Lorraine Hutchinson was working as a medical assistant when a friend’s husband suggested she work for the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department. “I love helping people,” says the 38-year-old fire captain. “I’m at my best when people are in trouble.”

She became a firefighter 13 years ago and works at Fire Station 43 in Otay Mesa. Hutchinson supervises a three-person crew at the station next to Brown Field. The work is challenging; her crew staffs an engine with water pump, airport-rescue apparatus, brush rig for vegetation fires and the truck Hutchinson calls a “mobile tool box.”

“I love what I do; it’s very exciting,” says Hutchinson. She received the city’s 2001 Diversity Distinction Award and was named Fire-Rescue Department Employee of the Quarter in 2002.

Hutchinson belongs to Brothers United, a group of African-American firefighters involved with recruitment and community outreach. During her 13 years with the union, Hutchinson has held various offices, coordinated recruitment classes and belonged to the women’s issues committee. She also is a member of the Unity in the Community committee and is involved with the city’s efforts in Diversity Outreach Opportunities and Recruitment.

Hutchinson speaks to school groups and was a mentor/role model for African-American girls at Mission Bay High. “If a school calls and asks me to come, I do,” says the firefighter, who is married to San Diego Police Sgt. Steve Hutchinson.

Her daughter, Brittany Barker, graduated from the School of Creative and Performing Arts in June. Hutchinson served from 2002-2003 as president of Friends of SCPA, the parent group.

She was nominated for 40 Under Forty recognition by her sister, legal receptionist Rhonda Thomas. Thomas reflects on Hutchinson’s numerous activities and says, “She finds the time to do all that and be a good worker, a good mother and a good sister.”

— Liz Swain