TJ Granson is humbly a third-generation firefighter. He pursued a career following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He was born and raised in Kokomo, IN. He eventually became a firefighter in the Kokomo Fire Department. He studied three years in college, before eventually choosing to enter the field of firefighting. Knowing that he is good at marketing, selling, and math, Granson held a second career, starting his own business named TJ’s Painting and Epoxy.

Granson wanted to start his own brand and his dad wanted to venture into another line of business. TJ Granson taught his crew the different aspects in the epoxy business, and as the business grew, his work crew’s skills set grew as well. TJ eventually changed the business name to Granson Contracting Incorporated, allowing other jobs to flow in.

With the lack of well-needed dedicated time for his family, TJ Granson decided to withdraw from his business, which helped him focus on his career as a firefighter and had more time for his family. Granson was aiming for the captain position, and he knew that he still has a long way to go. He pushed himself and never gave up. Granson accepted every class and training offered by the department. Thus, he became a Hazmat Tech, Rope Tech, Vehicle Extrication Tech,etc.,earning himself the highest level in the different disciplines. Eventually, he was promoted captain at age of 34, achieving a career goal.

Along with firefighting service, Granson helped his community in other ways. He used to give $2.00 per check to United Way, a social impact organization. He also donated countless stuff to Goodwill, a nonprofit organization. Furthermore, he used his skills and experience to coach youth sports for YMCA and other local recreational leagues, such as softball. In addition to this, TJ Granson also convinced Sherwin-Williams to donate 50 gallons of paint for the UCT park baseball field project.

Then, things suddenly changed when the coronavirus struck. Granson’s ultimate choice led to becoming a full-time stay-at-home father to his 5 children. As they have agreed upon, his wife, Abby, would carry on as a travel nurse. At first, the couple had to adjust to their new parenting roles. But overtime, they could not be happier and more grateful that this turn of events had given them new perspective and direction in life.