On the Front Lines
University of Oregon Students Share the Unspoken Truth About Being a Women Fighting Wildfires
By Deanna Jacobs and Cailin Holt
After practice, both Camille and Ava went home and immediately searched for wildland firefighter companies in Eugene, Oregon. Oregon Woods, the top search result, became their employer, and the rest is history.
Now, five girls from the rugby team are wildland firefighters. Their journey highlights the many paths into firefighting, encouraging others to research, find their passion, and get involved. Along the way, you’ll meet lifelong friends and have unforgettable experiences
Ava, a human physiology major at the University of Oregon, was introduced to firefighting after gaining some experience as an EMT during high school. Her interest in fire grew when she joined UO’s club rugby team, where one of her teammates was a wildland firefighter. Their conversations sparked Ava's curiosity.
Ava Baron
Camille, coming from Southern California where fire season is a serious concern, had always been interested in the firefighting industry and wanted to get involved since her high school years. When she joined the same rugby team, she met a teammate who was already a wildland firefighter, and that inspired her to take action.
Camille Christensen
As part of the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Science Communication course JCOM 410 Voices of the Valley