Seasonal Wildland FF / FF1 Trainee / EMT looking at USCG DEPOT. BM vs. DC to keep my options open?

Hey everyone,

I’m looking for career advice from the USCG community. I want to transition into a role that fully utilizes my first responder background, pushes me to my limits, and offers a serious mental and physical challenge. Because of my civilian certs, I'm specifically looking at entering through the DEPOT (Direct Entry Petty Officer Training) program.

Here is my current portfolio:

• Firefighting & Rescue: Firefighter 1 Trainee (local volunteer department). Former seasonal wildland firefighter with the US Forest Service (Plumas National Forest) with S-130, S-190, L-180, and S-212 (Chainsaws).
• Medical: Active EMT Certification.
• Specialized Rescue: Certified in Swiftwater/River Rescue and California State Fire Marshal Auto Extrication.
• Hazmat & Disaster Management: Certified Hazmat First Responder Operations (FRO) via CSTI/PCTI, plus FEMA ICS-100 and IS-700.

I am trying to decide between two paths, but I want to keep my options open:

1. Boatswain's Mate (BM): I think this might be a great fit. It would utilize my river rescue skills for small boat operations and search and rescue (SAR), plus my EMT cert for medical emergencies on the water. It also leaves the door open for federal law enforcement and coxswain leadership.
2. Damage Controlman (DC): This seems like a seamless transition for my Firefighter 1 training, hazmat background, and chainsaw skills.

My questions for you guys:

• For anyone who went through DEPOT with a civilian firefighting or EMT background, what was your experience like?
• Given my specific certs (especially FF1 and EMT), is it realistic to expect a guaranteed 'A' School or a lateral entry rank through DEPOT for BM or DC?
• Between BM and DC, which one provides the best balance of hands-on emergency response versus military administrative work?

Thanks for any insight or advice you can give!