Hero of the Month - May
Our May 2022 Hero of the Month is
Stephanie Preekett, Oak Grove Fire Department
Nominated by Natalie Streich, MN Fire Hire
Stephanie’s dream is to someday combine her passion for aviation with her love for firefighting. The closer short term goal is to complete leadership training that is offered at Oak Grove Fire Department. Both goals are admirable.
Stephanie spent nearly 8 years in the Army, serving in the Minnesota National Guard as a human resources specialist and then Active Duty as a Black Hawk pilot. She views the fire department as a great way to continue serving her community while staying close to family and friends.
Stephanie is currently a paid on-call Firefighter and a Project Manager at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus. While she only recently completed Emergency Medical Technician training and the fire academy in early 2021, she is making an impact in her community. Stephanie is responsible for basic firefighting duties that include responding to structure fires, grass fires, medical calls, rescues, and accidents.
She is working towards obtaining her Instructor 1 level certification, clearance as a Fire Apparatus Operator and learning a variety of Emergency Medical Team skills. She is focused on training to maintain her working knowledge of the procedures, protocols, skills, and equipment required at each call.
In her spare time, Stephanie enjoys flying helicopters and planes or spending quality time with family and friends in nature as they hike, kayak, go horseback riding, visit new places, or take care of the animals on her hobby farm. Stephanie and her husband feel fortunate to live so close to family and friends who can visit and share their passions and hobbies.
Stephanie’s favorite time of year is the Fall because she loves the cooler temps, the change of season and the beautiful colors.
Join us in celebrating Stephanie as the Hero of the Month for her bravery, generous spirit, and dedication to her community. She is an inspiration to many women who have considered being a firefighter but doubted they could do it.
If you know a firefighter like Stephanie who goes above and beyond to serve his or her community – please nominate them for a Hero of the Month profile. We publish a new one on the first of every month and have a goal to profile firefighters from every community in Minnesota. Visit firefightersforhealing.org/heroofthemonth