CAL-JAC

After Leading the Way, Two Pioneers
Leave Remarkable Legacies

THE CALIFORNIA FIRE SERVICE proudly celebrates the incredible legacies of two trailblazing women, retired Fire Captain d’Lisa Davies of the Los Angeles Fire Department and newly retired Battalion Chief Emily Lo of the Davis Fire Department, whose dedication helped shape the Cal-JAC Women’s Commission and pave the way for future generations of women in the fire service.

Captain Davies served 31 years with the Los Angeles Fire Department, becoming the first Black woman in the department’s history. After her first 22 years on the front lines in the Los Angeles area, she transitioned to the Recruitment Unit, where she spearheaded efforts to increase the number of women and underrepresented community members in the fire service. Her work led to the development of key initiatives, including the Mentoring Program, Mock Oral Interview preparation, CPAT simulated practice and testing, military recruitment, and recruitment conferences/expos.

Through the Cal-JAC Women’s Commission, Captain Davies laid the groundwork for innovative recruitment strategies and mentoring frameworks, that have had a lasting impact. “Her contributions go far beyond recruitment," said Yvonne de la Peña, Cal-JAC Executive Director. "She played critical roles in the Fire Chief’s Inter-Group Relations Committee, Women’s Focus groups, Public Service Officer program, Incident Management Team for the EOC and DOC, and as an instructor for the Metro F.I.R.E. Academy. We are deeply grateful for her incredible work. Her presence on the Women’s Commission will be missed.”

Battalion Chief Lo served nearly 34 years with the Davis Fire Department, where she became the first Asian-American woman hired and promoted to Battalion Chief in the city’s history. In addition to her 35-year career as a firefighter, she also served as the Treasurer of Davis Firefighters, Local 3494, demonstrating her commitment to supporting her peers.

Battalion Chief Lo spent 17 years serving as a Co-Chair on the Cal-JAC's Women’s Commission. She also worked as a CPAT proctor at FCTC, providing hands-on support to candidates striving to pass the rigorous test. Beyond her formal duties, Battalion Chief Lo generously volunteered her time mentoring aspiring firefighters, ensuring that the next generation could benefit from her knowledge and guidance.

As we honor the legacies of Captain Davies and Battalion Chief Lo, we are reminded of the profound impact they have had on the fire service. Their dedication to excellence, equity, and mentorship will continue to inspire firefighters for generations, carrying forward the values they so passionately championed.