Kate Sands

I first joined East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service in 2007. Growing up, my dad was a Firefighter in London and I always wanted to be a Firefighter as a child. Going through my education, I realised there weren’t many Female Firefighters, which swayed my decision and I studied Law instead. After the birth of my first Daughter, I couldn’t commit to the time needed for a career in Law and I worked as a Medical Secretary for the NHS. I enjoyed my job and my work, however, my passion for the Fire Service never really left me.  My older brother joined the Fire Service in 2004 and this spurred me on to follow my own dreams. I was not aware of any other females in this field, but I was keen to follow my passion. I was shocked and surprised, when I was told I had been successful but soon realised this was the best decision I could have made. I had chosen a vocation that I was passionate and excited about.

During my career I have been promoted 4 times and I’m currently a Station Manager. I can honestly say I love my job and would always encourage everybody to follow their dream – even if the perception is – ‘it’s not the job for me’. I have faced a lot of hurdles throughout my career, but I have had some fabulous role models to help and support me.

Through being an Assessor with P2P, I am now wishing to pass on similar support to others who are also dreaming of an amazing career in fire and rescue.