Clayton Fire Department’s Meet Us Monthly Feature – December 2024

It is the first Monday of December, which means we are recognizing another valued member of our team during #MeetUsMonthly.  

Firefighter Dustin Adkins is approaching his one-year anniversary with the Clayton Fire Department, having joined in January 2024. His favorite part of the job is the camaraderie. “I really like the crew I work with and everyone on my shift,” he says. 

Originally from Ocean City, Maryland, Adkins moves to Raleigh in 2017 to be closer to his family and finds his calling in fire service during one of the most challenging times -the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. “I was interested in doing more community service, and it just seemed like a really good way to do that,” Adkins shares.  

He starts his firefighting journey in Raleigh, successfully entering the academy on his first try. “It was very challenging, and it was really good training,” he says, reflecting on the experience that helps shape his career. 

For those considering a career in fire service, Adkins has some valuable advice. “I would say that it’s very important to focus on your education and your physicality because those are two things that are going to be very important to you as your career progresses through the fire service,” he emphasizes. 

Outside of work, Adkins enjoys staying active through trail running, hiking, and camping. He also loves spending time with his dog, a playful pit bull/boxer mix.