Charlie McMannis

Firefighter

With an extensive background as a helicopter and commercial airplane pilot, Charlie McMannis has logged more than 7,000 hours of flight time, including 4,500 hours as pilot in command. He has served as a corporate pilot for high-profile companies, such as Bank One, and Chrysler. Charlie McMannis has also flown Bell 412 helicopters with the Chicago Fire Department. On such flights, where he is responsible for protecting the well-being of Chicago residents, the situations frequently cause him acute physical and mental stress.