Firefighter - myFootpath

Firefighter Basics
Despite dramatic and dangerous working conditions, long hours, and an unusual work schedule, the exciting and fulfilling nature of a career in firefighting means that it will always be a very popular career choice.

There are other professions in the world of firefighting as well: fire inspectors focus on the prevention of fires, while fire investigators conduct arson investigations. Finally, certain firefighters, including the famous airborne “smokejumpers,” specialize in the prevention and control of forest fires.

How to get started as a Firefighter
Fire departments traditionally require aspiring firefighters to graduate from academies and then participate in extended on-the-job apprenticeship programs. However, as new techniques and technologies change firefighting, more fire departments are requiring college coursework.

Degrees in criminal justice are a typical path and you can choose from online schools or campus schools. Furthermore, community colleges offer credits or degrees, in areas like Fire Science which can significantly increase the chances of a successful career in firefighting. Check with your local fire department for more information about their particular requirements.

Some schools also offer a degree in Fire Service Administration, which is typically for individuals who are already in the fire service field and want to build their management skills and advance their career.

Featured Online School for Fire Service Administration:

• Lewis University – Request Information

Featured Online Schools for Criminal Justice Degrees:

• Colorado Technical University – Request Information
• Everest College Online – Phoenix – Request Information
• Kaplan University – Request Information
• South University – Request Information
• Strayer University – Request Information
• Westwood College – Request Information

Featured Campus Schools for Criminal Justice Degrees:

• Argosy University – Request Information
• Brown Mackie College – Request Information
  
• Rasmussen College – Request Information
• South University – Request Information
• Virginia College – Request Information
• Westwood College – Request Information
  

Compatible Personality Traits
Courageous, strong, brave, alert, attentive, pragmatic, dedicated, patient, careful, observant.

Salary Expectations for Firefighters
The annual median salary for firefighters is $44,260. Great benefits and an excellent pension are common for firefighters, who are government employees-this is one of the reasons for the popularity of the profession.

Job Outlook in Firefighting
Job growth in firefighting is expected to grow on pace with the rest of the economy, at a rate of around 12% a year. Competition for jobs, however, will remain keen. The very desirable nature of this profession means that the number of applicants to fire departments usually exceeds available spots, and there is no sign that this trend is going away anytime soon.

Firefighter applicants are expected to complete both mental and physical tests, and getting hired thus often depends on having better than average qualifications.

Firefighter Associations and Resources
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

Slightly off the Footpath
Law Enforcement
Corrections Officer
Private Investigator
Homeland Security Officer

Source: bls.gov/oco/ocos158.htm