PHOTOS: Audra Carter has a simple message for any young woman or girl who asks her about becoming a firefighter: “Please. We need more.”
The 48-year-old Hoboken native is providing a shining example for future female firefighters. She was promoted Thursday, becoming the first woman battalion chief in the 171-year history of the Hoboken Fire Department in a ceremony at City Hall.
“I’m extremely proud,” Carter said. “It was the next step in my career. My goal from the first day being hired was to progress up the ladder and better myself and reach the top. It’s a proud moment.” Carter fills the void left by the retirement of Battalion Chief William Rozmester. She is an 18-year veteran of the department, serving the past nine years as a fire captain, officials said.