Who has the courage to shake up their path in life, and choose an entirely different career?
After 15 years in tech, Nick Schmitt from L1762 Eastside Fire & Rescue didn’t just change his career – he jumped into the fire service, and he’s been all in ever since. Nick is an inspiring advocate for his crew and community.
L1762 President Ray Austin says it best: “Nick’s strong work ethic, coupled with his broad professional background, gives him the insight and credibility that make him an exceptional firefighter and union leader.”
Nick has served as L1762’s treasurer for the past two years and has spent the last four with Eastside Fire and Rescue. In January, he’ll step into a new role as vice president of his local.
So, what pushed Nick to make such a career change?
“I reached a point in my career where I wanted to do something that truly mattered and had an immediate impact… Firefighting lets me give back to our community while showing my kids what commitment beyond self looks like.”
Learn more about Nick’s story:
What inspired you to get involved in your local and the WSCFF?
I got involved with Local 1762 and the WSCFF because our executive board tapped me on the shoulder and asked for some help, given my experience in tech. I’m thankful they did. Union work lets me use the analytical side I built in business while serving as a firefighter, truly the best of both worlds.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned on the job that you would like to pass onto others?
Be a sponge. There is always something to learn from everyone. You will experience good leaders and bad leaders in every organization…take the opportunity to learn from both as they are equally valuable.
Can you share a memorable story from a union meeting, campaign, or event that shows what the union/local means to you?
One of our members faced a serious medical emergency, and I watched my brothers and sisters in L1762 move as one, organizing meals, checking on the family, and handling the details nobody saw. It was inspiring and humbling. That moment reminded me we’re more than a union; we’re a family that shows up when it truly matters most.
How do your career experiences shape your perspective on what the union should focus on for members?
Coming from risk management and investigations, I look for patterns, root causes, and clear documentation. For Local 1762, that means pushing for transparency, clear financial impacts, streamlined processes, and plain language updates after big decisions are made. When we pair evidence with empathy, especially on union issues, and pull together, we solve real problems faster and build trust among the membership.
What advice would you give a new firefighter about balancing career growth and union involvement?
Make an effort to show up to meetings, ask questions, find a mentor (or a few), and take one small task you can own. This will make the union and your department a better place.
Looking back, what are you proudest of accomplishing?
I’m proudest of making the switch from the corporate world to the fire service. The change has made me a better husband and father and refocused me on what truly matters, which is my family and loved ones. Serving with Local 1762 lets me live those values every day.
Looking ahead, what’s one goal you hope to achieve both professionally and as part of the union?
Looking ahead, my goal is to raise the bar and keep serving our community while helping L1762 move the needle on wages, benefits, and working conditions. That means showing up ready and willing to do the work with my brothers and sisters.
What’s your advice for people interested in the fire service?
Perception is reality. This is a performance-based job, so your skills matter, but so do optics. How you carry yourself, communicate, and care for people truly matters. The community builds its trust from what they see and hear…don’t lose their trust.
What do you like to do for fun outside of work?
Outside of work, I spend most of my time with my two boys at soccer and baseball. We have practice every day with games on the weekends, and I love every minute of it. Watching them compete, grow, and have fun is what I live for.
What motivates you as a human being?
What motivates me as a human being is simple…it is my family. They’re the reason I strive to be a better firefighter, supportive union member, and person of growth.
We’re proud of Nick and the impact he makes every day in his community and his union. His journey is inspiring!