


Testimony


Meet The Founders & Mentors
Marina Tricarico, West Metro Fire
My name is Marina Tricarico and I am a firefighter/EMT at West Metro Fire Rescue. I have been a West Metro firefighter for almost 3 years, but prior to that, I volunteered at a mountain department for 3 years.
I graduated from MSU Denver in 2019, with a Bachelor's in Exercise Physiology and a Minor in Human Nutrition. One of my favorite things about being a firefighter is being able to have an active job where I have to stay in shape in order to perform my job duties to my best ability.
In my free time, I enjoy riding my bike, hiking, fishing, paddleboarding, doing crafts, reading, and cuddling with my 2 dogs. I am so excited to be a part of Camp Ember, where I hope to inspire young women to challenge themselves and realize that they can do anything that they set their mind to.

Makayla Keith, Arvada Fire
Hi there! My name is Makayla Keith and I have been an Arvada firefighter/EMT for a year and a half now.
When I was in high school, I met and became friends with a female firefighter at the CrossFit gym I went to, who told me to check out Warren Tech’s fire science program. As a result of that program, I was introduced to Camp Ember as a senior in high school. This line of work was something that interested me, but it wasn’t until after Camp Ember that I knew I really wanted to pursue it. It has been the best decision I have ever made. I am blessed to say that I love my job and the people I work with. Every week I look forward to going to work and seeing what the day will hold.
In my off time, I am a CrossFit coach and health lifestyle enthusiast. I still play soccer after 10 years of competitive play. My newfound love is mountain biking and endurance running (training for my first marathon in May 2025!). If you ask me to do anything that involves cappuccinos, banana water, chocolate, a dance party, or traveling the world, I’ll be there.
I am here to create a fun and empowering atmosphere for Campers and to hopefully spark our future generations of young women, as the women who came before me have done for me.

Lakota Beckhorn, West Metro Fire
I’m Lakota and I have been with West Metro Fire Rescue since 2016 as a firefighter and paramedic. I recently promoted to Lieutenant in January of 2025. Firefighting embraces much of what is important to me – helpful and kind service to others, a team dynamic, empowering those around me, and a physical challenge. I truly enjoy the dynamic environment, thinking on our feet, and seeing how a variety of people come together for the betterment of the team.
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I have been a part of Camp Ember since it's first year in 2017 and have greatly enjoyed getting to share my passion for firefighting with others. The growth that we see in Campers each year has been the best fuel to come back year after year.
I have a Degree in Anthropology from NCSU and a diverse work history ranging from special education to industrial construction.
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Outside of fire I am an athlete, adventurer, and traveler. Rugby is my first love, as I played competitively for 12 years. The sport requires a unique blend of strength, endurance, diversity, and respect which I am grateful has shaped my character. I am also a Tri-Athlete – I’ll be doing my third my Half Ironman in July 2025. I love all things outside, my big dogs, and time with friends.
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I am extremely honored to continue my work with Camp Ember. I look forward to working with you all to embrace and enjoy new challenges, no matter what they may be.

Brooke Elder, Arvada Fire
My name is Brooke and I've been in the fire service for 16 years and am a Captain at Arvada Fire Protection District.
I have been with Camp Ember since it started in 2017.
I graduated from CSU with a Biology degree and worked in breast cancer research for 6 years. I decided to pursue a career in the fire service after an incredible crew helped my family in an emergency. I wanted to provide that kind of kindness, support and service to others. I love my job. I love the eclectic nature of it, my amazing, fun and caring coworkers, the physical aspects and providing care and service to citizens. I love working with people of all walks of life who can build upon each others strengths to make a stronger team.
I have two incredible kids who are kind, funny, sarcastic and adventurous. I am a better person because of their love, encouragement and just plain awesomeness. I like exploring with my kids, traveling the world, all things outside, doing hard/dumb adventures with friends, reading, Indian food, buttercream frosting, crossfit (except for double unders), dogs, 90's hip hop, tattoos and crosswords.
I'm honored to be a part of Camp Ember and can't wait to meet this years 16 extraordinary young women.

Marissa Gettman, South Metro Fire
My name is Marissa Gettman and I am currently an Engineer Medic with South Metro Fire (formerly known as Littleton Fire Rescue). I have been a part of the fire service since 2004.
I was excited to get involved with Camp Ember in 2018 and have enjoyed each spring with Camp since.
I never knew I wanted to be a part of the fire service coming from a small farm town in eastern Colorado. I didn't have exposure to this fantastic job (other than the yearly small town parade) until I had the opportunity to attend Women in the Fire Service Convention in downtown Denver. Women from all over the state came to show their knowledge and love for the fire service. I was officially SOLD!
I have made my way from a volunteer department to the second largest department in the state. It's been quite and ride and I love every minute of what I do!
