TRAILBLAZING FIREFIGHTER JANELL OLSON MEYER

BY HOLLY DODGE PHOTOS BY HOLLY DODGE

In the United States, only 9% of all firefighters are women, underscoring the rarity and significance of female representation in this demanding profession. North Mankato is now proud to count Janell Olson Meyer among this distinguished group. As the city’s first female firefighter, Janell is breaking barriers and setting a powerful example of dedication and perseverance for her community.

Janell, a resident of North Mankato for 28 years, embarked on her journey to become a firefighter driven by an unwavering commitment to her community. When asked why she decided to join the fire department, she replied simply yet profoundly, “I couldn’t think of a reason not to.” This response encapsulates her spirit and determination to give back to the place she calls home. Her training began in October 2023, marking the start of an intense and challenging journey.

The training regimen for firefighters is notoriously rigorous, and Janell’s experience was no exception. Over 220 hours of both physical and theoretical training were required to prepare her for the role. This included a variety of drills and exercises designed to simulate real-life firefighting scenarios. The curriculum included fire extinguisher drills, rescue operations, hazardous materials (hazmat) training, car extractions, and extensive ladder work.

The physical demands of the training were substantial. Firefighters must be able to handle their gear, which can weigh between 65 to 70 pounds. This includes turnout gear and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) tanks. The weight and bulkiness of the equipment are designed to protect firefighters from the intense heat and hazardous conditions they encounter. During a visit to Fire Station #1, I had the opportunity to try on Janell’s jacket and lift an air tank. The experience gave me a firsthand appreciation of the physical strength and endurance required for the job. The gear was heavy, and its trapped heat was overwhelming, even after just a few moments!

In addition to the physical challenges, Janell faced extensive bookwork and testing. Firefighting is as much about knowledge and strategy as it is about physical prowess. Janell demonstrated her commitment by tackling these tasks head-on. Her training sessions were often held with firefighters from other cities, and despite being the only woman in her cohort, she felt welcomed and treated as an equal. “They don’t treat me like a girl. We do the same things and help one another,” she remarked, highlighting her training environment’s inclusive and supportive culture.

In June of this year, Janell was officially sworn in as a member of the North Mankato Fire Department. The ceremony, which included taking an oath to protect and serve her community, was a significant milestone in her journey. Her success is a testament to her determination and the support and camaraderie of her colleagues at the fire department. One mentor in particular, Greg Thate, a seasoned firefighter with 18 years of experience, played a pivotal role in encouraging and guiding her in her experience. The North Mankato Fire Department, which consists of 33 paid on-call members, operates like a close-knit family. This is vital for the demanding and sometimes dangerous work they undertake.

Beyond responding to emergencies, the North Mankato Fire Department is deeply involved in community engagement. They regularly participate in activities such as station tours for daycares, preschools, and elementary schools and teach fire safety to young children. These initiatives are crucial in teaching safety and awareness from a young age. The department’s largest fundraiser, the North Mankato Fun Days beer garden, is a much-anticipated event that helps raise vital department funds while fostering community spirit. Additionally, the department hosts an annual waffle feed on the fourth Sunday in October, another event that brings the community together and supports the department’s efforts.

Firefighting requires a significant time commitment. Weekly meetings, mandatory training sessions, and the expectation to be on call are all part of the job. However, Janell views these commitments as opportunities rather than obligations. “Who doesn’t want to hang out with their friends each week?” she says, reflecting on her strong bonds with her colleagues. The department is always looking to recruit new dedicated members, and Janell encourages anyone willing to try to get involved. “You’re never alone in the journey. The team always has your back,” she says. For those interested, the department has an upcoming informational meeting on August 27th at 7 p.m. at Fire Station #2 near Caswell Park.

Janell’s humility and dedication are evident in everything she does. She shared a story about a recent call at 1 a.m., where she found herself smiling despite the abrupt wake-up call. “I am just so excited to be able to help. I’m happy to be there,” she said. Her enthusiasm and passion for her work are infectious, inspiring those around her and setting a high standard for community service.

Janell’s journey as North Mankato’s first female firefighter is a story of resilience, commitment, and breaking down barriers. Her achievements pave the way for future female firefighters and strengthen the community she serves. Janell is an excellent reminder of the impact that one dedicated individual can have. With a strong sense of camaraderie and commitment to public safety, the North Mankato Fire Department continues to thrive, thanks in no small part to trailblazers such as Janell.