Carmel Fire Auxiliary

06/24/2026

Welcome, Sam!

🔥 Welcome Recruit Sam Crail! 🔥

Sam Crail, 27, is from Sheridan, Indiana, and currently resides in Noblesville. Family plays a major role in Sam’s life, and he credits his parents, Christie and Ray, along with his siblings, Katy and Jack, as a strong support system. He grew up on a farm and has had many pets over the years, and currently has two dogs, Buck and Lucy.

Prior to joining the Carmel Fire Department, Sam worked as an electrician in new construction, specializing in custom homes. Before that, he played college baseball at Indiana University and Saint Leo University, and was part of Indiana University’s Big Ten Championship team in 2019.

Sam’s interest in the fire service began at a young age, as his father served as a firefighter in Westfield. After talking with his dad and hearing about the experiences and memories made throughout his career, Sam knew this was the path he wanted to pursue.

His favorite part of the academy so far has been learning new aspects of emergency medical care while also building strong relationships with his classmates.

Sam’s long-term goal is to serve in a leadership role within the department, but for now, he is focused on learning as much as possible and becoming the best firefighter and EMT he can be.

Outside of the academy, Sam enjoys staying active by playing golf, pickleball, and lifting weights, as well as spending time with family. His go-to meal is chicken and rice, but his favorite is his mom’s country fried steak. A fun fact: Sam enjoys cooking and trying new recipes.

Welcome to the Carmel Fire Department, Sam! 🚒🔥

06/23/2026

Welcome, Stuart!

🔥 Welcome Recruit Stuart Donlan! 🔥

Stuart Donlan, 23, was born and raised in Indianapolis, IN, where he currently lives with his fiancée, Jadyn, their Australian Shepherd puppy Buckle, and her cat Havarti. Stuart is the youngest of three siblings, and his family has deep Indiana roots.

Firefighting has always been in Stuart’s blood—both his father and grandfather served, and a first-grade journal shows he’s dreamed of following in their footsteps for most of his life. Before joining the Carmel Fire Department, he graduated from the University of Olivet in Media Production and Communications, wrestled in college, and ran a small woodworking business.

He chose Carmel FD for its culture and community reputation. Stuart recalls the moment he received his hiring call as a huge relief and a proud milestone. At the academy, he’s loved the teamwork and camaraderie, and while applying textbook knowledge to real-world scenarios has been challenging, seeing the hard work pay off has been incredibly rewarding.

Stuart’s career goal is simple: always keep learning and improving. In his free time, he enjoys camping, hunting, woodworking, and spending time with family. He describes himself as genuine, and his advice to aspiring firefighters is: “Do it. Don’t second guess it.”

Serving the Carmel community means living his calling to help others and being part of a team that truly makes a difference.

06/23/2026

Welcome, Shawn!

🔥 Welcome Recruit Shawn Lashbrook! 🔥

Shawn Lashbrook, 32, grew up in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and now lives in Upland, Indiana with his wife Sarina. The couple will celebrate their 10-year wedding anniversary this August and are busy raising two young children — daughter Jhetta (2½) and son Locke (6 months). Their home is also full of four-legged family members: two dogs, Luna and Julep, and a cat named Dezi.

Before entering the fire service, Shawn spent a decade as a college football coach, bringing the same competitive drive and leadership he learned as a standout athlete. He studied Exercise Science and Psychology at Taylor University and later earned his master’s degree from Ball State University. He is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. During his college playing days, Shawn was recognized as an All-American wide receiver.

The idea of becoming a firefighter first surfaced in the summer of 2024 when a friend shared his experience in the fire service. The challenge and purpose of the profession stuck with Shawn for the next year, and he knew that if he ever stepped away from coaching, it was a path he wanted to pursue.

He chose the Carmel Fire Department because he wanted to be surrounded by excellence and trained by the best, pushing himself to become the best firefighter he can be. When Chief Ray called to offer him a position in the recruit class, Shawn says he was filled with gratitude and excitement, thanking him for the opportunity and eager to get started.

So far in the academy, Shawn’s favorite part has been learning from the instructors, whose deep knowledge and wide range of real-world experience have been invaluable to the class. The biggest challenge has been balancing time between academy studies and his responsibilities at home with his wife and young children.

What’s been most rewarding, he says, is reaching a level of preparation where he feels confident caring for patients and serving as a capable EMT and firefighter. Through the process, he’s grown in confidence and communication — working with fellow first responders, medical professionals, and the patients he will serve.

On difficult days, Shawn stays motivated by remembering who he’s working for — his family at home and the families in the community who will depend on him during emergencies.

Looking ahead, he hopes to maximize his abilities within the department and has an interest in becoming a paramedic, as well as potentially contributing in training, education, and leadership roles in the future.

When he’s off duty, Shawn enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, woodworking, playing competitive sports, watching movies, and shooting. His favorite meal? Breakfast for dinner.

A fun fact about Shawn: he was born in California, but his family moved to Florida when he was just one year old after their home was destroyed in a wildfire — making his journey into the fire service feel like a full-circle moment.

If he had to describe himself in one word, it would be competitive. His advice to anyone considering the fire service: “Do it! It’s an incredible opportunity to serve and find real purpose in your work.”

For Shawn, serving Carmel means being held to the highest standards by the community and local government — a responsibility he considers both a privilege and an honor. And if you see him around town, don’t hesitate to say hello. As he puts it, “I love people — feel free to introduce yourself and don’t be a stranger.”

Welcome to the Carmel Fire Department, Shawn! 🚒🔥

06/20/2026

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06/19/2026

Welcome, “Q”!

🔥 Welcome Recruit Quinton “Q” Jackson! 🔥

Quinton Jackson, 32, known to friends as “Q,” was born in Anderson, IN, spent his childhood in Harlingen, TX, and now resides in Elwood, IN with his wife Makayla (a registered nurse), their sons Jayden (9) and Avery (born 2/18/26), Moose the silver lab, and Cindy Lou the cat.

Q began his fire service journey after a life-changing moment in 2017: a severe motorcycle accident in which he received care from Anderson Fire paramedics. Inspired by their professionalism and teamwork, he pursued certifications in EMT, Fire 1 & 2, and Hazmat Awareness/Operations, while also working as a correctional officer in Hamilton County. He then spent 4 years serving at the Elwood Fire Department before joining the Carmel Fire Department.

He chose Carmel FD for its professional growth opportunities and strong community involvement. Q recalls the moment he received the hiring call while shopping for his son’s Halloween costume — an unforgettable mix of pride and excitement.

At the academy, his favorite part has been witnessing the passion and professionalism of instructors and fellow students, which motivates him to continue growing and become a valuable asset to the department. The biggest challenge so far has been balancing home life with academy, especially with a newborn at home, but he credits his supportive wife as his rock.

Q’s career goals include serving as a medic on an engine or ambulance, obtaining confined space and swift water certifications, and eventually moving into a leadership role. He enjoys social gatherings, working out, playing Madden on the Xbox, and pizza which is a weekly necessity.

In addition to firefighting, Q owns Fireworx Mobile Detailing, an auto detailing business. He describes himself as resilient, and his advice to aspiring firefighters is simple: “Be ready to put forth all your effort to learn the knowledge and skills needed to succeed.”

For Q, serving the Carmel community means providing the best possible patient care, building on both prior experience and new knowledge gained through the academy, and being a role model for his sons.

06/18/2026

Welcome, Elijah!

🔥 Welcome Recruit Elijah Shell! 🔥

Elijah Shell, 28, was born in Nashville, TN, and now calls Indianapolis home. Before joining the Carmel Fire Department, Elijah served as an active-duty Army captain and U.S. Army Pathfinder with the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, KY. He also studied aviation at Western Michigan University and earned his pilot’s license at just 18 years old!

Elijah first knew he wanted to become a firefighter when he realized most of his best friends were in the profession and loved what they did. When it came time to choose a department, he didn’t settle, it was Carmel or nothing. The moment he got the call that he was officially hired? Relief, excitement, and a sense of accomplishment all rolled into one.... especially since he had already ended his military career and moved to Indiana while waiting for the news.

