People to Meet: Tyler Gordon, Tulsa Firefighter
Tyler Gordon always knew he wanted to be a firefighter.
His grandfather served with the Tulsa Fire Department, and growing up around that legacy inspired Gordon to follow the same path. Today, at 26 years old, he’s living that dream as one of the department’s newest firefighters after graduating from the Tulsa Fire Department’s Fire Academy in March.
Gordon is assigned to Station 16 on C Platoon, where he’s learning from experienced firefighters while serving the Tulsa community.
“One of the things that drew me to the fire service was how much it feels like a family,” Gordon says. “Fire departments are built on trust, support and tradition, and there’s something special about being part of a group that looks out for one another the way a family does.”
For Gordon, the best part of the job is knowing he can make a difference.
“Whether it’s during an emergency or just being there when someone needs a little help, I enjoy making a real difference in people’s lives,” he says. “I also like that no two days are ever the same. Every shift brings something new, and each call makes you think on your feet.”
Firefighters respond to much more than fires. On any given shift, Gordon and his crew may answer medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, rescue calls or structure fires.
“Every situation is different,” he says. “We have to adapt quickly and work as a team to provide the best possible service. Our goal is always to protect lives and serve our community.”
Becoming a firefighter isn’t easy. Gordon says it takes determination and persistence, and not everyone is hired on their first try.
Tulsa’s Fire Academy lasts 26 weeks and challenges recruits both physically and mentally. Trainees learn how to pull hose lines, connect hydrants, respond to medical emergencies, perform search-and-rescue operations and master many other skills they’ll use on the job.
“You build strong bonds and trust with your classmates as you work through challenges together,” Gordon says. “By the end, you’re not just trained — you’re part of a crew that trusts and relies on each other.”
The work can also be physically demanding. Gordon’s protective gear weighs between 75 and 85 pounds before additional tools or hose are added.
While strength helps, he says endurance matters even more.
“Being able to work for a long time while tired is a big deal,” he says.
Learning to use the equipment, including a New York hook and thermal imaging cameras, was also part of his training—and an important part of understanding how to work an emergency.
But for Gordon, being part of the Tulsa Fire Department means more than responding to emergencies.
“It’s being part of a department steeped in history and tradition, surrounded by great people and getting to do awesome stuff while making a difference in our community,” he says.
Fast Five with Tyler Gordon
- Favorite station meal: Pork steaks
- Coffee or energy drinks? Energy drinks
- Dogs or cats? Dogs
- How much does firefighter gear weigh? About 75 to 85 pounds, plus additional tools when needed.
- Best advice for kids who want to become firefighters someday: Be persistent, stay physically fit and never give up on your goal.
