Looking to Start a Career in Firefighting/EMT

[JustinAMcDaniel]

I have been applying to several departments in GA .. Have only taking tests with one department last year. I am really serious about this and its like nothing is happening for the second year. I am 22 years old and Don't really know what to do. I have connections for a couple of the places this year but don't know what will happen. My Uncle owns Rescue Air 1 a Helicopter Critical care unit out of atlanta and he is trying to help me out through several people . And I am hoping to be at Rescue Air 1 when I have been a Paramedic for 5 years , Unless I just form a huge bond towards the fire department when I get on. Is there anyone out there who can offer some advise or help with what they are looking for and expect to see durning the hiring process. Thanks for the help.. Justin McDaniel

[JimSpoor]

First the usual: Don't Give Up, Keep the Faith, Hang in There.

Seriously, keep the apps going. In the meantime make yourself the best candidate you can. Get any training or experience you can. Maybe go back to school if you don't have degree. If you feel that interviewing is your weak area, practice. If you have any skeletons (bad credit) do what you can to minimize the damage. None of this is new info but it seems it is too often either forgoten or ignored. Being an applicant is an active endeavor. Don't be passive about your future.

Good Luck.

[99TAC]

what are your current certifications for fire or EMS?

Don't be discouraged, sometime you have to start out with baby steps. I would suggest becoming a voluteer with a fire dept. or EMS, or get your EMT certification and start with an ambulance transport service (they usually hire frequently and you can get some field experience.) Most 911 emergency services want at least a year of field experience before you'd be considered for hire. Good Luck.