Flowing water, raising ladders, cutting cars, and repelling all happened at Fire Up St. Louis, a firefighter skills camp designed to transform the future of the fire service by welcoming women ages 18 to 40 into a space traditionally seen as out of reach.

Hosted by the Florissant Valley Fire Protection District, Fire Up Saint Louis is organized by Kate Freshman, a proud member of IAFF Local 2665 and a Local 73 alum. The camp is more than just an introduction to the firehouse. It’s a transformative experience that provides hands-on training, mentorship, and insight into the fire service — all at no cost to participants. The goal is simple: to inspire and support women, minorities, and individuals from low-income backgrounds who may not have otherwise seen themselves in a fire helmet and turnout gear.

“Our mission has always been about empowering, inspiring, and shining light on a path that women might not know they have,” said Freshman. “It’s all about building confidence, breaking barriers, and creating a path for next generation firefighters.”

Transforming Lives Through Mentorship and Skill

Since its 2023 session, Fire Up has already seen results. Over 70% of participants have continued their education to become firefighter/paramedics, with several now working right here in the St. Louis area.

Local 73 firefighters Jessica Jackson, Audrey Barton, and Hannah Jensen served as instructors this year, lending their expertise and stories to help guide the next generation.

Jessica Jackson, a 19-year veteran of the St. Louis Fire Department, has been with Fire Up since the beginning. She knows firsthand the impact visibility and mentorship can have.

“Fire Up St. Louis is more than just a program where females teach other females; it aims to demonstrate that women truly belong in the firefighting profession,” Jackson shared. “I never saw a female firefighter until I pursued this career, and I doubted my ability to succeed. With this program, maybe others won't feel as I did.”

For Audrey Barton, who comes from a family of firefighters the journey came full circle this year.  She first attended Fire Up as a participant in 2024.  Just one year later, she’s a newly minted St. Louis firefighter and back as an instructor.

“After participating at Fire Up STL, I realized that I couldn’t see myself having any other career,” said Barton. “Just last year I was in the participant’s shoes, and now I’m working at my dream department as a firefighter. These women see that with passion, hard work, and dedication, this job is achievable.”

Hannah Jensen, a classmate of Barton’s in the Fire Academy, wasn’t a past camper, but immediately recognized the value of the program.

“I believe in the importance of empowering women to pursue a career in firefighting,” Jensen said. “Firefighting is a demanding but deeply rewarding profession, and I wanted to be a part of an event that not only introduces women to the skills and challenges of the job but also gives them the confidence and support to see themselves in the role.”

A Legacy of Leadership and Support

St. Louis Firefighters Local 73 is proud not only to be a financial sponsor of Fire Up St. Louis, but also to have members who show up in force, bringing not just their gear but their heart.

“Local 73 firefighters aren’t just passing on skills,” Freshman added, “they are passing on strength, empowerment, and sisterhood!”

All donations to Fire Up St. Louis go directly toward camp expenses, with any remaining funds donated to the Lesley Prather Scholarship Fund, honoring a Louisville firefighter who tragically died in St. Charles, MO, in 2020. The scholarship helps cover schooling costs for a camper pursuing a firefighting or paramedic career — continuing the cycle of support and opportunity.

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