Charlotte Fire Department

Training the next generation of firefighters is no small task, but for Capt. Jason Cook, it's a mission fueled by passion, dedication, and a deep sense of responsibility. Overseeing Recruit Class 127, Capt. Cook has guided these brave individuals from day one, transforming them from nervous newcomers into confident, skilled firefighters ready to serve our community. Under Capt. Cook's leadership, these recruits have faced live fire drills, intense training, and the mental challenges of preparing for a job that demands their best every single day. But through it all, they've learned to trust each other and push beyond their limits. Let’s give a shoutout to Capt. Cook and Recruit Class 127 for their hard work and dedication. Your courage and commitment inspire us all! hashtag Read the entire story here -> https://bit.ly/3XhZ2TK Be part of the greatest fire department in the country and help protect your community. Fill out this interest form to stay updated on how you can join Charlotte Fire at https://bit.ly/45GUmc6

MEET A CHARLOTTE FIRE RECRUIT: At just 25, Mallory Gazerro found her true calling not in the legal world, but in the heart of her community as a firefighter. After realizing her paralegal career wasn’t fulfilling, she made a bold move—volunteering at Pineville Fire Department. This experience ignited her passion for service, leading her to become the newly elected president of Charlotte Fire's Recruit Class 127. Mallory’s journey is one of courage, faith, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. As class president, she’s leading by example, demonstrating that true leadership is about compassion, dedication, and sacrifice. Whether it’s staying organized during training or connecting with people on their worst days, Mallory embodies what it means to be a firefighter. Her story is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the path to fulfillment requires a leap of faith. For Mallory, firefighting isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. “This tiny bit of time on earth, if I can use it to serve other people, make sacrifices, do really hard things for the benefit of others—I’m down.” Be part of the greatest fire department in the country and help protect your community. Fill out this interest form to stay updated on how you can join Charlotte Fire at https://bit.ly/45GUmc6

Charlotte's 5th Annual Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Conference – A New Era of Inclusion Mark your calendars! The City of Charlotte is proud to host the fifth annual Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Conference from September 29 to October 2. This is not just another conference—it's a transformative experience that challenges the traditional narratives around DEI. While race and gender remain essential aspects of our discussions, we're taking a broader approach this year. Expect engaging conversations on recruitment, legal considerations, cultural diversity, and human relations. Our workplaces are constantly evolving, and our theme, “Bridging Perspectives, Empowering Change with Intentional Inclusion,” reflects the need to evolve with them. Change is never easy, and it's often tempting to stick to what we know. But true growth happens when we push beyond our comfort zones. Relying on outdated methods and expecting new results won't drive the progress we need—it's time to rethink, reimagine, and rebuild. At this conference, we'll dive deep into the barriers that hold us back, both personally and organizationally. Together, we'll explore actionable strategies to foster a truly inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. This is your chance to be part of a movement that’s reshaping the future of our organizations. 👉 Register now: Eventbrite Link #DiversityAndInclusion #LeadershipDevelopment #EmpoweringChange #CharlotteConference #DEIInitiatives #InnovateAndInspire

At Charlotte Firehouse 27, a unique partnership has become a beacon of hope and mental health awareness. Firefighter Matthew Wiatrowski and his therapy dog, Phoenix, are not just colleagues in service; they are a testament to Charlotte Fire's commitment to mental health and the transformative power of the K9 Therapy Program. Read the full story here -> https://bit.ly/3SSkX1k

Welcome to the Charlotte Fire family! Help us congratulate Charlotte Fire’s newest firefighters graduating from Recruit Class 126. Brandon Anderson, Parker Aug, Jason Butler, Jonathan Lessey, Steven Luisa, Rashad Martin, Matthew Cowell, David Nemeth, Evan Doria, Jesus Padilla Jr., Brandon Eddins, Tommy Shields, Lane Fields, Kenneth Schott II, Woo Ham, Gavin Spires, Timothy Kennedy, Stephen Taylor. Pictured with training officer Capt. Denise Petraske.

