The landscape of firefighting is evolving, and women are at the forefront of this transformation in the Corpus Christi Fire Department (CCFD). With more than two dozen women serving, these trailblazers are inspiring change, breaking stereotypes, and making their mark in a field historically dominated by men.
Leading the Way: Marissa Barrera’s Inspiring Journey
A CCFD Engineer, Marissa Barrera has been saving lives for eight years. As the first and only firefighter in her family, she is a role model for her daughter and young women everywhere. Reflecting on her experiences, Barrera shares, “It’s just me and four other guys around, and I’m like, ‘I got this, guys.'”
Barrera’s journey is one of resilience and determination. From delivering a baby during an emergency call to proving her capabilities in physically demanding situations, she demonstrates that women bring unique strengths to firefighting. “Having that woman’s perspective has come in handy a few times,” she says. Barrera’s nurturing spirit and medical expertise have made a significant difference, showcasing how diverse perspectives enhance the fire service.
Women in Numbers: Growing Representation in CCFD
Only 4% of professional firefighters in Texas are women, but that number is steadily increasing. At CCFD, women comprise a small yet impactful portion of the 467-strong firefighting force. Among them, another CCFD Engineer, Jess Johnston, sees the growth firsthand. “I came from Wildland Fires, where the number of women is even lower. It’s great to be part of this community here,” Johnston explains.
Despite these strides, leadership roles for women remain rare. Captain Brittany Fowler is one of the few who are breaking barriers in management. After serving in the military, Fowler took a leap of faith into firefighting, encouraged by her grandmother. Now, she’s the only female captain in the department, alongside a single female battalion chief. Her story underscores the growing opportunities for women in leadership positions within CCFD.
Breaking Stereotypes: A New Era in Firefighting
The outdated notion that firefighting is solely a “man’s job” is fading. Adriana Salas, a CCFD Firefighting Engineer, recalls, “From a guy’s perspective, they see you as, ‘Oh, you’re a woman.’ Back in the day, this was all about men. Honestly, don’t give up. If this is your dream, continue to do it.”
With 11 Firefighter I Paramedics, three Firefighter II Engineers, and 10 Firefighter II Paramedics, women at CCFD are proving their mettle daily. Additionally, three trainee cadets in the academy highlight the department’s commitment to fostering more female talent.
Opportunities for Aspiring Firefighters
As CCFD continues to hire, the department hopes to see more women join its ranks. Applications are open until January 10, 2025, to anyone with the passion and determination to serve their community.
Women at CCFD are changing the perception of firefighting and shaping its future. Their stories inspire us to challenge stereotypes and embrace diversity in every field.