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After a recent promotion to fire captain, Shelby County native Craig Sykes will utilize his 16 years of firefighting experience to help oversee Helena’s three fire stations, working along his fellow firefighters to ensure that the department is offering the best possible service to the residents of Helena.

“My favorite thing about the job is that there is not one shift that you work that is ever the same—each call is unique and different,” Sykes said. “I enjoy being able to provide the best care possible in some of the worst situations.”

According to Sykes, bonds run deep between firefighters and his coworkers are like a second family, but that does not mean that the job is without hardship.

“First and foremost, the toughest part of my job is being away from my loving wife and three sons,” Sykes said. “However, the fire service is a very unique career that I believe you are called to do. And the good days always outweigh bad.”

Sykes currently resides in Alabaster with his wife, Shelley, and three sons, Clay (12), Colton (8) and Connor (8). In his free time, Sykes enjoys hunting, spending time with his family and working with Shoreline K9.

“In my opinion, the thing that makes Helena special is its citizens and their strong sense of community,” Sykes said. “I’m proud to be a small part of their everyday lives and take great pride being available and there for our citizens when we are called upon.”