Capt. Jerry Rodgers Jr. of the Charlotte Fire Department has been honored as the 2025 Officer of the Year, a recognition of his nearly 40 years of tireless service and significant contributions to the force. As the commanding officer of one of the department’s most specialized units, Rescue 10, Capt. Rodgers has remained committed to excellence, setting a high bar for those around him through his steadfast leadership and dedication.
Having joined the Charlotte Fire in November 1986, Rodgers witnessed and adapted to the expansion of a bustling city and its fire services. "We have almost doubled in size since I came on in 1986," Rodgers told CharlotteNC.gov. His journey saw a transition from front-line operations to the Training Academy and into the realm of Special Operations.
Mentorship played a pivotal role in Rodgers' career, as he drew inspiration from the guidance of experienced leaders within the department. This foundation of support motivated him to contribute significantly to programs such as Urban Search and Rescue (USAR), the department's flood water rescue capability, and the Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team (HART). Rodgers aimed to "give citizens a chance on their worst day," he explained in a statement to CharlotteNC.gov.
Inside Rescue 10, Capt. Rodgers is known for his exceptional crews and the professional drive they embody. His leadership philosophy places a strong emphasis on trust and respect, giving individuals the space to challenge themselves and learn. This approach has earned him the respect of colleagues like Engineer Dennis White, who noted Rodgers' unwavering consistency and the trust that has come to defined Rescue 10.
The influence of Capt. Rodgers extends beyond the rush of emergency response. As a Training Officer, he has shaped the careers of numerous recruits who have risen through the ranks to become officers and chiefs. His time at the Academy was particularly impactful, where he took to heart the responsibility of molding young people into proficient firefighters. Capt. Rodgers often reminded his trainees to "respect others, keep training, learn something every day, and remember why they wanted to be here in the first place," according to CharlotteNC.gov.
Fire Chief Reginald Johnson remarked on the profound impact of Capt. Rodgers' service, stating, "He has built programs, guided careers, and served citizens with skill and compassion. His influence reaches far beyond his own company and is embedded in the way Charlotte Fire responds and trains today."
