When Patty Dukes began her career as a paramedic, she was one of six women in her field.

That was 22 years ago. Now there are about 60 women in the Honolulu Emergency Medical Services Department and Dukes is the agency's chief. She is the first woman to hold that position in a major U.S. city and the first woman in the state to lead a public safety agency.

Dukes said she's more than up for the challenge following a ceremony with Gov. Linda Lingle, who recognized Dukes yesterday for her work and her pioneering leadership in emergency services.

"You're the first people citizens call," Lingle said. "You have an extremely special role in the community. I admire very much what you do."

Dukes began her career as a paramedic and moved up through the ranks. Seven months ago she was named chief.

Each year on O'ahu, EMS responds to more than 66,000 calls for medical emergencies and traumatic injuries.

Mobile intensive care technicians have attended more than 1,500 hours of college-accredited training in advanced life support and invasive medical techniques. The city now has 18 ambulance units.

With lei piled high around her neck, Dukes said she was grateful to the state for providing additional ambulances and paramedics, and for the recognition.

"It's a honor to be here today," Dukes said. "I believe that I am a representative of everyone in the department, not just women.

"I don't think that there's a whole lot of significance for a woman to be named to the post. I'm just trying to do a good job," she said.