South Fulton Fire Academy Graduate Overcomes Challenges to Achieve Dream

Ashley Fields joins South Fulton Fire and Rescue after completing rigorous firefighter training program.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Ashley Fields, originally from New York, recently graduated from the South Fulton Fire Academy and joined the South Fulton Fire and Rescue department. Despite facing discouragement and financial challenges, Fields persevered through the demanding training program, leaning on her faith to push through the mental struggles. On graduation night, Fields was surprised by the appearance of her mother, who had previously said she wouldn't attend. Now, Fields hopes to inspire other young girls to pursue careers in firefighting.

Why it matters

Fields' story highlights the barriers and challenges that women can face in male-dominated fields like firefighting, but also demonstrates the power of determination and perseverance to overcome those obstacles. Her journey serves as an inspiration for others who may be considering a career in public service.

The details

Fields became an EMT in 2018 and knew by 2021 that she wanted to become a firefighter, despite pushback from those around her. The training process was physically and mentally demanding, with constant drills, exams, and evaluations. Fields made personal sacrifices, including losing friends and incurring financial strain from traveling between New York and Atlanta. However, she remained steadfast, relying on her faith to push through the difficult moments.

  • In 2018, Fields became an EMT.
  • By 2021, she knew she wanted to become a firefighter.
  • In 2023, she committed to the firefighter training program.
  • On the night of her graduation, her mother surprised her by attending the ceremony.

The players

Ashley Fields

A graduate of the South Fulton Fire Academy who has joined the South Fulton Fire and Rescue department, overcoming personal and financial challenges to achieve her dream.

South Fulton Fire and Rescue

The fire department that Ashley Fields has joined, serving the South Fulton community in Georgia.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You have their lives in your hands. That's what you have.”

— Ashley Fields (cbsnews.com)

“A lot of people did not like it. Honestly, they tried to discourage me, and because they tried to discourage me, that was my motivation to keep going.”

— Ashley Fields (cbsnews.com)

“My Bible, first and foremost. That's the reason why I pushed through. Every time I felt like giving up, I had to remember my purpose. I didn't have a plan B, C, or D. This had to work.”

— Ashley Fields (cbsnews.com)

“This is definitely rewarding, just to see her actually do the things she wanted to do and not be intimidated, especially working with a lot of men in the department.”

— Ashley Fields' aunt (cbsnews.com)

“I hope they see no matter size, no matter weight, no matter height, you can do it. Just be mentally strong and push through. Once you see someone that looks like you, that gives you nonverbal motivation to do it.”

— Ashley Fields (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Fields will now begin her duties as a firefighter with the South Fulton Fire and Rescue department, serving the local community.

The takeaway

Ashley Fields' journey to become a firefighter in the South Fulton community demonstrates the power of determination and faith to overcome personal and professional obstacles, even in traditionally male-dominated fields. Her story serves as an inspiration for others, especially young girls, to pursue their dreams and not be deterred by discouragement or challenges.