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.
