging the “one size fits all” training model, and expanding what leadership looks like are all key. Until every firefighter feels safe and respected at work, there’s more work to do.
Could you share a pivotal moment or experience in your career where you felt particularly proud or challenged, and how that moment shaped you as a firefighter and as a leader (formally or informally) within your department?
One of the most powerful moments in my career was presenting early data on women’s reproductive health in the fire service. Afterward, several women approached me in tears, saying it was the first time they felt seen – some shared stories of miscarriage they hadn’t realized could be linked to the job. That moment reminded me why I do this work: to give a voice to those in the fire service who are too often overlooked.