About Us

Board of Directors

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  Pike Krpan

  President

  Pike Krpan is a career firefighter with the City of Hamilton since 2013. They currently serve the firefighting community as FSWO President. They have been a member of FSWO since the beginning of their career. They are the organizer of Camp FFIT (Female Firefighters in Training) Hamilton, an annual three-day camp that takes place every fall at Hamilton Fire's training facility for young women aged 16-20.
  
  Pike is a proud member of an engine crew and also works in communications/dispatch, technical rescue (high angle rope rescue) and as a driver/pump operator at Hamilton Fire. They were the recipient of a full Honeywell Scholarship to FDIC 2016. They studied Pre-Service Firefighter Education at FESTI (Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute) in 2012 and was hired within six months of their graduation.
  
  Pike brings a varied background to their career in the fire service. They completed their Masters of Arts at the Ontario Institute of Education in Sociology and Equity Studies in Education, with a focus on women's issues in education. Previously, they worked in international development education in diverse countries such as Cuba, Ecuador and Jamaica after getting their undergraduate degree in International Development and Women's Studies at Trent University.
  
  Pike is currently a mentor with FSWO's mentorship program and offers assistance to those considering a career in the fire service. They also act as a mentor promoting women in firefighting with the Women in Trades program of the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program as well as with the YWCA Hamilton. They were nominated for a YWCA Hamilton Woman of Distinction Award in 2019 for their work in education and mentoring. They love to introduce people to the challenge of firefighting.

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  Louise Hine-Schmidt

  Past President

  Louise is a Deputy Chief with Ottawa Fire Services and is one of the first of three women firefighters hired in 1999 in the City of Ottawa.

  Louise is one of the three founding members of FSWO who also helped to establish Camp FFIT(Female Firefighters In Training) which has served as a model for other fire services from across Canada. Louise is honoured to have served as the first President of FSWO from 2009-2011 and then again from 2015-2019.

  Louise is an accomplished athlete who represented Canada at the Pan Am Games in 1987 winning two silver medals in sprint kayaking. She is married to Brent for over 32 years, and they have a daughter who is an Olympian on the Canadian National sprint kayak team and a son who is an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer.

  Louise has an honours BPhEd (University of Ottawa), an Executive Diploma in Municipal Management (Western Ontario/Seneca College) and a Certification in Dispute Resolution, (York University).

  With a membership that grew from 3 to over 1000, Louise is incredibly proud of the impact FSWO has had in improving diversity and inclusivity in Canada’s fire service. Louise’s many years as a member of the Board Executive helps to provide the organization with the experience and leadership needed to contribute to the overall success of FSWO.

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  Tracey Shields

  Vice President

  Tracey was one of three women first hired in 1999 to become a firefighter in the Ottawa Fire Service. Her career which has spanned over 24 years has seen her rise through the ranks where she recently became the first woman in Ottawa’s history to be promoted to Captain in the suppression division. Tracey has also successfully demonstrated that women can have both a career and a family and is the proud mother of four healthy boys who have all been born since she became a firefighter. Tracey was able to demonstrate during her pregnancies that working modified duties was an opportunity for her and an asset to Ottawa Fire which allowed her to gain additional knowledge and experience by working in many different divisions such as Administration, Training, and Air Management.

  Tracey understands the importance and need for diversity and inclusivity and has led by example in advocating for the recruitment, retention and advancement of women in the fire service profession. Tracey’s commitment in making the fire service better for her and others has resulted in her volunteering her time as a Camp FFIT Instructor and as a FSWO member since it began including her election as a Director for the past 9 years. She is currently serving as the FSWO Vice President and has been instrumental in helping the membership grow from 25 members in 2009 to over 1000 members today. She also has oversight of the FSWO website and serves on many committees.

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  Debbie Higgins

  Treasurer

  Debbie Higgins is a Deputy Fire Chief with Toronto Fire Services, with the portfolio of Administrative and Mechanical Services. In this capacity, she is responsible for finance and budgeting processes, labour relations, quartermaster, facilities, the TFS medical office, and providing professional support for the procurement and maintenance of both apparatus and equipment. Debbie previously held the portfolios of Fire Prevention and Public Education, and more recently Professional Development and Training, including Special Operations (HUSAR and CBRNE). Prior to her promotion to Deputy in 2010, Debbie spent eleven years as an Executive Officer for Toronto Fire, working in the Office of the Fire Chief. She also previously worked with the City of Mississauga as a Business Planner, where her work included various strategic projects for the Community Services department, including fire. Before joining the municipal sector, Debbie spent five years working as a consultant undertaking social planning studies, including feasibility studies, master plans, emergency response plans, marketing plans and organizational reviews.

