WOMEN’S HISTORY SPOTLIGHT: Get to Know chief Joanne Rund

Chief Joanne Rund is Baltimore County Fire Department’s first permanently appointed female fire chief. For Women’s History Month, we spoke with Chief Rund about her role and hopes for the future.

As Chief, Rund has focused on creating a culture of inclusiveness, respect and teamwork; health, safety and fitness for Fire and EMS personnel; and building a constructive relationship between career and volunteer members.

Prior to her appointment by County Executive Johnny Olszewski in 2019, Rund served for 32 years in the Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services.

What are your current responsibilities and how did you get there?

I am the Fire Chief of Baltimore County; I was hired by CE Olszewski. I climbed the ranks in a neighboring jurisdiction in hopes to become a Fire Chief one day. Many people approached me to apply for the Baltimore County position. After some soul searching and determining there was opportunity for me to make a difference, I applied for the position.

As a woman, what are the most significant barriers you had to overcome to thrive in your role, in the industry or in the workplace?

I believe I was lucky in my career. At the time of I was hired, the Fire Service was considered to be a male-dominated field. Although I was met with various barriers as a female in this field, I had many male role models who mentored me and helped me along the way. If you focus and are honest in your approach and delivery, others can see that and will work with you. In spite of any challenges I faced, I always found another route move forward in my career.

What motivated you to keep going and achieve your goals regardless of gender bias?

There were many times when I faced adversity, but I always embraced it as an opportunity to learn and grow. I tell everyone to look for the positive in most situations even if there are negatives there. You may not always see it right away or may not feel good at the present, but there are always positives. Every goal I achieved made me who I am today and will continue to shape who I will be in the future.

Is there a woman from history that you find especially inspiring?

I do not have one specific woman, I am inspired by any woman who steps outside of the traditional role and challenges the norm. If you have a passion for something you should go for it and not allow anyone to hold you back.

What is your favorite lesson or memory from your career journey thus far?

When I was a Firefighter early in my career, my Captain took me under his wing and gave me an opportunity to learn his role. That gave me confidence to grow and want to learn more.

What do you want your legacy to be?

I left the department better than when I found it. I have a legacy in my past department; I built a health and safety program that is top rated and has been responsible for identifying risk factors during the medical evaluation and injury treatment. I would love to leave a similar legacy in Baltimore County, working to rebuild the internal support system to create a healthy and productive workforce.

What should leaders do to empower the next generation of women leaders and what advice would you give to women looking to follow in your footsteps?

Show them opportunity and give them the path to grow, especially through effective leadership and mentoring. Encourage them to take risks and follow their dreams and always offer an open line of communication

For allies, how can they better support women?

As women in this profession we need to continue to support each other. We should be advocates for women, support them with their growth and ensure they have access to decision making and roles in steering the future of the department.