Melissa Hilpert becomes Rural Metro’s 1st female fire chief

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - An Arizona firefighting veteran has become the first ever female fire chief in the 75-year history of Rural Metro Fire.

22-year-veteran Melissa Hilpert assumed her duties of overseeing Rural Metro’s fire stations in the Yuma area of southwestern Arizona this month.

Hilpert began her career with the Rural Metro Fire as a reserve firefighter and EMT in 2000.

During her tenure with the company, she has also served as a certified paramedic firefighter, wildland firefighter, crew boss, rescue diver, emergency medical service captain, EMS Chief and assistant fire chief among other duties.

“I feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment at being named chief for our Yuma operations,” she said. “I am fortunate that with very few exceptions, I have always been supported by my peers and leadership to take my career in any direction I was willing to go.”