Whether you’re in high school looking ahead to explore job options or you’re thinking of switching career paths later in life, you may have considered working as a firefighter. With a rising demand for firefighters and incredible career training available, this is a practical career choice for many individuals. Some people might be intimidated by the thought of starting a new career, and that is normal. Below, learn the benefits of becoming a firefighter to help ease your decision. 

Why Should You Consider a Career as a Firefighter?

1. Provide Lifesaving Services

One of the main reasons people become firefighters is to save the lives of people in need. Any career that provides the opportunity to help others can be personally rewarding, but firefighters often find themselves coming to the rescue of children, elderly individuals, and everyone in between. For many firefighters, serving the community in this way is one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.

2. Work as a Team

Teamwork is one of the most important qualities of any fire department. Each call requires communication and strategizing, and firefighters must depend on one another in many scenarios. Oftentimes, firefighters find themselves establishing a family-like relationship with their team, and these bonds can last a lifetime.

3. Stay Active

Many modern career paths involve staying sedentary for most hours of the day, but being a firefighter will give you the opportunity to engage in an active lifestyle. This physically demanding job helps individuals stay in great shape. Keep in mind that it is also important to start with a strong baseline, as a physical exam is required for firefighter career training. 

4. Earn a Steady Living

Firefighters earn a median salary of nearly $50,000 per year, which is far higher than the median salary of $38,640 for all U.S. workers. Since firefighters will always be needed, you will never be without a job opportunity. 

5. Leverage Growth Opportunities

Being a firefighter will set you up for both lateral and hierarchical career moves. The average growth rate for this field is 5%, which is on pace with other growing fields across the United States. Whether you’d eventually like to make your way into police work or you see yourself holding a higher position in the fire department, many opportunities await. With career training and on-the-job experience, many firefighters climb the ranks to hold advanced positions such as fire chief, director of public safety, or emergency management director.

If you’re looking to become a firefighter, turn to Great Oaks Career Campuses in Cincinnati, OH, for comprehensive career training. With a Fire & Emergency Medical Rescue Academy, students can gain a professional firefighter certification and train alongside local firefighters. Adults can also enroll in the Fire Fighter I & II program, which is a certification program for state licensure. Learn more about their programs for firefighters and other rewarding careers online. Call (513) 771-8881 to find out about enrollment.