Meet Tiffany, Fire Service Graduate

In high school I visited the Madison College fire station. Before that it was ‘what am I going to do with my life?’ And after that it was, ‘hey, hello, you want to do this!’

My instructors have been awesome. For example, Chuck Hemsel tells stories of his experiences in the field that really help you visualize how things are. It helped me understand that every situation is different. There’s more interaction with the instructors here. They just seem to care more.

A lot of women still don't believe they can be firefighters. I think they see the physical aspects and nothing else. It takes a strong support system, but just don't let anyone tell you that you can't do it.

Volunteer, get the basics down, see if you like it. Experienced firefighters have a lot to teach you if you are willing to listen. Remember, you're the one running into the building when it's burning. For me, I like to help so that's what works for me.

—Tiffany