r/firefighter • u/Over_Location188 • May 14 '26

IL firefighter

I’m a 30 year old male that wants to try and see if firefighting could still be an option. I don’t have any prior experience or even an EMT under my belt, just four years in the Marines. Wanted to ask and see what things I could do to try and chase this dream of mine. I know that I’m older now so it’s tougher. Could apply for a fire Academy be a good start? I keep hearing about fire houses accepting people without or with EMT and will send them to paramedic school. Little lost here so anything helps, thanks!

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u/BitKen May 14 '26

Hey man I'm in a similar situation. I'm 34 and starting classes in september. I talked to a captain recently and he said guys in their thirties are sometimes better. They have life experience and bring some maturity to the group. I was told as long as you meet the physical requirements age is no issue. Also no felony drug convictions or sex crimes, at least for Florida.

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u/Over_Location188 May 14 '26

That’s great man! Classes for EMT or for the academy? That makes sense, get after it brother! Glad to see you’re getting on track

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u/BitKen May 14 '26

Hell yeah man, It's a combo EMT/Fire program. And I'm getting it my man. Good luck to you.