In the academy, Elijah says his favorite part has been the people, both instructors and fellow students. The biggest challenge? Time management. The most rewarding? Watching his EMS skills come together and finally make sense. Through it all, he’s grown by focusing single-mindedly on his goals, and he stays motivated knowing it’s all worth it for the end result.

Elijah is loving the EMS side of the career and is excited to continue learning and serving the community. Outside of the firehouse, you’ll find him outdoors anywhere, anytime — enjoying activities with his German Shepherd.

His advice to aspiring firefighters? “It’s a long process — be prepared to be in it for the long haul.”

For Elijah, serving the Carmel community means growing roots in a place where he can make a real difference.

06/15/2026

Welcome, Alan!

🔥 Welcome Recruit Alan Stepp! 🔥

Alan Stepp, 35, is a lifelong resident of Arcadia, Indiana, where he still lives today with his wife, Zara. The couple has been married for two years and shares their home with their energetic 3-year-old Border Collie.

Before joining the fire service, Alan built a diverse professional background. He spent eight years manufacturing optics for military and defense contractors, followed by time working in a cardiology clinic as an EMT/Medical Assistant. He also dedicated several years to teaching Jiu-jitsu, combining discipline, fitness, and mentorship. His path to the fire service began with a ride-along in Colorado, where a Captain encouraged him to explore the career. After just one shift, Alan knew he had found his calling.

Alan chose the Carmel Fire Department to return home after 17 years away, prioritizing time with his family as his parents get older and as he and his wife plan to start a family of their own. Having always enjoyed the Carmel area, it felt like the right place both personally and professionally.

He received his official job offer while already deep into a fire academy in Charlotte, North Carolina—making the decision bittersweet. However, Carmel had always been his top choice, and he knew it was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up.

Alan’s favorite part of the academy so far has been building relationships within his recruit class and gaining experience through ride-alongs with ambulance crews. One of his biggest challenges has been starting a second academy after nearly completing his first—ultimately spending close to a full year in training—but he has embraced the process and values the constant learning.

Throughout the journey, Alan has seen his confidence grow significantly. Initially unsure about entering the fire service later than some, he now knows he is fully capable of succeeding. He credits his motivation to the unwavering support of his wife and father, pushing him to give his best every day.

Looking ahead, Alan hopes to spend time developing as an EMT on the ambulance, then transition to an engine company and eventually pursue an engineer role. Later in his career, he may consider becoming an officer if he feels his experience can positively impact the next generation of firefighters.

Outside of work, Alan enjoys staying active through Jiu-jitsu and kickboxing, along with backpacking and camping trips with his wife and dog. A state-level Jiu-jitsu tournament winner during his time in Colorado, he brings both discipline and determination to everything he does. A fun fact—he survived being ejected from a car at age 17—an experience that likely shaped his resilience.

Described in one word as quiet, Alan encourages those interested in the fire service to stay persistent and not get discouraged by the demanding hiring process. To him, serving the Carmel community is especially meaningful, as it allows him to give back to the place he grew up and the people who helped shape him.

06/13/2026

🌅🏇 POLO AT SUNSET 🏇🌅

Join us for an unforgettable evening of polo, community, and purpose as we come together to support Morning Dove Therapeutic and The Heroes Club, benefiting local first responders and equine-assisted programs.

📅 Friday, June 19
📍 Sunset Polo Field
7551 E 100 N.
Whitestown, IN 46075

🚗 Just $40 Per Carload
⏰ Fields Open: 5:00 PM
🏇 Match Starts: 6:00 PM

✨ Reserved Tailgate Spaces Still Available – $1,000
The ultimate way to experience the match with friends, family, clients, or coworkers!

🎟️ Auction Highlights
• Exclusive First Responder Experiences
• Barn Experiences & Meet-and-Greets with the Horses
(You do not need to be present to win!)

