By Chris Hagan
Review Staff Writer
Jillian Turner made her own history Monday night when she was named Orion Township’s first full-time female firefighter.
The township board approved to promote Turner to a paid full-time on-call firefighter.
Turner, who has been with Orion Fire part-time for two years, went through a multi-step interview process which consisted for a written test and two panel interviews. Fire chief’s from surrounding departments interviewed several candidates and Turner, along with two others, made it to the final round.
The mother of two and 2005 Lake Orion graduate, has been actively involved in department functions and is among only five full-time female firefighters in the Northern Oakland County area.
‘To be the first full-time female in Orion Township, it is such an honor to have this opportunity,? she said. It’s wonderful to know there are other full-time female firefighters in the area as well.
Turner grew up in Lake Orion and knew what kind of benefit this community could offer and it’s exactly why she and her husband, Aaron, chose to raise their two kids in the township.
She said she will be staying in Orion and if everything works out the way she hopes, she would want to make a career with Orion Township Fire Department.
But the job is truly the reason why she wanted to become full-time. For Turner, she said it’s not about the lights or sirens, or shiny badge but it’s about the difference you’re able to make in somebody’s life.
‘It’s a very rewarding job all the way around. Whether it’s trying to save and protect a person’s house in a fire, helping in an medical emergency and even making the young kids of our community aware of fire safety,? Turner said.
Fire Chief Robert Smith mentioned to the board at Monday’s meeting that Turner was not only an employee but an asset as she helped with the village hydrant project. He’s excited for her to join the full-time ranks and fill the open position that was created when the department promoted one of their shift firefighters to EMS Coordinator.
‘Jill has been tremendous all summer helping on different projects,? Smith said. ‘She’s only been on for two years but she has far exceeded any expectation we could have for a two-year member.?
As she looks to begin her new career on ‘C? shift in 2016, Turner knows this position is not only one to protect people and property but it can inspire others. With so few females in the fire service, she’s hoping to inspire other girls to follow in her footsteps.
‘The best advice I have for other women seeking a career in the fire service is keep training as much as possible, always be up to advancing your skills/knowledge and never give up,? Turner said. ‘As long as you have the drive and determination you would be surprised with what you can accomplish in this field.?