Her Story
About Angela
I've been a full-time firefighter EMT and office manager for 16 years in a small rural department where we wear many hats. My day involves working in the office, running medical and fire calls, teaching training, and public education. I have enough college for an associate's in general studies but no degree yet. I hold FIRE 1 and 2 certification, EMT certification, instructor coordinator certification, and am working on behavioral health coordinator with CISM classes to help frontline workers with stress, suicide, depression, and burnout.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Angela
01What do you attribute your success to?
My drive to always want to help people. Treating patients like family members and thinking about how you would want your family member to be helped on the worst day of their lives.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
While you're helping everyone else, don't forget to help yourself.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Do it. Absolutely go for it. There's nothing you can't do, and there's nothing you can't achieve. But take care of yourself, your mental health. Don't be afraid to look for help along the way.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is the stigma around first responders asking for help, despite high divorce and suicide rates. The opportunity is getting everything out in the open, talking about mental health nonstop, creating a new normal with training, access to therapists, and implementing new SOGs that include mental health.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity. Being able to follow through on what you say, being accountable, and honorable.
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