  ​Debbie has a degree in Applied Geography from Ryerson University, and a certificate in Business from McMaster University. She is currently an Associate Director with the World Police and Fire Games Federation, and previously served three terms on the Board of Directors of the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs.

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  Kristy-Lynn Pankhurst

  Secretary

  As a dedicated Community Outreach and Professional Development Officer, Kristy-Lynn Pankhurst combines a passion for strategic communications with a commitment to advancing fire & life safety education and firefighter training in the Township of Scugog.

  Kristy-Lynn holds an undergraduate degree in Communication and Digital Media Studies from Ontario Tech University, where she developed a keen understanding of the power of communication in fostering community engagement, bridging gaps and connecting diverse communities.

  Kristy-Lynn is currently pursuing her Master of Education in World Indigenous Studies at Queen’s University, where she is immersed in the exploration of educational practices that honour and uplift Indigenous perspectives, while preventing fires and other emergencies. This academic journey reflects a dedication to fostering inclusive educational environments that respect and integrate diverse perspectives.

  In her role as a Community Outreach and Professional Development Officer, Kristy-Lynn brings a unique blend of academic insight and practical experience. She has successfully initiated and executed outreach programs that strengthen ties between Scugog Fire & Emergency Services and the residents of the Township of Scugog, and she is an advocate for accessible learning opportunities for Scugog’s Firefighters.

  As a Director with FSWO, Kristy-Lynn brings a wealth of experience in strategic communications, social media management, and educational outreach. As the Chair of the Communications Committee, Kristy-Lynn has helped FSWO leverage the power of digital platforms, played a crucial role in enhancing the organization's online presence, fostering engagement, and expanding its reach. Beyond her responsibilities in communications, Kristy-Lynn has been a catalyst for growth through the delivery of various workshops and training opportunities at FSWO’s annual training Symposium.

  As a mother to a young daughter, Kristy-Lynn remains dedicated to advancing FSWO’s mission to encourage, educate and empower women in the fire service, while fostering a culture of collaboration and camaraderie, and championing the importance of effective communication in driving positive change.

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  Susan Jones

  Executive Director

  As the Executive Director of a woman’s advocacy organization for women in fire, Susan Jones brings a wealth of experience from her illustrious career. Retired from the City of Ottawa, Susan served as the former Acting Deputy City Manager of City Operations, where she oversaw various city departments. With 37 years in municipal government, Susan's roles included General Manager of Emergency and Protective Services for the City of Ottawa, where she managed Fire, Paramedic, Corporate Security, Emergency Management, and By-law operations.

  Throughout her career, Susan has championed women in leadership, notably in male-dominated professions. She played a pivotal role in launching initiatives like Fire Service Women Ontario (FSWO) and Camp FFIT (Female Fire Fighters in Training), and served on the FSWO board of directors and as an International Trustee with the International Association of Women in Fire and Emergency Services (iWomen). Susan holds a BA in Criminology from Carleton University and is a Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor, having completed a post-graduate program in Addiction Studies at McMaster University. Married with three sons and a proud grandmother, Susan is deeply committed to FSWO, where she received the President’s Trailblazer Award in 2016 for her groundbreaking work and innovative leadership in advocating for women in the first responder field. Excited to continue her journey with FSWO, Susan is honored to serve as their Executive Director.

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  Mary Hindle

  Director

  Mary is a firefighter for the City of Hamilton and was the 3rd female hired in 2002. Mary has been involved with Medical Training over the years as well as being trained as a Fill in Dispatcher for 7 years. Mary strives to be a mentor to new firefighters and a resource for all. She encourages new firefighters to be inclusive and confident through her mentoring. She became involved with the Camp FFIT program in her city at inception and enjoys being involved every year. As more women have been hired over the years, Mary saw a need for an Emergency Period Pack Initiative and has distributed period products to every full time station foranyone to use. Mary continues to look for ways to connect and support the growing number of women in the fire service. She hopes her role on the FSWO Board will enable her to do just that; And to the even wider group of FSWO members. Joining the FSWO many years ago was extremely meaningful to Mary’s career as a firefighter. Sharing her experiences with her home community and family have been a valuable part of her life. Giving back to her community, work and FSWO continue to be important areas of Mary’s life.

