DAVENPORT, IOWA (July 9, 2020) -
Mayor Mike Matson swore in four new Davenport firefighters at the City Council meeting on July 8.
The firefighters began training in February, which is normally eight weeks long. Due to COVID-19, the training was condensed and the firefighters were assigned to regular 24-hour shifts in March.
Chief Mike Carlsten introduced the new firefighters at the meeting:
Timothy Macumber was born and raised in Davenport, graduating from Davenport Central High School. A 17-year veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves who still serves, he was deployed twice to both Iraq and Afghanistan. Prior to being a firefighter, Tim worked as a union carpenter, and also worked facilities maintenance at the Rock Island National Cemetery.
He is EMT certified and has an associate’s degree from Scott Community College. He enjoys spending time with his family, coaching youth sports, and doing pretty much anything outdoors. Tim and his wife Jessica have two sons.
Daniel Tharp was born and raised in Bettendorf and graduated from Bettendorf High School where he was a three-sport athlete. He played quarterback at St. Ambrose University and studied political science.
Daniel received his EMT certificate from Eastern Iowa Community College and worked at Medic EMS before joining DFD. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Logan, their dog, and nephews. He also enjoys hunting, fishing and riding his bike.
A.J. Petersen grew up in Davenport and attended West High School. He played football at West as well as at St. Ambrose where he earned a bachelor’s degree.
Petersen is a certified EMT and is currently completing his Firefighter certifications. He enjoys spending time with friends and family and looks forward to going to paramedic school in the near future. Art Miller, his grandfather and a retired Davenport Police officer, pinned on his badge.
Kyle Nickels grew up in Davenport, Iowa. He went to Assumption High School where he played football, baseball and basketball. He went received his EMT certification at Scott Community College.
Nickels transferred to Kirkwood Community College and received his Paramedic and Firefighter I Associate’s degrees. Kyle enjoys outdoor activities, playing sports, hunting/fishing and spending time with his family.