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The Fire in Her Work: Skye’s Journey from Law Enforcement to Fire Investigations at Pario Engineering & Environmental Sciences

30 October 2024
The Fire in Her Work: Skye’s Journey from Law Enforcement to Fire Investigations at Pario Engineering & Environmental Sciences

With over two decades of service in fire investigations, Skye stands out as a trailblazer in her field. Having started her professional life as a police constable and forensic identification officer, Skye’s career took an unexpected turn that would set her on a path to becoming a renowned expert in fire investigation. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering passion for finding the truth.

Skye’s early career was marked by her role as a frontline officer, responding to incidents and gaining critical experience in law enforcement. However, despite the challenges and excitement of her work, Skye found herself seeking something more. She yearned for a greater sense of purpose and professional growth, a desire that eventually led her to the field of fire investigations.

Initially, Skye applied to the Office of the Fire Marshal hoping the role would satisfy her ambition. She admits. “I figured I’d give it a year; I could always return to the police force.”

But fate had other plans. Over the next two decades, Skye would go on to build a highly successful career in fire investigation, developing a reputation for her keen investigative skills and unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth behind every case.

Despite her impressive credentials, Skye’s transition into fire investigation wasn’t without its challenges. One of the most difficult aspects of the role was the courtroom. Having previously qualified as an expert in fingerprint identification, Skye was no stranger to the rigors of being questioned in court. However, “in court, you’re always challenged, no matter how much experience you have,” Skye reflects. “The defence counsel can start off friendly and become more aggressive. You have to keep your professionalism and just answer the questions as calmly as possible.”

Her first time testifying as a fire investigator was a defining moment for Skye. Yet, her resilience and honesty earned her respect in the courtroom, helping to cement her reputation in the industry.

While the courtroom can be tough, the investigative side of her work is where Skye truly thrives. “I love taking the pieces of the puzzle and putting them together,” she explains. For Skye, fire investigation is like solving a mystery, one that requires a deep understanding of fire behaviour, meticulous attention to detail, and a relentless commitment to finding answers.

She also relishes the physical aspects of the job. “I’m not an office person,” she admits. “I like being out in the field, digging through debris, driving to different locations, and being physically active. I get to burn calories while working, what could be better?”

More than anything, Skye takes pride in being a voice for the victims of fires. “Somebody has to speak for them,” she says. “That’s why I was drawn to investigations involving deaths. It’s not just about the fire itself, it’s about understanding what happened and why and ensuring that justice is served.”

Her commitment to the job is clear, and Pario, a firm that specializes in forensic engineering and fire investigation, has welcomed Skye’s expertise. At Pario, Skye is responsible for conducting in-depth investigations into the causes of fires, often going beyond the initial findings to uncover potential faults or other contributing factors. It’s a role that allows her to apply her vast experience while continuing to grow and face new challenges.

Skye’s move from the public sector to Pario was influenced by the recommendation of a trusted colleague, Doug Horn. Doug spent eight years working as a senior fire investigator for Pario prior to retiring in 2023. His confidence in Pario’s innovative approach and supportive environment resonated with Skye, and she was eager to make the leap. Moving from the public to the private sector presented new challenges, but it also offered Skye the opportunity to push her investigative skills further.

“At Pario, we don’t just stop at identifying the cause of the fire,” Skye explains. “In the private sector, we dig deeper, looking for any additional factors that might have contributed to the incident. It’s a more thorough process, and I find that incredibly satisfying.”

One of the most exciting aspects of her new role is the focus on achieving and surpassing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). For a self-proclaimed perfectionist like Skye, this is both a challenge and a motivation. “Making sure my KPIs are at 100% is a big focus for me,” she says. “It’s not always easy, but I love the challenge.”

When she’s not investigating fires, Skye enjoys a range of activities that reflect her adventurous spirit. An avid golfer and motorcycle enthusiast, she finds joy in exploring new places and staying active. Skye is also deeply involved in her community, serving as the president of Camp BUCKO, an Ontario-based charity that supports children who have suffered burn injuries. Her leadership in this role highlights her commitment to making a difference, both professionally and personally.

Looking back on her career, Skye reflects on the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her into the expert she is today. From her early days as a police officer to her current role at Pario, Skye’s journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of truth, a deep sense of responsibility, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

As she continues her work with Pario, Skye is excited about the future and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the field of fire investigation. With her passion for the job and her drive to excel, there’s no doubt that Skye will continue to be a force to be reckoned with for many years to come.

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