Meet Capt. Jason Cook of Charlotte Fire, the driving force behind the transformation of Recruit Class 127. "It's cool seeing people come in on their first day, seeing their class, and not really knowing each other. Everybody’s kind of nervous, and then seeing everybody form and gel together because, at the end of the goal, everybody wants to graduate," Cook said. Recruits come from all walks of life—some with experience, others completely new to firefighting. Under Cook’s guidance, they build essential skills and confidence. Be part of the greatest fire department in the country and help protect your community. Fill out this interest form to stay updated on how you can join Charlotte Fire at https://bit.ly/45GUmc6

Join Us for the 5th Annual Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Conference in Charlotte! We’re thrilled to announce the City of Charlotte's fifth annual Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Conference, happening from September 29 to October 2. When you hear "DEI Conference," race and gender often come to mind, but this event is so much more. We're expanding the conversation to include recruitment strategies, legal frameworks, cultural diversity, and human relations. Our workplaces are evolving, and so must we. The theme, “Bridging Perspectives, Empowering Change with Intentional Inclusion,” speaks directly to this need. Sticking to the familiar can be tempting, but true growth comes when we step outside our comfort zones. Continuing to do things "the way they've always been done" can stifle innovation and progress. We all know that repeating the same actions and expecting different results is the very definition of insanity. This conference is more than just a dialogue—it’s a catalyst for change. We'll explore how to dismantle organizational and personal barriers, paving the way for true inclusion and sustained success. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of the conversation that will shape the future of our workplaces. 👉 Register today: Eventbrite Link #DEI #Leadership #Empowerment #IntentionalInclusion #CharlotteEvents #DiversityMatters

Christopher Holden, a determined young man from Durham, NC, is about to begin his first year at Davidson College, studying economics. His path to higher education has been anything but ordinary, marked by resilience and an unwavering commitment to his future. Christopher recently received a $2,000 scholarship from the Charlotte Chapter of the Firefighters’ Burned Children Fund, an award that highlights not just his academic goals but also his incredible journey of recovery and perseverance. A year ago, Christopher's life took an unexpected turn. While frying doughnuts at home, he accidentally overheated the oil, causing the pot to catch fire. In a hurried attempt to remove the burning pot from the kitchen, it spilled, resulting in severe second and third-degree burns on his arms and leg. What followed was a long and painful recovery, including multiple surgeries and skin grafts. Despite the physical and emotional challenges, Christopher remained focused on his future. The scholarship is designed to support burn survivors under 25 who are pursuing higher education. Christopher, who recently graduated from Northern High School in Durham, stood out not just for his eligibility but also for his ambition. He plans to follow in his father's footsteps, who has had a long career as an accountant, by majoring in economics. He also aims to pursue a law degree, focusing on corporate law. For Christopher, receiving this scholarship is a validation of his hard work and resilience. The Charlotte Chapter of FFBCF, which prioritizes residents of Mecklenburg and North Carolina students, saw in Christopher a young man ready to overcome adversity and seize his future. As he prepares to move to Davidson College on August 19th, Christopher reflects on his journey with gratitude and optimism. The burns he suffered may have left scars, but they also symbolize his strength and determination to succeed. With the support of the FFBCF scholarship, he is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, proving that even in the face of adversity, one can achieve their dreams.

FOCUS ON A CHARLOTTE FIREFIGHTER: Charlotte Firefighter Matthew Wiatrowski brought 16 years of volunteer firefighting experience with him when he moved to Charlotte. His journey with Charlotte Fire opened a new chapter in his life, one filled with both opportunities and personal challenges. Together with Phoenix, he's now helping to shine a light on the importance of mental health for first responders. Dogs of the Charlotte Fire Department The 988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. Using 988 is free. When you call, text, or chat 988, your conversation is confidential. 988 provides you judgment-free care. Talking with someone can help save your life. Be part of the greatest fire department in the country and help protect your community. Fill out this interest form to stay updated on how you can join Charlotte Fire at https://bit.ly/45GUmc6

In response to the potential hazardous conditions caused by Tropical Storm Debby, the Charlotte Fire’s Swift Water Rescue Team has been deployed to Elizabethtown, NC. The team left the Charlotte Fire Special Operations Command this morning at 8:00 a.m. to provide critical support and assistance. The deployment consists of a Type 1 swift water team, whose primary mission is to rescue or evacuate individuals stranded by floodwaters. Be part of the greatest fire department in the country and help protect your community. Fill out this interest form to stay updated on how you can join Charlotte Fire at https://bit.ly/45GUmc6