For more than three decades, a Brevard County firefighter stood watch, protecting the hundreds of thousands of citizens she swore to help.

  • Lt. Teresa Uzel recalls the work she has done, her challenges
  • Uzel says that women had to work twice as hard as men
  • But she says things have gotten better

With the added challenge of being a woman.

A thirty-year stint that just wrapped up for Brevard Fire Rescue Lt. Teresa Uzel.

"Hard to believe it's been that long, very exciting career," said Uzel.

A firefighter, a paramedic, and a female, in a mainly male profession.

"It was really rough when I first started. They didn't want you there. You'd sleep out in the bay," she recalled.

Uzel says the fire service has changed for the better in her three decades. She and other women had to work twice as hard to earn their keep.

But over time, she became an equal and part of a team that does dangerous work day in and day out.

"You prove that you can do it, and then they build up that respect for you," the lieutenant said about how respect is earned.

Uzel says another big thing in her life came through firefighting. She met her husband, Steven, a district chief with 30-plus years in the department.

She just retired a couple weeks ago and says she is already getting a little antsy. Uzel will still share hundreds of stories she has experienced on the job. The good and the bad calls.

"Those are the ones that stay with you a little longer. We know we did everything we could," she said.

But her passion for the profession will still be passed along to the next generation through her teaching at Eastern Florida State College's Fire Academy, especially the women who will suit up and follow the path she blazed.