Syracuse, N.Y. – The Syracuse Fire Department announced that Lieutenant Tamika Barnett has been promoted to captain, marking the first time a Black woman has held the rank in the department’s history. Barnett, who joined the force in 2011, will now lead Fire Station 18 in the Valley section, overseeing two engine trucks and two walk‑around rescue vehicles.
Career milestones and community service
Barnett’s promotion follows a series of firsts. In 2021 she became the city’s first Black female fire lieutenant, and her new captaincy adds another historic step for the department. She said the achievement feels “amazing” and hopes it inspires other young people in the community.
Beyond her duties on the fire line, Barnett has been deeply involved in local education and youth development. Since 2024 she has served as president of the Syracuse City School District Board of Education Commissioners, a role she balances with her fire‑service responsibilities. She also founded the nonprofit Fired Up for Youth Inc., which provides workforce‑development programs for teenagers throughout Central New York.
Entrepreneurial spirit
In addition to her public‑service work, Barnett runs a barbecue catering business called Who Want Smoke BBQ and Catering. The venture reflects her belief in creating economic opportunities for residents and giving back to the neighborhoods that raised her.
Looking ahead
“It’s always good to be the first, but as Chief Monds always mentioned, I don’t want to be the last,” Barnett said after her promotion on October 25, 2026. She expressed optimism that more women will advance within the fire department and that the agency will continue to reflect the diversity of the city it serves.
Barnett grew up in Syracuse, graduating from Henninger High School and later earning a degree from St. Bonaventure University. Her deep roots in the community, combined with her leadership roles in public safety, education, and entrepreneurship, position her as a role model for the city’s youth.
As captain, Barnett will supervise daily operations at Station 18, ensuring rapid response to emergencies and maintaining the readiness of the department’s apparatus. Her appointment underscores the fire department’s commitment to diversity, professional excellence, and community engagement.
Original reporting: CNY Central WSTM (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
