Gina DeVito-Staub shares her journey in the fire service, starting as a part-time volunteer in 1994 and eventually becoming a full-time firefighter and fire inspector. While working as an athletic trainer, the fire department recruited her despite her initial lack of interest in firefighting.

Gina turned down a medical career to pursue her passion for the fire service. She emphasizes the importance of being kind to everyone and building relationships within the department. Gina also highlights the benefits of working in fire prevention and her challenges as a female firefighter. Gina emphasizes the value of learning by doing and seeking opportunities for growth and mentorship. She reflects on the importance of gaining experience and knowledge from others in the fire service and the impact of company officers on the department.

Gina also highlights the benefits of the Explorer program in recruiting and retaining future firefighters. Gina DeVito-Staub shares her experience as a shift commander and the challenges she faced in managing different-sized departments. She emphasizes the importance of caring for the community and utilizing resources to get the job done.

Gina also discusses the impact of organizational culture on mental health and the need for open conversations and support. She highlights the valuable lessons she learned from the Executive Fire Officer (EFO) program, including the realization that the department's size doesn't determine the challenges faced.

Gina also talks about her role as a part-time fire chief in Woodmere and the process of building a new department. She emphasizes the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the fire service and the importance of mutual respect. Gina shares her biggest professional accomplishments: mentoring and seeing her students succeed. She also discusses her future goals, including promoting diversity in the fire service.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor

11:02 Choosing the Fire Service over a Medical Career

35:48 The Value of Networking and Managing People

46:34 The Impact of Company Officers

59:30 The Benefits of the Explorer Program

01:35:04 Navigating Challenges as a Shift Commander