Preparing to Become a Firefighter
(Adapted from advice given by William R. Hollick, Director (retired), Massachusetts Firefighting Academy.)
The Massachusetts Firefighting Academy is a post-employment training agency, meaning that you must be a firefighter to attend the Academy. Recruit training is available for new firefighters from any city or town in Massachusetts, whether they are career, call, volunteer, or combination departments. Some larger cities provide training at their own local facilities instead.
If you are a young person interested in becoming a firefighter, we recommend that you stay in school and apply yourself to your studies of English, math, and the sciences. Firefighters use these skills every day, so you must be very strong in these areas. Many colleges offer degrees in fire science. Even if you’ve already graduated from high school, your guidance counselor can direct you to the ones most convenient to you. Consider higher education as a key to success in the fire service.
Since firefighting is a team effort, you should be working to improve your interpersonal skills. You might do this in school through participation in student government activities, team sports, and part-time jobs where you have contact with other people. Working well with others is a skill that must be developed. Start now if you haven’t done so.
Firefighting is challenging physically, as well. If you are in excellent physical shape, continue your exercise program to improve your strength, flexibility, endurance, and agility. If you are in less than excellent physical condition, begin an exercise regimen immediately.
Many, but not all, fire departments hire from the Civil Service list. You can find out about the written and physical exams here. Because firefighters respond to many more medical calls than fires, training and certification as an emergency medical technician or paramedic is strongly recommended. It will make you an attractive candidate for many fire departments in Massachusetts.
Finally, form a career plan that includes assessing which departments you might wish to work for. Would you prefer a large, urban department or a smaller, suburban one? How far are you willing to travel, and would you be willing to relocate? Once you have accomplished this, begin meeting with the chiefs of your preferred departments or their designees to discuss your career goals and determine the job opportunities available to you.
We wish you luck in your journey to become a Massachusetts firefighter – the greatest job in the world.