Saved by Firefighters as a Child, Now Aspiring to Become a Firefighter
Published on December 04, 2024
Damon Yates shares his story at the Charlotte Fire Training Academy open house, where he took another step toward his dream of becoming a firefighter, inspired by those who once saved his life.
By Kevin Campbell, Charlotte Fire
For Damon Yates, the journey to becoming a firefighter is deeply personal. As a child, Yates and his mother were saved by firefighters during a devastating house fire. That singular event not only changed his life but also planted the seeds of a calling he now feels compelled to answer.
“I was three years old when firefighters saved me and my mother from a burning house,” Yates recounted. “That crew gave me 32 more years with my mother, who passed away two years ago. I want to repay that act of bravery and do the same for others.”
A cherished moment: Damon Yates with his late mother, Wendy Yates-Shaw, in 2019. Her memory motivates Damon in his pursuit of a career as a firefighter, honoring the firefighters who once saved their live.
Yates’s aspiration to become a firefighter took root early but has been shaped and refined over the years. Watching his older brother pursue a career in firefighting further solidified his interest. “My brother became a firefighter 11 years after our fire. I watched his journey—how he connected with his team, earned his rookie nickname, and embraced the camaraderie. It felt like I was born to do this,” Yates shared.
However, Yates’s path to fulfilling his dream was anything but straightforward. Originally from Connecticut, he faced intense competition when applying to fire departments, where thousands of applicants vied for a limited number of positions. “It was me against 2,000 others. After several attempts, I decided to strengthen my education and skills. I became a lifeguard and pursued a career in accounting and real estate,” he explained.
The Charlotte Fire Training Academy open house showcased the heart of firefighting. Dozens of attendees witnessed the teamwork and courage that define the profession.
In 2020, during the pandemic, Yates and his wife decided to relocate to Charlotte, drawn by family connections and the city’s potential. “I had family here and had attended Johnson C. Smith University for a couple of semesters, so I already knew Charlotte was a place of opportunity. My wife fell in love with the city, and it felt like the right move for us,” Yates said.
Over the last four years, Yates has prepared himself to take the next step toward his firefighting career. A member of The Point Church in Belmont, Yates forged a connection with a deputy chief in Belmont, which further strengthened his resolve. “I realized my nine-to-five job wasn’t fulfilling. My true passion lies in helping others, and I wanted to be ready when the time came to pursue firefighting.”
Damon Yates listens intently during the Charlotte Fire Training Academy open house, where he joined others in learning about the skills and dedication it takes to become a firefighter.
Yates recently attended a Charlotte Fire open house, where he observed crews demonstrating essential skills such as fire attack, door forcing, water supply setup, search and rescue, and rooftop ventilation. The experience reaffirmed his desire to serve with Charlotte Fire. “Watching the crews in action was incredible. It showed me the level of dedication and teamwork required for this job, and I know I’m ready for it,” he said.
When asked why he would choose a career that involves risking his life, Yates’s answer was straightforward: “Someone did it for me. They gave me the gift of time with my mother, and now it’s my turn to give back. I want to be a hero for my daughter, who asks me if I’ll become one. I hope to make her proud.”
Focused and determined, Damon Yates observes a demonstration at the Charlotte Fire Training Academy open house, taking a step closer to his dream of becoming a firefighter.
Yates’s story aligns with Charlotte Fire’s ongoing recruitment efforts. The department is currently accepting applications for firefighter recruits until Dec. 9. This process offers individuals like Yates the opportunity to join a department committed to excellence and community service.
Charlotte Fire Chief Reginald Johnson emphasized the importance of recruiting passionate individuals: “We’re looking for people who are ready to dedicate themselves to serving our community, just as our crews do every day. Damon’s story is a reminder of why we do what we do.”
For Yates, the journey is about more than a career change—it’s about fulfilling a purpose. “I want to honor my mother, my brother, and the firefighters who saved my life by giving back to a city that has given me so much,” he said.
Damon Yates stands among other attendees at the Charlotte Fire Training Academy open house, soaking in every moment of the experience that fuels his passion to serve.
Charlotte Fire encourages those inspired by stories like Yates’s to apply and begin their own journey of service. Applications can be submitted through Dec. 9 at CHARLOTTEFIRE.ORG
As Yates looks ahead to his future, his daughter’s words resonate deeply: “Daddy, are you going to become a hero?” With passion and determination, Yates is well on his way to answering that question with a resounding “yes.”
Damon Yates with his wife, Heidi, and their daughter, Hayden. Inspired by his family and the firefighters who once saved his life, Damon is determined to serve and protect others while creating a legacy his loved ones can be proud of.