Facilitated by Kalpana Rajgopalan, Deb Rogers, Pike Krpan & Carissa Campbell
Ever wonder what it takes to run successful camps like Camp Blaze, Camp FFIT and Island Ignite? This session will pull back the curtain on the planning, partnerships, and purpose behind these impactful programs designed to introduce women and other underrepresented groups to careers in the fire service.
Join Oakville Deputy Fire Chief and Blaze Fire Academy founder Kalpana Rajgopalan as she moderates a dynamic panel discussion featuring Deb Rogers (Island Ignite), Pike Krpan (Camp FFIT, Hamilton Fire), and Carissa Campbell (Camp FFIT, Ottawa Fire). This session will explore the impact, challenges, and future of inclusive fire service camps across Canada, showcasing programs that inspire and empower young women and underrepresented groups to pursue careers in the fire service.
From logistics and mentorship to outreach and evaluation, learn how fire service leaders are creating powerful, hands-on experiences that break down barriers and ignite interest in firefighting and leadership roles. Whether you’re looking to start a camp in your own community or strengthen an existing one, this session offers real tools, inspiring stories, and proven strategies to take back home.
This session will provide participants with a comprehensive overview of the critical planning, coordination, and community engagement efforts required to deliver high-impact camps that encourage women and underrepresented groups to consider careers in the fire service. Drawing on the success of a number of Canadian outreach programs, this session will explore the intentional design and strategic partnerships that make these programs a launchpad for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the fire service profession.