The Coombs Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department has made Theresa Benoit its new full-time deputy fire chief of training and prevention.
Benoit, a member of the department for a decade now, has been serving as acting deputy fire chief since February. She has been involved in fire prevention and training in the last five years and appreciates the acknowledgement of her work and dedication to the profession.
“I feel very honoured to have this opportunity and I’ve certainly got some big boots to fill.” said Benoit. “The leadership and mentors that helped support me throughout my time in the fire department set shining examples of what it means to be a team player, leader and positive role model not only within the fire service but the community as well. I plan to take what I’ve learned from them and continue to make a positive difference within my new role.”
Benoit is the first female to be appointed full-time deputy fire chief at the CHVFD. She hopes it will inspire other women to pursue a career in firefighting.
“I hope by gaining this position I can help to set a strong example of female leadership and diversity within the fire service and show females of all ages that there is without a doubt a place for women in firefighting,” said Benoit. “The fire service has slowly changed over the years and I’m proud to be part of the history of change to make firefighting a more inclusive environment overall than it may have been traditionally.”
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Benoit entered the profession after being exposed to the work of some of her family members, who were involved in fire and emergency services. She considered it rewarding and exciting.
“I would see them run out the door day and night when the pager went off and always admired it,” Benoit said. “Watching how much they enjoyed it really encouraged me to join myself to see if it would be a good fit. I quickly I fell in love with firefighting and a few years later decided I would like to take it as a career path. Handing in my application was the right decision and it’s been a very fulfilling journey.” Her main objective was to help the community and be a part of team.
“My mindset has never been set on moving up the ranks or eventually becoming a deputy chief, but I’m very fortunate that I’ve been given the opportunity to work in leadership roles within CHVFD over the last few years and I’m very excited to advance into this position so I can serve my community in this new capacity.”
Benoit plans to encourage more women to join the fire department, which is always looking for new recruits.
“Traditionally a lot of women think that size or gender play a big role in the success of firefighters which is not the case,” Benoit said. “The fire service has grown to be more diverse and inclusive because everyone has a role to play. Being a shorter female myself, I originally had concerns over my physical ability to perform on the job but throughout my basic training learned that there are many ways to get a job done and adapt to make it work. As long as you are physically fit and willing to do the job, there is always a way.”
Anyone wishing to join the Coombs Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department can get more information by emailing them at chvfd@rdn.bc.ca.
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