Carter Makes Bold Step in Hamden Fire Department Leadership
Shelly Carter has taken charge as the new fire chief in Hamden, Connecticut. She is the first Black woman to ever lead the department.
Her appointment marks a powerful step for representation in firefighting. Both women and people of color remain underrepresented in the field.
Less Than 5% of Firefighters Are Women
Despite years of progress, only about 5% of career firefighters in the U.S. are women. Carter wants to change that number by setting an example and encouraging others.
She’s not just leading fires—she’s leading the way for young girls to see what’s possible.
A Chance Meeting Sparked Her Career
Carter began her career at 29 after a chance encounter with a firefighter in Hartford.
“He turned around and said, ‘Have you ever thought about being a firefighter?’” she recalled. At the time, she didn’t see herself in the role. But the question stuck with her.
When someone later doubted her ability to pass the test, she became determined. “I believe it was planned,” she said. “I’m a Christian and I believe God has a plan and our steps are ordered.”
Climbing the Ranks Was Not Easy
In the early days of her career, Carter worked hard to prove herself. She was often the only woman on the team.
She made it clear she earned her spot by going through the same tough process as the men. “I worked really hard. I deserved to be there,” she said.
On the fireground, her skills helped win over even the toughest skeptics.
Building a Pipeline of Future Firefighters
Now, Carter wants to help other girls see themselves as leaders too. Each summer, she runs the Girl’s Future Firefighter Camp.
At the camp, girls learn about emergency services and leadership. Carter teaches them how to become fire chiefs—and how to believe in themselves.
“If they don’t become firefighters, that’s fine,” she said. “At least they know they can be anything they want to be.”
