Author: shiftworkscholar

Should a high-schooler who is “ate-up” with the job go to a college/university or immediately start as a career firefighter?

If parents have saved and sacrificed so their child can get a bachelor degree, I recommend that the high-schooler take full advantage of this life-enhancing opportunity. The four or five year investment at the university will pay off better than the benefit you get by starting your firefighting career now.

Going to university as an 18 year old is a better investment of your time than starting with a fire department and getting the degree part-time.

1) It is a unique experience that will not be duplicated when you are on the job and working to complete the degree. The journey is valuable.

2) You have the least amount of distractions. No children, mortgage, part-time job or studying for a promotional exam.

While fire departments are finally hiring to fill the vacancies left open after the 2008 recession, your lifetime opportunities exponentially increase by getting the degree now.

What about my Firefighter I training?

California, Rhode Island and Florida require candidates to obtaining Firefighter and EMS credentials before applying for a job. That training is usually completed at an academy affiliated with a college.

Most large departments will hire you as a candidate and pay you to obtain your firefighter and EMS training in their training center.

Employers are not interested in your volunteer experience and training. It does not provide preferential consideration.

Existing credentials and experience are a consideration in smaller and growing departments where they do not have the resources to run a recruit school. They are looking for work-ready candidates.

Preparing for your fire service career while still in college

During your second and third year at college, research where you want to live and which department you want to work for. Look at the jurisdiction’s web site and find the hiring information. Call the recruiting/hiring office to understand all of the requirements.

Visit these departments during your summer break. Go to a bunch of fire stations, get an application package. If needed, prepare for the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT).

Maintain a digital log or notebook of who you talked to (with date/time) and what they said. Pay attention to deadlines and meet them.

A different viewpoint

On the other hand, Mike Rowe makes a strong argument on the fantastic career opportunities with skilled labor jobs.  Go here to check it out. Maybe develop a labor skill (welding, carpentry, cooking) and than apply to the fire department.

Mike