June 30
Tracy Collins has always been up for a challenge. She faced one of her biggest when she decided
to change careers. She went from working for years in the legal system, having first
earned an associate degree from NSCC’s Paralegal Program, to becoming the first female
firefighter in the Peabody Fire Department in 1999.
But before becoming a firefighter, Collins had to complete the firefighter Physical Ability Test (PAT) - a set of timed, endurance tests that must be passed before being hired by any fire department. It is not for the weak or out of shape. For Collins, it was no problem. She passed the PAT along with 11 other male recruits and became a full-time firefighter. “I’m a lot stronger than I look,” she said. “I don’t want to say I’m an overachiever, but if I set my mind to something, I will do it.”
Enrolling in the Fire Science Program at North Shore Community College was the first stepping stone in changing her life’s path. Then-program coordinator, Professor Frank Ryan, was a driving force and was always available to help. “When I started at NSCC, I was a single mother who struggled to stay ahead,” said Collins. “Just getting to classes was a challenge but online courses made that easier and . . . helped to ensure that I could finish my degrees.”
“The Fire Science Program helped me to grow and excel in my current career of 26.5 years, where I rose to the rank of Captain,” said Collins. “I have always enjoyed learning, and gaining knowledge and experience in my education helped me to help others. Serving on NSCC's Fire Protection and Safety Technology Advisory Board continues to be a meaningful way for me to contribute to the success and development of others in my field.”