First female acting fire captain in Ashland

Ashland’s first female acting fire captain served her first full day Tuesday.

Ashley Manning says it’s a little odd being in the spotlight as she feels equal to all the male firefighters.

She says there are only 4 female firefighters in the Rogue Valley, so there is not much opportunity for a female to become an acting captain.

Manning thinks it’s just by chance that there are fewer females in this area.

Her new responsibilities include supervising over the other firefighters when they go out for calls.

“It feels good. I’m appreciative of the recognition, however, I don’t feel like I’m doing anything different than my male counterparts who are doing the same thing,” Manning said.

Manning became acting captain by taking a written test and passing.

She first became an engineer to drive the trucks, and then studied to become acting captain when the permanent captain is on vacation or gone.

Manning says she hopes to learn more to become the permanent captain someday.

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