By Bill CareyFireRescue1
SAN ANTONIO — Interim Deputy Chief Valerie Frausto, a 24-year veteran of the San Antonio Fire Department, will step into the department’s highest role on Nov. 1.
Frausto is the first woman to lead SAFD’s 1,800 firefighters, including over 100 women, according to KSAT. Throughout her career, she has served in every division, except arson.
Over the years, Frausto has been a firefighter, paramedic, fire marshal and command staff member, most recently serving as the interim deputy fire chief of administrative services, KSAT reported.
During her time in the department, she launched the “Hero Like Her” recruiting campaign, aiming to break down barriers that often discourage young women from pursuing careers in traditionally male-dominated fields.
City Manager Erik Walsh said Frausto stood out among over 65 applicants in the nationwide search, noting her impressive resume and, above all, her confidence.
“I want somebody, and I think the mayor and the council want somebody, and I suspect the firefighters want somebody that is going to have the confidence and wherewithal to be able to continue to lead, build a team and execute,” Walsh said.
Frausto was appointed interim deputy fire chief of administrative services after then-Fire Chief Charles Hood was forced out in January after an investigation found Hood made comments demeaning to women.
During the interim period, Frausto encountered opposition to her candidacy for the chief position.
Chris Steele, former fire union president, was arrested in June on a stalking charge after allegedly posing as an “independent investigator” named “Frank” in an apparent attempt to intimidate Frausto from applying for the chief position.
