In 2003, Dustin Carter started his emergency medical services (EMS) career as an EMT in the Midwest. Originally from Bloomfield, Indiana, Dustin made the move to the Big Apple to seek more opportunities within his profession. That move, along with enrolling at CSU, proved to be a successful one for Dustin.
Now a lieutenant for the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY), his career path has been a gradual ascent, one that did not come without sacrifice and hard work.
“My journey with FDNY has been incredibly rewarding, but it’s been a steady climb,” he said. “I began my EMS career as an EMT in Indiana in 2003, became certified in Florida in 2012, and finally joined FDNY in 2013. I started as an EMT, then promoted to paramedic in 2015, and eventually to lieutenant in 2022.”
In 2024, Dustin earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from CSU with plans to pursue his master’s. Dustin was also the first recipient of the FDNY Scholarship in conjunction with CSU, which played a key factor in achieving his educational goals.
“As the first FDNY Scholarship recipient at CSU, I know continuing my education makes me a more valuable resource for the members I lead, giving me the critical thinking skills needed for real-time decisions,” he said. “I’m proud to encourage my colleagues to pursue their own educational paths, knowing firsthand the difference it can make.”
Dustin has an abundance of experience in emergency medical services and is no stranger to high-pressure situations. His strong interest in industrial psychology has proven to go hand in hand with his chosen profession.
“My interest in psychology stems from over a decade of experience in emergency medical services, where understanding human behavior, stress and crisis management is essential,” he said. “As a lieutenant in the FDNY Bureau of EMS, I’ve worked with teams in high-pressure environments, which heightened my curiosity about how people function under stress and how leaders can foster resilience. Pursuing a bachelor’s in psychology allows me to deepen my understanding of these dynamics to better support my colleagues and the communities we serve.”
The move to New York City opened doors for Dustin. Moving to a vast area, such as New York, presented him the opportunity to grow within his profession.
“I moved to New York with my partner, drawn by the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally in one of the world’s most diverse and challenging environments,” he said. “Joining the FDNY allowed me to contribute to the health and safety of New Yorkers on a larger scale than ever before.”
Dustin has always had the desire to help others, especially in emergencies. His psychology degree mixed with the sometimes-intense situations with the FDNY has helped shape him into the lieutenant he is today.
“My inspiration to work in emergency medical services came from a desire to serve others in their most critical moments, “he said. “Early in my career, I found great fulfillment in providing care and support during emergencies. Joining the FDNY was a natural progression that allowed me to continue making a meaningful impact in high-pressure situations while also taking on leadership roles to guide and support others in the field.”
Boosting morale is an important factor in Dustin’s role, and earning his psychology degree enables him to motivate his team members.
“I chose to pursue this degree to enhance my leadership skills within FDNY, where understanding human behavior and motivation is essential,” Dustin said. “I’ve always had a strong interest in psychology and studying it formally has given me valuable tools to support my members more effectively, especially in high-pressure situations.”
Making the decision to enroll at CSU and earn his bachelor’s in psychology has given him an invaluable asset within his role as lieutenant.
“Professionally, the courses in industrial psychology were immediately insightful, giving me practical strategies to boost morale and motivation among members. Personally, the program strengthened my understanding of effective leadership, which has helped me foster a more cohesive, supportive environment at the station.”
Dustin chose CSU due to the university’s commitment of educating civil servants and union members. Given the nature of his profession and highly intense situations, CSU was a perfect fit that allowed flexibility to help him achieve his goals.
“The flexible online format allowed me to pursue my degree on a schedule that fit my responsibilities at the department, while the curriculum provided valuable insights directly relevant to my role,” he said.
“I’d tell anyone considering a degree that the experience is invaluable—especially at CSU, where the flexible format allows you to balance work and studies. For those in public service, CSU’s strong support for civil servants and union members makes it an ideal choice. The degree not only enhances career skills but also opens doors to new opportunities within your field.”
Dustin’s degree has already proven beneficial in helping him provide a positive work environment to those he leads every day.
“My insight into industrial psychology has already helped me motivate and engage team members at my station, improving morale and cohesion,” he said. “As I continue my career with the FDNY, I look forward to applying what I’ve learned to further strengthen team dynamics, support resilience, and build a positive work environment across the department.”
Dustin’s successful career has led to two awards: the Accomplishment with Merit Award and the Excellent Duty Award.
“I’ve received the Accomplishment with Merit for my actions during the Irving Plaza shooting in 2016 and the Excellent Duty Award in 2022 for disarming an individual on Madison Avenue. These experiences have reinforced my dedication to service and my commitment to the safety of the community and my team.”
To read more stories like Dustin’s, visit Communicator Features.
Disclaimer: These testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes.
CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.
