Lessons from the Fire Department: How 15 Years of Service Shaped My Life and Career
Serving on the fire department for over 15 years has impacted my life in more ways than I can count. It taught me the true meaning of teamwork, the importance of serving others, and the value of being prepared — not just for emergencies, but for life in general.
Some of my closest friendships were formed in those firehouse bays. We trained together, responded to calls together, and leaned on each other through some tough moments. You quickly learn that leadership matters, but so does humility. There’s no room for ego — everyone has to be ready to do any job, big or small, without hesitation.
Life has its own kind of fires — the unexpected, the difficult, the overwhelming. And one thing I’ve come to understand is that, just like in firefighting, you can’t get through it alone. You need a team. You need support. I believe God didn’t create us to walk this road by ourselves.
Looking back, I realize many of the lessons I learned on the fire department have stuck with me and continue to serve me well in my career today — especially in real estate with The Agency. Whether it’s working closely with clients, collaborating with our team, or simply listening to someone’s needs, those early experiences helped shape how I show up for others now.
One of the people who had a major impact on my journey was Robbie Steele. Not only did we serve together on the fire department, but I also had the privilege of working for him and his family during my high school years. Robbie ran a wholesale electrical and plumbing supply business, and that job taught me more than I ever expected — probably just enough to be dangerous! But more importantly, Robbie modeled what it looked like to run a business with integrity and to treat people the way you'd want to be treated.
Robbie and I are still friends today, even though I don’t see him often because he’s halfway across the country. He still runs that same business, now alongside his two adult sons. Thanks, Robbie, for all those memories and the lessons that have stayed with me to this day. Being on the fire department also helped me find one of my life long best friends in a guy name David Cook. David is one of the hardest working guys that I know and will do anything in the world to help anybody. This world needs more guys like David in it. David thanks for always taking my calls and still being a close friend, you are the best man.
That job was a blessing, and so was the volunteer time on the fire department. Both came into my life at just the right time, and looking back, I’m grateful for the foundation they gave me.
