Betty Ortiz
Betty Ortiz is a dedicated paramedic and community outreach leader with the Chicago Fire Department, where she combines her emergency medical expertise with a passion for public education and community engagement. Over her extensive career, Betty has progressed from an EMT and paramedic to Ambulance Commander, supervising teams, ensuring operational excellence, and providing critical emergency care to the residents of Chicago. She is committed to fostering trust, empathy, and safety in every interaction, whether responding to emergencies or supporting community programs. In her current role within the department’s Community Outreach and Recruitment Division, Betty focuses on making the fire service more representative of the communities it serves. She spearheads initiatives that emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion, connecting residents to vital resources, educating the public on fire safety, and mentoring the next generation of first responders. Her leadership is rooted in integrity, communication, and compassion, ensuring that every outreach effort is impactful and meaningful. Betty is also help to develop Camp Courage, a three-day program designed to introduce children across Chicago to firefighting and first responder careers. This program reflects her dedication to youth engagement and workforce development, giving young people hands-on experiences that inspire confidence, resilience, and curiosity. With a Master’s in Public Administration from Southern Illinois University and a Bachelor’s in Science from Saint Xavier University, Betty combines formal education with real-world expertise to strengthen both the fire service and the communities it serves.
• Southern Illinois University, Carbondale = Master of Science - MS, Public Administration
• Saint Xavier University - Bachelor's degree, Science
• Chicago Fire Department
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my work as a community paramedic and my involvement with the Chicago Fire Department, where I’ve had the privilege of helping seniors access essential resources like wheelchairs and meal services, and working with children to reignite their passion during challenging times. Through my role in the Community Outreach Recruitment and Diversity & Inclusion Department, I am proud to help bring education and awareness to youth about careers in firefighting, paramedicine, and other community-serving professions, with the goal of inspiring others to give back and serve their communities.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my recently retired chief, Deb, who paved the way for women in the fire service and consistently championed equality and diversity in the workplace. She showed me the importance of building strong community connections and fostering relationships within the industry, not only to strengthen our teams but also to educate and inspire the next generation to pursue careers in service, save lives, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
To young women entering this male-dominated field, I would say: don’t give up, and always believe in your abilities. When someone tells you that you can’t, look them in the eye and say, “Watch me!” While the industry can be challenging for women, it’s important to know that you can play a vital role and make a significant impact. By putting your best foot forward, staying passionate, and leading with compassion, you can thrive and inspire others along the way.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me most, both in my work and personal life, are integrity and compassion. In my role with the fire department and as a paramedic, I am entrusted to enter people’s homes and provide critical care, and I take that responsibility seriously—bringing honesty, respect, and empathy to every interaction. Outside of work, I channel that same dedication into my passion for Spartan racing, participating in 5K, 10K, and half marathons around the world. Through these races, I connect with a community of like-minded individuals, explore new cultures, and continue to grow both personally and professionally while embracing challenge, adventure, and teamwork.
Locations
Chicago Fire Department
Chicago, IL 60610