Westside Story Newspaper – Online The News of The Empire – Sharing the Quest for Excellence
YUCAIPA, CA— 22 young women participated in a Girls Empowerment Camp led by Crafton Hills College (CHC) Fire Academy Cadre Captain Theresa Rivera in partnership with local community organizations. The event, held with the support of multiple fire agencies and community partners, provided attendees with hands-on experience using tools and skills associated with the fire service.
Participating departments and agencies included Calimesa Fire, Cal Fire/Yucaipa Fire, Redlands Fire, San Bernardino County Fire, AMR Redlands Division, Rialto Fire, Redline Rentals and members of the local EMS and fire cadre. Notably, female firefighters played a key role in mentoring and inspiring the students in the camp.
The camp aimed to inspire young women and instill a confident mindset. “There was this overwhelming sense of ‘I really can do this’ from the girls, which was exactly the mission of the day,” said CHC Interim Associate Dean of Public Safety and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Paramedic Program Director Amanda Ward. “That message was reinforced by the women currently working in the field who came out to show what’s possible. The participating firefighters truly excelled in demonstrating that spirit.”
During the event, participants learned valuable skills used in the fire service, such as rappelling, operating chainsaws, using nail guns, and climbing aerial ladders and they practiced search-and-rescue techniques in smoke-filled conditions. The event created an atmosphere of encouragement and self-determination, reinforcing the belief that women can thrive in the fire service.
“The energy was so wonderful,” continued Ward. “I could see a spark not only in the eyes of the attendees but also in the firefighters who came to support it. One firefighter shared how the energy and attitudes the girls came with were so impressive and how clear it was that they can be valued members of this workforce.”
As the event concluded, one participant shared a reflection on her experience. She wrote: “I started this out nervous and pretty scared, but once I realized my team was truly there to support me, as well as the other instructors/Firefighters, I felt a new confidence to push through my struggles and second thoughts and trust that with time, effort, and passion, I can achieve my goals in the fire industry. This camp changed my perspective so positively!”
Due to its overwhelming success, the Girls Empowerment Camp will become an annual event held during Women’s History Month as part of CHC’s outreach master plan.
