Ashley McCalla is a 2022 graduate of West Mifflin High School . Although she was somewhat timid as a freshman , she became a self-assured young woman with enough confidence to pursue her goals by challenging herself in several different areas .
One part of her transformation is due in part to her participation in the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps ( JROTC ) program . She became a member as a freshman , and quickly found herself connecting with others on projects , including public speaking which helped boost her confidence .
JROTC has rigorous standards for its members and the corps strives to achieve excellent grades . The corps also teaches leadership skills , and McCalla was eventually selected as the Corps Commander for the entire JROTC program .
“ I thought the corps was a great way to build confidence and help people at the same time ,” says McCalla .
Besides the JROTC , she found time to participate in marching band and concert band , where she played the snare drum . She also served on the student council , played soccer and was in the ski club . But one of her most remarkable achievements was becoming the school ’ s first female baseball player .
McCalla never liked softball and wanted to play baseball , but no girl had ever tried out for the team . So , she went to the coach . The athletic director , gave her permission to try out . McCalla has a lot of respect and appreciation for her coaches , who were initially concerned she might get hurt . But she persevered and was able to make the Junior Varsity team . She played left field her junior and senior years and was also the photographer for the Varsity baseball team .
Currently , McCalla is attending the Allegheny County Fire Academy with hopes of becoming a professional firefighter . She is also volunteering with Munhall Volunteer Fire Company , which is giving her some good experience . She ’ s just completed her first two certifications with the academy and should be done with her courses by spring .
“ I love it so far ! I really like the combination of learning new things , being able to put these skills to use and helping people out ,” says McCalla .
She has found some of the training to be difficult , such as forced entry when trying to get into a burning building . Many of the tools she ’ s required to carry are 20 — 30 lbs . a piece ! But she has been sticking with it , and has been able to push through . She would one day like to be a pilot and incorporate her flying skills with firefighting by becoming a wild land fire pilot . Judging by her previous track record of achieving her goals , we ’ re betting she makes it ! n
Ashley volunteering with Munhall Volunteer Fire Department .
Playing the snare drums for West Mifflin Marching Band .
WEST MIFFLIN ❘ FALL 2022 15