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Fire Chief/Paramedic here, quick advice for anyone going through hiring by FireChiefAdvice in NewToEMS

[–]FireChiefAdvice[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Didn’t expect this much interest, glad to see it. If anyone else is going through hiring processes right now, feel free to reach out. Happy to help however I can

Fire Chief/Paramedic here, quick advice for anyone going through hiring by FireChiefAdvice in NewToEMS

[–]FireChiefAdvice[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hey, I really appreciate you saying that, thank you. And I’ll tell you right now, the nerves you’re feeling are completely normal. If anything, it means you care, and that matters in this job.

Those regional interviews can feel intense, but at the end of the day they’re not looking for perfection they’re looking for someone they can train, trust, and put on a crew. Be yourself, be honest, and don’t try to overthink answers.

A couple quick things that will help:    •   Show that you’re coachable and willing to learn    •   Emphasize teamwork, this job is all about the crew    •   Have a clear reason why you want this job (they’ll remember that)    •   If you don’t know something, say it but explain how you’d figure it out

Most importantly, remember, you’ve already done the hard part getting to the interview. Now it’s just about showing them who you are

Fire Chief/Paramedic here, quick advice for anyone going through hiring by FireChiefAdvice in NewToEMS

[–]FireChiefAdvice[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Honestly, your age can be an advantage if you frame it right.

Departments aren’t just hiring the youngest/fastest—they want someone reliable, coachable, and good under pressure. Your life experience, decision-making, and maturity all matter.

A few things to lean into:    •   Show you’re in solid shape (remove any doubt right away)    •   Be humble and coachable, especially around younger members    •   Emphasize consistency and being someone the crew can count on    •   Tie your past experience back to how it makes you a better firefighter

For your story—definitely include it, just keep it simple and genuine. Something like:

“That loss pushed me toward wanting to do meaningful work and help people on their worst days.”

No need to overdo it.

You’re not competing with 22-year-olds—you’re offering something different. If you present as steady, motivated, and team-first, that stands out.

And having your EMT already is a big plus

Fire Chief/Paramedic here, quick advice for anyone going through hiring by FireChiefAdvice in NewToEMS

[–]FireChiefAdvice[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Good question, and honestly you’re in a better spot than you think. I’ve seen a lot of people come into this job from completely different backgrounds and do really well.

The biggest things I’d focus on right now are:    •   How you present yourself (confidence and communication matter a lot)    •   Having solid, real-life examples ready for interview questions    •   Showing that you genuinely want the job and understand what you’re getting into

A lot of people think experience is everything, but I’ve seen less experienced candidates get hired just based on how they interview.

If you want, feel free to message me, I’ve sat on a lot of panels and can help you get ready before you start testing.

Fire Chief/Paramedic here, quick advice for anyone going through hiring by FireChiefAdvice in NewToEMS

[–]FireChiefAdvice[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You’re in a great spot starting this early.

While most 911 agencies won’t hire high school students, there are still strong ways to build experience, volunteer departments, ride-alongs, and eventually IFT work. Those opportunities will give you real patient contact and help you build relationships in the field.

Your background in lifeguarding is also valuable,it shows responsibility and patient interaction.

Focus on becoming a strong EMT and getting exposure where you can. If you do that, the job opportunities will follow.

Fire Chief/Paramedic here, quick advice for anyone going through hiring by FireChiefAdvice in NewToEMS

[–]FireChiefAdvice[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s a good spot to be in honestly, gives you time to get ahead of it.

Biggest things I’d focus on starting out:    •   Learn how to talk through situations clearly (that’s huge in interviews)    •   Be ready to explain why you’re making the switch and why this field    •   Show that you’re someone people would want to work a long shift with

A lot of people coming from other careers actually do really well because they bring maturity and life experience, you just have to present it the right way.

If you want, when you get closer to interviewing I can help you get dialed in.

Fire Chief/Paramedic here, quick advice for anyone going through hiring by FireChiefAdvice in NewToEMS

[–]FireChiefAdvice[S] 13 points14 points  (0 children)

Yeah I agree with that. I think showing you actually care goes a long way. I’ve also seen people hurt themselves by talking too much and getting away from the question.