El Paso in Austin Trailblazers
Honoring El Paso Leaders in Austin
The El Paso in Austin Network proudly recognizes
outstanding El Pasoans making a difference in Austin
through the Annual El Paso Trailblazers Awards.
Established in 2012, this event honors individuals who
exemplify service, innovation, and leadership.
Trailblazers are nominated by fellow El Pasoans and
celebrated at the annual Trailblazers Fall Reception. In
addition to being celebrated locally, honorees are
recognized back home in El Paso by having the iconic Star
on the Mountain lit in their honor.
Nominations are currently open, and any outstanding El
Pasoan living in Austin is eligible.
Trail Blazer 2024 Recipients
Lt. Xochitl Hernandez
has proudly served the Austin Fire Department for over 22 years. Throughout her distinguished career, Xochitl has protected Austin as an Operations firefighter and Ladder Operator on West Campus. She is also deeply committed to mentoring and training future firefighters, having developed the Firefit program to prepare incoming recruits and contributing to the Pass The Torch volunteer program. Currently, she is focused on solidifying candidates for the upcoming fire cadet class. As one of only 57 female firefighters in the Austin Fire Department, Xochitl continues to lead and inspire.
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She was also featured in Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls YouTube series, where she shared her passion for firefighting and demonstrated some of the specialized equipment she uses to save lives.
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Past Recipients
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