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Local women promoted to Acting Captain with local Fire Rescue

March 24, 2022   ·   0 Comments

On March 7, New Tecumseth Fire Rescue (NTFR) promoted 13 people to the position of Acting Captain – including Station 1 Alliston firefighter Terrina Williams, and Station 3 Tottenham firefighter Tena Hargreaves.

As paid Acting Captains, Williams and Hargreaves will be responsible for the safety of fellow firefighters while on call, attending the scene of an accident or fire.

The Times asked these firefighters to tell us more about themselves – this week, Terrina Williams:

How long have you been working in Fire and what is your educational and professional background in relation to this?

I was hired in 2013 with New Tecumseth Fire Rescue Station 1 Alliston. I found out about three months after that I was the first female hired for Station 1. I was trained in the recruitment program and one of my assets is that I had daytime availability because I drove a school bus at the time. I also had an upgraded licence; I have experience driving large vehicles and have had over 10 years previously in health and safety.

Why did you get this promotion, what does it mean to you personally, and what new responsibilities will you have?

I applied for the position to further my career within the department. All applicants had three stages: written test, practical test, and interview. Along with the criteria requirements, there was an overall scoring from each stage. So, once I made it through all, I am very proud of myself for being successful and able to attain this position. The most important part to me is paving the path for any ladies that follow. All Acting Captains have a Captain we ‘shadow’ and assist with for committees and training.

How many people answer to you now, and what have they said of your promotion?

No one will “answer” to me per se, the crews will be led by me when I’m the most senior person of that specific call and It will be my responsibility to direct tasks and keep the crews safe during said emergency. I have three years from now to complete more education, training, and then complete another exam before the next promotion of Captain. When I received my promotion, I was personally texted and messaged and I know who supports me. My daughter was very proud and excited for me as she’s been there for me from day one, that really meant a lot.

What drew you into this field? What do you like best about it, and what are the drawbacks?

I was very interested in being a firefighter as a goal I set for myself to prove that I could do the job. One part I like about my role is that on someone’s worst day we can make it a bit easier, hopefully. One drawback is that most people don’t know that in our municipality volunteer firefighters don’t stay at the hall; the firefighters are at home with family or other jobs

How have you used your role in the NTFD to better the community/yourself?

I have used my position with hopes in showing young women that women can choose this career. I have done camps to mentor young ladies, talk to girl guides and attend public events to be seen and heard. The more often young women see woman firefighters the more they will know they too can grow up to be a firefighter. As for bettering myself, I have fulfilled my bucket list and have been very blessed; some people never get to reach their goals.

What would you tell people who are looking to start a career in FF?

I would tell anyone who wants to be in the fire service that it’s not about being the biggest or strongest, it’s about how adaptable you can be, willing to do any task and have a heart to help people within your community. Everyone can have a place in the fire service.

What are your professional goals going forward?

My goal is to work hard to serve my community with integrity, and honour in any role the fire service allows me to progress too.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Outside of work I try to spend time with my family, although COVID–19 made it difficult the last two years. I was able to go on vacation to Cuba with just my youngest prior to Christmas this year and it was much needed. The sun and beach always calls my name. I love being near the water, fishing, and attending mass at my church.

By Wendy Gabrek

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