Inspector Archer joined the NSW SES in 2020, bringing with her experience from volunteering with smaller community organisations and a desire to make a difference on a larger scale.
"The smiles, the gratitude and the thanks you receive from people you've helped make every moment worthwhile," Inspector Archer said.
"Being a young female unit commander has driven me to lead and mentor other women into leadership roles. Watching them grow, achieve their goals and step into leadership roles themselves makes me incredibly proud and humbled."
Reflecting on her time with the NSW SES, Inspector Archer says search operations have been among the most rewarding experiences.
One standout moment was assisting in the large-scale 2021 search for missing boy AJ near Putty.
"The sense of community and relief when he was located was overwhelming."
"As we left the search area, people were cheering, waving and sounding their horns. It's something I'll never forget."
Another defining moment came in 2022, during a challenging search near Booragul, where a missing elderly man was located in swampy terrain.
"Working alongside NSW Police and NSW Ambulance to extricate him safely was incredibly rewarding."
"It really highlighted the vital role the SES plays in helping the community during some of its most critical moments."
Inspector Archer also served as a radio operator and call taker in the flood rescue cell during the devastating 2022 Northern Rivers floods.
"The scale of devastation to the community was immense," she said.
"That experience strengthened my determination to do even more to help. I've since trained as an In-Water Flood Rescue Operator so I can be hands-on when people need assistance."
For Inspector Archer, volunteering with the NSW SES offers far more than emergency response experience.
"It's an opportunity to learn new skills, push yourself outside your comfort zone and give back to your community."
"I've also made lifelong friendships and memories I'll always value."
Inspector Archer encourages anyone considering volunteering to take the first step.
"You never know where your volunteer journey might lead."
