When I first stepped into the world of firefighting with Clayton County 12 years ago (not even counting those five earlier years as an Explorer with the county), I never quite imagined I’d be a lieutenant this soon. Honestly, I wasn’t even sure if I’d ever take on that rank. But here I am, five years into being a lieutenant, and the journey has taught me a lot more than just how to run a fire station.
The Reality Check of Leadership
Before I got promoted I thought being a lieutenant was mostly about being the boss and calling the shots. It turns out it’s not about you at all. It’s about your crew. It’s about supporting them, guiding them, and making sure they have what they need to succeed. One of my old captains used to say,“Be a LT is like being the highest paid janitor around.” At first, I didn’t get it. But now I do. You’re there to clean up the messes, support your team, and keep things running smoothly.
Lessons Learned on the Front Lines
Over these five years, I’ve learned that leadership is really about the people you serve. It’s about figuring out how to help them grow, how to manage different personalities, and how to be the calm in the storm. Sure I had those nights where I’d lie awake thinking, “What if this or that happens?” But the biggest challenges aren’t just the emergencies. They’re about learning to lead a family that’s made up of individuals, each with their own way of doing things.
Making a Difference, One Day at a Time
I didn’t become a lieutenant to be in the spotlight. I did it because I felt a calling to make a difference, to make sure everyone on my crew feels respected and part of a family. And even though it can be tough, I have no regrets so far. I believe I’m here for a reason, and I’m grateful for the chance to make a difference.
So to all my aspiring lieutenants, future store managers, or anyone stepping into a leadership role remember this… it’s not about the title, the paycheck, or being in charge. It’s about how you show up for your people. Your real job is to make them better to help them grow and to have their back when it matters most.
