The Goodyear Fire Department will once again host its Camp F.I.R.E.S. program this summer, offering high school girls a hands-on introduction to emergency services while building confidence and leadership skills.
The four-day camp, scheduled for June 15–18, is open to girls entering high school or currently enrolled. Organizers say the program is designed for those “looking to try something new, build confidence, and connect with others in a fun and supportive environment,” according to a department announcement.
Camp F.I.R.E.S., which stands for Females in Responding Emergency Services, gives participants the opportunity to work alongside firefighters and paramedics while engaging in physically and mentally challenging activities. Applications are expected to open soon, and officials noted that spots typically fill quickly each year.
The program builds on years of growth and community interest. Last year, about 30 students participated in the immersive experience, which included climbing ladders, navigating confined spaces, performing search-and-rescue exercises and completing daily workouts designed to mirror real-world emergency response tasks.
“We do skills courses in the morning. We put our gear on and exercise to do things that mimic things we do every day at work,” said Meghan Golbach, a captain paramedic with the department. “We want to show them that they’re capable of doing hard things, whether or not they want to be a firefighter in the future.”
Now in its tenth year, the camp emphasizes teamwork, resilience and mentorship, pairing students with experienced first responders. Organizers say participants often show noticeable growth over the course of the program.
“We see a difference in them from the first day that they’re here,” Golbach said. “As the week goes on, we put them through tests, both physical and mental, and they work together as a team and they continue to grow.”
Beyond introducing potential career paths, officials say the camp helps students develop skills that extend into everyday life, including problem-solving, communication and self-confidence.
“Having someone there to help guide you when you need it is awesome,” Golbach said. “Conquering some of their fears now will be able to give them the tools to be able to conquer their fears in the future.”
Meet James James Goldmeer joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2024, starting their career as a reporter in Goodyear and Litchfield Park.
Community: James grew up in the West Valley, calling Avondale home and going to school in Glendale and Peoria. Returning to the community after university, James plans to get involved in everything arts and culture, and civil rights.
Education: Northern Arizona University a bachelor's degree in Journalism, a certificate in Professional Communications, with a minor in English.
Random Fact: James spent half a year as an intern for the Arizona House of Representatives communication team, working with legislators to inform the public through press releases and social media.
Hobbies: James collects postcards and old books, reads memoirs and attends local jazz shows.
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