LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Lubbock Fire Rescue is hoping to grow its department and connection within the community.
The department launched its “Ember to Inferno Program” earlier this month, designed for women who might consider becoming a firefighter.
“We’ve seen an uptick in the amount of females who have expressed interest in joining fire,” Captain Brandi Speiser said. “We came up with this program to see if there are more women who might not have considered this opportunity or profession.”
Speiser says Lubbock Fire Rescue only has eight female firefighters so far, which is on the low end compared to the national average.
She says the women they do have, though, bring work ethic, grit, and resilience to work. That’s the kind of attitude this program is hoping to foster.
“We want you to work out, we want you to challenge yourself and have a good time, and build camaraderie and teamwork,” Speiser said.
The three-hour class consists of a workout, a fire-related challenge or activity, and an information session with a Q&A.
“We want to present to you some of the things we do on the job and the skills you’ll need to learn if you decide to pursue a career with the fire department,” Speiser said.
The class isn’t a shortcut for hiring, though. It’s a chance to kindle an ember of existing interest and provide a network with other women who are also interested in LFR.
“I think building a community and a network amongst ourselves is so important, especially with the environment and the mental health that we have to deal with as first responders,” Speiser said. “Having other women to lean on is just incredible.”
The next class is scheduled for April 4. It is open to any woman between the ages of 18 and 33. You can register here: docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe4dCx1ku2RYR_dbzJ6ZjeqBC2ZiMQrZlsu3etz_EuZ8b2f2Q/viewform
Registration closes March 27.
Other classes will also take place May 2, June 6, July 11, and August 1.
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