Deputy Fire Chief Howard "Pete" Key joined the Charlotte Fire Department in 1977.  He was promoted to Captain in 1984 and served in that position until 1996 when he was promoted to Battalion Chief.  Pete was promoted Deputy Fire Chief in 2004.  Pete has an Associate's degree in Fire Protection Technology from CPCC and a Bachelor's degree in the Fire Safety Engineering Technology from UNCC. 

He is also a graduate of the City of Charlotte's Dimensions in Leadership program, Trailblazers Leadership programs, Public Executive Leadership Academy at UNC Chapel Hill, and the Institute of Government at UNC Chapel Hill. Through the National Fire Academy, he holds the National Fire Academy Mid-Managers Certification and graduated from the Fire Department Operations at Target Hazards program.

Pete is also a valuable member of the Charlotte community.  He serves on the Urban Boy Scouts Committee and the Clanton Park Homeowners Association.  He is also a Hearing Officer for the Charlotte Housing Authority and a supporter of the Arts and Science Council.