🎉 Fun for the Whole Family
🐐 Petting Zoo
🎨 Face Painting
🎈 Kids Activities & More
🍷 Wine Pull
🥃 Liquor Pull
💰 50/50 Raffle

Bring your lawn chairs, gather your crew, and enjoy an evening of thrilling polo action while supporting two incredible organizations making a difference in our community.

❤️ Every ticket helps support local first responders, veterans, and individuals benefiting from therapeutic equine programs.

🏇🌅❤️

06/12/2026

Welcome Luke!

🔥 Welcome Recruit Luke Robinson! 🔥

Luke Robinson, 27, grew up in Indianapolis and is currently living in Fairland while completing the academy before moving to Carmel in July. At home, he has a Golden Retriever named Bailey who keeps life fun outside of training.

Luke graduated from Franklin Central High School and earned a degree in Sports Management with a business certificate from IUPUI. He also served six years in the Army National Guard as an 11B Infantryman. Before joining the fire service, Luke worked as a ramp agent at FedEx handling international outbound flights.

Luke originally planned to work in the sports industry, but after a conversation with his brother-in-law on the Indianapolis Fire Department, he realized the fire service combined everything he loved — teamwork, physical challenges, and purpose — into one career.

He chose the Carmel Fire Department because of its strong reputation and culture of excellence. When he found out he was hired, Luke said he felt relief and gratitude after working so hard to reach this goal.

His favorite part of the academy so far was the class’s first big EMS scenario, where he had to call in a report during a cardiac arrest call — and accidentally gave fake vitals, which is something the class still laughs about.

The most challenging part of the academy has been learning fire and EMS with no prior experience, but the most rewarding part has been knowing he’s now in a position to truly help people and make a difference.

Luke says he’s grown and matured through the process and stays motivated by his fellow recruits, his family, and the people who will one day rely on him.

He hopes to continue growing within the department and would like to join the SWAT team in the future.

Outside of training, Luke enjoys playing in an adult soccer league, pickleball, bowling, hiking, and anything sports-related. He also reached the Masters rank in League of Legends and played on his college team for a year. His favorite food is traditional chicken wings from Ale Emporium or Chatham Tap.

If he had to describe himself in one word, it would be “Leader.” His advice to anyone interested in the fire service: “Make sure you know your why. You have to have a purpose.”

For Luke, serving Carmel means giving back to a community that gives so much and being able to bring a little light to people on their worst days.

Welcome to the Carmel Fire Department, Luke! 🚒🔥

06/11/2026

Welcome Grant!

🔥 Welcome Recruit Grant Ferren! 🔥

Grant Ferren, 21, grew up in Sheridan and currently lives in Westfield with his wife, Alma. The couple is excitedly expecting their baby girl, Ella, in June.

Grant completed his EMT certification through Ivy Tech and spent two years working in the adult and pediatric emergency rooms at IU North. His interest in firefighting grew after talking with Carmel Fire Department personnel during a patient drop-off and completing a ride-along, where he got a firsthand look at the daily life of a firefighter.

He chose the Carmel Fire Department for its professionalism and commitment to the community — a culture he knew would push him to be his best. When he found out he was hired, Grant said he felt excitement at the opportunity to provide for his family and prove himself professionally.

His favorite part of the academy so far has been clinicals at CFD stations, where he can actively serve the community. The most challenging aspect has been balancing work, life, and training, while the most rewarding has been seeing how much he has grown and adapted to the academy’s challenges.

Grant stays motivated on difficult days by thinking of his wife and soon-to-be-born daughter. His career goal is to become a paramedic, with interest in exploring specialty teams in the future.

Outside of training, Grant enjoys fishing, woodworking, and spending time with his wife. He also spent seven years in marching band, playing tuba and baritone saxophone, and served as drum major his final two years. His favorite meal is steak and mashed potatoes.

If he had to describe himself in one word, Grant says he is “Motivated.” His advice to anyone considering the fire service: be patient, and know that if it’s meant for you, it will work out.

Welcome to the Carmel Fire Department, Grant! 🚒🔥