Division Chief Justin Phillips has been promoted to oversee C shift at the Charlotte Fire Department, according to an April 13 announcement. The promotion marks a new chapter in Phillips’ more than two-decade career with the department.
The appointment is significant as it places Phillips in charge of approximately 350 personnel and operational leadership for one of Charlotte Fire’s three shifts. His leadership comes at a time when the city seeks to build a community defined by safety, equity, resilience, connectivity, health, prosperity, and innovation for all residents, according to the official website.
Phillips said his commitment to fire service began early due to his family’s deep involvement in firefighting. “As a child I would frequent the fire department with my family,” he said. “It’s kind of one of those things I’ve always known. When I was about to graduate high school and looking at the future, I knew that I wanted to have a career in the fire service.” He joined Charlotte Fire on Dec. 8, 2003 after participating in Mint Hill Fire Department’s junior firefighter program during his teenage years.
Reflecting on his journey through mentorship and experience within Charlotte Fire’s ranks, Phillips said: “Every officer that you have, you take a piece of them with you… That’s how you develop your leadership style. I didn’t have it all figured out early on. I had a lot to learn.” He emphasized supporting firefighters so they can serve effectively: “My role in that is making sure our folks are equipped…and making sure we have a safe environment.”
Charlotte Fire Chief Reginald Johnson praised Phillips’ promotion: “Justin Phillips represents the kind of leader Charlotte Fire is proud to promote…He understands that this job is about people first…His experience, compassion and steady leadership will serve C shift well.” As reported by the official website, Charlotte operates under a council-manager government structure led by Mayor Vi Lyles and City Manager Marcus D. Jones.
The city council consists of the mayor and eleven members who approve ordinances and set policy priorities according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Phillips wants members of C shift “to feel pride in being on C shift” while maintaining focus on professionalism and teamwork: “Because they’re the ones that matter.” Outside work he values family life—including adopting two children—and activities like running a small farm or competing locally in rodeo circuits.
Phillips summarized his outlook saying: “I want them [firefighters] to be proud of what they do… If people are proud…they’re going to produce.” His continued dedication reflects both personal values shaped from childhood experiences around firehouses and ongoing commitment toward public service.
