On May 2, Women Explore Fire Day in Minnesota brought together hundreds of women to learn and experience what it takes to be a firefighter. The statewide initiative introduced more women to careers and volunteer opportunities available in the fire service.
Informational sessions and hands-on activities were in full swing at 13 host sites across different regions in Minnesota – the biggest turnout and reach ever for this event!
“The growth has been incredible. What started as a single, localized effort has evolved into a coordinated statewide initiative,” said Jen Elleraas, founder of Women Explore Fire Day in Minnesota and MnFIRE board member. “We’ve expanded not only in the number of locations, but also in the quality and consistency of the experience.”
Event highlights
Each site planned and localized their unique event, with female firefighters and department members leading educational activities and providing mentorship.
For example, several fire departments convened at the East Metro Training Facility in Maplewood, including St. Paul, Stillwater, Oakdale, New Brighton, Cottage Grove, Rosemount, Roseville, Woodbury, Lake Elmo and others, to make the Region 1 event engaging and successful.
About 50 participants moved between activities that highlighted skills needed in the fire service, including climbing aerial ladders, operating extrication tools, advancing a charged hose line, donning and doffing turnout gear and more.
One participant who is in EMT training and recently applied for a firefighter position at a metro department said, “Before this, I was really nervous to do it, but now I feel much more confident in myself and being able to accomplish this.”
Another participant from Lino Lakes said, “It was interesting to learn how the departments are set up so differently. Firefighters wear a lot of different hats, apparently.”
Growing awareness of opportunities
The overarching goal of the day was to inspire and empower women to explore fire service opportunities, walk away with a better understanding of what is required to be involved and increase confidence in their ability to pursue a role in a department.
The timing couldn’t have been better for this awareness event as fire departments across Minnesota and the country, especially in rural communities, are facing unprecedented staffing and recruiting challenges. Reaching new groups is necessary for the fire service. Only 9% of firefighters nationwide are women, making this an important and underutilized group who can strengthen and diversify the future of the industry.
Opening doors for women
Movement is building with initiatives like Women Explore Fire Day in Minnesota. According to Elleraas: “There’s a noticeable shift in awareness and willingness to have conversations about inclusion and recruitment. Events like ours are helping break down barriers and misconceptions. There is a place for more women in this field.”
Susanne Guimont, a captain and human resources manager for the West Metro Fire-Rescue District said, “Even in 2026, we are still seeing ‘firsts’ for women in the fire service – first female battalion chiefs, fire chiefs, and in many departments, women who are still the first or only female firefighter. That tells us two things: progress is happening, and there is still room for more.”
Guimont helped lead the Region 7 event at the Isanti Fairgrounds in Cambridge, noting, “This career isn’t just about physical ability – it’s about passion, resilience and a commitment to something bigger than yourself. You have to be willing to push your limits, stay open to learning, and both ask for and accept help.
She says women bring different perspectives, problem-solving skills and communication strengths that are critical in high-pressure environments. Success in this field isn’t about fitting a mold – it’s about showing up, adapting and finding ways to overcome every obstacle.
MnFIRE was pleased to be a partner and champion of Women Explore Fire Day in Minnesota, and supports the health and well-being of all firefighters across the state. We’re proud to act as a resource for all new fire service recruits so they can lead stronger, healthier firefighting careers for years to come.
For more information about MnFIRE training sessions and other physical and mental health resources, check out the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program.