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  Cheryl Hunt

  Director

  Cheryl has been with FSWO since it began and was the education chair of the very successful symposium held in Ottawa in 2019. Cheryl began her career with the Ottawa Fire Service in 2003 and is now an Acting Lieutenant and Safety Officer in suppression.

  Cheryl is a Water Rescue Technician, certified in swift water rescue, ice rescue and boat-based rescue. For the past 6 years Cheryl has been learning the finer skills of enclosure fire dynamics and has become one of the elite lead instructors for the “From Knowledge To Practice” Fire Dynamics program, based in Ottawa, ON. This program is founded on science and modern fire attack tactics and aims to bring a standard language to firefighting across Canada.

  As an active and dedicated member of FSWO, Cheryl understands first-hand the need to be a strong advocate for mental health and helping those who may be diagnosed with PTSD or have been exposed to other discriminatory situations that negatively impact their ability to function. Cheryl is certified as a Mental Health First Aid instructor by the Mental Health Commission of Canada and is trained in Suicide Prevention. Cheryl serves as an active member of the OFS Peer Support Team and is highly regarded for her leadership in promoting a safe work environment including the ongoing need to breakdown the stigma associated with mental health in the fire service

  
  

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  Helen Klumpp

  Director

  Helen is a seasoned professional with a 30+ year career in municipal government, serving in various finance and administrative leadership roles. She held the position of Executive Officer in the Chief’s office at the Hamilton Fire Department from 2019 and acted as Deputy Chief, Operational Support in 2021.

  As a Chartered Professional Accountant/Certified Management Accountant (CPA/CMA), Helen brought exemplary financial management services to large departments, including provincially and federally regulated programs. Her expertise extends beyond finance, encompassing strategic leadership in areas such as workforce planning, recruitment, communications, business planning, data analytics, and information technology projects.

  Helen's commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) initiatives fueled her passion for advocating change, particularly addressing gender-based discrimination. She is currently serving as Treasurer and Board Member for Legal Education and Action Fund National (LEAF), whose purpose is contributing to gender equality through litigation, law reform, and public education. Helen also serves as an Instructor with the Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO) and CPA Ontario Student Recruitment Team volunteer.

  In her retirement, Helen remains an active member supporting Fire Service Women Ontario (FSWO), where her diverse skill set will make a meaningful impact. Her dedication extends to the various roles she is involved with, reinforcing her commitment to making a positive difference.

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  Kate Jamieson

  Director

  My name is Kate Jamieson. I am a firefighter in the Royal Canadian Airforce (RCAF). I have been a member of the RCAF and firefighting community since 2014. I currently posted to 3e Bagotville in Saguenay, Quebec. Before this posting I worked at 14 Wing Greenwood, Nova Scotia. I work as a Deputy Platoon Chief providing crash rescue/structural firefighting to the RCAF. Prior to joining the military, I attended Memorial University for a year of general studies, before switching to college and completing diplomas in Journalism and Public Relations. I worked as a Communications Coordinator with the Nova Scotia Nurses’ Union in before joining the military. I have also been a fitness instructor since 2009.

  I am a lover of learning and have taken many courses to enhance my capabilities as a firefighter. In addition to my fire education from the military, I have taken certifications as a Fire Instructor, Fire Inspector, Fire Investigator and Fire and Life Safety Educator.

  In 2023 I organized a trade-wide professional development tasking for women in the RCAF to attend the FSWO Training Symposium. I gained funding approval from the Professional Conduct and Culture department, as well as the Canadian Forces Fire Marshal’s office, who financially supported every female-identifying member to attend. This was a monumental success for women in fire, as we are highly under-represented in the military trade. Our trade has now built this professional development opportunity into yearly budgeting for the next five years. I am very proud of the advancements we have made in the RCAF firefighting community for women.

