Girls Empowerment Camp ignites passion in fire service careers among young women

The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District held its second annual Girls Empowerment Camp (GEC) on Saturday, Sept. 30 and Sunday, Oct. 1. The event took place at the Richard Sewell Training Center near San Bernardino International Airport. The camp sought to introduce young women to careers in the fire service industry. With support from the Women’s Fire Alliance, the camp offered insights into the diverse roles within the fire service.

The Girls Empowerment Camp offers attendees a realistic, hands-on overview of firefighting. The program also aims to empower participants with life skills and professional guidance that encourages them to pursue a career in public safety. The event featured hands-on training stations for the participants to gain familiarity and experience with fire service functions. The activity stations included: Ropes and knots, CPR/first aid, ladder climb, confidence course and hose handling.

Program participants said they enjoyed their time and acquired important knowledge and skills. One participant described the experience as “tough, but worth it.” Another participant said the experience was “so much fun and worth coming.”

On the final night, participants graduated from the program. They were celebrated by their families and received praise from San Bernardino County Fire Chief Dan Munsey and Assistant Chief Kelley Anderson.

Thanks in part to the Women’s Fire Alliance, the event was a resounding success. Participants experienced an unforgettable journey into the world of the fire service. The event ignited a passion for careers they never knew existed and left them with newfound knowledge, skills and friendships.

Additional County Update News – October 13, 2023