This Oct. 23–25, Oakville, ON, will host a landmark gathering for women in fire: the annual Fire Service Women Ontario (FSWO) Symposium. Open to women across all ranks, backgrounds and regions, the event is recognized as a pivotal force supporting and advancing women’s leadership in Ontario’s fire service, and beyond. Over three action-packed days, female firefighters from across the country will come together for the hands-on training, mentorship, advocacy, and community that define FSWO’s impact.
This year’s event is made possible by the generous support of our Premier Sponsor, Ontario Fire Academy (OFA). Their commitment underscores FSWO’s vision: to equip and inspire women for every challenge faced on the front lines.
The 2025 Symposium is proud to present a world-class lineup of guest speakers. Making an appearance is Deputy Chief Michele Fitzsimmons of FDNY – a 24-year veteran, New York City’s first female Battalion Chief, and an internationally recognized mentor for women in fire. Attendees will hear Chief Fitzsimmons share hard-won lessons on breaking barriers, leading with integrity, and forging lasting change in a tradition-bound field.
Keynote inspiration also comes from the Antarctic Fire Angels, sponsored by Dr. Katherine Lamb & Effective Command. The Fire Angels’ story – a record-setting Antarctic expedition – serves as a living example of courage in extreme conditions, advancing both skill and equality for women in rescue worldwide.
More than 200 participants will engage in hands-on-training (HOT) classes, leadership development, health and wellness sessions, advocacy forums, and an awards gala. The training is practical, relevant, and rooted in the realities women face on the fire ground, whether in urban departments or rural volunteer halls.
Sessions offer unique access to industry-leading instructors and guest experts. Breakout discussions, networking sessions, and panels with women chiefs and trailblazers will connect new recruits with seasoned leaders for real talk about thriving in the fire service.
FSWO’s hallmark is authentic community. Past attendees call the symposium “life-changing” – forging support systems that last far beyond the event.
Spaces are limited and demand is high – don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience.
