Katherine Rodriguez

Advanced Public Information Officer

United States

At a loss for words? Let me help you.

I’m a Missouri-based communicator who believes in the power of clear, thoughtful storytelling to strengthen communities. I graduated from the University of North Texas Mayborn School of Journalism and have a special passion for public safety and helping people access the information they need most.

If you're looking for someone who enjoys creating content that informs, inspires, and builds community, let's connect.

LinkedIn Icon Resume Icon Email Icon
Portfolio

Featured Stories

City of Columbia Missouri
02/14/2025
Recreational fire safety tips

It's important to remember that recreational fires are regulated within Columbia's city limits to ensure safety for everyone.

City of Columbia Missouri
01/06/2025
Stay warm and safe this winter

While fireplaces, space heaters and other heating equipment bring comfort, they can also pose fire risks if not used carefully.

Social Media

Facebook
07/09/2025
CFD x MU Children's Hospital

Today, the Columbia Fire Department had the honor of helping these amazing superheroes rappel down MU Children's Hospital for their 1st birthday celebration! 🎉 Our crew members were spotting these...

Facebook
03/08/2025
International Women in Fire Day

In 1975, Mindy Collins made history as the first female firefighter at the Columbia Fire Department. At a time when the fire service was overwhelmingly male, CFD was encouraging women to apply-and...

Facebook
08/07/2024
Promotional Announcement

Please join us in congratulating Kelly Ross on her recent promotion to Fire Engineer! 🚒🔥 Engineer Ross has been with the Columbia Fire Department for almost four years. We look forward to seeing...

Instagram
10/07/2024
2024 Fire Prevention Week

Our Annual Fire Prevention Week Kickoff Party was a huge success! 🎉 We had a blast with games, music, delicious food, and tons of fun for the whole community. The fire extinguisher demos were a hit, and we shared some critical safety tips, all in line with this year’s theme: "Smoke Alarms: Make them work for you!"

Instagram
06/10/2024
Hummingbird Rescue

Today at Station 2, a hummingbird was looking for help and CFD answered the call. When Acting Engineer Kelly Ross noticed the injured bird tangled up in a spiderweb, she knew she had to act quickly. Ross was able to successfully detangle the hummingbird and send him on his way. Just goes to show you can always count on quality emergency care from CFD! 🐦👩‍🚒

Instagram
01/05/2025
Extra Units Deployed

🚒 Extra Units Deployed 🚒 The Columbia Fire Department urges everyone to stay safe during this winter storm by preparing ahead, exercising caution, and limiting travel to essential trips only. We have deployed additional personnel and units to handle increased call volumes and assist residents as needed. Remember to always call 911 in the event of an emergency, or 311 for non-emergencies. Stay safe and stay warm, Columbia!

Press Releases

Media Relations

ABC17NEWS
02/25/2025
Columbia Fire Department warns about lithium-ion battery safety risks

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ) The Columbia Fire Department advises being mindful when storing and using devices with lithium-ion batteries after two fires this month that were reportedly caused by them being overcharged and thrown away improperly. Batteries can be found in various everyday devices like toys, tablets electric vehicles, and vapes.

ABC17NEWS
08/04/2025
Fire at Eagle Bluffs Elementary ruled accidental

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ) Fire marshals have determined a fire that occurred last week while crews were working on the new Eagle Bluffs Elementary School on Sinclair Road was accidental. Columbia Fire Department spokeswoman Katherine Rodriguez told ABC 17 News in an email the fire was accidentally caused by construction crews who were using hot torches.

Campaigns