Davie Names First Female Fire Chief In Broward County History

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DAVIE (CBSMiami) -- The town of Davie's new fire chief is making history.

Julie Downey was named the new head of the Davie Fire Rescue. She's the first woman in Broward and Miami-Dade counties to ever hold the title.

Fire rescue is a heavily male-dominated career. Chief Downey hopes her promotion will encourage other women to join the fire department, saying it's crucial for any woman or man looking to advance to work their way through the ranks.

"I've gone through every rank. I've been a firefighter on the fire engine, medic on the rescue truck for years. I drove the fire trucks for years and then as a supervisor. And I think it does, working through the ranks gives you a full spectrum of exactly what the job entails and you never want to forget where you came from," said Chief Downey.

Chief Downey assumed the position Monday and will be officially sworn in June 8th at a town council meeting.