There are more women entering the career of firefighting, thanks in part to a specialized camp that takes place annually in the Greater Vancouver area.
Camp Ignite is a three day, two night, female firefighting mentorship camp for girls who entering or just graduated from Grade 12.
This year the camp runs from Aug. 7-9 with activities taking place with the Burnaby Fire Department on Friday, Aug. 7, the Vancouver Fire Rescue Services on Saturday, Aug. 8, and then at the Justice Institute of British Columbia in Maple Ridge on Sunday, Aug. 9.
Maple Ridge Fire and Rescue is sponsoring two young women in the program: Sienna Tobley, 17, and Danika Michelsen, 18.
On Friday, July 17, both girls were at Firehall 1 trying on gear they will wear at the camp.
Michelsen said she is excited to learn about firefighting.
“I want to be a part of Camp Ignite because I just love how courageous firefighters are and all the hard work and service they do for our community,” she noted.
Tobley said she is excited for this experience.
”I’ve always kind of been interested in firefighting and all the work firefighters do,” most notably saving lives and putting out fires, said Tobley.
Firefighter Madison Kukura, who has been with the Maple Ridge fire department for the past two years, said women in the fire service is increasing because of mentorship programs like Camp Ignite.
Kukura has been involved with Camp Ignite for the past four years.
“It’s great to help empower women to try new things,” she said.
“I think women can offer a lot of different skills and diversity in the work force,” added Kukura.
Fire chief Dave Samson said he was grateful that the Maple Ridge department could sponsor two young women again this year.
He said the program will expose them to amazing female leaders in the fire service.
Pitt Meadows Fire and Rescue are also sponsoring a candidate.
Taya Cullen, 17, just graduated from Pitt Meadows Secondary.
Cullen was already a dedicated and conscientious Youth Academy student, who brought positive energy to the group, said deputy fire chief Ben Wilson.
“She was quick learner and asked thoughtful questions. She showed a genuine interest in the various topics covered in the program,” said Wilson of Cullen, who will be fitted for her gear on July 30.
Cullen has a bright future ahead of her no matter what career she chooses, said Wilson.
“But, hopefully it’s fire.”
For more information on Camp Ignite go to: https://campignite.com.