FDNY Training Future Female Firefighters

April 1, 2022
In its continuing effort to diversify the ranks of FDNY, the department is young women who hope to join the force in the future.

With 134 female firefighters, the FDNY currently has the most female firefighters it's ever had, but that is still only 1 percent of the 11,000-member department.

FDNY Acting Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh told CBS2's Jenna DeAngelis"We've tripled the number of women on the job since I got here. We're very proud of that. They're really boundary breakers in two ways. They're much more racially diverse as well, so they're breaking two glass ceilings by being here, so there are some pretty tough, inspiring ladies." 

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Kavanagh is also breaking boundaries as the first female at the helm.

"It's truly an honor. It's almost unbelievable at times, but I really hope it inspires others to think it's possible," she said.

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