Kingstowne Fire Station Makes History With All Women In Charge

KINGSTOWNE, VA — Kingstowne Fire Station is making history as Fairfax County's first fire station with all women in the top leadership roles.

Captain Emily Murphy, Captain Katja Lancing and Captain Felicia Barnes have been working together at Fire Station 37, Kingstowne since May 2021. Barnes was assigned earlier this year, while Murphy came to the station two and a half years ago, and Lancing came in 2020. Lancing is also trained as a backup deputy chief’s aide.

The captains oversee different shifts, but leading the station means they collaborate often.

"We talk all the time. Communication is open and easy. We work well together and share information well," said Barnes in a news release.

The captains said they've been helped by the support of commanders, mentors and fellow firefighters, including their deputy chiefs. Lancing also has support from her husband Rick Lancing, a master technician for Fairfax County Fire and Rescue.

"Many of my early mentors have retired," said Murphy. "I will never forget where I came from and the dedication and leadership they shared."

Among the three shifts are five more female firefighters at the station. Fairfax County Fire and Rescue and other fire departments continue to grapple with improving diversity. A fire department spokesperson told WTOP women make up just over 10 percent of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue career firefighters.

The three female captains hope their milestone can inspire young girls and others to break through barriers as well, not just in the fire department.