ULI Spotlight: Mark Carter, President of the Peekskill Professional Firefighters Local 2343

Mark Carter is the first Black President of the Peekskill Professional Firefighters Local 2343.

Born and raised in Peekskill, NY, Mark grew up playing almost every sport he could, but basketball quickly became his main passion. That love for the game led him to Western Connecticut State University, where he honed his teamwork and leadership skills. The lessons from his time on the basketball team would later benefit his career and union leadership. 

After graduation, he worked in communications and spent 13 years at The New York Power Authority in White Plains, NY, building a solid professional foundation.

A friend’s casual suggestion to “take a test” unexpectedly changed his trajectory. Curious, Mark followed through and, three years later, stepped into the fire academy, beginning a career that would soon feel at home. For him, firefighting is about more than emergency response;  it’s about camaraderie, trust, and having each other’s backs. Many of his fellow firefighters are friends he’s known since high school, which deepens the sense of community in the department.

Mark’s entry into union leadership came naturally. Colleagues recognized his willingness to speak up, attend meetings, and advocate for others. Encouraged by Lt. Ferris and guided by years of experience, he accepted the role of union trustee, eventually rising to become president.

Leadership for Mark also means learning from others. At ULI, exposure to leaders from different industries, backgrounds, and perspectives has broadened his understanding of both the labor movement and effective leadership. He credits the AFL-CIO at the local and state levels, as well as the Northern Westchester-Putnam Central Labor Body, for helping him see the larger impact of labor advocacy. “Labor is fighting for our right to live freely and to be the voice for those who don’t have one,” he says.

Off duty, Mark enjoys reading, especially books on sports, leadership, and teamwork. He draws inspiration from the lessons athletics offer, applying them to both the firehouse and the labor movement.

From the basketball court to the firehouse to the union, Mark Carter’s journey has been driven by curiosity, community, and a commitment to using his voice for others. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of union leadership development and support.