High school girls in Goodyear are getting an opportunity to break barriers and gain confidence through a unique program hosted by their local Fire Department. The Goodyear Fire Department's Camp F.I.R.E.S., which stands for Females in Responding Emergency Services, is a one-week event designed to introduce young women to the world of firefighting and emergency response, empowering the next generation of leaders within this male-dominated field.
Held from June 17th to June 21st at Fire Station 181, the camp showcases an array of activities that push participants beyond typical adolescent experiences. These girls are climbing 100-foot ladders and engaging in team-building challenges, fostering not only a sense of adventure, but critical life skills. "We want girls attending our camp to experience something that they wouldn’t typically experience, like climbing a 100-foot ladder," Goodyear Fire Engineer Lora Davis told Goodyearaz.gov, "But we also want them to build self-confidence, learn how to work with others, and gain leadership skills that they can use as they enter adulthood".
The program is not just about scaling towering heights — it's an immersive plunge into structural firefightay. These girls tackle firefighter and emergency medical activities, all under the guidance of seasoned professionals. It's an on-the-ground education in public safety, teamwork, and the importance of a resilient work ethic, elevating young women's aspirations and skills in a supportive environment.
City leadership has expressed strong support for Camp F.I.R.E.S., with emphasis on its broader impact on community and diversity in public safety sectors. Goodyear City Manager Wynette Reed shared her belief in the program's long-term benefits for the community, "Investing in initiatives like this camp for teen girls underscores, our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive public safety sector," according to the official news release from the city's website. She added, "Empowering young women through hands-on experiences not only strengthens our community resilience but also, cultivates future leaders dedicated to serving our neighborhoods."
