KFDM Talks with the First Female Fire Chief in Beaumont

Anne Huff is breaking barriers as the first woman to be appointed Chief of the Beaumont Fire Department.

During her 21 years with the city Huff has slowly moved up the ranks serving as a Firefighter, Captain, and most recently a District Chief in the training office.

Anne Huff was teaching high school math more than 20 years ago when someone talked her into applying for a job with the Beaumont Fire Department. Huff said, "I ended up getting the job and falling in love with it after i got it, the service is very addictive. there is a lot of satisfaction in helping people, giving of yourself in that way."

The newly appointed Fire Chief and only woman in the entire Beaumont Fire Department is ready to lead, but she says don't expect any major changes right away. Huff said, "I want everyone to be a part and feel good about coming to work everyday and so that is what i am going to do, talk to people set up a system so everyone is part of it and fully involved."

Beaumont City Manager Kyle Hayes said Huff's plan of action and experience in the department made his decision easy. Hayes said, "on paper she was the best candidate, in the interview she was the best candidate, and in subsequent interviews she's had an outstanding career with the Beaumont Fire Department."

Hayes believes Huff can help ease any strains that remain from difficult contract talks between the city and firefighters. Huff said, "I am going to try and be upfront and try to mediate some of these issues that have been problem areas and come to some better solutions going forward."

Beaumont Fire Captain Brad Penisson applied for the job. He's pleased an insider who is known and respected got it. Huff said, "there is going to be a learning curve and a time of transition but we are just happy to be moving forward."

Huff is proud she's the first woman to hold the fire chief's job in Beaumont but she wants to be judged by her ability to manage and lead not by her gender. Huff said, "once they see these things they are going to figure out it doesn't matter if i am female or male it matters what my philosophies and my leadership ability is in going forward."

Huff is a mother to six year old Katie. She says she is also committed to her second family of 229 people and the community they serve.

Huff is among five Beaumont Firefighters who applied for Chief. Three people from outside the city also applied for the job.