Female firefighters comprise approximately 9% of the firefighting workforce, facing unique challenges and opportunities for the women serving their communities. Hear from firefighters from all ranks, and learn about the insights, standards and policies helping create a more inclusive space for women.
Using this word tells every woman who serves in this beloved profession that she doesn’t belong – and signals to young girls that they shouldn’t join
FEATURES & PROFILES
A detailed look at what we know about female firefighters’ on-the-job experiences and health impacts
The U.S. fire administrator reflects on the personal challenges she faced as a woman making her way up the fire service career ladder
Biennial event offers a network of support, education and training to empower women and elevate the fire service
Five recommendations to address the evolving needs of our newest workforce
The IAFC’s comprehensive guide to hosting a fire camp is a blueprint for recruiting more women into the fire service
IN THE NEWS
The Modesto Fire Department and Modesto Junior College are holding their first Women’s Empowerment Camp introducing young women to the fire service
Kansas City officials approved a record settlement of lawsuits alleging discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, age and abuse
A Lexington lieutenant has been suspended and directed to take additional training after a disciplinary hearing
Arson Investigator Afara Lalaind’s complaint alleges a hostile work environment and lost opportunity for advancement
Brownsville’s Lieutenant Amanda Ely makes history with her promotion
FDNY
Probationary Firefighter Jessica Chiodo’s father Peter Chiodo was on the job for 25 years and died of a 9/11-related illness
FDNY
Laura Kavanagh says she plans to help with the transition in leadership
The lawsuit alleges women were barred from becoming paramedics by unnecessary physical tests
The former Bedford firefighter alleges the harassment created a fear of “physical violence and/or sabotage”
The inaugural “Girls in Green” camp in Pine Valley introduced teen girls to various professions in the U.S. Forest Service
ON THE BETTER EVERY SHIFT PODCAST
The Anne Arundel County fire chief underscores the importance of transparency and trust when stepping into a new leadership role
The San Francisco assistant chief shares tactical tips for dominating the fire so it has no chance of victory
As she steps down from the top spot in Baltimore County, Rund takes on a new, family-focused role with the NFFF
The Fairfax County (Virginia) firefighter-paramedic talks crew bonding, firefighter reproductive health, and banishing ego to create space for vulnerable conversations
The former CAL FIRE chief of fire protection shares stories from her unique path from seasonal firefighter to fire chief and beyond
It’s important to connect with your fellow firefighters, get involved in training, and avoid silos
The battalion chief explains how so much of her decision-making is rooted in the 2008 Salisbury Millworks blaze
The Indianapolis battalion chief highlights the power of company officers to quash negativity
The Raleigh firefighter and peer support advocate explains her perspective on healthy boundaries, therapy and why connection is life-sustaining
The fire service scientist details her newest adventure, the Science Alliance, plus how to make data accessible at the station level