Michele Fitzsimmons becomes FDNY’s first female deputy chief
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FDNY Battalion Chief Michele Fitzsimmons is set to be promoted to deputy chief on Friday, making her the highest-ranking uniformed woman firefighter in the department’s history.
Fitzsimmons, who joined the FDNY in 2001, overcame early discouragement from her grandfather—a retired battalion chief—who initially told her that “women shouldn’t be firefighters.” Despite this, she pursued her dream, rising through the ranks over the years.
Her promotion comes at a time when the FDNY continues to push for more gender inclusivity. Currently, there are 177 women firefighters out of approximately 11,000 in the department.
Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker called her promotion a “glass-ceiling shattering event,” highlighting the significance of her achievement for women in firefighting. Fitzsimmons hopes her new rank will inspire other female firefighters to aim for leadership positions.
Her family, including her wife and children, will be present at the ceremony, celebrating her groundbreaking accomplishment.
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