Women do it all, and sometimes they do it in extreme environments. Like fighting fires, saving lives in remote locations, working in the arctic or in space.

This event is open to everyone.

November 26
UFV Chilliwack Campus Library
11-1 PM

Bring a clean reusable coffee mug!

Speakers:

Jelena Brcic, PhD
Associate professor, School of Business

Dr. Jelena Brcic studies teams in extreme environments—from space crews to search and rescue. She explores coping, motivation, and psychological growth. Her latest work focuses on women in Canadian Search and Rescue.

Sandra Riches
Executive Director, BC AdventureSmart

As the executive director of BC AdventureSmart, Sandra Riches works closely with industry partners, such as BC’s 78 search and rescue groups—which are comprised of 3,200 volunteers, industry affiliates, and stakeholders.

Kelsi Paul (BKin ’15)
Central Fraser Valley Search & Rescue

Search and rescue volunteers play a vital role in keeping us safe. They often work under extreme conditions and high stress. Kelsi will be sharing the experiences of women in Canadian Search and Rescue.

Krista Minar
Assistant Fire Chief, Chilliwack Fire Department

Krista Minar is the Assistant Fire Chief of Prevention for the Chilliwack Fire Department, and is a former Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Merritt during the 2021 Coldwater floods. She is passionate about building strong teams and creating space for women in non-traditional and high-pressure environments.