  My spouse is also a firefighter in the Air Force. In our spare time we enjoy spending time with family, outdoor activities and keeping active. I am also a yoga teacher and serve as a Director on the Board of Directors for the English language speaking community of the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region.

  I look forward to helping unite the firefighting community nation-wide and advancing the mission and values of FSWO!

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  Teagan Knowles

  Director

  Teagan began her career in emergency services in 2017 as a Communicator with the Brantford Police Service. In 2019 she decided it was time for a change and she joined the fire family as a Communicator with the Brantford Fire Department. Since then Teagan has stepped into the role of Fire Safety Educator (FSE) and has held the position since 2021. Although she enjoyed her time serving her community as a 9-1-1- operator Teagan values being able to take a proactive approach to protecting her community by teaching about fire and life safety in her role as FSE. Teagan holds an undergraduate degree in Sociology from the University of Guelph and loves applying sociological concepts in her pursuit of Community Risk Reduction. She is currently pursuing further education in leadership. She is proud to also be serving as a Director on the board of the Ontario Association of Fire Educators (OAFE). Outside of her fire service career Teagan has a passion for food and beverage. She enjoys spending her time cooking, trying new restaurants and working part-time at a casual fine dining restaurant.

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  Sofie Lasiuk

  Director

  "Sofie Lasiuk is an Acting Platoon Chief in the Operations Division of Toronto Fire Services. She began her fire service career with the Etobicoke Fire Dept. in 1990. Sofie is a veteran of the Royal Canadian Navy, having served as a ship's diver. She is a graduate of Dalhousie University's Fire Service Administration and Leadership programs, with a specialty in Strategic Planning.
  Sofie is dedicated to improving Diversity and Inclusivity within the fire service. She is the co-chair of Toronto Fire's Positive Space Committee where, as part of a team, she provides support and mentorship to the fire services' 2SLGBTQ+ members. Sofie has served on many panels and committees, applying her experience and education to a variety of topics, including apparatus design, operational deployment reviews and recruitment of staff who reflect the diversity and multiculturalism of Canada. She has assisted with developing a new fire station design that incorporates the high level of privacy and accomodation needed to support a modern, resilient fire service. She is actively involved in the training of new Company Officers, helping to instill qualities of leadership that remain focussed on providing service excellence to the public.
  Off-duty, Sofie is a keen world traveller and amateur historian. She lives in Toronto, with her wife of more than 30 years."

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  Jaclyn Stelmaszyk

  Director

  Jaclyn is a graduate of the Fire & Emergency Services and Training Institute who was recently hired as a probationary Firefighter with the City of Oshawa. She spent many years as a National Rowing Team athlete for Canada and Poland and went on to win the World Championship in 2012 and the Pan American Games in 2019.
  Outside of the Fire Service, Jaclyn provides clinical nutritional care as a Registered Dietitian to the long-term care population. Jaclyn is always striving to make a valuable contribution to her community while balancing motherhood, actively volunteering and continually learning.
  She is looking forward to starting her new career as a firefighter!

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  Laura Ellis

  Student Director

  Laura Ellis is a graduate of the Ontario Fire Academy. She currently works as a certified Emergency Medical Responder within the television and film industry and for McMaster University’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neuroscience. For over 10 years, Laura has worked within the field of Health Sciences primarily as a Standardized Patient Trainer for Simulation Based Learning and with various medical examining boards across Canada.
  She actively volunteers in the field of Emergency services and within the local arts community. The heart of her work has focused on breaking barriers, giving platforms to communities that have historically been ignored, and making education and programming accessible. Laura co-founded “Women’s Work”; (a female-focused writing program) and the “Hamilton LOFT (Ladies of Film and Television)”; organizations which strive to achieve gender parity within the arts and improve the culture of the industry as a whole.

  Laura has been involved in many organizations/initiatives including volunteering as Vice President on the Hamilton Fringe Board of Directors, and writing government grants to help acquire funds for vulnerable populations including local Indigenous communities.
  

  Laura believes that in order to make real change, it is essential to empower and encourage women to achieve their full potential. This can only be done within a supportive and trusting environment which promotes growth. With that in mind, she knows that her skills and experience will position her to make valuable contributions to the FSWO.
  

Committees