Women’s History Month 2025: Meet Firefighter Jackie Szpunt, Ladder 123

Throughout FDNY’s history, women have played vital roles in protecting and serving the people of New York City. Their strength, resilience and unwavering dedication are at the heart of the Department’s lifesaving mission.

Firefighter Jackie Szpunt of Ladder 123 was a lifeguard at Rockaway Beach before becoming an FDNY firefighter.

“While I do have a passion for this line of work, I have always had a deep-seated sense of duty,” she said. “What drives me forward when things get tough at a fire is simply knowing that I have a specific role, and it needs to get done.”