Trailblazers in the Fire Service: Leading the Way for Women

This powerful panel celebrates the remarkable journeys of some of Canada’s leading women fire chiefs—trailblazers who have forged new paths and helped redefine leadership in the fire service. Through candid conversation and storytelling, panelists will reflect on their personal experiences, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the successes that have shaped their careers.

Moderated by FSWO President Lydia Wilcox, the discussion will explore themes of leadership, resilience, and mentorship, while addressing the unique barriers women face in rising through the ranks. Designed to empower the next generation of leaders, this session offers invaluable insight and practical advice for those aspiring to make an impact in the fire service and beyond.

Whether you're a new recruit or a seasoned professional, this conversation promises to leave you informed, inspired, and ready to lead with purpose.

Keri Martens is the Fire Chief for the Town of Banff, bringing more than 30 years of experience in emergency services, leadership, and community safety. She began her career as a volunteer firefighter in Lake Louise in the early 1990s and went on to serve as Fire Chief there for 18 years, before moving into senior leadership roles in both Canmore and Banff. Known for her calm leadership and operational expertise, Chief Martens has responded to over 1,000 emergency calls throughout her career and has twice deployed with Canada Task Force 2 to support national wildfire and disaster response operations. She currently serves on the board of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs and is an active member of its Climate Emergency Committee. A founding member of the Women Fire Chiefs and Company Officers Network of Canada, she is a passionate advocate for inclusive leadership, equity in the fire service, and mentoring the next generation of emergency responders.

Deputy Chief Louise Hine-Schmidt has been a pioneering leader in Ottawa Fire Services since 1999, becoming one of the first women hired by the department and rising to Deputy Chief in 2022 where she oversees operations and training. As a founding member of Fire Service Women Ontario (FSWO) and a driving force behind Camp FFIT, she is deeply committed to supporting, mentoring, and inspiring women in firefighting. With extensive technical expertise and a background as a national-level athlete, Louise embodies resilience and leadership, making her a powerful advocate for diversity and inclusion in emergency services and a vital voice on this panel.

Deputy Chief Deb Bergeson has been breaking barriers in the fire service since joining the Calgary Fire Department in 1998, following a decade of international sport competition and earning degrees in Physical Education and Science. As Calgary’s first woman Captain, Deb spent over 20 years on the frontlines before moving into leadership, where she has continued to drive change. In her role as Assistant Deputy Chief, she established the Operational Effectiveness & Engagement division, focused on culture, people-centred leadership, and equity in the workplace. Promoted to Deputy Chief in 2023 and now leading Operations, Deb continues to champion inclusion and belonging—both in practice and through her ongoing thesis for a Master’s in Leadership. Her career reflects a deep commitment to transforming fire service culture and creating space for others to thrive.

Deputy Fire Chief Kalpana Rajgopalan brings over 17 years of diverse experience in fire services and emergency management to her leadership role with the Oakville Fire Department, where she oversees Fire Prevention, Public Education, and External Stakeholder Engagement. A recognized leader in public safety, Kalpana played key roles in major national efforts including the G8/G20 Summits, the Syrian Refugee Program, and the COVID-19 response, earning the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her contributions. As a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, she co-founded the Blaze Fire Academy, a program empowering young women and underrepresented groups to explore careers in firefighting through hands-on training and mentorship. Kalpana’s vision and dedication to building inclusive pathways make her a powerful voice for women and diversity in the fire service.

Deputy Chief Samantha Hoffmann brings over 30 years of experience in fire prevention, public education, and emergency planning to her leadership role with Caledon Fire and Emergency Services. Appointed in 2022 as Caledon’s first Deputy Chief of Community Safety, she champions proactive public engagement and innovative fire prevention strategies. Samantha’s career spans roles with Toronto Fire Services and Barrie Fire, with a strong focus on community partnerships and safety programs, including the award-winning Older Adult Home Safety Program. As the first Ontarian honored as the National Fire Protection Association’s Public Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year, she is a passionate mentor and advocate for women in the fire service. Her dedication to education, leadership, and community empowerment makes her a vital voice on this panel.