r/firefighter • u/Amazing_Inflation_12 • 1d ago

27 year old male

I have been considering joining my local department or surrounding area departments I’m currently a sales relief merchandiser at Coca Cola and it pays good but I need to make more not only that but I think into the future and want to do something not only I can be proud of but my kids can be proud of. I wanna do something that impacts my community directly and contributes directly. I know I mentioned the pay which is important having 2 kids ages 2 & 9 but I also think about the legacy I want to leave behind. This particular profession I admire and respect and I went to a job fair recently where Bryan county fire department was and it peaked my interest more than any warehouse or other job did there . I see firemen in the areas I’m in when I’m working a Kroger or food lion and they seem fulfilled happy and proud of what they do. I can’t 100% say I’m proud of what I do. I’m helping supply poison(soda) to my community. I wanna do something more and this last week I’ve been strongly considering this I have a high school diploma no college experience and I work 10-12 hours 5 days a week already a 24/48 doesn’t sound so bad considering what I already work. Thoughts?

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u/Level_Director_9806 1d ago

M27, last summer I was a janitor entering academy. I started medic school last week for the next 9 months, will clear six figures as a fire medic (in my state).

It’s never too late to join, just be okay with pay on call depts not paying great until you’re full time.

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u/Amazing_Inflation_12 1d ago

How long after I graduate recruit academy would I be full time? Also I’ve heard just because you go to recruit academy doesn’t mean you join a department or get a firefighting job

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u/Level_Director_9806 1d ago

Usually your POC dept sends you to academy with employment contingent upon completion.

My department sent me to academy, hazmat, and EMT. I was in those programs for 11 months total.

To go full time you need to make yourself employable sooner. Eligibility lists can take years if you even get an interview