Tipton was hired as a firefighter May 16, 2000. From there, Tipton progressed to senior firefighter and fire apparatus operator before ascending to captain in August 2013.
Throughout his years with HFD, Tipton has obtained several certifications that include firefighter level II through the North Carolina Fire and Rescue Commission and emergency medical technician through the North Carolina Office of Emergency Services, according to the release.
Tipton also has undergone training as a hazardous materials responder and technical rescue and has attended various National Fire Academy courses while holding several state certifications from the North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal.