Katie Sandstrom 36

Duluth Fire Department

What do you do professionally?

I am a city of Duluth firefighter.

How are you involved in the community? Do you volunteer with any organizations?

I am integrated in the community on a daily basis with my career which is one of the main reasons I love what I do. I absolutely love interacting with people, even if it is on their worst day. We have so much to learn from all walks of life; my career allows me to fulfill that nurturing and empathetic part of my being. Firefighting has also given me the opportunity to work with area youth on teaching fire safety, the importance of physical and mental fitness, and getting kids active. I participate in various Muscular Dystrophy Association events, bell ringing for the Salvation Army, 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs, and serve on the board of directors for our Duluth Fire Department Credit Union. I have coached my daughter’s basketball team for the past several years, coached my son’s soccer team, been the flood coordinator for our hockey teams, and volunteered endless hours in Hermantown Elementary School classrooms.

What is important to you?

There are many things that make me tick, but my family and friends are at the top of the list. I sincerely love being around the people that lift me up and that I am able to lift up. I also thrive on making the most out of every day, doing the things that drive my happiness: being active, helping those less fortunate or who are in a tough spot, leading by example and always trying to see the best in situations.

How do you spend your free time?

My favorite time is time spent with my kids whether that means coaching them, watching them excel at something they love, helping in their classrooms or going on an adventure together. I also enjoy biking, traveling and anything that gets my adrenaline pumping with my favorite people!

Favorite things about living and working in the Northland?

The people in the Northland are not only friendly and kind hearted, but they are active and have a lot of grit to make the most of our ever-changing weather! I also revel in the small local businesses in Duluth ranging from a tasty sandwich at Corktown to a pour of my favorite brew at URSA Minor to snagging new adventure clothing at Free Air Life Co.

What advice would you give to up and coming professionals?

Chase your dreams! You will have to work hard, push limits and be uncomfortable at times but all of those things equal growth. The path to reaching your goals is challenging but worth it. Most importantly, enjoy the journey!

Favorite moment in life?

I try to live each and every day with a purpose so it is tough to pick a single favorite moment in life. However, each of my favorite moments have a common feeling of pride, joy, and accomplishment. Some of these include my children being born, putting in the work and being offered my dream job, watching my kids succeed at something they have been working on, summiting a mountain or overcoming the fear of jumping out of an airplane.

Who has inspired you or your favorite motivational quote?

My mom is by far the person that I idolize more than anyone. She has always exemplified being selfless, brave, supportive, and most importantly, kind. She consistently radiates positivity and truly has the biggest heart for all people.

“Be brave. Color outside the lines. Make mistakes. Never be afraid to fail.” These inspiring words were spoken at my college graduation; they seem to perfectly paint a whole picture of living.

Anything else you want to add?

Kindness always wins <3