Charlotte Fire Department, Charlotte NC

Members of the Charlotte Fire Pipes and Drums had the honor of performing “Amazing Grace” during the opening ceremonies of the Coca-Cola 600, helping pay tribute to NASCAR driver Kyle Busch in a powerful moment of remembrance.

Their performance connected a memorial tribute with the larger Memorial Day weekend ceremony, bringing together tradition, reflection, and respect before one of racing’s biggest events.

Whether performing at firefighter memorials, community ceremonies, or on one of the sport’s largest stages, the Charlotte Fire Pipes and Drums continue to represent Charlotte Fire with professionalism and pride while honoring those whose lives and legacies leave a lasting impact.

Five recruits. Five different paths. One shared goal.

A Charlotte native inspired through the Explorers program. A college graduate moved by the impact of Hurricane Helene. A military veteran searching for a new way to serve. A fourth-generation firefighter continuing a family legacy. A recruit who chose Charlotte Fire after considering a career in law enforcement.

Their stories are different, but each found a future with Charlotte Fire.

Read their story and learn what it takes to become part of the next generation of Charlotte firefighters.

Read the story and apply today: bit.ly/Class135

A career with purpose. A paycheck while you train. A retirement worth investing in. Opportunities to grow throughout your career.

Charlotte Fire is accepting firefighter recruit applications now.

No experience necessary. We'll provide the training. You bring the commitment.

Apply today at bit.ly/JoinCharlotteFire

Charlotte Fire officially broke ground Wednesday morning on the future home of Firehouse 47 at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, marking another major investment in emergency operations and public safety at one of the busiest airports in the world.

The new 55,000-square-foot facility will house Battalion 8, Engine 47, and Blaze units 1, 2, and 5, becoming Charlotte Fire’s third airport firehouse at CLT. Positioned on the southwestern side of the airfield, the firehouse will strengthen coverage, improve firefighter safety, and support the airport’s continued expansion ahead of the future opening of Runway 1C-19C in 2027.

From aircraft emergencies and medical calls to fires and hazardous materials incidents, the firefighters assigned here will protect millions of travelers, employees, and visitors moving through Charlotte Douglas International Airport every year.

As Charlotte grows, Charlotte Fire continues building for the future.

Behind every flashing light is a crew willing to step into heat, smoke, and uncertainty for people they have never met. Day after day, Charlotte firefighters answer the call knowing every second matters.

What started as a report of smoke off the side of the freeway quickly turned into a working fire on the 2100 block of Dove Dr. Engine 21 arrived to find heavy fire coming from the home, with additional Charlotte Fire companies and crews from West Mecklenburg Fire responding to assist.

Firefighters worked for 41 minutes in intense conditions to bring the fire under control and protect nearby homes. No injuries were reported.

This is the work Charlotte firefighters do every day across the Queen City.

For Charlotte Fire Captain Michael Feneis, service has never stopped at the fireground.

Before becoming president of the IAFF Charlotte Firefighters, Feneis spent more than a decade with the Detroit Fire Department during one of the city’s toughest economic periods before bringing his experience to Charlotte Fire in 2013.

Today, he balances life as a captain, Special Operations member, husband, father and advocate for firefighters while helping lead conversations surrounding pay parity, benefits and the future of Charlotte Fire personnel.

The story also looks at his work with Charlotte Fire Pipes and Drums, disaster deployments and the lessons he hopes to pass on to his children.

Read more here: bit.ly/Feneis