Regina Wilson is breaking barriers, facing racism and putting out fires as one of New York's bravest.
Wilson, who has been with the FDNY for 20 years, was only the 12th African-American woman hired to the force.
She tells News 12 she was recruited by the FDNY in the 90s, saying the department told her they wanted to attract African-American women.
She began her journey to the FDNY by passing the written and physical exams.
Wilson was placed at Engine 219 on Dean Street. As she began her career, she says she felt destined to make a difference, but knew racism would be part of the experience.
"Hearing the "N" word, watching and hearing racial pictures on the wall or getting letters from this racist group within the fire department that would send thousands of faxes and have them faxed all over the fire house," says Wilson.